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When you have difficult issues on the table for…

“When you have difficult issues on the table for discussion, then sometimes for Africa you may have Burundi or Gambia representing them on the Security Council; and then for Latin America you may have a country like Costa Rica, which is a wonderful country but they don't have the same weight as…” quote by Kofi Annan
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“When you have difficult issues on the table for discussion, then sometimes for Africa you may have Burundi or Gambia representing them on the Security Council; and then for Latin America you may have a country like Costa Rica, which is a wonderful country but they don't have the same weight as others from the other regions. And sometimes they get bullied. Sometimes their capitals come under lots of pressure to take a position.”

Kofi Annan

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Power imbalances allow smaller nations to be pressured into positions they may not truly support.

In simple terms: Small states can be bullied in international forums.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and protect the voice of less powerful countries.

Themes

politics power diplomacy justice fairness

Mood

concerned serious

Type

political analytical

When to use this quote

  • UN negotiations
  • regional alliances
  • human rights advocacy

Key Concepts

sovereignty influence bullying regional representation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can larger nations support weaker allies?
  • What mechanisms ensure equitable decision‑making?
A Different Perspective

Small states may lack resources to resist pressure.

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