The Diplomat's Diplomacy
An exploration of the life and tenure of Boutros Boutros-Ghali, the sixth Secretary-General of the United Nations, and his impact on global diplomacy.
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Early Life and Education
Cairo Origins
Boutros Boutros-Ghali was born in Cairo, Egypt, on November 14, 1922, into a prominent Coptic Christian family. His grandfather, Boutros Ghali Pasha, had served as Prime Minister of Egypt, establishing a legacy of public service.
Academic Foundation
He pursued higher education diligently, earning a law degree from Cairo University in 1946. His academic journey continued internationally, culminating in a PhD in international law from the University of Paris and a diploma in international relations from Sciences Po in 1949.
Scholarly Career
From 1949 to 1979, Boutros-Ghali was a respected academic, holding the position of Professor of International Law and International Relations at Cairo University. His scholarly pursuits also included roles at Columbia University and The Hague Academy of International Law, broadening his expertise in global affairs.
Political and Diplomatic Career
Entry into Politics
Boutros-Ghali's political career began under President Anwar Sadat. He served as Egypt's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs from 1977 to early 1991. During this period, he was instrumental in negotiating the landmark Camp David Accords and the subsequent Egypt-Israel peace treaty.
International Law Advocate
His background in international law heavily influenced his diplomatic approach. He held leadership positions in various international organizations, including the presidency of the Centre of Political and Strategic Studies and the African Society of Political Studies, demonstrating his commitment to regional and global cooperation.
Controversial Arms Deal
An investigative report by Linda Melvern suggests that Boutros-Ghali approved a significant arms sale to the Rwandan government in 1990. This action has drawn scrutiny given the subsequent Rwandan genocide in 1994, during which he served as UN Secretary-General.
United Nations Secretary-General
Election in 1991
Boutros-Ghali was elected the sixth Secretary-General of the United Nations in 1991, succeeding Javier Pérez de Cuéllar. His election followed a competitive process where he emerged victorious after several rounds of polling.
Agenda for Peace
In 1992, he submitted "An Agenda for Peace," outlining a vision for a more proactive UN in conflict resolution. His goals included promoting democracy, engaging in preventative diplomacy, and expanding the UN's peacekeeping role.
Navigating Crises
His tenure (1992-1996) coincided with significant global challenges, including the breakup of Yugoslavia, the Rwandan genocide, and conflicts in Somalia and Angola. His leadership during these crises was marked by controversy and criticism, particularly regarding UN inaction and effectiveness.
US Veto and Second Term
Despite running unopposed for a second term in 1996, the United States exercised its Security Council veto, preventing his re-election. This decision stemmed from disagreements over his leadership and the UN's handling of various international crises.
Post-UN Career
La Francophonie Leadership
Following his UN term, Boutros-Ghali served as the first Secretary-General of La Francophonie, an international organization representing French-speaking nations, from 1997 to 2002.
South Centre and Human Rights
He later chaired the board of the South Centre, a think tank for developing countries, from 2002 to 2005. He also played a key role in establishing Egypt's National Council for Human Rights, serving as its president until 2012.
Global Governance Advocate
Boutros-Ghali actively supported the Campaign for the Establishment of a United Nations Parliamentary Assembly, emphasizing the need for greater global democratic participation. He also served as a jury member for the Fondation Chirac's Conflict Prevention Prize.
Passing
Final Years
Boutros Boutros-Ghali passed away on February 16, 2016, at the age of 93 in a Cairo hospital. He had been admitted following a leg injury.
Memorial
A state funeral was held in his honor, with prayers led by Pope Tawadros II. He was laid to rest at the Petrine Church in Abbassia, Cairo.
Personal Life
Family
Boutros-Ghali was married to Leia Maria Nadler. She came from an Egyptian Jewish family in Alexandria and later converted to Catholicism.
Honors and Recognition
Academic and National Honors
Throughout his distinguished career, Boutros-Ghali received numerous honorary doctorates from universities worldwide and was recognized with various national honors, including the Grand Collar of the Order of the Nile from Egypt.
International Accolades
His contributions to international relations were acknowledged globally through numerous foreign honors from countries across continents, reflecting his extensive diplomatic engagement.
Published Works
Scholarly Contributions
Boutros-Ghali authored numerous books and articles, primarily focusing on international law, diplomacy, and Arab-Israeli relations. His writings reflect his deep engagement with global political and legal issues.
French Publications
His extensive work also includes significant contributions in French, covering themes of alliances, African unity, and the challenges of globalization.
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References
References
- Bowden 1999, pp. 83â84.
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