Ramesh Thakur's Essay

Improved Essays
International conflict has long been an issue that has broken apart families, started wars, and resulted in the death of loved ones. While solutions to issues can be difficult to attain, it is important to stay connected to those who have differing opinions. The government is an important part of one’s life: it is influential in the way a nation is run, and vital in the protection of its people. In an effort to stay connected to other foreign countries and try to avoid dispute, the United Nations was created. An international governmental organization, the U.N. has been in existence since World War II’s decline. While many may have differing opinions on whether the U.N. is a benefit or hindrance, it is important to note that since its founding, …show more content…
In Ramesh Thakur’s essay “Choosing the Ninth United Nations Secretary-General: Looking Back, Looking Ahead,” Thakur discusses the importance that the Secretary-General plays in the U.N. and their involvement behind its overall function. As a representative of multiple governments, it is important that the person in this position has strong diplomatic and political skills. Serving as a leader in the U. N.’s council, this person must be able to help facilitate the interactions between opposing nations, and bringing them together for the greater good. In 2017, this position is up for reelection, and while there are many candidates who are qualified, the author expresses the importance of making the right choice. With global perspectives changing, and a rise in feminism, Thakur explains how women have an equal chance of being in the race. Once a candidate is chosen, they go through a rigorous election process, until they are appointed by the general assembly. Thakur also elaborates on how this position can be met with much criticism as the Secretary-General is behind many of the operations that the U.N. provides. The author furthers his point by explaining how the “Secretary-General [has] many opportunities to probe and explain…[and] engage in diplomatic parlance but also to exercise ideational and normative leadership” (Thakur 11). The future of the U.N. lies in the hands of its leader; it is this person who makes up a vital component of the organization’s structure. By choosing an accountable leader, the organization can continue to thrive and keep countries connected. In analyzing the requirements for this position, the future of the U.N. is easily bound to

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