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Unvanquished: A U.S. - U.N. Saga
For years the United States has treated the United Nations as an extension of its own foreign policy, while other member states--especially smaller, less influential countries--have looked to the United Nations to represent their collective interests. This conflict escalated in the fall of 1996, when the United States unilaterally decided to deny Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali a second term.
In this book Boutros-Ghali argues that U.S. policy toward the United Nations threatens the fragile fabric of the international organization. By selectively consulting the Security Council, the United States has frequently condemned the United Nations to the status of scapegoat in international affairs, notably during peacekeeping missions in Bosnia, Somalia, and Rwanda. Meanwhile, the United Nations's financial crisis persists as the United States fails to pay its bills while seeking to further increase its already considerable influence within the organization.
In October 1995 President Clinton lavishly praised Boutros-Ghali for his "outstanding leadership," and thanked him for his "vision." Yet, a mere four months later, the Clinton administration decided that Boutros-Ghali would have to go. What happened in that short time to convince the United States that the secretary-general was now a liability? United States domestic electoral politics were While campaigning for the primaries, Bob Dole was scoring heavily by repeatedly ridiculing Boutros-Ghali. To neutralize Dole's challenge, Clinton denied the controversial secretary-general a second term, vetoing his reelection in the Security Council despite unanimous support from its other members.
Boutros-Ghali reveals the dramatic conflict and the personalities involved and considers the future of the United Nations in light of American domination.
In this book Boutros-Ghali argues that U.S. policy toward the United Nations threatens the fragile fabric of the international organization. By selectively consulting the Security Council, the United States has frequently condemned the United Nations to the status of scapegoat in international affairs, notably during peacekeeping missions in Bosnia, Somalia, and Rwanda. Meanwhile, the United Nations's financial crisis persists as the United States fails to pay its bills while seeking to further increase its already considerable influence within the organization.
In October 1995 President Clinton lavishly praised Boutros-Ghali for his "outstanding leadership," and thanked him for his "vision." Yet, a mere four months later, the Clinton administration decided that Boutros-Ghali would have to go. What happened in that short time to convince the United States that the secretary-general was now a liability? United States domestic electoral politics were While campaigning for the primaries, Bob Dole was scoring heavily by repeatedly ridiculing Boutros-Ghali. To neutralize Dole's challenge, Clinton denied the controversial secretary-general a second term, vetoing his reelection in the Security Council despite unanimous support from its other members.
Boutros-Ghali reveals the dramatic conflict and the personalities involved and considers the future of the United Nations in light of American domination.
- GenresHistory
372 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 1999
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About the author
Boutros Boutros-Ghali
58 books14 followers(Arabic: بطرس بطرس غالي)
Boutros Boutros-Ghali was born into a prominent Egyptian family. His grandfather, just plain Boutros Ghali, had been Prime Minister, and his uncle, Wassif Ghali, was Foreign Minister. Young Boutros was raised a Coptic Christian, and dreamed of becoming a lawyer. He got his Bachelor of Laws degree in 1946, and followed that with a Ph.D. in international law in 1949. Boutros-Ghali also has degrees in political science, economics and public law. As a lawyer he specialized in international law. From 1960 to about 1975, Boutros-Ghali founded, edited, and wrote for Al-Ahram Iqtisadi, where his beat was regional and international law, diplomacy and political science. He was a member of Parliament in Egypt, and helped negotiate the 1978 Camp David accords, bringing peace between Egypt and Israel.
Boutros-Ghali was U.N. Secretary-General from 1992 to 1996. He oversaw a U.N. peacekeeping mission to Somalia that went rather disastrously, and asked for assistance from the U.S. and other nations within just a few months. Also under his watch, war raged in Bosnia and genocide unfolded in Rwanda. Boutros-Ghali served just one term as Secretary-General, when the tradition is two.
Outside diplomatic circles, Boutros Boutros-Ghali remains famous mostly for his silly sounding name. "Boutros" is the Arabic version of Peter, and Ghali in English means precious.
Wife: Leia Maria Nadler
University: Cairo University (1946)
University: PhD International Law, University of Paris
University: Institut d'Études Politiques de Paris (1949)
Professor: International Law, Cairo University (1949-77)
http://www.nndb.com/people/356/000022...
Boutros Boutros-Ghali was born into a prominent Egyptian family. His grandfather, just plain Boutros Ghali, had been Prime Minister, and his uncle, Wassif Ghali, was Foreign Minister. Young Boutros was raised a Coptic Christian, and dreamed of becoming a lawyer. He got his Bachelor of Laws degree in 1946, and followed that with a Ph.D. in international law in 1949. Boutros-Ghali also has degrees in political science, economics and public law. As a lawyer he specialized in international law. From 1960 to about 1975, Boutros-Ghali founded, edited, and wrote for Al-Ahram Iqtisadi, where his beat was regional and international law, diplomacy and political science. He was a member of Parliament in Egypt, and helped negotiate the 1978 Camp David accords, bringing peace between Egypt and Israel.
Boutros-Ghali was U.N. Secretary-General from 1992 to 1996. He oversaw a U.N. peacekeeping mission to Somalia that went rather disastrously, and asked for assistance from the U.S. and other nations within just a few months. Also under his watch, war raged in Bosnia and genocide unfolded in Rwanda. Boutros-Ghali served just one term as Secretary-General, when the tradition is two.
Outside diplomatic circles, Boutros Boutros-Ghali remains famous mostly for his silly sounding name. "Boutros" is the Arabic version of Peter, and Ghali in English means precious.
Wife: Leia Maria Nadler
University: Cairo University (1946)
University: PhD International Law, University of Paris
University: Institut d'Études Politiques de Paris (1949)
Professor: International Law, Cairo University (1949-77)
http://www.nndb.com/people/356/000022...
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
October 8, 2007
I loved this book! It was a total riot! It's basically just Boutros being in a complete huff with the Clinton Administration for not re-electing him SG. One of the funniest bits is when he first meets Madeleine Albright...
"Ambassador Albright seemed shy and very nice. Short and plump, she had sharp blue eyes that were dazzling when set off by a blue dress. She presented her credentials to me with Warren Christopher protectively at her sight."
Short and plump? Can he say that?
On a more serious note, for those ready to blame the UN for the humanitarian disasters of the 1990s this book also provides a useful explanation of how the organisation is a scapegoat for the inaction of the developed world.
I just hope Kofi writes his memoirs soon!
"Ambassador Albright seemed shy and very nice. Short and plump, she had sharp blue eyes that were dazzling when set off by a blue dress. She presented her credentials to me with Warren Christopher protectively at her sight."
Short and plump? Can he say that?
On a more serious note, for those ready to blame the UN for the humanitarian disasters of the 1990s this book also provides a useful explanation of how the organisation is a scapegoat for the inaction of the developed world.
I just hope Kofi writes his memoirs soon!
April 4, 2024
"Unvanquished: A U.S. - U.N. Saga" - Boutros Boutros-Ghali's Compelling Account of Diplomatic Struggles and Triumphs
"Unvanquished: A U.S. - U.N. Saga" offers readers an insightful and compelling glimpse into the intricate world of international diplomacy, as seen through the eyes of Boutros Boutros-Ghali, the former Secretary-General of the United Nations. In this illuminating memoir, Ghali recounts his experiences navigating the complex and often contentious relationship between the United States and the United Nations, shedding light on the challenges, triumphs, and controversies that marked his tenure.
At the heart of the book is Ghali's steadfast commitment to the principles of multilateralism, peace, and global cooperation. Drawing on his extensive diplomatic experience and keen insights, Ghali offers a nuanced perspective on the role of the United Nations in addressing the world's most pressing challenges, from conflict resolution and peacekeeping to development and human rights.
One of the book's most compelling aspects is Ghali's candid assessment of the United States' relationship with the United Nations. As the world's preeminent superpower, the United States wields significant influence within the UN, yet its relationship with the organization has often been fraught with tension and disagreement. Ghali provides valuable insights into the dynamics of this relationship, exploring the ways in which competing interests and priorities have shaped the course of international diplomacy.
But "Unvanquished" is more than just a diplomatic memoir—it's also a testament to Ghali's resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Throughout the book, Ghali reflects on the personal and professional challenges he faced as Secretary-General, from navigating diplomatic minefields to confronting criticism and opposition from powerful actors within the UN and beyond.
In conclusion, "Unvanquished: A U.S. - U.N. Saga" is a captivating and illuminating book that offers readers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of international diplomacy. Ghali's insights, wisdom, and humanity shine through on every page, making this memoir essential reading for anyone interested in the pursuit of peace and justice on the global stage. Whether you're a scholar of international relations or simply someone curious about the world of diplomacy, this book is sure to inform, inspire, and enlighten.
"Unvanquished: A U.S. - U.N. Saga" offers readers an insightful and compelling glimpse into the intricate world of international diplomacy, as seen through the eyes of Boutros Boutros-Ghali, the former Secretary-General of the United Nations. In this illuminating memoir, Ghali recounts his experiences navigating the complex and often contentious relationship between the United States and the United Nations, shedding light on the challenges, triumphs, and controversies that marked his tenure.
At the heart of the book is Ghali's steadfast commitment to the principles of multilateralism, peace, and global cooperation. Drawing on his extensive diplomatic experience and keen insights, Ghali offers a nuanced perspective on the role of the United Nations in addressing the world's most pressing challenges, from conflict resolution and peacekeeping to development and human rights.
One of the book's most compelling aspects is Ghali's candid assessment of the United States' relationship with the United Nations. As the world's preeminent superpower, the United States wields significant influence within the UN, yet its relationship with the organization has often been fraught with tension and disagreement. Ghali provides valuable insights into the dynamics of this relationship, exploring the ways in which competing interests and priorities have shaped the course of international diplomacy.
But "Unvanquished" is more than just a diplomatic memoir—it's also a testament to Ghali's resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Throughout the book, Ghali reflects on the personal and professional challenges he faced as Secretary-General, from navigating diplomatic minefields to confronting criticism and opposition from powerful actors within the UN and beyond.
In conclusion, "Unvanquished: A U.S. - U.N. Saga" is a captivating and illuminating book that offers readers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of international diplomacy. Ghali's insights, wisdom, and humanity shine through on every page, making this memoir essential reading for anyone interested in the pursuit of peace and justice on the global stage. Whether you're a scholar of international relations or simply someone curious about the world of diplomacy, this book is sure to inform, inspire, and enlighten.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews