Sometimes in peacekeeping operations you show force in order not to use force - people realise that there's a pushback and there's a solid force there that's not going to be pushed around, that sometimes helps.

Microfinance recognizes that poor people are remarkable reservoirs of energy and knowledge

I often quote an African proverb that says: "The world is not ours, the earth is not ours, It's a treasure we hold in trust for future generations." And I often hope we will be worthy of that trust.

Access to safe water is a fundamental human need and therefore a basic human right.

Most governments only want to deploy a peacekeeping force where there is a peace agreement and there is peace to keep. They are very hesitant about putting their men and women in harm's way. It is extremely difficult to get the troops if you do not have the consent of the country where you are deploying.

Like any large organisation, public or private, the UN is a complex machine.

The United Nations is proud to have the Adopt-A-Minefield Campaign as a partner.