“The more interdependent we become, the more decisions have to be taken, not by one nation-state alone, but by many, acting together. Unless it is properly managed, this process can entail a “democratic deficit,” as decision-makers are further removed from and less accountable to the people whose lives are affected. So the challenge for all of us is to manage our interdependence in ways that bring people in, rather than shutting them out.”
—Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the United Nations
“Citizens in our world are dying of hunger, dying of poverty, and dying of disease. The situation is totally unacceptable. We must look to interdependence as a guide, alleviate conditions in our own society, and create a world filled with greenery, food, and culture, and a great love and respect for each other, regardless of differences. We will embrace those differences not only because we find in them new ways to live, but also because we have come to realize that in those differences, and in our interdependence, lie the key to our humanity. We must look to interdependence as a guide, alleviate conditions in our own society, and create a world filled with greenery, food, and culture, and a great love and respect for each other, regardless of differences.”
—Harry Belafonte
“Thinking about interdependence makes us realize how much we need each other. It helps to reduce stereotypes, enmity and hatred, and increases the chances of peace and coexistence. Interdependence is when you and I feel that our lives and our dignity are of equally high value. For me interdependence represents the end of mental barriers among nations and individuals in the world; it’s when people think beyond geographical borders— as citizens of the earth, not only of a particular country.
—Tariq Adwan
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT YOUR LOCAL UNITED NATIONS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME’S OFFICE OR:
United Nations Development Programme
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New York,NY 10017
USA
Telephone: (212) 906 5295 Fax: (212) 906 5364
Programme des Nations Unies pour le développement Bureau européen Palais des Nations
CH-1211 Genève 10
Switzerland
Telephone: (41-22) 917 8542 Fax: (41-22) 917 8001
UNDP Liaison Office in Brussels United Nations Office/UNDP
14 Rue Montoyer
1000 – Bruxelles Belgium
Telephone: (32-2) 505 4620 Fax: (32-2) 503 4729
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Reminds me of 12-Step Traditions that bring suffered together in loving respectful community with the common goal not only to survive but to allow each individual to thrive. It’s working to save millions of lives. Let’s apply the primary purpose to stay in reality and help others to find peace.