I wish I knew Peter Gabriel.

Mr. Gabriel had an idea and formed a group called the Elders, a group of important old folks whose opinions and experience we should value.

The Elders

In 1999 Peter began a conversation with Richard Branson about The Elders – a new gathering of world leaders. In 2007 The Elders became a reality, Peter said, “In traditional societies, the elders always had a role in conflict resolution, long-term thinking and applying wisdom wherever it was needed. We are moving to this global village and yet we don’t have our global elders. The Elders can be a group who have the trust of the world, who can speak freely, be fiercely independent, and respond fast and flexibly in conflict situations.”

Nelson Mandela announced the formation of The Elders, in a speech he delivered on the occasion of his 89th birthday. He was joined by founding members of the group, Desmond Tutu, Graa Machel, Kofi Annan, Jimmy Carter, Li Zhaoxing, Mary Robinson and Muhammad Yunus. Founding members, Ela Bhatt and Gro Harlem Brundtland were unable to attend.

“This group can speak freely and boldly, working both publicly and behind the scenes on whatever actions need to be taken” Mandela commented. “Together we will work to support courage where there is fear, foster agreement where there is conflict, and inspire hope where there is despair.”

Tutu, Chair of The Elders remarked, “Despite all of the ghastliness that is around, human beings are made for goodness. The ones who ought to be held in high regard are not the ones who are militarily powerful, nor even economically prosperous. They are the ones who have a commitment to try and make the world a better place. We, The Elders, will endeavour to support those people and do our best for humanity.”

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