In mid April 2003, former British ambassador Archie Mackenzie - an old associate of IofC and one of those present at the founding of the United Nations - returned to New York to address a luncheon cohosted by the Initiatives of Change UN Office and the Permanent Missions of Nigeria, Algeria and South Africa to the UN.
Mr Mackenzie spoke at the invitation of the Nigerian Ambassador to the UN, Arthur C. I. Mbanefo, who was impressed by the ideas expressed by the Scotsman during his November 2002 visit to the UN. Mbanefo wanted his experiences and vision shared with other African delegates. Fifteen African Ambassadors, Under Secretary-General Ibrahim Gambari, and several other delegates attended.
Mr Mackenzie recounted his diplomatic career and expressed how he has tried to live out his personal faith through his actions in professional life.
Tunisian Ambassador Ali Hachani, remembering him from his days as the ambassador to Tunisia, poignantly recounted how as a young diplomat he had been inspired by the integrity of Mr Mackenzie's speeches at the 6th and 7th Special Sessions of the UN Economic and Social Council.
The challenge of principled leadership was linked to the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), the visionary new strategy, developed by African leaders.
Explaining the centrality of personal reflection and quiet time as an instrument for 'direction and correction', Mr Mackenzie spoke of the necessity for those in positions of influence to consider their motives and the wider implications of their actions.
In a lively discussion, the guests sought his perspectives on the current challenges to the UN and on how partnership between the North and the South can lead to the successful implementation of NEPAD.
Later he spoke at Fordham Law School and Long Island University about the history and value of the UN and what its future may hold. The students welcomed the rare opportunity to engage with a witness to the birth of the UN.
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