Dubai – Masaader News
Paying tribute to the first democratically-elected President of South Africa and iconic civil rights leader, the United Nations on Wednesday celebrated Nelson Mandela’s legacy for humanity and reflected on the lessons he left behind.
“He stands today as a beacon for universal values — peace, forgiveness, humility, integrity, passion, respect and service,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. “Madiba showed us that these are not just words or vague ideals, but concrete actions that we can all take.”
In his tribute, the UN Chief quoted the anti-Apartheid leader’s declaration that “overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a decent life.”
“Let us act on Madiba’s words,” said Mr. Guterres. “Let us recall all the promises we have made – in the Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the 2030 Agenda – and let us commit to honour our pledges. Let us work for the better world we know can exist,” he added, calling on the world to “persevere with commitment and conviction”.
The UN Chief went on to highlight the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, the international community’s “roadmap” for creating a better world: “At its heart is a promise to end all forms of poverty and leave no one behind,” he said, noting that “we have come a long way, but we still have a long way to go.”