That's what peace processes are about - changing bullets for votes.
Juan Manuel SantosRead
When I was defense minister, I was very popular, and now that I'm president, I'm unpopular because I'm trying to make peace. It's much easier to make war and get trophies.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Leadership often involves making difficult decisions that may lead to unpopularity in the pursuit of peace.
In this quote, Juan Manuel Santos reflects on the challenges of leadership, particularly the contrast between the popularity that comes with being a defense minister and the unpopularity faced while striving for peace as president. He suggests that it is inherently simpler to engage in conflict and gain accolades than to pursue the complex path of negotiation and reconciliation, emphasizing the burden of leadership and the sacrifices required to achieve lasting peace.
Themes
PeaceLeadershipUnpopularWarTrophiesSacrifice
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a motivational speech to inspire leaders to prioritize peace over popularity.
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