UN Marks Nelson Mandela International Day
The United Nations commemorated the Nelson Mandela International Day today July 18, a tribute to the former freedom fighter and South African leader.
António Guterres, UN Secretary-General, in his message on the occasion of Nelson Mandela International Day 2023 said that “Nelson Mandela was a colossus of courage and conviction. A leader of immense achievement and extraordinary humanity.”
He stated that the iconic freedom fighter was “a giant of our times, whose legacy we best honor through action: Action to expel the poison of racism, discrimination and hate; Action to extinguish the legacies of colonialism; And action to promote equality, human rights and above all, justice.”
According to the UN chief, today, poverty, hunger and inequality are on the rise. “Countries are drowning in debt,” he said.
“The climate crisis is destroying the lives of those who have done the least to cause it. And our unfair and outdated international financial system is not fulfilling its function as a global safety net,” Mr. Guterres underscored, adding that “We have it in our power to solve each of these problems.”
“So, as we commemorate Nelson Mandela’s life and legacy, let us be animated by his spirit of humanity, dignity and justice. Let us stand with women and girls, young people and change makers everywhere. And let us take action to build a better world,” the UN chief said.
On Tuesday’s Nelson Mandela Day and every day, people around the world continue to be inspired by Madiba’s dedication to ensuring all people, everywhere can enjoy their full and equal human rights, UN reminded.
In his 67 years service of humanity, Nelson Mandela devoted his life to the service of humanity — as a human rights lawyer, a prisoner of conscience, an international peacemaker and the first democratically elected president of a free South Africa
UN Headquarters — NYC
Conference room 4, 20 July, 2023 — 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. EDT
The United Nations General Assembly marks Nelson Mandela International Day with an informal plenary meeting.
Speakers:
- H.E. Mr. Csaba Kőrösi, President of the General Assembly
- H.E. Mr. António Guterres, UN Secretary-General: Message for 2023
- Andrew Young, Politician, activist, and Former Permanent Representative of the United States to the United Nations