He demonstrated through his life that everyone has the ability – and responsibility – to build a better future, added the UN chief.
“Our world today is marred by war; overwhelmed by emergencies; blighted by racism, discrimination, poverty, and inequalities; and threatened by climate disaster. Let us find hope in Nelson Mandela’s example and inspiration in his vision.”
Finding hope
You can follow it all live on UN Web TV, beginning at 10am Eastern Standard Time.
Nelson Mandela, the former President of South Africa, addresses a press conference at UN Headquarters in New York in December 1991.
Together and by following Madiba’s example, we can make our world, “more just, compassionate, prosperous, and sustainable for all”, The Secretary-General concluded.
Special event in New York
The best way to honour his legacy, is by taking action, Mr. Guterres said in his video message. Amid a rising in hate speech around the world, everyone has the duty to speak out, and stand up for human rights, “by embracing our common humanity – rich in diversity, equal in dignity, united in solidarity.”
Nelson Mandela – or Madiba, the clan name he’s affectionately known by at home – was a “healer of communities and a mentor to generations”, said Mr. Guterres, who “walked the path to freedom and dignity with steely determination – and with compassion and love.”
