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Compiled by the Government Communication and Information System --------------------------------------------------------------- Date: 19 Jul 2007 Title: Madiba convenes esteemed group of Elders --------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------- By David Masango, tel: (012) 314-2230 Johannesburg - Former President Nelson Mandela has led the formation of a group of distinguished "Elders" who will offer their collective wisdom and experience to solve some of the world's challenges. Convened with the assistance of Graca Machel and Chairperson Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, "The Elders", as the group will be known, seek to contribute their wisdom, independent leadership and integrity to tackle some of the world's toughest problems. These include pandemics like HIV and AIDS, violent conflicts, poverty and hunger, child and women abuse and global warming. The historic unveiling coincided with the celebration of Mr Mandela's 89th birthday and the ninth anniversary of his marriage to Ms Machel. Some of the founding members of the group, Kofi Annan, Jimmy Carter, Li Zhaoxing, Mary Robinson and Muhammad Yunus joined Mr Mandela at the event. Of the nine members of the group, a former activist and member of parliament in India, Ela Bhatt and former Prime Minister of Norway Gro Harlem Brundtland were unable to attend. The event was held at the Constitutional Hill, Johannesburg, a site of oppression and suffering during apartheid years. The group consists of diplomats and individuals who have made significant socio-political and economic contributions to their respective countries and the world. Making the announcement Mr Mandela explained that The Elders would be able to dedicate their experience and moral courage to help solve some of the problems the world was facing. "The Elders can become a fiercely independent and robust group that tackles these issues. "This group can speak freely and boldly, working both publicly and behind the scenes on whatever actions need to be taken. Together we will work to support courage where there is fear, foster agreement where there is conflict, and inspire hope where there is despair," Mr Mandela said. He said the group could make the planet "a more peaceful and equitable place to be" adding that they would ensure "the essential interdependence" of all humanity. "They will listen and work with those who need their help most - this is those who have the least and suffer the most," he said. In conclusion Mr Mandela explained that he had watched the idea grow over the years since world-renowned musician Peter Gabriel and successful entrepreneur Richard Branson first brought their idea to him and Ms Graca Machel in 2001. Archbishop Emeritus Tutu also emphaised the historic important role the elderly played in traditional communities. "In traditional communities it was the elders that led the resolution of conflict," he said. He reiterated Mr Mandela's view that the group had the undertaking to ensure the essential interdependence of all people. "We will seek opportunities to develop new approaches to global issues. We will work together to listen to people around the world to hopefully [solve challenges they face]. "Despite all of the ghastliness that is around, human beings are made for goodness. The ones who ought to be held in high regard are not the ones who are militarily powerful, nor even economically prosperous. "They are the ones who have a commitment to try and make the world a better place. We - The Elders - will endeavor to support those people and do our best for humanity," Mr Tutu added. In their comments, all the members concurred with Ms Machel and Tutu on the importance of interdependence of humanity; and pledged their full commitment to participating in the initiative. Ms Machel said the group hoped to bring together organisations, individuals and governments to bring together resources to improve the lives of all people all over the world and ensure they enjoyed equal human rights. "What I hope to bring here is the experience I gathered during my meeting numerous extraordinary people and organisations working with people locally," she said. Responding to a question from reporters, Ms Robinson explained that the group had commenced with its work, even holding a long meeting on Tuesday night to discuss work. "Our work has started and it is underway, including setting up important contacts," she explained, adding that one of the issues that would be tackled was lack of human rights, in light of the upcoming 60th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 2008, which was embraced by all nations but still lacking in many areas worldwide." The group will be communicating constantly but will only meet at least twice a year. - BuaNews |
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