Meaning: Hans Blix, a Swedish diplomat, is known for his role as the head of the United Nations Monitoring, Verification, and Inspection Commission (UNMOVIC) from 2000 to 2003. During this time, Blix was responsible for coordinating and leading inspections in Iraq to verify the country's compliance with United Nations resolutions regarding the disarmament of weapons of mass destruction.

The quote reflects Blix's commitment to his role as a diplomat and his dedication to conducting thorough investigations and reporting his findings honestly to the Security Council. It highlights the challenge of presenting information that may not necessarily please everyone, but is crucial for providing an accurate and unbiased assessment of the situation at hand.

Blix's emphasis on doing the job well and investigating thoroughly underscores the importance of diligence and accuracy in diplomatic and international relations. In the context of his work with UNMOVIC, this approach was essential for building trust and credibility with the Security Council and the international community.

The mention of "describing very honestly what we see to the Security Council" highlights the responsibility of diplomats and inspectors to provide unbiased and objective reports, even if the findings may not align with the preferences or expectations of certain parties. This commitment to transparency and truthfulness is fundamental in maintaining the integrity of diplomatic processes and decision-making.

The reference to "some of the things might please people there and other things may not please the people" acknowledges the complex and nuanced nature of diplomatic work. Diplomats often navigate sensitive political dynamics and conflicting interests, and their reports and findings can have significant implications for international relations and security.

In the case of Blix's work with UNMOVIC, the inspections in Iraq were conducted in a highly charged political environment, with the United States and other countries asserting that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction, while Iraq denied these claims. Blix's commitment to thorough and honest investigation was crucial in providing an independent assessment of the situation and informing the Security Council's decision-making regarding potential military intervention.

Ultimately, Blix's quote encapsulates the ethical and professional principles that underpin effective diplomacy and international cooperation. It emphasizes the importance of integrity, objectivity, and accountability in the pursuit of peace, security, and justice on the global stage. Blix's approach serves as a reminder of the vital role that diplomats and international inspectors play in upholding these values and working towards constructive and informed decision-making in matters of international significance.

In summary, Hans Blix's quote reflects his dedication to conducting thorough investigations and reporting findings honestly to the Security Council, emphasizing the importance of diligence, objectivity, and transparency in diplomatic and international relations. His commitment to these principles was especially evident during his leadership of UNMOVIC and the inspections in Iraq, where his unwavering focus on accurate and unbiased reporting played a crucial role in informing international decisions and actions. Blix's quote serves as a reminder of the ethical responsibilities that underpin effective diplomacy and the pursuit of global peace and security.