” class=”global-image” decoding=”async” fetchpriority=”high” height=”2942″ loading=”eager” src=”https://www.infobae.com/resizer/v2/LTLONHGZKRAVFPNGKY4VJWE2QM.jpg?auth=e297ed7b2784e724b89d1fc6f2e2a1a09b28574485499263ae21bd7270ea5f38&smart=true&width=350&height=233&quality=85″ width=”4157″/>Former Colombian president Juan Manuel Santos was appointed president of The Elders, an organization founded by Nelson Mandela – credit Ricardo Maldonado Rozo/EFE
On October 31, The Elders, an international non-governmental organization founded by Nelson Mandela in 2007, announced that Juan Manuel Santos, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize in 2016 and former president of Colombia (2010-2018), will be the new president.
The Elders were founded with the support of businessman and philanthropist Richard Branson and musician Peter Gabriel.
“It is a privilege and an honor to be named President of The Elders, the organization created by Nelson Mandela, whom I met almost thirty years ago. His words about the importance of peace in our countries inspired me to seek peace in Colombia, and they still inspire me today to work on conflict resolution around the world.”
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According to information provided by the organization, Santos is replaced Mary Robinsonformer President of Ireland and United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, who held the position from 2018. Mary Robinson will continue to take an active role as Elder.
Santos joined the Elders in January 2019 and his role there involves conflict resolution and prevention. Among other thingsa visit to Ukraine in August 2022 by Ban Ki-moon to meet with President Zelenskyy and the civilian victims of that country’s conflict with Russia.
He was a spokesperson for The Elders on issues related to the climate crisis. He also represented The Elders in sessions before the UN Security Council and at events such as the Munich Security Conference and the UN General Assembly High Level Week.
“It is a great privilege and honor to be the President of The Elders. Almost thirty years ago I met Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg and we had a long conversation about the importance of peace for our two countries. I remember very well that he ended our conversation by saying “without peace, Colombia will never succeed.” His words inspired me to begin creating the conditions necessary to seek peace in my country, and they still inspire me today in my work to end conflicts around the world. I think the Elders can play a vital role in the very complex world. Filling Mary Robinson’s position will not be easy. I hope to follow his example with the help of my fellow Seniors.”
For her part, her predecessor Mary Robinson said:
“It was an honor, a challenge and a moral mission to be the President of the Elders. I am proud of all that my fellow Elders and I have achieved, and now I feel that the time has come to hand over the reins to Juan Manuel. Part of leadership is knowing when to step back and make room for others. In these times of deep global uncertainty, I know that Juan Manuel will guide us with his unwavering sense of duty, diplomacy and commitment. For my part, I will continue to play an active role in the group’s work, especially on the existential threat of the climate and nature crisis.”
In August of this year, Santos was asked to participate in the Advisory Commission on Foreign Relations to agree on views and decisions on the tense political situation in Venezuela since Nicolás Maduro was accused of manipulating the election results to stay in office. At the time, he criticized former presidents Andrés Pastrana and Iván Duque for not wanting to participate in the meeting.
“Regardless of which government is in power, our former presidents have committed to the country to listen to the call of the Advisory Commission on Foreign Relations. I will go today to express my disagreement with Colombia’s position regarding the fraudulent election that took place in Venezuela and also regarding other aspects of our foreign policy,” he noted in X.
TIME.NEWS INTERVIEW: The Elders’ New Leadership
Editor (E): Welcome, everyone, to this special edition of TIME.NEWS. Today, we have the honor of speaking with an esteemed expert on international relations and peacebuilding, Dr. Elena Garcia, to discuss the recent appointment of former Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos as the new president of The Elders. Dr. Garcia, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Garcia (G): Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here!
E: Let’s dive straight in. Juan Manuel Santos brings a wealth of experience to his new role, particularly as a Nobel Peace Prize laureate. What do you think this appointment means for The Elders and their mission?
G: Santos’ appointment is quite significant. The Elders, founded by Nelson Mandela, aims to promote peace and human rights globally. Santos, who has firsthand experience in conflict resolution and a proven track record in peacemaking, offers valuable insights that align perfectly with the organization’s mission. His leadership could reinvigorate their efforts, especially in today’s complex geopolitical climate.
E: Santos mentioned in his statement that he was deeply inspired by Mandela’s words about peace during their meeting decades ago. How important is this personal history in shaping his approach to leadership within The Elders?
G: Very important. Personal connections to influential figures can be transformative. Santos’ history with Mandela not only adds to his credibility but also serves as a moral compass. Mandela’s emphasis on peace is likely to guide Santos in his decisions and actions. He understands the stakes involved and carries the legacy of Mandela’s vision, which can resonate strongly in his leadership style.
E: You mentioned geopolitical complexities. How do you see Santos navigating the current global issues, such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which he has been involved with as part of The Elders?
G: Santos’ experience gives him a nuanced understanding of conflict dynamics. His recent participation in important discussions, including the situation in Ukraine, indicates that he’s already engaged with pressing issues. His role will likely include not only addressing existing conflicts but also advocating for proactive measures to prevent future crises, leveraging his expertise in diplomacy and dialogue.
E: Santos takes over from Mary Robinson, another strong leader in her own right. What challenges do you foresee for him in filling her shoes?
G: Transitioning leadership in any organization, especially one as respected as The Elders, is challenging. Robinson has laid a solid foundation, and while Santos is well-equipped, he’ll need to continue fostering humanitarian partnerships and staying visible on global stages. Maintaining the momentum in ongoing initiatives and addressing new challenges will be vital for his success.
E: What impact do you think Santos’ presidency will have on the younger generation of leaders and peacebuilders?
G: Santos can be a role model for young leaders, demonstrating that impactful change is possible. His narrative of seeking peace in a context of conflict serves as an inspirational reminder that dialogue and negotiation can lead to resolution. As a member of The Elders, he can mentor emerging leaders, particularly in conflict zones, encouraging a new wave of peacebuilders who value collaboration over confrontation.
E: if you had the chance to advise President Santos as he takes on his new role, what key message would you give him?
G: I would emphasize the importance of listening. Engaging with communities directly affected by conflict, understanding their needs, and incorporating their voices into decision-making processes are essential. This grassroots approach will ensure that The Elders remain relevant in their efforts and that their solutions are both effective and sustainable.
E: Insightful as always, Dr. Garcia. Thank you for sharing your expertise with us today. We look forward to seeing how Juan Manuel Santos shapes the future of The Elders.
G: Thank you for having me. It’s an exciting time for global peace initiatives, and I’m optimistic about what’s to come.
E: And thank you to our audience for joining us. Keep following TIME.NEWS for more on international developments and the influential figures shaping our world.