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The Elders
@theelders.bsky.social
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Founded by Nelson Mandela, we are independent global leaders working together for peace, justice, human rights and a sustainable planet.

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#COP30 didn't deliver the results needed.

Major emitters have blocked a roadmap to phase out fossil fuels. Yet, a majority of countries remain committed to move forward.

Read Elders' responses in full here: www.linkedin.com/feed/update/...
“I’m disappointed by the lack of consensus at COP30 on roadmaps to phase out fossil fuels and end deforestation. I look forward to more progress next year.” JUAN MANUEL SANTOS CHAIR OF THE ELDERS “While very disappointingly countries failed to agree on a collective roadmap to phase out fossil fuels or end deforestation, the global direction of travel is clear. And we saw real steps in establishing a just transition mechanism, agreeing a gender action plan, and calling to triple adaptation finance for vulnerable nations by 2035.” MARY ROBINSON MEMBER OF THE ELDERS
November 22, 2025 at 6:21 PM
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ELDERS’ STATEMENT | Elders warn against bilateral pandemic deals that could impact multilateral cooperation

Decisions taken now will determine whether all people are protected from pandemic threats.

Read the statement here:
theelders.org/news/elders-...
Elders’ Statement | 21.11.2025 Elders warn against bilateral pandemic deals that could impact multilateral cooperation Elders’ Statement | 21.11.2025 “Parallel systems created through bilateral agreements should not undermine the foundations of global preparedness and response being built at the multilateral level. Once multilateralism is hollowed out, it is hard to rebuild...Decisions taken now will determine whether the world can build a future of shared safety and collective action, and whether all people are protected from pandemic threats.” Read in full via theelders.org
November 21, 2025 at 4:34 PM
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“COP30 needs to move us faster to a phase-out from fossil fuels.”

As negotiations in Belém enter the final stages, Mary Robinson calls on leaders to commit to a clear roadmap for a just, orderly and equitable transition.
“COP30 needs to move us faster towards a phase out from fossil fuels. That's what a majority of people want. A minority of countries can't hold it up. ” - Mary Robinson “The world has already agreed to transition away from all fossil fuels at COP28. That transition needs to be just, orderly and equitable. Each country will take a different approach to phasing out fossil fuels. Richer countries, and those who have polluted the planet most, should help poorer countries. Communities most involved in fossil fuel production will need particular support. Climate COPs are the place to coordinate a just transition away from fossil fuels. People already suffering from climate change need a phase out. The continuing increase in extreme weather events shows the alarming future ahead of us. And without it, millions more people will migrate, and some countries will cease to exist. Scientists urge a phase out. They can see we are approaching planetary tipping points from which there is no return. International law demands a phase out. July's ICJ opinion is clear that countries have a legal responsibility to regulate the production, consumption and subsidy of fossil fuels to prevent foreseeable harm. The market expects a phase out. Investment in renewable energy is now double investment in fossil fuels. The Elders applaud the growing group of countries calling for a roadmap to phase out fossil fuels, and support the Brazilian presidency in finding the strongest possible language on a phase out. And as negotiations reach their climax, we call on all people who want a cleaner, healthier, safer future to make their voices heard - before it is too late." - Mary Robinson
November 19, 2025 at 5:08 PM
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Mary Robinson and Janja Lula Silva, Brazil’s First Lady and the #COP30 Women Envoy, stand together for women-led climate leadership, in Belém. #GenderJustice
November 18, 2025 at 4:33 PM
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ELDERS’ STATEMENT | The Elders urge an end to the deadly conflicts in Sudan and the DR Congo.

The world has ignored these two conflicts for far too long. How the international community responds now is a test of our common humanity.

Read in full: theelders.org/news/elders-...
The Elders urge an end to the deadly conflicts in Sudan and the DRC
November 17, 2025 at 4:58 PM
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The Elders met Ed Miliband at #COP30 to discuss the UK’s crucial role in pushing for ambitious global climate action.

As a historic emitter and global leader, the UK must help accelerate a just transition and galvanise support for vulnerable communities.
November 17, 2025 at 3:59 PM
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✉️ NEWSLETTER | Without women, there can be no lasting peace

Denis Mukwege calls for justice for survivors of sexual violence and for women’s full participation in peacebuilding.

Read & subscribe: theelders.org/news/without...
NEWSLETTER "While women often bear the greatest burden in conflict situations, they are not only survivors, but powerful agents of change." - Denis Mukwege, member of The Elders
November 13, 2025 at 11:05 AM
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The EU’s new climate targets aren’t perfect and came at the 11th hour, but cutting 90% of emissions by 2040 shows leadership ahead of COP30 in a challenging political environment.

Read Mary Robinson’s reaction ⬇️
Climate & nature crisis "Ahead of COP30, the EU has sent a clear message: we can flourish economically and protect our planet at the same time." - Mary Robinson, member of The Elders ""Ahead of COP30, the EU has sent a clear message: we can flourish economically and protect our planet at the same time. Today’s announcement shows the EU is staying the course toward a net-zero future. Despite the disinformation circulated by groups with ties to the fossil fuel industry, this is the kind of leadership citizens and businesses want. It is proof that climate action can unite us beyond political divides toward a shared future." - Mary Robinson, member of The Elders
November 5, 2025 at 4:39 PM
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ELDERS’ STATEMENT | World leaders must step up at COP30 to strengthen climate action and multilateralism

The Elders call for courage, unity, and leadership in Belém to rise above division and tackle the climate and nature crisis.

theelders.org/news/world-l...
Elders’ Statement | 05.11.2025 World leaders must step up at COP30 to strengthen climate action and multilateralism Elders’ Statement | 05.11.2025 Climate & nature crisis “COP30 must be the moment for leaders to listen to the often silent majority, not just the often vocal minority. They must protect the planet for those already suffering from extreme weather events, and for future generations, before it is too late.” Read in full via theelders.org
November 5, 2025 at 12:58 PM
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✉️ NEWSLETTER | The UN must take the need for reform seriously

Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein calls for honest reflection and bold reform to rebuild the United Nations’ legitimacy for future generations.

Read & subscribe: theelders.org/news/un-must...
"Those who believe in multilateralism have a duty to critique it. Only through honest reflection can institutions like the UN remain effective and evolve with the times." - Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, Member of The Elders
October 14, 2025 at 8:47 AM
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Before last week’s peace plan announcement, Mary Robinson spoke to China’s The Paper to discuss the deliberate starvation of Gazans she witnessed at the Rafah Crossing and to urge China’s continued engagement with Middle East peacebuilding.

www.thepaper.cn/newsDetail_f...
Mary Robinson Interview | The Paper (China) “We wanted to bear witness, to speak the truth, and to stand with the people of Gaza.”
October 13, 2025 at 10:43 AM
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ELDERS’ STATEMENT | US deal must stop Gaza genocide, end occupation and build a just two-state solution

The ceasefire is a welcome step - but it must be built upon. The Elders set out what’s needed next to achieve a just and lasting peace ⬇️

theelders.org/news/us-deal...
ELDERS' STATEMENT 10.10.2025 US deal must stop Gaza genocide, end occupation and build a just two-state solution ELDERS' STATEMENT 10.10.2025 ISRAEL/PALESTINE “Making further progress will be a test of leaders’ resolve and commitment. Now is not the time to relax pressure on either Israel or Hamas, particularly for the US, European and Arab states with leverage via various political, cultural and economic relationships.” READ IN FULL VIA THEELDERS.ORG
October 10, 2025 at 3:17 PM
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The Elders congratulate María Corina Machado for winning the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize.
“The Elders congratulate María Corina Machado for winning the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. This is a testament to her courage and perseverance in fighting for peace and democracy in Venezuela. We reiterate our condemnation of the widespread repression and human rights violations in the country and urge all parties to pursue steps towards inclusive national dialogue.”
October 10, 2025 at 2:50 PM
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October 5, 2025 at 10:20 AM
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The Elders' Chair Juan Manuel Santos urges Israel to halt its offensive in Gaza following Hamas’ agreement to release the hostages.
October 4, 2025 at 3:26 PM
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Today would have been Jimmy Carter’s 101st birthday.

We remember a founding member of The Elders whose integrity, compassion and tireless work for peace, democracy & human rights left an indelible mark on the world.

His legacy continues to inspire.
"What are the things that you can't see that are important? Justice, truth, humility, service, compassion, love... They're the guiding lights of a life." - Jimmy Carter, Founding member of the Elders, 39th president of the United States, Nobel peace Laureate
October 1, 2025 at 10:25 AM
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Nelson Mandela’s statue at the UN reminds us that true leadership is courage in action.

"Do not look away, do not hesitate. The world is hungry for action, not words. Act with courage and vision."

His vision still inspires us today. #UNGA80
September 27, 2025 at 2:52 PM
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The Elders met with Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi to discuss the snapback of UN sanctions on Iran.

Elders reaffirmed the importance of good faith diplomatic engagement by all sides as the only sustainable long-term pathway forward.
September 23, 2025 at 11:18 PM
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🧵(4/5) Helen Clark: Recognition must be a turning point – stop arms, demand accountability.
Israel-Palestine "The war in Gaza has already gone on too long...Transfer of arms and weapons components to Israel must cease immediately, and targeted sanctions should be applied to Prime Minister Netanyahu and his war cabinet." - Helen Clark, member of The Elders
September 23, 2025 at 1:15 PM
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🧵(3/5) Mary Robinson: Momentum is building to chart a real pathway to peace.
Israel-Palestine "The message from the international community is clear: the conditions now exist to chart a genuine pathway to peace... President Trump has before him a pivotal opportunity. He can seize this moment to lead the way towards a comprehensive peace plan." - Mary Robinson, member of The Elders
September 23, 2025 at 1:15 PM
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🧵(2/5) Juan Manuel Santos: Recognition of Palestine is only the first step.
Israel-Palestine "Recognition of Palestine is not the finish line - it is an essential first step. France and Saudi Arabia deserve credit for convening political leaders to drive concrete actions towards a lasting solution." - Juan Manuel Santos, Chair of The Elders
September 23, 2025 at 1:15 PM
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Mary Robinson responds to the 2025 Production Gap Report from SEI Climate, calling out governments' reckless expansion of fossil fuels despite climate commitments.

productiongap.org/2025report/
Climate & nature crisis "Governments still pour billions into subsidies and support for fossil fuel production, locking us into harm. The ICJ has underlined that such actions may no longer just be reckless, they could be unlawful. Every year of delay locks us deeper into dependence." - Mary Robinson, member of The Elders
September 23, 2025 at 10:45 AM
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Security isn’t just about weapons, it’s about people, communities, and our shared future. That’s why we’re proud to have helped launch Women Transforming Global Security: transformingsecurity.org

#WTGS #WomenLeadSecurity #TransformingSecurity
“Women’s perspectives are too often absent from these debates and need to be heard. This network can play a vital role in convening diverse voices, building trust, and catalysing action.”
September 23, 2025 at 9:42 AM
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For too long women’s voices have been excluded from the security debate, including on nuclear weapons. It’s time to change that.

The Women Transforming Global Security network aims to put feminist leadership at the heart of global security.

Learn more: transformingsecurity.org
“The Elders are delighted to support the launch of Women "Transforming Global Security. As a young woman, I joined tens of thousands of women and men marching against nuclear weapons at the height of the Cold War in the 1970s and 80s. We need a similar sense of urgency and activism today as geopolitical tensions reach dangerous levels.” — Mary Robinson, THE ELDERS
September 23, 2025 at 9:42 AM
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In case you missed it: Juan Manuel Santos joined the Future of Africa podcast to reflect on the indigenous mandate that shaped his leadership, why working with youth matters, and the power of dialogue to build lasting peace.

🎧 Listen here: bit.ly/4moqtWb
September 19, 2025 at 11:15 AM