Ricardo Lagos becomes Elder Emeritus
The Elders announced that Ricardo Lagos will step down from full-time duties and become an Elder Emeritus. The Elders paid tribute to their friend’s significant legacy of promoting democracy and human rights at home and abroad, and look forward to continuing to benefit from his wisdom as an Elder Emeritus.
The Elders and Future of Life Institute release an open letter calling for long-view leadership on existential threats
Over 4,000 global leaders, experts, and public figures signed the letter urging decision-makers to collaborate on bold, practical solutions to tackle the escalating threats and ongoing challenges facing humanity.
Denis Mukwege joins The Elders
The Elders welcomed Congolese physician, human rights advocate and Nobel Peace Laureate Denis Mukwege as the newest member of their group.
The Elders publish a new policy paper on the climate and nature crisis
The paper explores nine themes that demand close attention, present our positions and formulate a set of proposals for action for governments.
Juan Manuel Santos becomes Chair of The Elders
Juan Manuel Santos was appointed The Elders’ fourth Chair since the group was founded by Nelson Mandela in 2007, succeeding Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Kofi Annan, and Mary Robinson, who will remain an active member.
“It is a tremendous privilege to serve as Chair of The Elders… I believe The Elders can play a critical role, building on the bold and inspirational leadership shown by Mary Robinson as Chair, and across all her long years of public service.”
The Elders win the Miwon Peace Prize
The Elders’ contribution to peace, human rights and sustainable development was recognised in November, when they were awarded the inaugural Miwon Peace Prize.
Jimmy Carter, 1924 - 2024
Jimmy Carter was a founding Elder and served actively until 2016, bringing extraordinary experience, moral authority, and a lifelong commitment to peace, human rights, and social justice. A former U.S. President and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, he was especially respected for his honest diplomacy in the Middle East and his compassionate, principled leadership.
The Elders paid tribute to their dear friend and colleague.
“Jimmy brought the gravitas of the Presidential office as well as the passion of an activist to The Elders. Even into his 90s, and after his cancer was diagnosed, he inspired us all with his boundless energy and enthusiasm for working to make the world a better place.” – Juan Manuel Santos
