Understanding UN Relations and Leadership

The transcript discusses the state of UN relations following the Iraq conflict, highlighting the marginalization of the UN due to the Bush Administration's policies and the appointment of John Bolton as ambassador. It examines the selection of Ban Ki-moon as Secretary General, suggesting he was chosen for his pro-American stance. The speaker argues for selecting UN leaders based on competence rather than harmlessness and hopes for a more serious approach from the Obama administration.

What was the context in which the speaker wrote with good intentions?

• When the UN was at its peak influence

• At a low point in American-UN relations after the Iraq conflict

• During a period of strong American-UN relations

• During a time of economic prosperity

What was one reason for the UN's marginalization according to the speaker?

• The actions of the Bush Administration

• A lack of funding

• The UN's own internal policies

• Global economic downturn

Who was appointed as an ambassador to the UN and was seen as hostile to the institution?

• Ban Ki-moon

• John Bolton

• Colin Powell

• Kofi Annan

What was the perception of Ban Ki-moon's role as Secretary-General?

• A reformist leader

• A controversial and divisive figure

• An inoffensive pro-American figure

• A strong and independent leader

Why does the speaker believe the UN's chief executive should be chosen?

• For their popularity

• For their harmlessness

• For their political connections

• For their competence

What does the speaker hope the Obama administration will do regarding the UN?

• Reduce funding to the UN

• Take the UN more seriously

• Ignore the UN

• Appoint a new Secretary-General

What is the speaker's view on the current use of the UN?

• It is being used to its full potential

• It is irrelevant in today's world

• It is too powerful

• It is not being used effectively