Berlin Quote by Kofi Annan
![“There was a time, with the Berlin Wall down, that [it looked as if] the UN finally could do what it was set up to do, the rivalry between the two camps would dissipate, and we could all co-operate. And then, of course, Iraq came and blew it all apart. These upheavals will always take place in the…” quote by Kofi Annan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/48a/kofi-annan-799_berlin_there-was-a-time-with-the-berlin-wall-do_2422463.jpg)
“There was a time, with the Berlin Wall down, that [it looked as if] the UN finally could do what it was set up to do, the rivalry between the two camps would dissipate, and we could all co-operate. And then, of course, Iraq came and blew it all apart. These upheavals will always take place in the world, and the design and construct of the UN ideally should be such that it can deal with these upheavals, and possibly influence them, and survive and thrive, but it doesn't work out that way, because as an organisation we are so dependent on the same member states.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: UN General Assembly, 2003
The UN’s purpose is to foster global cooperation, but geopolitical crises and member-state dependence undermine its effectiveness.
In simple terms: UN aims for cooperation but struggles due to politics.
Key Takeaway
Strengthen independent mechanisms within the UN.
Themes
international relations
peacekeeping
institutional limits
Mood
cautious
hopeful
Type
analytical
critical
When to use this quote
- peace negotiations
- humanitarian aid
- policy reform
Key Concepts
sovereignty
collective security
Questions to Reflect On
- Can the UN reform without member-state consent?
- What alternative structures could ensure stability?
A Different Perspective
Member states can veto or stall essential actions.
