To Lead, or Not to Lead?

Inga-Britt Ahlenius served as Under-Secretary General of The Office of International Oversight Servcies at the United Nations between 2005-2010. The report which she submitted after five years of service was considered extremely outspoken, as it held substantial criticism aimed directly at the leadership of Ban Ki-Moon. At a recently held seminar in Uppsala, Ahlenius touched on issues such as the complexity of the United Nations, the political interests of the permanent members of the Security Council, the need for effective and passionate leadership, and on the potential of the UN. Ahlenius considers Ban Ki-Moon "inadequate to lead this indispensable and complex organization". 

As I left the University Building, I was left with some sort of conviction and reminder that leadership is essential. The lack there of can cause confusion, chaos and conflict, while good leadership can lead to development. Ahlenius mentioned that "a weak Secretary General is comfortable in his position". How many leaders worldwide are not comfortable in their position? The recent developments in Northern Africa seem to speak for the fact that leaders have a tendency to get comfortable. When it takes a whole popular uprising to force some people out of power, you know they were enjoying the high chair. 

"One might ask: What does it take to produce leaders with such values, whose lives becomes their message and who humble themselves and sacrifice for the common good?"

-Wangari Maathai 

Peace