I'm concerned when certain movements or countries have been isolated from the international dialogue because then you have no way of influencing them.
Martti AhtisaariRead
There are always interests that are furthered by war. Therefore, those who have power and influence can also stop them... we should not accept any excuses from those in power.
Interpretation
What this quote means
War often serves the interests of the powerful, but those in power are responsible for preventing it.
This quote by Martti Ahtisaari emphasizes the idea that conflicts and wars are frequently driven by the agendas of influential individuals or groups. It suggests that those who possess power have a moral obligation to intervene against such interests and work towards peace, advocating for accountability from leaders to prevent the consequences of warfare.
Themes
WarPowerInfluencePeaceResponsibility
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech addressing the importance of peace-building, emphasizing that leaders must act to prevent war.
More from Martti Ahtisaari
All quotes βI know what it's like when you are a refugee, living on the mercy of others and having to adjust.
Martti AhtisaariRead
Peace is a question of will. All conflicts can be settled, and there are no excuses for allowing them to become eternal.
Martti AhtisaariRead
The origins of my career as a peace mediator can be found from my childhood years. I was born in the city of Viipuri, then still part of Finland. We lost Viipuri when the Soviet Union attacked my country. Along with 400,000 fellow Karelians, I became an eternally displaced person in the rest of Finland.
Martti AhtisaariRead
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