Meaning: This quote by Paddy Ashdown, a British politician and diplomat, sheds light on the concept of accountability and consensus-building in the context of international politics. In this quote, Ashdown emphasizes his formal accountability to the steering board of the Peace Implementation Council (PIC) and the necessity of obtaining the broad agreement of the capitals involved in the council's decision-making processes. This highlights the importance of transparency, accountability, and consensus in international diplomacy and peacebuilding efforts.

The Peace Implementation Council (PIC) is a diplomatic body established to oversee the implementation of the Dayton Agreement, which brought an end to the Bosnian War in the mid-1990s. The PIC includes representatives from various countries and international organizations, all of whom play a role in ensuring the successful implementation of the peace agreement and the stability of the region. As the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, Paddy Ashdown played a crucial role in overseeing the implementation of the peace agreement and navigating the complex political landscape of post-war Bosnia.

Ashdown's statement reflects the complex nature of diplomatic work within the context of international organizations. His accountability to the steering board of the PIC underscores the importance of having clear lines of authority and responsibility in international peacebuilding efforts. This accountability ensures that decisions and actions taken by the High Representative are subject to oversight and scrutiny, ultimately contributing to the legitimacy and effectiveness of the peacebuilding process.

Furthermore, Ashdown's emphasis on meeting with nine ambassadors from the PIC every week highlights the significance of diplomatic engagement and consensus-building. Regular meetings with ambassadors allow for the exchange of ideas, concerns, and perspectives, ultimately contributing to the process of seeking broad agreement on key issues. This collaborative approach to decision-making reflects the principles of multilateralism and the importance of seeking consensus among diverse stakeholders in the context of international diplomacy.

The reference to obtaining the capitals' broad agreement with his actions underscores the need for not only international consensus but also the support and endorsement of the respective governments involved in the PIC. This reflects the intricate process of navigating diplomatic relationships and ensuring that key decisions are aligned with the interests and priorities of the participating countries. It also speaks to the complexities of managing international partnerships and the need to balance the interests of multiple stakeholders in the pursuit of peace and stability.

In conclusion, Paddy Ashdown's quote provides valuable insights into the dynamics of international diplomacy, accountability, and consensus-building within the context of peacebuilding efforts. His emphasis on formal accountability to the steering board of the PIC, regular engagement with ambassadors, and the necessity of obtaining broad agreement from the capitals underscores the complexities and challenges inherent in navigating diplomatic relationships and seeking consensus among diverse stakeholders. These principles continue to be relevant in contemporary international relations, emphasizing the importance of transparency, collaboration, and multilateral engagement in addressing complex geopolitical challenges.