881 Quotes by Kofi Annan

The U.N. doesn't have any troops; we borrow them from governments.

I think it is not just the U.N. speaking, but the concept of a third party, a third party to a conflict speaking out. You know, sometimes saying, 'Stop, this is enough. This cannot be allowed to happen,' gives the victims and the people who are caught in that situation courage, encouragement, support.

Sometimes leaders slide from the role of freedom fighter into the presidency, which they may be unsuited for, but everyone accepts it until they hit the bump in the road.

Sometimes I walk into a situation and know someone is going to provoke me, and I just simply refuse to be provoked.

The skills you need to fight the colonial power and the skills you need to gain independence are not necessarily the same you need to run a country.

My own advice to people who would be in office for two or three terms is that they must accept democratic rotation: ideally, not put themselves up for re-election and allow the system to work.

Developed country is one that allows all its citizens to enjoy a free and healthy life in a safe environment.

there is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women.

Gender equality is critical to the development and peace of every nation.