Ban Ki-moon
(born 1944) is a South Korean diplomat who served as the Secretary-General of the United Nations from 2007 to 2016. During his tenure, he focused on global issues such as climate change, sustainable development, and international peacekeeping. Ban played a crucial role in advancing the Paris Climate Agreement and promoting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Known for his diplomatic approach and commitment to multilateralism, he worked to strengthen global cooperation in addressing complex challenges. After his UN role, he continued to advocate for environmental and humanitarian causes. Ban Ki-moon remains a respected global leader in international diplomacy.
17 quotes in this collection. Read them below, share your favourites, or follow the related links to explore similar voices.
All quotes by Ban Ki-moon
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“The world is over-armed and peace is underfunded.”
Meaning: This statement criticizes global priorities, highlighting the imbalance between military spending and investment in peace-building efforts. -
“Without peace, there can be no development.”
Meaning: Peace is a prerequisite for economic and social progress. Conflict disrupts growth and stability. -
“Global challenges can only be solved when nations choose cooperation over division.”
Meaning: Unity solves global problems. -
“Sustainable development is the pathway to the future we want for all.”
Meaning: Ban Ki-moon underlines that long-term global prosperity depends on sustainability that balances economic, social, and environmental needs. -
“The future depends on our willingness to act together with urgency and purpose.”
Meaning: Action shapes the future. -
“Climate action is not optional, it is essential for the survival of our planet.”
Meaning: Climate action is necessary. -
“Equality is not just a principle, but a requirement for lasting peace and stability.”
Meaning: Equality supports peace. -
“Leadership today requires a global perspective and a shared sense of responsibility.”
Meaning: Global thinking is important. -
“Education empowers individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.”
Meaning: Education drives contribution. -
“Human dignity must remain at the center of all progress and development.”
Meaning: Respect for people is essential. -
“Education is a fundamental human right.”
Meaning: This quote highlights that access to education is essential for equality, empowerment, and societal progress. -
“Sustainable development requires responsibility not only for today, but for generations to come.”
Meaning: Think about future generations. -
“Women’s empowerment is central to development.”
Meaning: Empowering women leads to stronger societies and sustainable progress. This quote highlights gender equality as a key driver of development. -
“There is no Plan B because we do not have a Planet B.”
Meaning: This quote stresses the importance of protecting Earth, as there is no alternative planet to sustain human life. -
“Human rights are at the heart of the United Nations.”
Meaning: This quote emphasizes that protecting human dignity and rights is fundamental to global governance and peace. -
“Saving our planet, lifting people out of poverty, advancing economic growth… these are one and the same fight.”
Meaning: Ban Ki-moon emphasizes that environmental protection, poverty reduction, and economic development are interconnected challenges that must be addressed together. -
“We must stand together as one human family.”
Meaning: Global unity is essential to solve shared challenges. This quote emphasizes cooperation and solidarity among nations.