The taking of life is too absolute, too irreversible, for one human being to inflict on another, even when backed by legal process. Where the death penalty persists, conditions for those awaiting execution are often horrifying, leading to aggravated suffering.
BAN KI-MOONNuclear terrorism is one of the most serious threats of our time. Even one such attack could inflict mass casualties and create immense suffering and unwanted change in the world forever. This prospect should compel all of us to act to prevent such a catastrophe.
More Ban Ki-moon Quotes
-
-
To measure the success of our societies, we should examine how well those with different abilities, including persons with autism, are integrated as full and valued members.
BAN KI-MOON -
The clear and present danger of climate change means we cannot burn our way to prosperity. We already rely too heavily on fossil fuels. We need to find a new, sustainable path to the future we want. We need a clean industrial revolution.
BAN KI-MOON -
Let us take advantage of the opportunities presented by climate action and lay the foundations for a more prosperous and secure future for all.
BAN KI-MOON -
We must turn the greatest collective challenge facing humankind today – climate change – into the greatest opportunity for common progress towards a sustainable future.
BAN KI-MOON -
Terrorism is a significant threat to peace and security, prosperity and people.
BAN KI-MOON -
We have all heard of the web of life. The way we live threatens to trap us in a web of death.
BAN KI-MOON -
Many say our world is at a tipping point. If we do not act together, if we do not act responsibly, if we do not act now, we risk slipping into a cycle of poverty, degradation, and despair.
BAN KI-MOON -
I strongly reject threats by any member state to destroy another or outrageous attempts to deny historical facts such as the Holocaust.
BAN KI-MOON -
We have seen in the past where leaders have not been open-minded or have not been flexible. That’s why the people came out to the streets and shouted and chanted for more reforms and more freedoms.
BAN KI-MOON -
I believe in a world of justice and human rights for all. A world where girls can grow up free of fear of abuse. A world where women are treated with the respect and dignity that is their right. A world where poverty is not acceptable. My dear young friends, you can make this your world.
BAN KI-MOON -
As the young leaders of tomorrow, you have the passion and energy and commitment to make a difference. What I’d like to really urge you do is to have a global vision. Go beyond your country; go beyond your national boundaries
BAN KI-MOON -
I am not a national leader. If I am a national leader I can speak out all that I want.
BAN KI-MOON -
Since [violence against women] is rooted in discrimination, impunity and complacency, we need to change attitudes and behavior – and we need to change laws and make sure they are enforced just like you are doing in Cuba.
BAN KI-MOON -
With her courage and determination, Malala has shown what terrorists fear most: a girl with a book.
BAN KI-MOON -
Sustainable development and climate change are two sides of the same coin
BAN KI-MOON