Mandela’s Legacy is Our Responsibility, Guterres Declares on International Day
New York, NY – July 18, 2025 – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres today underscored the profound importance of Nelson Mandela’s enduring legacy, stating that it is now “our responsibility” to uphold and advance the principles he championed. His remarks came as the world marked Nelson Mandela International Day, a global observance dedicated to celebrating the life and work of the anti-apartheid revolutionary, political leader, and philanthropist who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999.
Speaking on this significant day, Guterres emphasized that Nelson Mandela’s impact extends far beyond his own lifetime, serving as a powerful beacon for justice, equality, and reconciliation worldwide. The Secretary-General highlighted Mandela’s unwavering commitment to dismantling apartheid and his subsequent dedication to building a democratic and inclusive South Africa as profound examples for humanity.
“Nelson Mandela’s life was a testament to the power of courage, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of a more just and equitable world,” Guterres stated. “He showed us that even in the face of immense adversity, it is possible to overcome hatred with love, division with unity, and despair with hope.”
The Secretary-General’s address served as a call to action for individuals and nations alike to actively engage with and embody Mandela’s core values. He urged global citizens to reflect on the challenges that still persist in achieving true equality and social justice, and to consider how they can contribute to a world that reflects Mandela’s vision.
“Mandela’s legacy is not simply a historical artifact; it is a living, breathing imperative,” Guterres continued. “It is our collective responsibility to carry forward his struggle against injustice, his dedication to human rights, and his belief in the inherent dignity of every person.”
Nelson Mandela International Day, established by the United Nations in 2009, encourages people everywhere to dedicate time to helping others and celebrating the spirit of Mandela’s contribution to the world. The day serves as an annual reminder of the need to promote peace, reconciliation, and understanding, echoing the core tenets of Mandela’s own life and activism.
Guterres specifically referenced Mandela’s remarkable ability to foster reconciliation after decades of oppression, a feat that continues to inspire peacemaking efforts globally. He noted that Mandela’s leadership demonstrated that true progress lies not in retribution, but in building bridges and embracing forgiveness.
As the world reflects on Mandela’s extraordinary life and enduring impact, the Secretary-General’s message serves as a poignant reminder that his legacy is not just a story to be told, but a guiding principle to be lived. The responsibility now rests with each generation to translate his ideals into tangible actions that advance peace, human rights, and a more just future for all.
Mandela’s legacy ‘is now our responsibility’, Guterres says on International Day
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