“If the United Nations once admits that international disputes can be settled by using force, then we will have destroyed the foundation of the organization and our best hope of establishing a world order.”
- October 14, 1890 – March 28, 1969
- American
- The 34th President of the United States, General, Military Leader
table of contents
Quote
“If the United Nations once admits that international disputes can be settled by using force, then we will have destroyed the foundation of the organization and our best hope of establishing a world order.”
Explanation
This quote by Eisenhower emphasizes the central role of the United Nations in promoting peace through diplomacy and collective security, rather than military aggression. He warns that if the international community accepts the use of force as a legitimate means to resolve disputes, it would undermine the very principles upon which the UN was founded—namely, the peaceful resolution of conflicts, respect for sovereignty, and the prevention of war.
The historical backdrop includes the formation of the United Nations after World War II, an institution born out of the desire to prevent another global conflict. As president during the height of the Cold War, Eisenhower understood how fragile international peace could be, especially in a world divided between nuclear-armed superpowers. His statement is a defense of multilateralism and international law, and a clear rejection of unilateral military action as a default strategy.
In modern terms, the quote remains strikingly relevant in the face of violations of international law, such as invasions or unprovoked military interventions. Whether in the context of Ukraine, the Middle East, or territorial disputes in Asia, Eisenhower’s warning stands: if force becomes normalized as a method of resolution, the hope for a stable and just world order collapses. His words serve as a reminder that true leadership lies in upholding international norms, not in eroding them through violence.
Would you like to share your impressions or related stories about this quote in the comments section?
