Forgotten men: the story of two peacemakers and their ideas of the world, Pg11

Key Highlights:

• The article discusses the legacies of U Thant, former UN Secretary-General, and K.M. Panikkar, an Indian diplomat, highlighting their contributions to internationalism and peacemaking.
• U Thant's biography, Peacemaker: U Thant and the Forgotten Quest for a Just World, recounts his efforts in mediating conflicts like the Cuban missile crisis and the Vietnam War.
• K.M. Panikkar, as India's Ambassador to China, played a crucial role in shaping India-China relations during a turbulent period.
• Both figures, despite their significant contributions, faced challenges and controversies, leading to a re-evaluation of their legacies in the context of the current global order.

Detailed Insights:

• U Thant championed the cause of internationalism during his tenure as UN Secretary-General (1961-1971), advocating for a global community beyond national interests.
• He played a key role in decolonization efforts in Congo and Algiers, and his mediation efforts earned him respect on the international stage.
• K.M. Panikkar was a multifaceted figure, serving as a diplomat, editor, and thinker, contributing significantly to India's foreign policy.
• His tenure as Ambassador to China was marked by both successes and controversies, particularly regarding China's occupation of Tibet.
• Both U Thant and K.M. Panikkar faced criticism from major powers for challenging their actions, highlighting the complexities of international diplomacy.
• The article suggests a need to re-examine their contributions in light of current global conflicts and the evolving global order.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Multilateralism: Cooperation among several countries on various issues.
• Internationalism: The principle of cooperation among nations, for the promotion of their common good.
• Diplomacy: The art and practice of conducting negotiations between representatives of states.