In an age of populism and isolationism,
When polarised politics and self-interest have the upper hand,
The Elders offer an alternative approach.
We believe that working together, humankind can overcome the shared problems we all face.
This importance of togetherness,
To show solidarity with those who are fighting for peace, justice and human rights,
Was an essential value of our founder, Nelson Mandela.
At a time when so many of our leaders are falling short or remaining silent in the face of wrongdoing,
Our mission as Elders is to make sure Mandela's legacy lives on.
Madiba’s vision is needed now more than ever.
As Elders we don't claim to have all the answers,
But we do believe that if the world can
walk together,
talk together,
learn together
and speak out together,
We can shape a better future for us all.
FEATURED ELDERS
Ban Ki-moon
Former UN Secretary-General and former South Korean Foreign Minister; championed the world’s vulnerable by putting Sustainable Development, climate change, and gender equality at the top of the UN agenda.
Graça Machel
Women’s and children's rights advocate; former freedom fighter and first Education Minister of Mozambique; co-founder of The Elders.
Juan Manuel Santos
Former President of Colombia; a Nobel Peace Laureate who led complex peace negotiations, ending over 50 years of intractable civil war; Chair of The Elders.
Mary Robinson
First woman President of Ireland and former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights; former Chair of The Elders; a passionate advocate for gender equality, women’s participation in peace-building, human dignity and climate justice.
Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein
Former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights; champion of international justice and multilateralism; outspoken advocate for peace and human rights; veteran Jordanian diplomat and peacekeeping expert.
