Elders to Egyptian youth: "You are the future"

“It took us 12 years to write a constitution. Don't underestimate what you have done.” Jimmy Carter

Last week, to conclude their two-day visit to Cairo, the Elders took part in a televised discussion with young Egyptians on the momentous events that have changed their country – and their hopes and expectations for what comes next.

Day of the Girl: giving girls a voice

“Every three seconds, another girl becomes a child bride.”

11 October marks the first ever International Day of the Girl Child: a chance to amplify the voice of millions of girls everywhere being married off before the age of 18. Join Mary Robinson and Desmond Tutu in celebrating Day of the Girl. Help us end child marriage.

Traditions are man-made, they can be changed

In a video from Half the Sky, a campaign dedicated to the empowerment of girls and women across the world, Desmond Tutu questions the sidelining of women in the name of custom or tradition. If these traditions are man-made, he argues, then they can be changed.

Introduction to The Elders

"With their experience, and their profound commitment to building a better world – let us call them global Elders." Nelson Mandela

In July 2007, Nelson Mandela brought together The Elders, independent leaders using their collective experience and influence for peace, justice and human rights worldwide. This video celebrates five years of their work to promote equality for women and girls, amplify the voices of young people, highlight humanitarian crises and support peace-building initiatives around the world.

Give 67 minutes to change the world on Mandela Day

Nelson Mandela gave 67 years of his life fighting for the rights of humanity. His birthday, 18 July, is celebrated as Mandela Day – a day where people can offer 67 minutes of their time to make a difference in the lives of others. Inspired by Mandela Day, three Elders recently visited grassroots organisations in London and hosted an event encouraging people to volunteer their time.