Introduction

One of the most important assets of any United Nations Secretary-General is the unique platform of the office itself. Its fundamental impartiality makes possible the exercise of good offices to defuse political tensions and promote the peaceful settlement of disputes. Its convening power allows for the bringing together of people and nations in common cause. Its perch atop the world’s only universal organization gives the occupant uncommon visibility. The mix and frequency with which these and other tools are deployed is for each Secretary-General to define in the context of the times. But there is one constant: making maximum use of the so-called “bully pulpit”.

Related Subject(s): United Nations