EN ROUTE TO BAGHDAD traces the biography and career of the Brazilian-born, Sorbonne-educated diplomat, a brilliant, sophisticated and charismatic man, but above all a humanitarian with a lifelong commitment to human rights, freedom and self-determination. Vieira de Mello's previous work with the U.N. Refugee Agency in such war-torn nations as Mozambique, Cambodia, North Korea and East Timor is portrayed in archival footage.

The film also features moving accounts of Vieira de Mello's tireless work ethic and winning personal qualities from colleagues such as former U.N. Ambassador Richard Holbrooke, U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan, Doctors without Borders founder Bernard Kouchner, the presidents of Mozambique and East Timor, King Sihanouk of Cambodia, as well as his widow and son, among many others.

In the process of demonstrating the passion that Vieira de Mello brought to his work, EN ROUTE TO BAGHDAD also offers a powerful illustration of how the U.N. has quietly but doggedly shaped our world for the better. Likewise, the film shows not only the many admirers Sergio Vieira de Mello left behind but also how many people throughout the world have benefited from his work.