Diplomacy or Delusion?
"Let's just agree to disagree and move on to the next topic."
Delusion. This is a common phrase used in MUN but doesn't come from any specific diplomat or historical figure
Who fell asleep during a UN Security Council meeting in 2019?
The U.S. delegate was photographed sleeping during a key debate about North Korea’s missile tests.
"I have to tell you that I am a very stubborn person. But I know how to listen."
Diplomat. Ban Ki-moon, 2010, during a speech at the United Nations.
"We will bury you."
➔ Cold War Threat — Nikita Khrushchev, speech at the Polish Embassy in Moscow, November 18, 1956
You cannot change the world without confronting it directly."
Kanye West, 2015, during his MTV Video Music Awards speech.
"The best way to predict your future is to create it."
Diplomacy. This quote was said by Abraham Lincoln in a speech on November 2, 1862.
Which country’s ambassador once mistakenly called a major UN summit “a karaoke night” in 2019?
South Korea! The South Korean Ambassador referred to a UN meeting as “a karaoke night,” intending to describe how many countries were “singing the same tune” about climate change.
"The most difficult thing in life is finding the balance between doing what’s right and what’s needed."
Angela Merkel, 2016, during a speech at the G7 summit.
"You mistake our silence for weakness — it will be your final mistake."
Cold War Threat — Soviet Premier Alexei Kosygin, 1965 speech
"The world is mine to command, and nothing will stand in my way."
: Benito Mussolini, 1930s, in a speech asserting his control over Italy.
"If you're not confused, you're not paying attention."
Delusion. This quote was made famous by Tom Peters, an American business management expert.
Which country elected a dog as mayor in 2018?
A small town in Mexico elected a dog named “Toby” as their mayor to mock local politicians, gaining international attention.
"Every obstacle can be overcome with enough persistence and determination."
Kim Kardashian, 2018, on Keeping Up With the Jennifer Lopez, 2008, in an interview with Vanity Fair.
"Your throne's built on sand; the tide is coming."
Rap — Kendrick Lamar, “Mortal Man,” 2015)
"I will not stop until I achieve my vision, even if the whole world stands in my way."
Kim Jong-Un, 2014, in a speech about North Korea's nuclear ambitions.
"You can’t shake hands with a clenched fist."
Diplomacy. This quote is attributed to Indira Gandhi, the Prime Minister of India, during a speech in 1971.
Which country had a “pillow fight” diplomatic drama in 2018?
The United Kingdom’s parliamentary committee hearing was interrupted by a physical altercation between the chair and members about Britain’s stance on international treaties.
"It’s not about what happens to you, it’s about how you react to it."
Diplomat. Hillary Clinton, 2011, in an interview with The Guardian.
We can erase your existence with a single decision.
Cold War Threat — Harry Truman, atomic ultimatum, 1945
"You must make sacrifices to achieve greatness. Nothing comes easy."
Joseph Stalin, 1930s, in his speeches about the industrialization of the Soviet Union.
"Folks, I can tell you I've known eight presidents, three of them intimately.
Diplomacy. Joe biden said this on August 22, 2012, during a campaign event in Danville, Virginia.
Which country's delegation famously tried to hand out “selfies” during a 2018 UN summit?
The Philippines! At a UN summit, the Philippine delegation started handing out printed selfies of their president to other diplomats, completely breaking the diplomatic tension and getting laughs all around.
"I believe you must always strive for the best, even when you feel like giving up."
Lady Gaga, 2010, during an interview with Rolling Stone.
"Your downfall is already in motion; you just haven't caught up yet."
Cold War Threat — Lyndon B. Johnson, Vietnam escalation speech, 1965
"I have conquered the world. I’ve made my mark. Now I will be remembered forever."
Kanye West, 2013, during an interview with The New York Times.