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Since the moment of the United Nations' inception, untold…

“Since the moment of the United Nations' inception, untold energies have been expended by governments not only toward the exclusion of persons of principle and distinction from the organization's leading positions, but toward the installation of men whose character and affiliations would as far as…” quote by Shirley Hazzard
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“Since the moment of the United Nations' inception, untold energies have been expended by governments not only toward the exclusion of persons of principle and distinction from the organization's leading positions, but toward the installation of men whose character and affiliations would as far as possible preclude any serious challenge to governmental sovereignty.”

Shirley Hazzard

About This Quote

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

The United Nations was designed to exclude principled individuals, instead installing compliant leaders to protect state sovereignty.

In simple terms: UN favors loyal officials over independent voices.

Key Takeaway

Question the motives behind institutional appointments.

Themes

politics power institutional control

Mood

critical analytical

Type

reflective skeptical

When to use this quote

  • government negotiations
  • international policy
  • human rights advocacy
  • leadership selection

Key Concepts

sovereignty elite selection bureaucracy ethical compromise

Questions to Reflect On

  • What mechanisms can ensure independent voices in global bodies?
  • How does sovereignty affect reform?
A Different Perspective

May overlook the benefits of diverse perspectives.

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