More on Bolton Nomination and the UN

By Mike Chandler

Andrew Cochran's posting on 26 May says that Bolton's nomination is "...About Changing the UN." As some one who has spent a number of very rewarding years working for the UN, I agree that change is necessary and that it is long overdue. There are also a number of friends and colleagues in the organisation, the 'modernists' or 'reformers', who agree with such sentiments. But it won't be done with a sledgehammer or a "size 9 boot". One also must also be clear on what one means by "...the UN!" There is both the organisation made up of the member states and there is the UN Secretariat which services the needs and supports the work of the General Assembly, the Security Council and the office of the Secretary- General, to say nothing of the many other elements. i.e. WHO, WFP, UNHCR, etc.. If change is to be achieved and the changes effective, it will require leadership and teamwork - of the highest possible quality and standard. Is John Bolton the man for such a task - that surely is the question?

The allegations to-date, of "intel intimidation" and being a managerial bully would hardly seem approriate for any senior manager, not just the person heading up the U.S. Mission to the UN, overseeing the workings of people dealing with such sensive matters. Nor do the allegations reflect the sort of skills that one normally associates with a good 'team leader'. One could argue that the "man-mangement skills" of the 'nomination' are an internal matter for the U.S. Government. But, as they are likely to colour the line that subordiantes are directed to take in the various meetings and committees that are part and parcel of the day-to-day workings, if they are not right they will prove counter productive. Arrogance is not the order of the day. Leadership is essential for the future of the UN, and that leadership has to come from the member states, particularly from the members of the "Permanent Five". But in such a diverse organisation, with so many national interests at stake, and with the need to build a level of trust and re-acquire respect, internationally, as never before, it would seem that whoever is to be nominated as the Permanent Representative of the US to the UN needs to be an outstanding team leader. One who is fair yet firm (when necessary), who can listen to and manage other ideas and points of view, as well as being a real diplomat and statesmen. Such "leadership" is crucial if the UN is to be an effective organ against terrorism, the non-proliferation of WMD and a global force for the benefit of ALL mankind.

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