I know what it's like when you are a refugee, living on the mercy of others and having to adjust.
Martti AhtisaariRead
I'm concerned when certain movements or countries have been isolated from the international dialogue because then you have no way of influencing them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Isolating countries or movements from discussions limits our ability to influence them positively.
Martti Ahtisaari emphasizes the importance of inclusion in international dialogue. When certain movements or countries are cut off from necessary conversations, it creates a barrier to understanding and influencing their actions, which can lead to misunderstandings and conflict rather than cooperation and resolution.
Themes
DialogueInfluenceIsolationCommunicationInternational
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate on foreign policy, one could use this quote to highlight the importance of engagement.
More from Martti Ahtisaari
All quotes βThere 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.
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Peace is a question of will. All conflicts can be settled, and there are no excuses for allowing them to become eternal.
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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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