The Elders…The Elders
Chair of The Elders
Annan served as the Chair of The Elders, a global organization founded by former South African President, Nelson Mandela.
As chair, Annan was able to personally assess the humanitarian situation of Zimbabwe in November 2008. He carried out his analysis in South Africa after being denied entry into Zimbabwe.
In May 2011, Annan along with other dignitaries travelled to Cote d’Ivoire to encourage reconciliation after an outburst of political violence.
He said “We don’t have to wait to act. The action must be now. You will come across people who think we should start tomorrow. Even for those who believe action should begin tomorrow, remind them tomorrow begins now, tomorrow begins today, so let’s all move forward.”
