The Elders

In July 2017, The Elders and civil society partners launched #WalkTogether: a global campaign to spark hope in the world and to encourage communities to work together and bridge the global fault lines of division, hate and xenophobia.

In July 2017, Graça Machel and Mary Robinson visited Tanzania to promote progress towards Universal Health Coverage. 

In September 2016, Kofi Annan, Martti Ahtisaari and Lakhdar Brahimi visited Germany to launch a new report on refugees and migration. They heard a range of perspectives on the country's response to the crisis, from Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Federal President Joachim Gauck and business leaders, to civil society groups, volunteers and refugees themselves.

One year on from the launch of our ‘UN Fit for Purpose’ initiative at the Munich Security Conference, The Elders and our partners continue to press for change. This photo-story highlights progress to date and looks ahead to the work remaining in this crucial year.

Last week, world leaders gathered in New York for the UN General Assembly. Four Elders travelled to the city to participate in the launch of the Sustainable Development Goals and host bilateral events on strengthening the UN.

Six Elders were in Moscow in late April to meet President Vladimir Putin and Russian officials to hear their approach to a variety of current geopolitical crises, in particular the situation in Ukraine.

Jimmy Carter and Gro Harlem Brundtland spent three days discussing the post-war political landscape with a host of experts, politicians and NGOs.

Ahead of a crucial year for Myanmar’s transition, Gro Harlem Brundtland, Martti Ahtisaari, Lakhdar Brahimi and Hina Jilani travelled to Myanmar and Thailand in December 2014. Meeting with members of the government, armed forces, parliament and civil society, the Elders encouraged all parties to help bring about a fair and inclusive society.

From grassroots activists, to policy advisors and campaigners, four women are working to include women at all levels in the peace process. 

Following on from our photo story about life in Mae La refugee camp on the Thailand-Myanmar border, we take a closer look at the livelihoods of the camp’s residents. How do the refugees make a living while confined by the laws of their host country, and what effects will Myanmar’s political developments have on their future?