"Although increasingly interdependent, our world continues to be divided - not only by economic differences, but also by religion and culture. That is not in itself a problem. Throughout history human life has been enriched by diversity, and different communities have learnt from each other. But if our different communities are to live together in peace we must stress also what unites us: our common humanity, and our shared belief that human dignity and rights should be protected by law." -Kofi Annan-
On Monday, outgoing UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan implored the United States to refrain from abandoning "its own ideals and objectives" in the war against terrorism, emphasizing that "human rights and the rule of law are vital to global security and prosperity." In his final speech in the position, Annan also pressed for UN Security Council reform, expressing that the body's membership "reflects the reality of 1945, not of today's world."