Expectations of the United Nations in a post-September 11 world.

• Author: Sonnenfeldt, Michael W.
• Position: Thinking Aloud

In this post-September 11(2001) world, where the consequences of globalization have been punctuated by a new frightening and unprecedented sense of global vulnerability, what should we expect of the United Nations?

On 10 November 2001, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan addressed the General Assembly and in his characteristically hushed tone condemned the forces of terror and pledged United Nations full support and cooperation in the battle against terrorism. Yet, he also gently reminded the assembled dignitaries that while the world had indeed changed, "none of the issues that faced us on September 10th had become any less urgent". In a sense, the events of "9/l1" have sent the United Nations back to its inception when, in the aftermath of a devastating war, the world body was established to stabilize international relations, and give peace and security a stronger foundation. Mr. Annan reminded us that even in a drastically changed and changing world, that mission continues to provide a compass for the Organization. And the best way to respond to today's heightened global vulnerability is for the United Nations to continue its life-saving work around the world: fighting poverty, reducing hunger, providing better health c are, preventing and containing conflict, eliminating weapons of mass destruction, defending human rights, protecting the environment and promoting democracy.

Since the United Nations founding, considerable progress has been made. We produce enough food for a growing population. Infant mortality in developing countries has been cut nearly in half since 1970. Life expectancy has increased by ten years. The gap between rich and poor countries has declined. Through humanitarian and development programmes around the world, the hungry are being fed and the sick are being treated. The poor are given loans to start businesses, girls are kept in school, and the needs of mothers and children are being met. We are beginning to understand how human activity affects the environment. We are in the midst of an information revolution that will bring unparalleled access to knowledge. We know that open markets create more wealth, and open societies are more lust. The world's poorest nations, crushed by the burden of debt, are receiving debt relief, freeing resources for education, health and growth. We have come closer together to advance common global interests and values through the United Nations and other multilateral institutions.

But...