U.N. spokeswoman on a mission

Gillian Sorensen acknowledges the skepticism and fears many Americans hold about the United Nations. She insists most is unfounded.

And whether or not you agree with her viewpoints, Sorensen is clearly a knowledgable, dedicated and apt spokesperson for the United Nations Foundation. She quickly enlightens with an array of relevant facts.

Sorensen visited our state, including the Corridor, this week to talk about how the U.N. works and why it's important to build relationships around the world. She speaks with authority.

The Michigan native served 12 years as New York Mayor Edward Koch's city commissioner for the U.N. ... three years as advisor for public policy to U.N. Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali ... and six years as a U.N. assistant secretary-general, handling outreach to non-governmental groups, religious leaders, academic officials and others involved in peace, development and human rights initiatives.

In her present work, she addresses diverse audiences ranging from Rotary clubs to military academies, university students and Congress.

She gladly answers questions about the U.N. and its relationship with the U.S.. Some responses she shared with us:

The U.N. is a threat to U.S. sovereignty.

Her reply: “Nonsense. The U.N. is voluntary. Governments choose to be there to try and resolve differences. It's an opportunity to build coalitions and earn trust and understanding.”

The United States pays more than its fair share of U.N. funding. Sorensen: “The U.S. share of 22 percent is fair based on our GDP compared to other nations.”

U.S. soldiers shouldn't serve under foreign military leaders in U.N. peacekeeping missions.

Sorensen: “Americans have served under foreign commanders in previous wars. Governments can withdraw their soldiers from U.N. peacekeeping missions at any time.”

Another aspect of her job is one we find hugely important regardless of political positions: Talking with college students about the importance of making a difference.

During last week's packed house at the Iowa Youth Symposium on the United Nations at the state capitol, Sorensen found many “fantastic,” students who “long to make a difference.”

Many want to work for the U.N. but Sorensen told them they can take lots of different career routes to making a difference. Most important is being a responsible citizen who cares about what's going on in the world.

Agreed. As she encouraged, “Find your voice” and don't be afraid to use it.