The world is full of aspiring political leaders, but very few of them meet the requirements of an ideal statesperson. Many politicians seem to lack some of the most important qualities, such as integrity and accountability. And no wonder that for many people the word “politician” or “statesman” has negative connotations. However, we can still try to build an image of an ideal statesman.
First of all, it’s necessary to notice that a person who links his destiny to politics should possess a streak of political genius and multi-faceted energy. But it’s not enough for an ideal statesperson. An ideal political leader should act honestly and be sustained by ethics. Besides, a good statesman can’t exist without strong character and both conscience and charisma. He needs these basic qualities to gain public adherence.
Then, an ideal politician should focus on the long-term good of a country, above and ahead of any personal short-term gains. A good statesperson requires the ability to assess a situation and make difficult and possibly unpopular decisions based on what would be best for the greatest number of people. An ideal statesman should listen to the needs of the common people and represent them faithfully. Moreover, he should have willingness to stand up for taken decision or position or what is right, - rather than just tell the general public what it wants to hear, even if it means resigning a position in government or losing an election.
A good statesman is a person with good communication and inter-personal skills, who can work with a range of other people, regardless of political party’s opinion, to achieve global goals for the sake of the state and its population. At the same time he should be able to resist the various lures of the political arena, and namely desire for excessive power.
And last but not least key quality that many politicians lack is ability to take responsibility. Accountability is