Nuclear terrorism is one of the most serious threats of our time. Even one such attack could inflict mass casualties and create immense suffering and unwanted change in the world forever. This prospect should compel all of us to act to prevent such a catastrophe.
Interpretation
Nuclear terrorism poses a grave threat that demands immediate action to prevent catastrophic consequences.
Ban Ki-Moon highlights the severe threat of nuclear terrorism, emphasizing that even a single attack could result in widespread devastation and lasting changes to our world. He calls upon everyone to recognize this danger and take proactive measures to avoid such a disaster.
In practice
In a speech addressing global security issues, the quote can highlight the urgency of nuclear disarmament.
We have international standards regulating everything from t-shirts to toys to tomatoes. There are international regulations for furniture. That means there are common standards for the global trade in armchairs but not the global trade in arms.
Weapons of mass destruction violate more than individual lives - they cross international borders and jeopardize all people. They also drain resources that could be used instead for medicines, schools and other life-saving supplies. We must come together with even greater determination to prevent a WMD nightmare.
Throughout human history, in any great endeavour requiring the common effort of many nations and men and women everywhere, we have learned - it is only through seriousness of purpose and persistence that we ultimately carry the day. We might liken it to riding a bicycle. You stay upright and move forward so long as you keep up the momentum.
By including children with different learning abilities in mainstream and specialized schools, we can change attitudes and promote respect. By creating suitable jobs for adults with autism, we integrate them into society.
Freedom is a timeless value. The United Nations Charter calls for encouraging respect for fundamental freedoms. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights mentions freedom more than twenty times. All countries have committed to protecting individual freedoms on paper - but in practice, too many break their pledge.
Around the world, climate change is an existential threat - but if we harness the opportunities inherent in addressing climate change, we can reap enormous economic benefits.
We've been blessed with the opportunity to stand for something - for liberty and freedom and fairness. And these are things worth fighting for, worth devoting our lives to.
There is nothing negative about a group of people crying out for democracy - and if my voice counts, I will be vocal.
I'm like thousands of women in South Africa who lost their men to cities and prisons... I stand defiant, tall and strong.
If I feel strongly, I say it. I know I can do more good by being vocal than by staying quiet. I'd have a whole lot more money if I lied, but I wouldn't enjoy spending it.
I feel like I gave my son to this country in an illegal and immoral war, and I'll never get him back.
Rights are won only by those who make their voices heard.
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