We must follow the wisdom of the Brundtland Report. We must pursue development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes sustainable development that addresses current needs while preserving resources for future generations.
Ban Ki-Moon's quote reflects the crucial balance required in development practices to ensure that current advancements do not deplete or harm the resources and opportunities available to future generations. The reference to the Brundtland Report highlights a widely accepted framework for sustainable development, urging individuals and governments to consider the long-term impacts of their economic and environmental decisions.
In practice
This quote can be used in a speech about environmental policy initiatives.
Nuclear terrorism is one of the most serious threats of our time. Even one such attack could inflict mass casualties and create immense suffering and unwanted change in the world forever. This prospect should compel all of us to act to prevent such a catastrophe.
We have international standards regulating everything from t-shirts to toys to tomatoes. There are international regulations for furniture. That means there are common standards for the global trade in armchairs but not the global trade in arms.
Weapons of mass destruction violate more than individual lives - they cross international borders and jeopardize all people. They also drain resources that could be used instead for medicines, schools and other life-saving supplies. We must come together with even greater determination to prevent a WMD nightmare.
Throughout human history, in any great endeavour requiring the common effort of many nations and men and women everywhere, we have learned - it is only through seriousness of purpose and persistence that we ultimately carry the day. We might liken it to riding a bicycle. You stay upright and move forward so long as you keep up the momentum.
By including children with different learning abilities in mainstream and specialized schools, we can change attitudes and promote respect. By creating suitable jobs for adults with autism, we integrate them into society.
Freedom is a timeless value. The United Nations Charter calls for encouraging respect for fundamental freedoms. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights mentions freedom more than twenty times. All countries have committed to protecting individual freedoms on paper - but in practice, too many break their pledge.
Always look for the fool in the deal. If you don't find one, it's you.
One man with a head on his shoulders is worth a dozen without.
Pennies do not come from heaven. They have to be earned here on earth.
By cultivating the beautiful we scatter the seeds of heavenly flowers, as by doing good we cultivate those that belong to humanity.
Talent is culture with insolence.
Grant what thou commandest and then command what thou wilt.
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