2023-09-05 09:05:00
Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of President Shimon Peres: A Legacy of Leadership and Hope for a Better World
“We must use our imagination more than our memory” – these were the wise words of President Shimon Peres, a visionary leader whose 100th birth anniversary we celebrate today. As we remember his remarkable life and achievements, it is also an opportunity to reflect on the vastly different world he was born into in August 1923.
Born in the small town of Wisznywa in Poland (today Belarus), Peres entered a world marked by significant global events and challenges that would shape his own life as well as the future of humanity. A changing geopolitical landscape, rapid technological progress, and social upheaval characterized the times. It was a period that demanded leaders who could navigate complexity and strive for progress.
Peres’s belief in letting go of the past and focusing on the future remains relevant today. The challenges we face now may be different, but they are no less pressing. The rapid advancement of technology has brought immense opportunities, but it also presents risks and ethical dilemmas. Climate change threatens the survival of our planet, requiring global cooperation and collective action.
In a world where change happens at a dizzying speed, it is crucial to uphold the values that guided Peres – promotion of innovation and technologies, relentless pursuit of peace and shared existence, and a commitment to a better world for all. As we embrace the technological advances shaping our world, we must ensure they contribute to the common good by prioritizing sustainable development and equitable access to technology.
“You are as great as the purpose you serve” – these were Peres’s words, reflecting his dedication to service and the greater good. He embodied leadership that is increasingly rare today, driven by liberal humanistic values and the vision of freedom, justice, and peace. The founding principles of the Declaration of Independence have been brought to life in the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, which showcases how Peres’s legacy is translated into action across various fields through collaborations within Israel and the region for a better world.
Peres’s legacy serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that progress requires resilience and determination. While the world has changed since his birth, the values he instilled are timeless and enduring. Let us honor his memory by charting a path to peace, harnessing innovation for positive change, and fostering a sense of global citizenship.
Peres always used to say that optimists and pessimists live the same way, just in different mindsets. It is in the hands of leadership, grounded in human values, to think outside the box, act creatively, and work towards making this world a better place.
The author of this article is the CEO of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation.
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