Kofi Annan is a former Secretary-General of the United Nations who was in office from 1997 to 2007. He began his diplomatic career with the UN World Health Organization in 1962. He led the United Nations through humanitarian crises including the Rwanda Genocide and the Kosovo War. By the end of his term, Annan had created tension with the United States government for his criticism of their behavior towards the UN.
In Larger Freedom
Annan presented a report entitled In Larger Freedom to the United Nations General Assembly on March 21, 2005. It was the result of years of Annan's research and included suggested reforms throughout the United Nations, from its policies on everything from economic development to the proliferation of nuclear arms. It also contained suggested reforms to the internal organization of the group.UN.org: In Larger Freedom (Full Report)
Kofi Annan Background and Profiles
- BBC News: Profile: Kofi Annan (October 2, 2006)
References
Fast Facts
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Full Name
Kofi Atta Annan
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Born
April 8, 1938 in Kumasi, Gold Coast
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Fact:
7th Secretary-General of the United Nations
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In office
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Preceded by
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Succeeded by
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Fact:
Twin sister Efua Atta died in 1991
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Fact:
Kofi means "born on friday"
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Fact:
Currently married to Swedish lawyer Nane Maria Annan
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Two children
Kojo and Ama
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Fact:
Fluent in English, French, and multiple African languages
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Fact:
Won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001
