As I prepare for my second term as Secretary-General, I am thinking hard about how we can meet the expectations of the millions of people who see the U.N.'s blue flag as a banner of hope. We have to continue our life-saving work in peacekeeping, human rights, development and humanitarian relief.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the responsibility of leadership to fulfill the hopes and expectations of the people they serve.
Ban Ki-Moon expresses his dedication to fulfilling the aspirations of those who view the United Nations as a symbol of hope. He acknowledges the critical responsibilities associated with his leadership role, particularly in areas such as peacekeeping, human rights, and humanitarian relief, highlighting the importance of meeting the needs of millions relying on these efforts.
In practice
In a speech about global cooperation, one might reference this quote to inspire collective action.
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.
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.
My place in history will depend on what I can do for the people and not on what the people can do for me.
A leader’s most powerful ally is his or her own example.
A leader, first and foremost, is human. Only when we have the strength to show our vulnerability can we truly lead.
History has shown that one cannot legislate a culture of integrity. And yet, one of the paramount responsibilities and challenges of corporate leadership is to ensure such a culture.
We need to stop telling [women], "Get a mentor and you will excel." Instead, we need to tell them, "Excel and you will get a mentor.
You will find me standing up to my rack, as the people's faithful representative, and the public's most obedient, very humble servant.
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