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Decision Quote by Indira Gandhi

“The International Control Commission isn't doing anything, it's never done anything. What good does it do to be on it or not? Before opening the embassy in Hanoi, I gave it a lot of thought, but it wasn't really a painful decision. American policy in Vietnam is what it is, in Saigon the situation…” quote by Indira Gandhi
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“The International Control Commission isn't doing anything, it's never done anything. What good does it do to be on it or not? Before opening the embassy in Hanoi, I gave it a lot of thought, but it wasn't really a painful decision. American policy in Vietnam is what it is, in Saigon the situation is anything but normal, and I'm happy to have done what I did.”

Indira Gandhi

About This Quote

Source Speech: Interview on Vietnam policy, 1970s, null

Critique of a powerless international body and personal justification of policy decisions.

In simple terms: A commission ineffective; personal decisions matter.

Key Takeaway

Recognize limits of institutions, act responsibly.

Themes

politics policy institutional failure

Mood

skeptical reflective

Type

political analytical

When to use this quote

  • diplomacy
  • policy formulation
  • ethical reflection

Key Concepts

realism agency decision making

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you assess the value of participation in ineffective bodies?
  • What alternative actions could be taken?
A Different Perspective

Institutions may still influence outcomes despite inefficacy.

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