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My father taught me that you have to stand by your principles. He was president of the bar association and was preaching civil liberties and human rights during some of the most repressive years of the Nasser era. He was the focus of a lot of pressure and intimidation, but he stood by his principles. And I think that's a lesson I remember from him - that you stand up for what you believe in.

Mohamed ElBaradei#1

LeadershipCivil libertiesCourageFamilyIntegrityPrinciplesRights

About this quote

What does it mean?
Drawing from his father's example during the Nasser era, ElBaradei emphasizes the importance of standing by principles despite pressure and intimidation.
In plain terms
His father taught him to stay true to his beliefs even when leaders try to pressure him.
What can you take from it?
Stand firm on your principles despite pressure.

Where it applies

  • personal decision making
  • advocacy
  • public service

Putting it to work

  • practice ethical consistency
  • mentor others
  • uphold rights

Questions to consider

  • What would you do if your job depended on ignoring your principles?
  • How do we teach the next generation to stand firm?

Another view

Standing by principles can lead to personal risk or career stagnation in repressive environments.

More from Mohamed ElBaradei

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  3. You remember that book called All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten? ... Well that's very much true. I find a lot in common in the way I manage t…

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