Secretary General

Definition

The Secretary General is the chief administrative officer of an international organization, most notably the United Nations, responsible for overseeing its operations and implementing its policies. This position plays a crucial role in promoting international cooperation, peacekeeping efforts, and addressing global issues in the context of the Cold War and Contemporary Europe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The position of Secretary General was established in 1945 when the United Nations was founded, making it a key role in post-World War II diplomacy.
2. The Secretary General is often referred to as the 'face' of the United Nations and plays a significant part in conflict resolution and mediation efforts globally.
3. The Secretary General serves a five-year term and can be re-elected, with the role being influential in setting the UN's agenda and priorities.
4. During the Cold War, Secretaries General had to navigate complex geopolitical tensions between superpowers while advocating for peace and security.
5. Notable Secretaries General include Dag Hammarskjöld, who died while on a peacekeeping mission, and Kofi Annan, who emphasized human rights and development during his tenure.

Review Questions

• How does the role of Secretary General contribute to international cooperation during times of conflict?
  • The Secretary General plays a vital role in fostering international cooperation by acting as a mediator in conflicts and advocating for peaceful resolutions. By representing the UN on global platforms, the Secretary General can rally support from member states to address issues such as war, humanitarian crises, and climate change. Their diplomatic initiatives and ability to communicate effectively with world leaders are essential in building consensus and promoting collaborative solutions during times of crisis.
• Analyze how the responsibilities of the Secretary General have evolved since the Cold War era.
  • Since the Cold War, the responsibilities of the Secretary General have expanded significantly due to the changing landscape of global politics. Initially focused on managing tensions between superpowers, the role now encompasses a broader range of issues such as human rights, sustainable development, and global health crises. The need for proactive engagement in peacekeeping missions has also increased, requiring Secretaries General to balance diplomatic negotiations with direct action in conflict zones.
• Evaluate the impact that different Secretaries General have had on shaping the policies and direction of the United Nations since its founding.
  • Different Secretaries General have had varied impacts on shaping UN policies based on their backgrounds, priorities, and geopolitical contexts. For instance, Dag Hammarskjöld's emphasis on peacekeeping established a legacy that defined UN interventions in conflicts for decades. Kofi Annan's tenure marked a shift towards addressing human rights and development challenges, which led to initiatives like the Millennium Development Goals. The effectiveness of each Secretary General has often been tied to their ability to navigate international politics while championing progressive reforms within the UN framework.

Related terms

United Nations:

An intergovernmental organization founded in 1945 to promote peace, security, and cooperation among countries worldwide.

Security Council: A principal organ of the United Nations responsible for maintaining international peace and security, with the authority to make binding decisions.

Multilateralism: A diplomatic strategy that involves multiple countries working together on a given issue or set of issues, often facilitated by international organizations like the UN.