“The blaming and finger-pointing at the highest levels of the international community are unconscionable distractions from the bloodshed, death and destruction unfolding each day in Syria.” Desmond Tutu

While The Elders believe that any solution to the violence in Syria must be owned and led by Syrians, they stress that the international community must unite to support a peaceful resolution to the conflict – and fulfil its responsibility to protect civilians and provide humanitarian assistance to the injured, displaced and vulnerable.

“Building confidence and constructive relations between Sudan and South Sudan is urgent” – Jimmy Carter

Two members of The Elders, former US President Jimmy Carter and former Algerian Foreign Minister Lakhdar Brahimi, met President Omar Al-Bashir in Khartoum today as part of a two-stage visit to support peace efforts in Sudan and South Sudan.

Only dialogue can avoid another humanitarian catastrophe

Following recent clashes along the border between Sudan and South Sudan, The Elders have warned of a potential humanitarian crisis and called on the two leaders to return to dialogue.

The Elders welcome the news that North Korea has agreed to suspend its nuclear activities. They also commend the United States on its decision to send much-needed food aid to the North Korean population, and express hope that dialogue and trust-building between the two countries can be sustained.

A humanitarian pause is urgently required

As violence in Syria continues to threaten the safety of thousands of people, The Elders call on the Syrian government to halt its military assault and enable a “humanitarian pause” to allow medical assistance and basic supplies to reach those in need.

Following their visit to North Korea, South Korea and China, The Elders call on all parties to resume dialogue as soon as possible. The group also urges international donors to increase food aid to North Korea, pointing to the government's recent commitment to allowing greater transparency and monitoring of aid delivery.

The Elders are deeply saddened by the violence taking place in Côte d'Ivoire. While former president Laurent Gbagbo must bear primary responsibility for the conflict after he refused to step down following the latest presidential elections, The Elders emphasise that both sides must be held accountable for their actions during the fighting.

Mary Robinson, Ela Bhatt and Lakhdar Brahimi say the isolation of Gaza is not only illegal collective punishment, but also an impediment to peace. President Carter will join his fellow Elders in Egypt on their return from Gaza.

After visiting Gaza during their week-long visit to the Middle East, Mary Robinson, Ela Bhatt and Lakhdar Brahimi condemn the illegal blockade of Gaza saying that it not only helps to perpetuate dire humanitarian conditions, but is also an impediment to peace.

With emergency humanitarian aid to Pakistan failing to reach the $460 million target set by the United Nations, The Elders urge governments and individuals to pledge more assistance to help the millions of people affected by the recent floods.

The Elders urge international donors to respond more swiftly, generously and creatively to Zimbabwe’s humanitarian crisis.