A British diplomat who served as the UK's Ambassador to the United Nations, playing a key role in shaping global policies and responses to international crises. He's known for his expertise in Middle Eastern affairs and his efforts to resolve conflicts through diplomacy.
Sir Jeremy Quentin Greenstock, a seasoned British diplomat, is renowned for his remarkable career spanning over three decades, navigating the complexities of international relations, and leaving an indelible mark on global politics. As the Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the United Nations, he played a pivotal role in shaping the organization's response to the post-9/11 era and the Iraq War.
Born on July 27, 1943, Greenstock's journey in diplomacy began with his education at Harrow School and Worcester College, Oxford. He started his career as an assistant master at Eton College from 1966 to 1969, before joining the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in 1969. Over the years, he served in various British embassies, including those in Washington, D.C., Paris, Dubai, and Saudi Arabia.
Greenstock's tenure as the Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the United Nations, from 1998 to July 2003, was marked by his exceptional leadership and diplomatic acumen. During this period, he attended over 150 meetings of the United Nations Security Council and played a crucial role in shaping the organization's response to the post-9/11 era. His commitment to counter-terrorism led to his appointment as Chairman of the Security Council's Counter-Terrorism Committee from October 2001 to April 2003.
In September 2003, Greenstock was appointed the UK's Special Representative for Iraq, working closely with Paul Bremer within the Coalition Provisional Authority. His experience in Iraq led him to write a book, which, although withdrawn from publication at the request of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, provided valuable insights into the conflict. In an interview on the Charlie Rose talk show, Greenstock candidly shared his views on the war, stating that British and American leaders had known since 1998 that Iraq under Saddam Hussein had no nuclear weapon capabilities or programs.
Since leaving the diplomatic service, Sir Jeremy has remained actively engaged in global affairs. He has held positions such as Director of the Ditchley Foundation and has been involved in various initiatives, including the International Institute for Strategic Studies and the European Council on Foreign Relations.
Sir Jeremy Greenstock's remarkable career serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to diplomacy and international cooperation. His leadership at the United Nations and his role in shaping the UK's response to the Iraq War have left an indelible mark on global politics. As a respected voice in international relations, his continued engagement and contributions continue to inspire and inform future generations of diplomats and policymakers.
"I think the war was a mistake, and I think it was a grave mistake."
"I think we should have done things differently, and I think we should have listened more to the UN and to other countries."
Sir Jeremy Greenstock has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to diplomacy and international relations, including:
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