Rudd 'would thrive in climate job'

23 Jul 2010, 11:48 am   -   Source: AAP
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A spokesman for Mr Rudd did confirm UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon made contact a couple of weeks ago to discuss a possible role at the UN. (AAP)

A spokesman for Mr Rudd did confirm UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon made contact a couple of weeks ago to discuss a possible role at the UN. (AAP)

Former Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd would thrive at UN in climate change role, a US expert says.

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Former prime minister Kevin Rudd is highly respected in the US and would thrive at the United Nations as a senior adviser on climate change, an expert in US-Australian affairs said.

Dr Alan C Tidwell, director of the Center for Australian and New Zealand Studies at Washington DC's Georgetown University, said Mr Rudd's failure to guide the emissions trading scheme (ETS) through Australia's parliament would not hurt his climate change credentials on the world stage.

Rudd has been a regular visitor to the US during the past two decades and has built up many powerful contacts.

"I will say that many with whom I've spoken, including highly placed lobbyists, think very highly of Rudd," Dr Tidwell told AAP.

"He is regarded by those who have worked with him in the US as highly competent and likable.

"I would think given his experience, as prime minister, member of parliament, and diplomat, would all stand him in good stead to serve with the UN."

After media reports emerged Mr Rudd was contemplating taking a senior climate change position at the New York-based UN, the former prime minster was forced to reaffirm his intention to serve another full term as the federal member for his Brisbane seat of Griffith.

A spokesman for Mr Rudd did confirm UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon made contact a couple of weeks ago to discuss a possible role at the UN.

Dr Tidwell said the failure of the ETS "was more the result of internal ALP politics than it was a reflection of" Mr Rudd's own views.

"Therefore, the UN position on climate change would be very appealing as it allows him the opportunity to build his legacy in the direction with which he is most comfortable," Dr Tidwell said.

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