Kim Holmes Speaks About the Bush Administration’s

Assistant Secretary of State Kim Holmes Speaks About the Bush Administration’s
Views on United Nations Reform

Washington, D.C.—Kim Holmes, Assistant Secretary of State for International Organization Affairs, outlined the Administration’s views on United Nations reform at a lunch yesterday. Dr. Holmes spoke about the United States’ support for a strong and effective UN and said the time for UN reform is now. With Congress and the Administration engaged in the issue, Holmes stressed the need for the U.S. and UN to work together.

“More than at any other time in recent history, the realization is widespread that real UN reform is possible. But it is not only possible; it is necessary. The “tipping point” for change may well be upon us.”

Assistant Secretary Holmes explained the U.S.’s primary goals for a stronger UN which include the creation of a Peace Building Commission, reform of the Human Rights Commission, United Nations management reform, and economic development.

“We believe in the ideals on which the United Nations was founded, and we want the UN to be better able to achieve its important purposes. We want peacekeepers to bring lasting peace. We want nuclear proliferation halted; terrorist acts and finances choked off; refugees able to return home; and famine ended. We want every nation to protect human rights. And, we want freedom and democracy to spread. Wholesale.”

On the topic of Security Council Reform, Kim Holmes explained the United States remains open to all possible ideas. He said, “We are open to considering UN reform proposals. We do not endorse any particular plan or option, other than to say that we support Japan’s permanent membership on the Council.”

To end his speech, Dr. Holmes said he and the U.S. believe the UN will become more effective as nations become more democratic and are dedicated to spreading freedom.

“It was the original vision of the UN’s founding fathers, who always understood that multilateralism would be most effective when exercised by responsible, free and democratic nations. That, I believe, not only is how the United Nations can regain some of the credibility and legitimacy lost in the past few years. It also is the best way for the United Nations and the United States to become true partners in ensuring peace, development and human rights.”