The Elders hold talks with Saudi Arabia on regional security
On their first official visit to Saudi Arabia as Elders, Kofi Annan, Martti Ahtisaari, Lakhdar Brahimi and Ernesto Zedillo held talks in Riyadh with HRH King Salman bin Abdulaziz that focused on the broad geopolitical and security environment in the Middle East and the “Vision 2030” domestic reform agenda.
The Elders welcomed domestic reforms and urged meaningful dialogue with their neighbours to resolve regional security crises.
Kofi Annan's last trip
Kofi Annan, Chair of The Elders, died shortly after completing an Elders trip to Zimbabwe, meeting with President Emmerson Mnangagwa and encouraging free, fair and transparent electoral processes.
The Elders paid tribute to their dear friend and colleague Kofi Annan.
“Kofi was a strong and inspiring presence to us all, and The Elders would not be where it is today without his leadership. Throughout his life, Kofi worked unceasingly to improve the lives of millions of people around the world.”
– Gro Harlem Brundtland
Graça Machel speaks truth to power at the Nelson Mandela Peace Summit
Addressing the Nelson Mandela Peace Summit at the 73rd UN General Assembly in New York, Graça Machel reflected on the purpose and relevance of an empowered United Nations dedicated to achieving a better world for all.
“For me, the meaning of celebrating Madiba is to work to end this senseless violence as a matter of priority and urgency.”
- Graça Machel
Mary Robinson becomes Chair of The Elders
Mary Robinson was appointed The Elders’ third Chair since the group was founded by Nelson Mandela in 2007, succeeding Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Kofi Annan. Ban Ki-moon and Graça Machel became joint Deputy Chairs.
“It is a huge honour to take up the role as Chair of The Elders at such a critical moment for peace, justice and human rights worldwide.”
– Mary Robinson
Martti Ahtisaari becomes an Elder Emeritus
Martti Ahtisaari stepped down from his role on the front line with The Elders, becoming an Elder Emeritus.
Martti Ahtisaari joined The Elders in 2009 and has played a leading role in the organisation’s work on peacebuilding, human rights, sustainable development and strengthening multilateral institutions.