Why did the world pay undue attention to the Somali pirates when an American skipper was taken hostage, in relation to the lack of attention for the 92 captive Filipinos. The answer is as simple as it is sad. The U.S. has the one of the most advanced and powerful militaries in the world, and prides itself on being able to protect it's citizens wherever they are.

 

When the pirates attacked a U.S. ship and took it's skipper hostage, the world knew a conflict was coming, and like the upcoming "Manny" Vs. Hatton fight they lined up to watch. The U.S. didn't disappoint. They rescued their captain, killed 3 of the 4 pirates, and captured the 4th. The world got the fight they expected with the favorite winning a 3rd round knockout.

 

The Philippines on the other hand can not even protect it's citizens in the Philippines from attacks by the NPA and MILF. As a nation they can do little to nothing to protect their citizens abroad. The weak and powerless are taken advantage of and victimized globally on a daily basis. 

 

Sadly the people of the world seem to take this as an unfortunate, but inevitable fact of life and ignore it. Those who can't protect themselves become easy pray for the lawless, while the rest of the World ignores the problem as if it will cease to exist if they do not acknowledge it, (example: Darfur).

 

Unless the world suddenly changes, the only people who can be assured of respect are those strong enough to demand it.