ENGLISH SPEECH | ANGELINA JOLIE: What We Stand For? (English Subtitles)

Summary

This powerful speech honors the memory of Sergio Vieira de Mello and his colleagues who lost their lives in the 2003 bombing of the UN Headquarters in Baghdad. Reflecting on Sergio’s 30-year career with the UN, the speaker emphasizes the enduring importance of internationalism, diplomacy, and humanitarian efforts. In light of ongoing global crises, the speech calls for a renewed commitment to the ideals of the United Nations, urging citizens and governments to maintain peace, justice, and cooperation despite the challenges of nationalism and conflict. Sergio’s legacy serves as a call to action for future generations to continue the work he left unfinished.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sergio Vieira de Mello and 21 other UN workers died in the 2003 Baghdad bombing, remembered for their sacrifice and commitment to the UN's mission.
• 😀 Sergio was a man of extraordinary grace, serving the UN for 30 years in various conflict zones, from East Timor to South Sudan, as a diplomat and negotiator.
• 😀 His work remains relevant today, especially in the context of ongoing global conflicts and humanitarian crises such as Syria, Yemen, and South Sudan.
• 😀 The value of the UN is highlighted by its role in international diplomacy, peace-building, and its ability to unite countries toward common goals.
• 😀 Despite its flaws, the UN remains essential for global peace and security, with its work continuing even after the tragic loss of key figures like Sergio.
• 😀 The speaker calls for a renewed commitment to diplomacy, internationalism, and the United Nations as the solution to global instability and insecurity.
• 😀 The rise of nationalism and global conflicts challenges the UN’s mission, yet the speaker emphasizes the importance of staying engaged with global issues.
• 😀 Leaders must not only focus on national interests but also consider human rights and global cooperation, as these principles are vital for national and global security.
• 😀 Humanitarian aid is critical but not a long-term solution; prevention and conflict reduction should be prioritized over emergency relief.
• 😀 Sergio’s legacy is a reminder that international cooperation, humanitarian work, and the UN's mission are integral to maintaining global peace and security.
• 😀 The UN's success depends on the collective will of citizens and governments to uphold its values, ensuring that future generations are spared the hardships of war and conflict.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the speech?

The speech commemorates Sergio Vieira de Mello and the 21 other UN workers who died in the bombing of the UN Headquarters in Baghdad in August 2003. It reflects on their legacy, their sacrifices, and the continuing importance of international cooperation, diplomacy, and humanitarian efforts.

What is significant about Sergio Vieira de Mello’s contributions?

Sergio Vieira de Mello is remembered for his 30 years of service to the United Nations, where he worked in some of the world's most challenging areas, including Bangladesh, Bosnia, East Timor, and South Sudan. He was known for his diplomatic skills, his commitment to human rights, and his leadership in complex crises.

Why is the speaker reflecting on current global issues in this speech?

The speaker highlights ongoing global conflicts, humanitarian crises, and rising nationalism, drawing a parallel to the work of individuals like Sergio Vieira de Mello. The speech stresses the importance of international cooperation and diplomacy in addressing these issues, especially in times of crisis.

What role did the United Nations play after the bombing in 2003?

Following the bombing, hundreds of UN staff continued their work in Iraq, as they have in other conflict zones like Afghanistan and Somalia. The UN’s mission to build peace and security never ended, demonstrating its continued relevance and necessity.

How does the speaker view nationalism in the current global climate?

The speaker expresses concern over rising nationalism, which often masquerades as patriotism. This shift toward nationalism is seen as detrimental to international cooperation, as it fosters fear and hatred of others and undermines agreements made for global peace and security.

What does the speaker believe is the answer to global instability?

The speaker advocates for a renewed commitment to diplomacy, negotiation, and reform within the United Nations. They stress that withdrawing from international responsibilities would exacerbate instability and insecurity, whereas strengthening global cooperation is essential.

What does the speaker say about the United Nations' imperfections?

The speaker acknowledges that the UN is not perfect and has faced criticism, particularly from those working in the field who have seen its shortcomings firsthand. However, they emphasize that the UN is still vital for global peace and security, and abandoning or undermining it would be detrimental.

How does the speaker address the issue of humanitarian aid funding?

The speaker highlights the insufficient funding of humanitarian appeals, with some countries receiving only a small fraction of the necessary support. They stress that emergency aid is a temporary solution and that long-term investments in infrastructure, education, and trade are needed to prevent crises.

What does the speaker mean by ‘internationalism’?

Internationalism, as described by the speaker, is the belief in global cooperation, human rights, and fairness. It involves recognizing our shared humanity and working together to solve global challenges, not just focusing on the interests of individual nations.

What message does the speaker convey regarding future generations?

The speaker urges that we must uphold the ideals and responsibilities left to us by past generations, particularly those who contributed to the creation of the United Nations. They stress that the choices we make today will shape the world we pass on to future generations, and we must stay committed to international peace and security.