Whether we are serious about working with Africans to give their continent a chance in the 21st century. Whether Africa, that suffered so badly so long under oppression and racism, can at last free itself of poverty and integrate with the modern open global economy. Africans must lead, but we must partner with the strong new generations in Africa to build the institutions, the structures, the rule of law, the human rights, the governance that are needed for people to take hold of their future. Only if we beat back AIDS can Africa take that step. Second, we will be judged on whether we globally understand the nature of human security and sustainable development.
Security develops from within societies.
If we want to prevent violent conflict, we need a comprehensive, equitable and inclusive approach to development. A culture of prevention needs to permeate our work. Security, empowerment and opportunity must be recognized as key to freedom from poverty - just as freedom from poverty is key to security. Communities that are riven apart by disease are weak communities. Weak communities are subject to strife.