Introduction at Symposium on Preventative Diplomacy

"Against this background, the paper I have submitted on Localizing Outbreaks: The Role Of Regional Organization in Preventative Action attempts to illustrate the role of the OAU in Preventive Diplomacy. The paper is predicated on the premise that, while the United Nations has the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security, the UN Charter assigns special responsibility to regional organizations in matters related to the maintenance of regional peace and security. In this regard, the major role of the UN and the OAU in preventive diplomacy have, by and large, been complementary." - Dr. Salim, April 23, 1996