When Wikileaks first surfaced most saw it the same as or similar to Wikipedia – a web based source of information most of which is already available in the public domain and the rest volunteered personally or added on by those in the know.

However, the recent batch of leaks showed clearly that’s not the case, as it turned out, Wikileaks is exactly what the name says, wee leaks. Plus its latest instalment is of a sensitive rather embarrassing nature – the kind both sides prefer to keep private. The information leaked was neither readily available in the public domain nor obtained legally. Yet their eminent reveal was publicised a few days before hand, the site’s proprietor is known, some say, too are those who helped disclose this sensitive information.

All very interesting!

The person who stole the information and his accomplice who published them have said they did it because the public had the right to know, know! Know what!? That Obama thought Cameron was a light weight, and Prince Andrew has bad table manners or Saudi Arabia wants rid of Iran – how is any of these leaks going to improve anyone’s life, ease poverty, eradicate disease or end wars? Or how is knowing diplomats say one thing to your face and another behind your back going to help the world or matters of diplomacy? What the diplomatic circuit thinks about a host’s leadership, dignitary and their attitudes towards different matters are at the heart of diplomatic work. The information gathered by a nation about its allies is as vital as that they gather about their enemy.

The thinking that what they did is honourable is absurd yet dangerous at the same time – because sadly as disgraceful and as it is, there will be those who will seize on this opportunity to misuse the leaked information for their own personnel agenda. Now, how is that helpful to the public?

This latest leaks did not fill Joe Public with confidence that his human rights and freedom of information are being protected and respected nor did it serve any national or international endeavour. On the contrary it made most of us feel vulnerable and exposed. It also raised questions about the US and the manner in which it handles sensitive information and the world’s trust in those it puts at the top. It also increased doubts about its ability in managing its security and the security of those that work with them!

If confidential diplomatic cables can find their way to Wikileaks so easily what other intelligence is readily available for sale for the right price!? This administration is famous for being lax and too relaxed but this is simply deplorable!