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If I am asked, by credible organizations, to mediate, I will consider that very seriously. But a situation of this nature does not need an individual, it needs an organization like the United Nations to mediate. We must understand the seriousness of this situation. The United States has made serious mistakes in the conduct of its foreign affairs, which have had unfortunate repercussions long after the decisions were taken.

Nelson Mandela#82

DiplomacyWarInternationalOrganization

About this quote

What does it mean?
Mediation of serious conflicts requires an organization like the UN rather than an individual.
In plain terms
Only big organizations like the UN can mediate serious situations effectively.
What can you take from it?
Complex international conflicts need institutional mediation not individuals.

Where it applies

  • international disputes
  • peace talks
  • crisis management

Putting it to work

  • seek institutional help
  • understand conflict scope
  • prioritize neutrality

Questions to consider

  • Who can resolve complex conflicts?
  • Is individual mediation ever enough?

Another view

Organizations can also be ineffective or biased in mediation.

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