The United Nations stands for the freedom and equality of all peoples, irrespective of race, religion, or ideology.
Ralph BuncheRead
Peace is no mere matter of men fighting or not fighting. Peace, to have meaning for many who have known only suffering in both peace and war, must be translated into bread or rice, shelter, health, and education, as well as freedom and human dignity - a steadily better life. If peace is to be secure, long-suffering and long-starved, forgotten peoples of the world, the underprivileged and the undernourished, must begin to realize without delay the promise of a new day and a new life.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True peace encompasses more than the absence of conflict; it includes basic human needs and dignity.
In this quote, Ralph Bunche emphasizes that peace should not only be defined as the absence of war or conflict between men, but also as the fulfillment of essential human needs such as food, shelter, health, education, freedom, and dignity. He argues that for peace to be truly meaningful, it must address the challenges faced by the underprivileged and marginalized, ensuring a better life for all and recognizing that without addressing these basic needs, peace remains superficial and unattainable for those who suffer.
Themes
PeaceDignityHuman RightsBasic NeedsEducationFreedom
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is powerful for discussing the need for social justice during a community meeting.
More from Ralph Bunche
All quotes →We can never have too much preparation and training. We must be a strong competitor. We must adhere staunchly to the basic principle that anything less than full equality is not enough. If we compromise on that principle our soul is dead.
Ralph BuncheRead
You can surmount the obstacles in your path if you are determined, courageous and hard-working. Never be faint-hearted. Be resolute, but never bitter.
Ralph BuncheRead
The well-being and the hopes of the peoples of the world can never be served until peace - as well as freedom, honor and self-respect - is secure.
Ralph BuncheRead
If you want to get an idea across, wrap it up in a person.
Ralph BuncheRead
There is no problem of human nature which is insoluble.
Ralph BuncheRead
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Could I have but a line a century hence crediting a contribution to the advance of peace, I would yield every honor which has been accorded by war.
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