Secretary-General Annan’s comprehensive program of reform increased efficiency of the international system and reinvigorated the United Nations.

Annan’s constant attention to human rights, the rule of law and Africa created a closer connection to communities of the world. Reinforcing ties with the private sector, cicil society and other important global partners further aided this process.

Annan played a pivotal role in the creation of the Global Fund . This provided a platform to continue vital research on Tuberculosis, AIDS and Malaria. Work on the UN’s first ever counter-terrorism unit and strengthening of the peace keeping force facilitated the UN’s capacity to handle operations around the world. Finally his encouragement of Member States to recognize their “responsibility to protect” people from crimes against humanity should be applauded.

On December 10, 2001, Kofi Annan and the United Nations were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Annan commented that: "We have entered the third millennium through a gate of fire. If today, after the horror of September 11, we see better and we see further, we will realize that humanity is indivisible."

Submitted by: Kit Bennett