Personal Experiences

My hope is that governments, and in particular the so-called domestic ministries, will open their eyes and recognize that the future of their countries not only depends on how they deal domestically with education, public health, environment, science, crime, etc., but at least as much on how other countries deal with these issues. If they recognize that, the importance of strengthening the UN system will be self-evident.

Voor mij is er geen alternatief voor de Verenigde Naties ook al zijn er vele discussies gaande. Helaas is de laatste jaren de noodzaak van het werk van de Verenigde Naties meer en meer gebleken gezien de verschillende brand haarden in de wereld.

I never seriously regretted my career within the ranks of the UN. Luck has been with me, in the sense that I was offered an initial post and then was assisted time and again by fate and friendly colleagues to proceed. A tolerant stomach was helpful too. Brussels sprouts were rarely on the menu.

The UNV (United Nations Volunteers) encourages communities to empower themselves through volunteerism. By mobilizing National and International Volunteers from all corners of the world, the organization works to make a difference in the everyday life of citizens in struggling nations.