Nelson Mandela and "The Elders"
Last week, former South African president Nelson Mandela announced the formation of a new organization to tackle the world's most difficult problems. Here is part of what he said:
"In today’s world, many of the problems we face are global in nature. These include climate change, pandemics such as AIDS, malaria and TB. And of course, that entirely human created affliction: violent conflict.
"The structures we have to deal with these problems are often tied down by political, economic or geographical constraints. As institutions of government grapple – often unequally – with challenges they face, the efforts of a small, dedicated group of leaders, working objectively and without any vested personal interest in the outcome, can help resolve what often seems like intractable problems.
"We have the makings of such a group...Let us call them Global Elders, not because of their age, but because of their individual and collective wisdom.
"This group derives its strength not from political, economic or military power, but from the independence and integrity of those who are here.
"They do not have careers to build, elections to win, constituencies to please. They can talk to anyone they please, and are free to follow paths they deem right, even if hugely unpopular.
"It is now several years since Richard Branson and Peter Gabriel came to me with their idea for The Elders. Since then I have watched the concept grow, gain structure and strength, and become a real, viable, and pragmatic initiative.
"I believe that, with their experience and their energies, and their profound commitment to building a better world, The Elders can become a fiercely independent and robust force for good, tackling complex and intractable issues, especially those that are not popular....
"The Elders can speak freely and boldly, working both publicly and behind the scenes on whatever actions need to be taken. They will reach out to those who most need their help. It is those who have the least and who therefore suffer the most. It is those who are rarely heard. This group of Elders can represent them and make sure they are not ignored.
"I am also certain that that they will support courage where there is fear, foster agreement where there is conflict and inspire hope where there is despair....
"...I wish them well, and hope they succeed in bringing light to some of the darkness that afflicts our world, and new energy to areas where others have become weary because of the endless conflict."
Visit The Elders website for the complete speech, and much more information about this initiative.
"In today’s world, many of the problems we face are global in nature. These include climate change, pandemics such as AIDS, malaria and TB. And of course, that entirely human created affliction: violent conflict.
"The structures we have to deal with these problems are often tied down by political, economic or geographical constraints. As institutions of government grapple – often unequally – with challenges they face, the efforts of a small, dedicated group of leaders, working objectively and without any vested personal interest in the outcome, can help resolve what often seems like intractable problems.
"We have the makings of such a group...Let us call them Global Elders, not because of their age, but because of their individual and collective wisdom.
"This group derives its strength not from political, economic or military power, but from the independence and integrity of those who are here.
"They do not have careers to build, elections to win, constituencies to please. They can talk to anyone they please, and are free to follow paths they deem right, even if hugely unpopular.
"It is now several years since Richard Branson and Peter Gabriel came to me with their idea for The Elders. Since then I have watched the concept grow, gain structure and strength, and become a real, viable, and pragmatic initiative.
"I believe that, with their experience and their energies, and their profound commitment to building a better world, The Elders can become a fiercely independent and robust force for good, tackling complex and intractable issues, especially those that are not popular....
"The Elders can speak freely and boldly, working both publicly and behind the scenes on whatever actions need to be taken. They will reach out to those who most need their help. It is those who have the least and who therefore suffer the most. It is those who are rarely heard. This group of Elders can represent them and make sure they are not ignored.
"I am also certain that that they will support courage where there is fear, foster agreement where there is conflict and inspire hope where there is despair....
"...I wish them well, and hope they succeed in bringing light to some of the darkness that afflicts our world, and new energy to areas where others have become weary because of the endless conflict."
Visit The Elders website for the complete speech, and much more information about this initiative.
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