Agreement Quote by David Souter
![“Summits [World Summit on the Information Society] are meant to help governments reach a global consensus on major issues which has proved elusive in established fora. They do so through the embarrassment associated with failing to sign a summit's final agreement.” quote by David Souter](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fa7/david-souter-41559_agreement_summits-world-summit-on-the-information_748275.jpg)
“Summits [World Summit on the Information Society] are meant to help governments reach a global consensus on major issues which has proved elusive in established fora. They do so through the embarrassment associated with failing to sign a summit's final agreement.”
About This Quote
Source Conference: World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) series, 2003‑present
Summits aim to forge global agreement on tough issues, using the shame of not signing a final pact as leverage.
In simple terms: Summits push governments toward consensus by highlighting failure.
Key Takeaway
Leverage embarrassment to drive cooperation.
Themes
governance
consensus
diplomacy
Mood
strategic
formalational
Type
policy
diplomacy
When to use this quote
- international negotiations
- policy drafting
- multilateral treaties
Key Concepts
political pressure
normative influence
Questions to Reflect On
- How can summits ensure lasting compliance?
- What alternatives exist to shame‑based tactics?
A Different Perspective
Success depends on genuine commitment, not just shame.
