Definition
The Elders is an independent group of global leaders, founded by Nelson Mandela and Graça Machel in 2007 (with support from Richard Branson and Peter Gabriel), who use their collective influence and experience to promote peace, justice, and human rights. They operate as “global citizens” free from the constraints of national or political interests.
Why It Matters
The ‘Elders’ represent the institutional knowledge and long-term vision of a society. Losing respect for the wisdom of those who built the system is a precursor to social decay, as it removes the ‘anchors’ that prevent a culture from drifting into short-termist chaos.
Core Concepts
- Ethical Stewardship: Providing a moral voice in global affairs, focusing on issues where traditional diplomacy has failed.
- Independence: Being privately funded (e.g., by the Virgin Unite and the Omidyar Network) ensures they can speak truth to power without fear of political retaliation.
- Conflict Resolution: Engaging in quiet diplomacy to bridge divides in war-torn regions or on sensitive global issues (e.g., nuclear non-proliferation, climate change).
- Listening and Amplification: Connecting with grassroots activists and “listening to the people” to bring their voices to the global stage (e.g., Ela Bhatt’s work with SEWA).
- Inaugural Members: Included leaders like Desmond Tutu, Jimmy Carter, Kofi Annan, Mary Robinson, and Aung San Suu Kyi.