The performance of international institutions will be symptomatic of the domestic political priorities of influential member states. International institutions don't really have a life and a mind of their own.
Interpretation
International institutions reflect the priorities of powerful member states rather than having independent influence.
In this quote, Samantha Power emphasizes that the actions and effectiveness of international institutions are largely determined by the political agendas of their most influential member states. Rather than operating independently, these institutions are shaped by the domestic priorities and interests of their members, illustrating how global governance is intertwined with national politics.
In practice
In a debate about the role of the UN, this quote can highlight how member countries dictate its function.
Sanctions did indeed help to bring Iran to the negotiating table. But sanctions did not stop the advance of Iran's nuclear program. Negotiations have done that, and it is in our interest not to deny ourselves the chance to achieve a long-term, comprehensive solution that would deny Iran a nuclear weapon.
Zimbabweans are severely malnourished, and deaths from starvation occur even in the cities. The country has not yet suffered nationwide famine only because international donors have stepped in.
Western governments have generally tried to contain genocide by appeasing its architects. But the sad record of the last century shows that the walls the United States tries to build around genocidal societies almost inevitably shatter.
No more than a surgeon can operate while tweeting can you reach your potential with one ear in, one ear out. You actually have to reacquaint yourself with concentration. We all do.
When dictators feel their support slipping among adults, it is not unusual for them to alter school textbooks in the hope of enlisting impressionable youths in their cause.
Throughout history, when societies face tough economic times, we have seen democratic reforms deferred, decreased trust in government, persecution of minority groups, and a general shrinking of the democratic space.
The best argument against democracy is a five-minute conversation with the average voter.
Freedom exists only where the people take care of the government.
You can't say the Negro left the Republican Party; the Negro feels he was evicted from the Republican Party.
Despite the present, temporary interests that Israel has in common with France and Britain, you ought not to forget that the strength of Israel and her future are bound up with the United States.
There are only two roads, victory for the working class, freedom, or victory for the fascists which means tyranny. Both combatants know what's in store for the loser.
Our economic problems worry me much less than our political solutions, which have a far worse track record.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.