UN Calls for Collective Action to Drive Global Change

UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed delivered an inspiring address at the graduation ceremony for the Paris School of International Affairs, Sciences Po, in Paris. She congratulated the graduates, who represent over 120 nationalities, and emphasized the importance of their roles in shaping a better world. Mohammed shared valuable lessons from her extensive career, urging the new graduates to embrace hope, maintain their integrity, and invest in meaningful relationships as they step into a world filled with challenges and opportunities.

Embracing Challenges Through Organization

In her speech, Amina Mohammed highlighted the complexities of the modern world, urging graduates not to be paralyzed by the overwhelming challenges they face. She shared her experiences from her time as Nigeria’s Minister for Environment, where she learned that crises are often interconnected. For instance, the drying of Lake Chad was not just an environmental issue but also a security crisis that contributed to the rise of Boko Haram. Mohammed stressed the importance of collaboration across various sectors, including civil society and the private sector, to find effective solutions. She encouraged the graduates to mobilize and organize rather than agonize over the daunting issues at hand. Recent achievements at the United Nations, such as the approval of a landmark Pandemic Treaty and new protections for oceans, serve as examples of what can be accomplished through collective action.

The Lifelong Journey of Learning

Mohammed emphasized that graduation marks the beginning of a lifelong learning journey rather than an endpoint. She recounted her own experiences of rapidly acquiring knowledge in international diplomacy upon joining the United Nations. The Deputy Secretary-General encouraged graduates to stay ahead of the curve by continuously learning about emerging technologies and global issues. She underscored the importance of performance and hard work in opening doors to new opportunities. While acknowledging that luck and privilege play a role in success, she assured the graduates that diligence would significantly enhance their chances of achieving their goals.

The Power of Hope and Integrity

In her address, Mohammed spoke about the necessity of hope in the face of adversity. She acknowledged the cynicism prevalent in international affairs but urged graduates to view hope as a powerful force for change. Drawing from her experiences with young girls who have endured unimaginable hardships, she illustrated that hope is about resilience and the courage to continue striving for a better future. Furthermore, she stressed the importance of maintaining a moral compass in a world where integrity is often tested. Graduates must be prepared to challenge power and advocate for justice and dignity, particularly in the context of gender equality. Mohammed called on men to support women in their pursuit of equality, emphasizing that true progress can only be achieved when everyone is included.

Investing in Meaningful Relationships

Finally, Mohammed encouraged graduates to invest time in nurturing relationships that sustain them throughout their careers. She reminded them that professional success is often accompanied by challenges and changes, but the bonds formed with friends, family, and mentors will provide essential support during difficult times. As the graduates prepare to enter a world filled with both challenges and opportunities, Mohammed expressed her confidence in their potential to become climate champions, human rights defenders, and skilled diplomats. She concluded her speech by congratulating the Class of 2025, expressing her excitement for the impact they will undoubtedly make in the world.

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