Globalization is a fact of life. But I believe we have underestimated its fragility.

We need to ensure the poorest in the planet - who will be hardest hit by the financial crisis - are not forgotten.

On this International Day of Peace, let us dare to imagine a world free of conflict and violence

If our hopes of building a better and safer world are to become more than wishful thinking, we will need the engagement of volunteers more than ever.

It is within the family that children learn the values that will guide them for the rest of their lives. It is within the family that they form their earliest relationships, learn to communicate with others and interact with the world around them. It is within the family that the notion of human rights becomes a reality lived on a daily basis. If tolerance, respect and equity permeate family life, they will translate into values that shape societies, nations and the world.

I did not always achieve what I set out to do. Nevertheless, my personal example certainly suggests that hands-on experience can be helpful to future leaders.

If one is going to err, one should err on the side of liberty and freedom.