Good, healthy democratic societies are built on three pillars: there's peace and stability, economic development, and respect for rule of law and human rights. But often, we take stability - peace in terms of security and economic activity - to mean a country is doing well. We forget the third and important pillar of rule of law and respect for human rights, because no country can long remain prosperous without that third pillar.

My intimate knowledge of the [UN] system allowed me to get things done despite the many obstacles.

Applaud us when we prevail, correct us when we fail; but, above all, do not let this indispensable, irreplaceable institution wither, languish or perish as a result of Member States' indifference, inattention or financial starvation.

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

Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope... Especially for girls and women, it is an agent of family health and nutrition.

You are never too young to lead and you should never doubt your capacity to triumph where others have not.

As one of my predecessors said, our objective is not to take people to heaven, but to prevent humanity from going to hell.