But he warned that the benefits have not been equally shared, even in those nations making great progress, and the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) are unlikely to be reached everywhere before the target date of 2015.
Mr. Annan drew attention to continuing difficulties in achieving reform in international trade. “Globalization is not a tide that lifts all boats. Even among those who the statistics tell us are benefiting, many feel deeply insecure, and strongly resent the apparent complacency of those more fortunate than themselves.”
But he added that despite the Assembly's commitment to a 'responsibility to protect' populations in peril from war crimes, “every day reports reach us of new laws broken [and] of new bestial crimes to which individuals and minority groups are subjected.”
The greatest problem is in the Sudanese region of Darfur, where the widespread murder, rape, displacement and destruction of homes “makes a mockery of our claim, as an international community, to shield people from the worst abuses.”
Mr. Annan, who received a standing ovation after he spoke, concluded his speech by reflecting on his decade as Secretary-General.
“It's been difficult and challenging, but at times also thrillingly rewarding. And while I look forward to resting my shoulder from those stubborn rocks in the next phase of my life, I know I shall miss the mountain. Yes, I shall miss what is – when all is said and done – the world's most exalting job.”
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