Observance of the annual Nelson Mandela International Day - General Assembly, Informal meeting, 80th session

I call to order the informal meeting of the Plenary to mark the observance of the Nelson Mandela International Day. I would like to warmly welcome all of you to this meeting. I now invite members to view a short video entitled Nelson Mandela Day: It's in Our Hands.

We undertook never to rest until the system of apartheid was defeated.

Yes, we will not rest until apartheid is defeated.

We meet to affirm our commitment to the founding ideal and the common desire to better the life of all human beings.

That better life must mean an end to poverty, to joblessness, homelessness, And the despair that come of deprivation.

This is an end in itself because the happiness of the human being must, in any society, be an end in itself.

What challenges us is to ensure that none should enjoy Lesser rights, and none tormented because they are born different, hold contrary political views, or pray to God in a different manner. It is time for new hands to lift the burdens.

It is in your hands now Mandela Day, it's in our hands.

As mentioned in my letters dated June 17th and July 16th, 2026, this informal meeting is convened pursuant to Resolution 64/13 of November 10th, 2009, under the theme, It is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality. I will now make a statement as the President of the General Assembly. Ladies and gentlemen, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, more than 3 decades ago, Nelson Mandela addressed this very assembly, as we saw it in the video, with so much emotion and joy as the first democratically elected President of the Republic of South Africa. After 27 years of imprisonment, isolation, and dehumanization by the apartheid government, he spoke not with bitterness, but with dignity, resolve, and determination to build a different future, demonstrating through his own example that even after generations of injustice, reconciliation is possible. Amid deep division, societies can choose dialogue over hatred. And after conflict, peace can prevail. Nelson Mandela reminded this Assembly— us— of the same principles that guided the founding of this organization: that peace requires more than the absence of conflict. That requires human dignity, justice, and equality for all. As we mark the Nelson Mandela International Day, we honour not only that vision, we acknowledge our own responsibility to carry this work, this spirit forward. As reflected in this year's theme, it is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality. To quote Mandela himself, like slavery and apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made, and then we— and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings. Yet today, progress to end poverty remains uneven. 808 million people, nearly 1 in 10 worldwide, are living in extreme poverty. And although member states committed through the Sustainable Development Goals to end poverty in all its forms, only 1 in 5 countries is on track to halve its national poverty rate by 2030. And as we know and as we have seen in the short movie, behind these numbers are families like us, but families who are forced to choose between food and medicine, children whose education is interrupted, communities displaced by conflict or climate shocks, and people denied the opportunity to shape their own futures. Poverty is not only a development challenge, It is a question of human rights, justice, and ultimately peace. Because poverty, inequality, and exclusion fuel instability, fomenting conflict and crisis, which deepens poverty once more, resulting in a vicious cycle that no country can break alone. Yet, we should not forget why we are here today. Like every other year. The words, it is still in our hands, and the statues with the hands in this building remind us every day of our power to make progress when we act with purpose. Indeed, the record shows that determined action can achieve, also in relation with the Sustainable Development Goals. Between 1990 and 2019, the number of people living in extreme poverty was reduced by around 66%. And we have learned that when the root causes of poverty and inequality— conflict, discrimination, unequal opportunity, climate vulnerability, and exclusion— are addressed, progress is not only achieved, it is sustained. So this Nelson Mandela International Day, should not only be a moment to honor his legacy through remembrance, but rather through action. Because as we enter the final 4 years of the 2030 Agenda, it is indeed still in our hands, but the pronunciation has to be in our hands, to make the active choice required to end poverty and reduce inequality every day. That is why at the High-Level Political Forum last week, I issued a clear call to focus our efforts on implementing in the years remaining until 2030, to not allow ourselves to wallow in self-pity or dare to say that 4 years is not enough time, but instead remember about 27 years in prison and to draw inspiration and conviction from the legacy of a man who endured these 27 years in prison under a system designed to strip him of his dignity and never gave up hope or never gave up trying. So 4 years is nothing. And I reiterate my call, instead of taking and talking about any post-2030 agenda, let us focus all our efforts on today, what we can do now. How many households can we help in 4 years? How many more children can we educate? How many mouths can we feed? It is in our hands. Like Nelson Mandela, let's fight right to the finish. I thank you. I give the floor to the Chef de Cabinet of the Secretary-General, Mr. Courtney Rattray. to deliver a statement on behalf of the Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Excellencies, Ladies and gentlemen, I am honored to deliver the Secretary-General's message at this important observation of Nelson Mandela International Day. Today, we pay tribute to the extraordinary life and legacy of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. Peace, justice, dignity, human rights— Madiba exemplified all of these. Through his brave and tireless struggle, he drew the world's attention to the historic evil of the apartheid regime in South Africa. He recognized the undeniable link between the suffering and subjugation of Black South Africans in his time and the inequalities, discrimination, and outright brutality of colonialism and the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans. Mandela's struggle came at a massive personal cost. I will never forget visiting his prison on Robben Island, where he spent 18 of the 27 years in total that he spent in prison. I was struck by the resilience of his spirit, and I came away deeply inspired by his capacity for forgiveness and reconciliation. Even in the darkest moments of his life, Nelson Mandela understood that despair was a luxury the human family just cannot afford. He showed us another path, a path paved by courage, compassion, and perseverance. Mandela firmly believed that our common humanity could triumph over forces of hatred, division, discrimination, and injustice, and that nothing is more transformative than people standing together in solidarity. He showed us how one man's cry for justice and dignity could swell into a collective roar that could overturn a monstrous system like apartheid. Give power to the powerless, forever alter the course of a country's history, and awaken the conscience of the world. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, this year's theme for Mandela Day reflects a defining challenge of our time: poverty and inequality. Today, we live in a world where inequality has become entrenched. Where wealth disproportionately accumulates at the very top, hundreds of millions of people struggle to afford basic needs like food, water, health, and education. Poverty remains deeply rooted in many parts of the world. Conflicts, economic shocks, and climate disasters threaten to undo the progress that we have made. And racism, discrimination and xenophobia persist across the globe. This reminds us that remarkable advances achieved through justice, reconciliation and nation-building can never be taken for granted, and that the work of defending human dignity remains unfinished everywhere. Meanwhile, a growing share of global humanitarian needs are being left unmet. Human suffering is on the rise, and solutions and solidarity are in short supply. We face historic declines in aid and massive increases in military spending. There is something deeply wrong when we spend more on the instruments of destruction and death than on the tools of development and peace. Taken together, These disconnects are not just morally unacceptable; they are economically short-sighted and politically destabilizing. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, Mandela once said, like slavery and apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made, and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings End quote. He understood that the world's ills are often the result of the choices that we make. Right now, we are making the wrong choices, but guided by Madiba's life and legacy, we can make better ones. Ending poverty and inequality requires rewiring economies and societies to focus policies, budgets and investments where they belong— on people— by jump-starting economic growth, especially in the poorest countries; by adopting progressive fiscal policies to ensure more equitable outcomes; by investing in all the drivers of development and poverty eradication, from decent work and universal health coverage to quality education and social protection systems; by scaling up domestic and global financing and debt relief for developing countries to invest in these systems; by reforming the international financial architecture to better support and represent developing countries; by building economies powered by renewable energy for people and planet; by ensuring that digital technologies are within reach of all people; by working towards full gender equality and empowering women and girls across every sector; by upholding the dignity and human rights that belong to every person without discrimination; and by putting peace first, by reining in out-of-control military spending, and investing in peace and development. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, Madiba was blessed with a rare kind of double vision. He saw the world both for what it was and what it could be. He also recognized that progress is never automatic. Progress is the result of action. It's up to all of us to come together to make that progress real and through our actions, our advocacy, and our voice, to defeat poverty and inequality, not as an act of charity, but as an act of justice. As we mark Mandela Day, let's recommit to the timeless principles that defined his life: freedom, justice, equality, solidarity, reconciliation, compassion, peace, Let's carry forward Mandela's vision of a just, inclusive, equal, and peaceful world. I thank you.

I thank the Chef de Cabinet. I give the floor to Mr. Shafiou Assoumanou, Strategic Relationships Director for Africa at the New York City Mayor's Office. to deliver a statement.

Madam President, Excellencies, honored guests, ladies and gentlemen, it is a profound honor to address you on behalf of the Mayor's Office and the City of New York. on this special, special occasion as we celebrate the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela. New York City is home to the world's largest diplomatic community, thanks to the United Nations, and one of the world's most diverse immigrant and diaspora populations. It's a city where you can hear 5 different languages before finishing your morning coffee. We celebrate our differences, learn from one another, and share our traditions, especially our food. Speaking of food, the United Nations has tackled some of the world's difficult challenges, but if you want to see diplomacy truly tested, put a Nigerian Ghanaians, and Senegalese in a room and ask them who makes the best jollof rice. This past Friday, during Mandela Day volunteering activities, I volunteered with a nonprofit organization delivering meals to homebound older adults on Manhattan West Side. On one delivery, I met a caregiver. in the elevator, an African woman who appeared to be in her 40s. As I struggled to press the button for the 6th floor while carrying the meals, she kindly helped me and asked, are you working as a food delivery person? I replied, no, I am a volunteer. I'm delivering these meals to the elderly residents in this building. Surprised, she asked, so you mean you are doing, you are doing this for free? Yes, I answered with a smile on my face. The elevator doors opened and we went our separate ways. We never exchanged another word. However, the smile on her face and the admiration in her eyes stayed with me. For a moment, it felt as though someone has begun— who had begun to lose faith in humanity was reminded that kindness and generosity still exist. That people, especially young people like myself, are still willing to serve those in need simply because it is the right thing to do. Like that woman, Many people around the world have begun to lose hope. Yes, they believe that it is in our hands to combat poverty and inequity. Yet when they see millions of people struggling to afford food, housing, healthcare, education, they ask, is this still possible? When they witness wars, humanitarian crisis, human rights abuses, and the growing impact of climate change, they ask the same question: is this still possible? So I wonder, what will Nelson Mandela's answer be if he was here with us today? I believe his answer will be simple: yes, it is possible. If Nelson Mandela could help dismantle apartheid, one of the world's most deeply entrenched systems of injustice, despite spending 25 years in prison, then even the greatest challenges of our time can be overcome. If New York City can release its first government-wide preliminary racial equity plan alongside a new true cost of living measure to address longstanding disparities, disparities in housing, health, economy, economic opportunity, and access to public services, then it shows that when government listens more deeply, they can serve more effectively. If programs like the New York City Junior Ambassador can empower thousands of young New Yorkers to understand global challenges and see themselves as leaders capable of creating change in their own communities, then it is possible. If Malala Yousafzai can fight inequality through education by advocating for girls' education around the world, then it is possible. If Boyan Slat can tackle through innovation the growing crisis of plastic pollution in oceans and rivers as a teenager, then it is possible. If here in New York City, Eric Ragoon can lead efforts to expand medically tailored meals delivered to hundreds of New Yorkers living with life-altering illnesses, then it is possible. Today, I am honored to stand before you on behalf of Mayor Mamdani and the beautiful city of New York. In our municipal government, every day we are driven by the commitment to make New York City a place where everyone can afford to live with dignity and opportunity. Because we believe that to build a more just world and to really walk in a path that Madiba outlined, we not only need the act of courage and genius of amazing individuals like the ones I mentioned earlier. We need governments that commit to the task of delivering a life of dignity by putting in place policies that make food, housing, and care affordable and available to everyone. Policies that demonstrate our commitment to universal human rights regardless of where people were born, their gender identity or sexual orientation, their nationality, or their immigration status. We need government action that demonstrates urgency to address climate change and adapt to a world where mass flooding and fires can affect our streets on the same weekend. Our commitment to this Mandela Day is to notice the brilliance of people who do small acts of courage and care and to demand the same kind of brilliance from all of us in government and from our institution. Madam President, Excellencies, honored guests, ladies and gentlemen, because it is in our hands to combat poverty and inequity, it is also in our hands to believe that ending poverty, reducing inequality, and addressing the world's injustice and challenges is possible. Today we all gather at the United Nations, one of the most important institutions in the world, but history will not judge us only by the words we speak here today. It will judge us by the actions we take after we leave this room. So let us ask ourselves, when we return to the same place next year, this same place next year to honor the legacy of Nelson Mandela and to discuss the next theme: What will we say to one another about what we chose to do to combat poverty and inequality? Ladies and gentlemen, let that question drive our actions every day. Thank you.

Thank you.

I thank Mr. Asumanu. I now give the floor to Ms. Reddy Tabi, international broadcaster, author, moderator, and producer, to deliver a keynote statement.

Madam President, Your Excellencies, thank you very much for welcoming me here this morning. I want to talk to you about the inconvenient Mandela. As we celebrated Nelson Mandela's birthday, I had an image of the tall, charming former president of South Africa wearing his colorful shirts with a big smile on his face. He was often dancing. I had an image of the reconciler, the president who emerged from prison without bitterness and invited his former jailers to help him build a nation. That is the Mandela I remembered, and this is the Mandela who deserves every tribute that we are paying him at this moment. But before he became that Mandela, before he became a global icon and everybody's favorite statesman, he was something altogether dangerous. He was something inconvenient. He was the prisoner who refused to exchange principle for freedom. Nelson Mandela was actually offered release from prison in 1985. It didn't just happen in the '90s. It was in 1985. On condition that he renounce the struggle. But he answered with the words that still echo across history. He said, only free men can negotiate. Prisoners cannot enter into contracts. Madiba, that Madiba, the inconvenient Madiba, was denounced by powerful governments, branded a terrorist by some, And he actually remained on the United States terrorist list until 2008. We forget that long before he became President of South Africa and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, this most powerful nation on whose soil we stand today branded a global icon whom humanity will celebrate for eternity— it branded him a terrorist. Yet here we are today. History has a very funny way, a very funny habit of sanitizing those who first disturbed it, those it first called inconvenient. Mandela disrupted an international order that had become too comfortable with injustice, and perhaps that is the Mandela that we need most today. We celebrate his value of reconciliation as though it were his defining gift. It was not. Reconciliation was never his starting point. It was his destination. So what was his starting point? I would say his starting point was justice.

Justice.

Madiba never asked the oppressed to become comfortable with injustice. He asked the world to become uncomfortable with injustice. This, Your Excellencies, is an altogether different proposition. Mandela understood something that remains profoundly relevant today: peace without justice is not peace at all. It is only a pause, one that delays the hard work of crafting our shared humanity. So peace without justice, I would say, is a fragile truce, and Mandela understood this. Today we gather at a moment when the international order Mandela helped to strengthen is under extraordinary strain. A genocide rages in Gaza. a genocide. War in Sudan, war in Ukraine, Lebanon, Iran. International law is increasingly treated as optional, civilian suffering approached as an inevitable reality. It is weighed against geopolitical interests. Power is mistaken for legitimacy. Mandela spent his entire life proving precisely the opposite. He once reminded us, we know too well that our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinians. He was not making a geopolitical argument. He was making a moral one. Today, Gaza confronts this assembly with the same question that apartheid once posed to the world: does international law apply equally? to everyone. If the answer depends on geography, if it depends on alliances of convenience, if it depends on military strength, if it depends on race, if it depends on gender, religion, then it is no longer law. It is power. It is oppressive power. Mandela understood that. He understood that the systemic erosion of human dignity can never become the price of political expediency. We should not sign up for that, Your Excellencies. I think today he would ask us whether we have mistaken military superiority for moral superiority. He would ask why children continue to die while the world debates procedure, sometimes in this very august house. He would ask why resolutions multiply while our courage to act diminishes. He would ask why institutions such as this one, crafted so carefully to defend humanity, why do those institutions appear increasingly unable to defend the most vulnerable in every corner of the world? And then I think he would ask a question that he asked throughout his life: What are you prepared to risk for justice? And Madam President, you quoted his answer to that question. It is in your hands. But Gaza is not the only uncomfortable question before this assembly. There is another. For decades, this institution has acknowledged the need to reform the United Nations Security Council. I've spent my life as a journalist covering this under different Secretary-Generals. Every Secretary-General tells us reform is urgent. Every African delegation that stands here makes the same case year in and year out. Every summit recognizes that the Council no longer reflects the reality of our century. And every year nothing happens. I ask you, how many declarations must Africa hear before action follows? How many reports? How many anniversaries? How many Mandela Days? How many promises? Africa has given humanity immeasurable sacrifice. It endured slavery, It endured colonialism, it endured apartheid, it continues to shoulder profound burdens of poverty, conflict, debt, and climate vulnerability. And from that history, it gave the world one of its greatest moral leaders, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. Africa has been a gift. To the globe? What more must Africa give before its voice is treated as equal? How much more must this continent sacrifice before it is trusted to shape the decisions that determine war and peace? Would Mandela have accepted an international order that continues to ask Africa for patience, for sacrifice, while denying it permanent representation at the very table where humanity's gravest decisions are made? I do not believe he would. Mandela never believed legitimacy could be inherited forever. It had to be negotiated. It had to be earned. Institutions, like nations, derive their authority and legitimacy not from age, but from fairness, from the ability to adapt, from their ability to be agile and respond to the most urgent needs of our time. A Security Council that no longer reflects the world it claims to serve cannot indefinitely expect the confidence of that world. And so reform is not an act of generosity, it is an act of legitimacy, it is an act of justice, one which I believe Madiba would call for. The world does not need another annual celebration of Mandela. It needs the courage that made him so deeply inconvenient. It needs leaders willing to disturb comfortable injustice before history rewards them for doing so. It needs nations prepared to defend international law even when it inconveniences powerful allies. It needs institutions that are willing to reform themselves before the world loses faith in them. It needs us to reject forever the seductive argument that might makes right, because it never has and it never will. So today we remember Nelson Mandela, but would he see us as his allies? Would he embrace us on this journey to the inconvenient truth? Would he recognize institutions that postpone reform while celebrating or claiming to celebrate equality? Would he recognize a world where some civilian lives appear to matter more than others? Would he recognize an international order where law bends according to the will of the powerful? Or would he once again become inconvenient? I suspect he would, and perhaps that is precisely what the world needs today. So Madiba, history has honored you. Are we honoring you the way you wish to be honored? Happy birthday, Madiba. May your courage continue to inconvenience us all.

Thank you.

Thank you.

I thank Ms. Tabi. Before proceeding further, I wish to remind delegations that, as announced in my letter dated January 6th, 2026, speaking time during this informal meeting shall be limited to 3 minutes for delegations speaking in their national capacity and 5 minutes for statements made on behalf of a group of states. To assist delegations in managing their time, a countdown clock will be displayed on the screen. Please be advised that these time limits will be strictly enforced, including through the use of an automatic microphone cutoff when the allotted time has expired. I thank you for your cooperation. As the first speaker, I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Morocco, who will speak on behalf of the African states.

Madam President, I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the African Group. We thank the President of the General Assembly for convening this informal meeting in remembrance of President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, one of Africa's greatest sons and a towering figure in the global struggle for freedom, justice, and human dignity. Madam President, the African Group warmly congratulates the laureates of the Nelson Mandela Prize and commends all those who, through acts of service large and small, carry Madiba's spirit forward. Madam President, this year's theme, It is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity, is not merely a call to reflection. It is a call to action. Mandela warned us plainly: Poverty is not an accident, like slavery and apartheid. It is man-made and can be removed by the action of human beings. That warning carries a corollary. If poverty persists, it's because the actions taken have been insufficient or because the structure meant to address it remains skewed in favor of the few. The figures speak with uncomfortable clarity. Hundreds of millions of people remain trapped in extreme poverty, a disproportionate share of them in Africa. Debt service absorbs resources that should flow to health, education, and social protection. Commodity price volatility and the tightening of concessional finance erode the fiscal space face that developing countries need to invest in their own people. Illicit financial flows drain the continent of an estimated $50 billion each year, resources that, if retained, would fund schools, hospitals, and infrastructure at a scale that no official development assistance program can match. President Mandela understood that charity alone does not end poverty, and he was saying, overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. He said, it's an act of justice. It is a protection of fundamental human rights, the right to dignity and decent life. End of quote. Justice in this context means structural change in international trade rules, in tax cooperation, in debt architecture, in the governance of international financial institutions, and in how climate finance reaches those who need it most. Madam President, the African Group recognized the commitment made in recent years. The Pact of the Future adopted at the Summit of the Future in September 2024, the outcome of the Second World Social Summit in Doha, and the undertakings of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Sevilla. These instruments represent important progress, but commitments on paper must translate into action on the ground. Too often, the gap between pledge and performance widens precisely where it should narrow— in the countries and communities that can least afford delay. The 2030 Agenda is now in its final stretch. The Sustainable Development Goals were conceived as a universal compact, and yet progress has been slowest in the regions facing the gravest challenges. The African Union's Agenda 2063 charts a complementary path toward a prosperous, integrated, and peaceful continent. Achieving these two— these twin agendas requires renewed multilateral solidarity, genuine partnerships, and willingness to reform the international economic order so that it serves all nations equitably. We call on the international community to act with the urgency that the moment demands to address debt distress through comprehensive and timely mechanisms, to operationalize the commitment on climate finance owed to developing countries, to agree a fair and inclusive United Nations Framework Convention on International

I thank the distinguished representative of Morocco who will speak on behalf of the African states.

Thank you very much. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Grenada who will speak on behalf of the Latin American and Caribbean states.

Thank you very much, Madam Chair.

Madam President, Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, the honor is given to me to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of Latin American and Caribbean States. in observance of Nelson Mandela International Day. We gather today in this esteemed General Assembly Hall to pay tribute to an extraordinary leader whose courage, humility, and unwavering commitment to justice transformed not only his own nation but the conscience of humanity. Mandela's life served to break the shackles of apartheid that bound the people of South Africa, and his life's work and legacy helped to loosen the grip of indifference, fear, and division that took hold of the world. Our presence here today is testament to Nelson Mandela's enduring vision that peace, equality, and the preservation of human dignity are not aspirations to be pursued in isolation, but collective responsibilities founded upon empathy, solidarity, and mutual respect. His persistent commitment to justice, peace, and unity serves as an everlasting reminder of our responsibilities as individuals and as member states of the United Nations to continue the fight against poverty and equality. Madam President, today, upon reflection of his remarkable legacy, GRULAC highlights one of the messages Nelson Mandela left us. Mr. Mandela said, the greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. These words stand as a timeless lesson for the international community, reminding us that progress is neither linear nor guaranteed. It is forged through perseverance, guided by principle, and sustained by our collective determination to overcome even the greatest of challenges. Mandela understood that lasting peace cannot exist without justice, that reconciliation cannot flourish without truth, and that freedom is only meaningful when it is shared by all. Most importantly, his leadership demonstrated that courage is not measured by the absence of hardship, but by the willingness to confront it with conviction, compassion, and unwavering belief in our shared humanity. On this commemoration of his life and legacy, these are no longer words of affirmation but an urgent call to action. The international community faces a range of complex challenges, from the state of international peace and security to questions regarding the sustainability and future of this very system. These challenges exist to test our resolve and our confidence in the ability of multilateralism multilateralism to deliver meaningful solutions. Yet Nelson Mandela's life reminds us that adversity must never become an excuse for resignation. Moments of uncertainty demand greater solidarity, stronger international cooperation, and renewed confidence in our shared institutions. They called upon us To reaffirm our commitment to dialogue over confrontation, cooperation over division, and hope over despair. Moreover, Mr. Mandela's message extends beyond the walls of this esteemed hall. Each act of solidarity, each effort to build understanding, and each decision to place our shared humanity above our differences strengthens the foundation of peace and sustainable development. In closing, as we commemorate Nelson Mandela's International Day, GRULAC implores that we honor his memory not only through words but through action. GRULAC calls those in these walls and out of these walls to draw inspiration from Mandela's extraordinary example to renew our collective resolve to leave a better world for future generations. Madam President, on behalf of GRULAC, I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Grenada on behalf of GRULAC. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Germany who will speak on behalf of the Western European and other states.

Madam President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the members of the Western European and other others group. Today, the international community comes together here in New York at the United Nations to honor the legacy of Nelson Mandela. It is a legacy of service to principles and institutions bigger than any one person— principles such as equality, freedom, justice, and human rights for all. Nelson Mandela's uncompromising commitment to these principles brought about change, change that at the time nobody thought possible. Some of his greatest achievements include the critical role he played in overcoming the cruel system of apartheid, dismantling its legacy, fostering reconciliation, and building on an inclusive democracy. While all those achievements required collective action, Nelson Mandela also always stressed individual responsibility and agency. Madiba demonstrated time and again that firm conviction and moral fortitude can overcome even the greatest injustices and the most unlikely odds. This belief is reflected especially this year as we mark the International Year of Volunteers. Volunteerism serves as a bridge between people and Member States in addressing global challenges. The work of United Nations Volunteers offers young people the opportunity to contribute to positive change around the world and to support communities in areas such as education, health, youth engagement, and environmental protection. As acts of community service, they are a shining example of Mandela's legacy. They remind us that the values that he embodied remain relevant today, especially here at the United Nations. Let us therefore emulate his example and renew our collective commitment to the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, principles championed by Nelson Mandela. And let us see this day as a call to action. Today, we face many of the same challenges that Nelson Mandela had to tackle in his days: the fight against poverty, inequity, the protection of human rights, fostering reconciliation, and ensuring the upliftment of communities. And he wants us to use the capacities that states have to make a positive difference in all these areas. Let us therefore redouble our efforts in the spirit of dialogue, mutual respect, and multilateral cooperation Or as Madiba said, it is in your hands to create a better world for all who live in it. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Germany on behalf of the Western European and other states. I would like to inform the Assembly that I have received requests from additional member states to speak in this commemorative meeting in their national capacities. or on behalf of other groups, please be reminded that the speaking time in this regard, on speaking on behalf of a group, is 5 minutes as before, and the light is blinking and the clock is on the rostrum. And in national capacity, as we have done before, 3 minutes speaking time. I now have the honor to give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa.

Madam President, South Africa aligns itself with the statement delivered by the distinguished representative of Morocco. On behalf of the African Group, we welcome the convening of this annual informal meeting to commemorate International Mandela Day, a symbolic representation of selflessness, service, solidarity, and compassion for humanity. It is indeed heartening that the theme of this year's commemoration not only embodies the values of Madiba but also aptly reflects his enduring legacy in the fight for justice, fairness, and equality for all. As we commemorate the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela, we should draw inspiration from his enduring and unwavering struggle for social justice, poverty eradication, and equality. Madiba's legacy is more relevant today as the world is characterized by increasing poverty, inequality, and injustice. Inequality between and within states is increasing at an alarming rate. In this regard, following the 2025 Johannesburg G20 Summit, South Africa, working with a group of core countries and institutions, has placed the issue of inequality firmly on the global agenda. Through this august assembly, we seek to establish an International Panel on Inequality to monitor global inequality, assess its causes and consequences, and recommend policies to reverse it. We shall therefore be calling on you to support this noble initiative in honor of Madiba's legacy. It aligns with the 2030 Development Agenda an agenda anchored on the principles of international cooperation and solidarity, the only cooperative— the only comprehensive framework for coordinated multilateral action in the fight against poverty and inequality. Overall, Madam President, it is incumbent upon us to summon our political will to address injustice, inequality, and poverty through appropriate international frameworks and by reforming the international system of global governance to ensure that it leads to impactful outcomes and changes the lives of humanity for the better. In conclusion, it is our enduring hope that this commemoration will be a moment to reaffirm our collective commitment for a peaceful, just, fair, and equitable world. In Mandela's words, it is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of South Africa, and we have more speakers on the speaking list coming in, so I would just give you a little update. The next speaker would be the European Union, followed by Brazil and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, followed by Russian Federation, Cuba, and many other member states. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union on behalf of the EU and its member states.

Thank you.

Madam President, I have the honor to speak on behalf of the European Union and its member states. The list of aligning countries will be included in the published version of the statement. Now, Madam President, as you said and as you quoted and others did, among the countless memorable pronouncements of Nelson Mandela, this one in particular is pertinent for today's discussion: Like slavery, and apartheid, he said, poverty is not natural. It is man-made, and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings. The European Union and its Member States are committed to eradicating poverty in all its forms and dimensions, and to reducing inequalities in line with Madiba's vision, firmly grounded in a human rights-based approach. Because to follow Mandela's lead, the actions of human beings and the institutions they run can and must make a decisive difference in this fight. In Europe itself, this spring, the European Commission adopted the EU Anti-Poverty Strategy, which aims to eradicate poverty in the EU by 2050 and to lift at least 15 million people out of poverty or social exclusion by 2030. And globally, The EU and its Member States work in close partnership with developing countries to achieve the 2030 Agenda and ensure no one is left behind. Fostering sustainable economic, social and environmental development, with the primary aim of eradicating poverty, is a founding principle of our international cooperation, enshrined— I stress— in the Treaty of the European Union. And ending poverty is also a key prerequisite to achieve progress across all SDGs, of course. When it comes to supporting sustainable development, the EU and its Member States remain the biggest providers of official development assistance through the UN system, despite the financial stresses of the UN today. Our interventions are aimed at eradicating poverty, promoting decent work, strengthening social protection systems, in advancing gender equality as well as inclusive and sustainable growth. We note with concern the historical decline in ODA worldwide in 2025 and are committed to continue leading by example as Team Europe, encouraging others to do so as well. The creation of decent, sustainable, and quality employment and formalization of existing jobs is not only a gainful road to social development, but also a powerful tool to eradicate poverty in all its forms. The ILO framework of decent work gives us a common approach and common responsibility to prevent poverty. Supporting quality jobs is a crucial element of decent work to prevent in-work poverty, unsafe working conditions, and labor market fragmentation. and universal social protection reduces poverty and inequality, it promotes social cohesion, and it facilitates human development and access to decent working and living conditions. Colleagues, the human beings that Nelson Mandela talked about, in this institution at least, is us. Last year, the World Social Summit, with the conceptual adoption of the Doha Declaration was a clear demonstration that multilateralism and multilateral cooperation not only deliver but remain indispensable. Only by working together can we eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities. Through our official development assistance, through the Global Gateway infrastructure initiative, and through every other of our actions as Europeans, The European Union and its member states are committed and will continue cooperating with all partners to eradicate extreme poverty and all other forms of poverty worldwide. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the European Union. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil, speaking on behalf of a group of member states.

Mr. President, I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of Norway, South Africa, Spain, and my own country, Brazil, who together are leading an initiative to combat inequality. We appreciate the convening of this commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day under the theme, It's Still in Our Hands to Combat Poverty and Inequity. Today, we honor the enduring relevance of Nelson Mandela's vision. Madiba understood that political freedom, while indispensable, is incomplete without human dignity, equal opportunity, and social justice. His legacy challenges us to confront the structural inequalities that continue to divide societies deny opportunities, and weaken faith in institutions. Poverty and inequality persist as defining challenges of our time. Across and within countries, persistent disparities in income, wealth, and opportunity undermine social cohesion, fuel frustration, and erode trust. They prevent the right to a decent life for millions of people and threaten the foundations of sustainable development and lasting peace. Yet inequality is neither inevitable nor immutable. Experience demonstrates that policy choices matter. Countries facing similar circumstances often produce different outcomes. When guided by evidence, political will, and international cooperation, progress is possible and a more equitable and balanced society can flourish. flourish. It is in this spirit that Brazil, Norway, South Africa, and Spain have joined efforts to advance the establishment of an International Panel on Inequality under the auspices of the United Nations. The panel would seek to provide an independent, science-based, and globally representative platform to organize, assess, and synthesize the best available knowledge on inequality. It would monitor trends, analyze causes and consequences, identify knowledge gaps, and assess policy options available to governments and the international community. By bringing together leading experts from different regions and disciplines, the panel would help ensure that public debate and policymaking are informed by rigorous evidence and objective analysis. Mr. President, as we celebrate Nelson Mandela today, let us reaffirm our determination to build societies that are more equitable, more just, and more inclusive. Let us equip ourselves with the knowledge necessary to meet that challenge, and let us work together to ensure that the promise of dignity and opportunity becomes a reality for all. It is still in our hands. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Brazil. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations.

President, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations. We'd like to express our thanks for the convening of this important meeting under the topic, It Is Still in Our Hands to Combat Poverty and Inequality, which focuses on one of the most deep convictions of Nelson Mandela that the destiny of humanity is not predetermined. Rather, it depends on the collective decisions that we can take to build fairer, more inclusive, solidarity-based societies. This commemoration is a valuable opportunity for us to pay tribute to a universal leader whose legacy continues to inspire the struggle for human dignity, social justice, equality, and peace. Madiba understood that political freedom is incomplete for as long as millions of human beings remain trapped in poverty, exclusion, and inequality. His struggle against apartheid was not just a battle against racial discrimination; it was also to defend a society founded on equal opportunities, economic justice, and unhindered respect for human dignity. Through his example, he showed that a fairer, more equal world is not just possible, but also achievable through political will, dialogue, and collective action. Nelson Mandela's life invites us to reflect on his extraordinary human qualities and on the capacity of a people guided by a visionary leader to mobilize their best forces and to overcome oppression for freedom, inclusion, and to claim the rights of those who have been historically marginalized. He showed that peace is not conquered through violence or vengeance but rather through dialogue, negotiation, reconciliation, and recognizing Others dignity. South Africa's peaceful transition towards a new stage of its history is one of the most notable examples of reconciliation and peacebuilding from the 20th century. 12 years since the adoption of the SDGs, the world continues to face major challenges to eradicate poverty and to reduce inequalities. The persistence of hunger, social exclusion, Economic crises, conflicts, and the use of unilateral coercive measures that hamper states' ability to achieve development continue to represent obstacles that can only be overcome through genuine international cooperation focusing on solidarity, mutual respect, and multilateralism. Today we pay tribute to Nelson Mandela. Remembering that every generation has the responsibility to grapple with the injustices of its time, his life and his example remind us that it is always in our hands to choose the path of justice and hope. As Madiba said, poverty is not an accident, nor is slave slavery or apartheid. It is created by human beings, and it can be. Defeated by the actions of human beings. Our group will continue to promote initiatives to strengthen and revitalize inclusive multilateralism and to move forward a culture of peace and political dialogue as essential ways to build fairer, more inclusive, and peaceful societies. Strictly abiding by the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter. Madiba's example and legacy should continue to guide our collective efforts. We must continue to work together so that human dignity becomes a reality for all people rather than just an aspiration. On behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the United Nations Charter, I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation.

Distinguished President, the Russian Federation supported the proclamation of July 18th as International Nelson Mandela Day, which has been celebrated every year at the UN since 2010. In our country, we cherish his memory. We recall the values that he faithfully upheld throughout his life— his selfless devotion to humanity, his work to strengthen social cohesion, his promotion of equality and justice, support for vulnerable groups in the population, and his tireless efforts to ensure that families in need had decent conditions for life and development. We'll always be grateful to Nelson Mandela as well for his great personal contribution to establishing friendly relations between Russia and South Africa, which currently are at a high level of comprehensive strategic partnership. Nelson Mandela once said, overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity but an act of justice. These words are still relevant today. Despite the progress achieved by the international community, millions of people continue to face social inequality as well as poverty in all of its forms and manifestations, including extreme poverty. Poverty is not so much a deficit of material resources as it is a limitation of people's ability to realize their potential, take part in public life, and build decent futures for their children. The experience of Nelson Mandela has taught us that tangible change is only possible when peoples unite around the values of mutual respect, solidarity, and equal opportunities for all. Today, the fight against poverty and inequality remains a vital prerequisite for sustainable development and a crucial global goal for the international community as a whole. Although unfortunately, this level of priority is not always reflected in secretariats, documents, or in the approaches of donor countries. Today, as we pay tribute to Nelson Mandela, we ought to recall that his legacy is a call to action, a call not to turn a blind eye to poverty, injustice, and inequality, a call to build a society based upon mutual support. On this occasion, we would like to once again wish all of you a happy International Nelson Mandela Day. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba.

President, We are gathered here today to pay tribute to an exceptional figure from the 20th century, Nelson Mandela, the universal symbol of the struggle for human dignity, equality, reconciliation, and justice. He, for 27 years, tolerated solitary confinement without ignoring his principles. When he got out of prison, He did not seek vengeance, but rather he sought to build a South Africa that was free from apartheid and built on equal rights for all citizens. His legacy goes beyond the borders of Africa and it continues to inspire those who are standing for the self-determination of peoples, peace, and respect for international law. For Cuba, Mandela has a particularly— has a particular significance.

There has—

have been relations between Cuba and South Africa based on solidarity and shared sacrifice. Nelson Mandela recognized this during his visit to Cuba in 1991. He said that the Cuban people have a particular place in the heart of the peoples of Africa, and he welcomed the fact that Cuba had not sought riches or resources but rather was moved by the principles of solidarity and justice. And in addition to this, Fidel Castro said to Mandela, glory to you, Nelson. For 25 years you have been in solitary confinement but you have been defending human dignity. Your enemies were no match for the strength of your resistance to slander and hatred. You were able to overcome this without seeking to become a symbol of what is most noble of humanity. You will live on in the memory of future generations. We are paying tribute today to an upstanding citizen who was able to resist attempts to To silence him. A giant cannot be silenced. Mandela will always be remembered as a universal symbol of peace, unity, and the struggle of peoples for self-determination. Genuinely recognizing Mandela's legacy requires much more than just mentioning him. It requires following his example. It requires combating all contemporary forms of racism, colonialism, foreign occupation, discrimination, and unilateral economic coercion. It means standing up for the sovereign equality of states and promoting an international order that is based on solidarity, cooperation, and respect for international law as well.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Cuba. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Timor-Leste.

Mr. President, Excellencies, today as we commemorate Nelson Mandela's International Day under the theme, Poverty— Combat Poverty and Inequality, we honor a leader whose moral courage transformed the struggle against oppression into a universal call for justice, reconciliation, and equality. Mandela's legacy reminds us that freedom must be measured not only by political rights, but by people's ability to live with dignity, opportunity, and hope. At the heart of this legacy was his understanding that political independence alone could not guarantee human dignity. Madiba understood poverty not as an inevitable condition, but as a human-made injustice shaped by systems and decisions. that can and must be changed. Timor-Leste believes this vision remains deeply relevant today. Building on this understanding, we came to learn that political liberation without development is incomplete. Many developing countries continue to face structural constraints that limit sustainable development. Our experiences taught us that breaking the cycles of poverty require fiscal space, long-term planning, and sustained investments in human capital. Education remains central to overcome these challenges. Madiba described education as the most powerful instrument for changing the world. For Timor-Leste, rebuilding our education system after conflict has been an investment in peace, resilience, and opportunity. Mandela's commitment to justice transcends— transcended national borders. He extended his solidarity to the people of Timor-Leste during a defining moment in our history. His unwavering support remains a source of inspiration as we continue to build a peaceful, democratic, and inclusive nation founded on reconciliation, resilience, and hope. His example continues to inspire international solidarity in the pursuit of a more just and equitable world. In that same spirit, the United Nations has a vital role in addressing poverty and inequality through solidarity, international cooperation, and inclusive development. Inspired by Mandela's vision, we share the conviction that development must be equitable, that debt should not suffocate opportunity, and that education must empower transformation. Above all, we believe that the dignity of the most vulnerable is the true measure of our progress. As we honor Nelson Mandela's legacy, Timor-Leste reaffirms its commitment to justice, solidarity, and human dignity. His life reminds us that that lasting change begins with the choices we make, with the compassion we show, and the partnerships we forge. Together, it is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Timor-Leste. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Israel.

Mr. President, Nelson Mandela said that in a free society there should be only one division— between those who cherish democracy and those who do not. Mayor Mamdani sent a representative to this podium today to invoke Mandela's legacy. But Mr. Mamdani has made his own choice clear: he does not stand with the democracies fighting terror. This is the same mayor whose commissioner tried to meet with Iran's representative to the UN, Mr. Ravani, last week, while America was fighting the very same evil regime. Thankfully, the State Department shut it down. This is the same mayor who mourned a Hamas sniper and called him an innocent civilian journalist. The same mayor who continues to fuel antisemitism across New York. And now, the same mayor who threatens Israel's Prime Minister with arrest powers he does not have. Mr. Mamdani, you have chosen the opposite of democracy. You have chosen collaboration with terror. Well, Mr. Mamdani, I have news for you. Your threat has no legal basis. We all know that the United States is not a member of the ICC. We have all read the UN Headquarters Agreement. Muammar Gaddafi, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Yasser Arafat— they all stood at this podium. They were dictators and sponsors of terror. Benjamin Netanyahu is not. He is the elected Prime Minister of a democracy fighting terror. Yet you, Mr. Mamdani, pretend he is the one who should be arrested. for standing here. Your threat is empty. It's a political theater designed to excite your radical base and distract from your failures in running this city. We have seen this playbook before. Like Mr. Khan from the ICC, Mr. Mamdani attacks Israel's leader to distract from his own failures. Your grand election promises remain slogans. Instead of delivering for New Yorkers, you target Israel. So spare us the threat. The person who should be arrested is not our Prime Minister. It's you, Mr. Mamdani. So let me make it very clear. Prime Minister Netanyahu will come to New York. He will stand at this very podium. He will speak for the State of Israel. He will defend the people of Israel.

I thank the distinguished representative of Israel. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Zimbabwe.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you, Mr. President. Zimbabwe joins the international community in honoring the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela, whose courage, wisdom, and humanity continue to inspire. We align with the African Group. Madiba devoted his life to peace, justice, and human dignity. He showed that lasting peace rests upon justice, respect for humanity, and courage to forgive. His legacy remains rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu— I am because you are. Madiba reminded us that as long as poverty, injustice, and gross inequality persist in the world, none of us can truly rest. With 4 years to achieve the 2030 Agenda, these words demand action to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, and ensure that no one in no place is left behind. We possess the institutions and multilateral mechanisms needed to build a more peaceful, just world. What is required is the political will, solidarity, and commitment shared humanity. Mr. President, in Nelson Mandela, people of every race and walk of life saw their dignity affirmed and their hope expressed. Yet in memorializing great figures, we can forget that they too were human, with human strengths, weaknesses, and moments of doubt. Yes. Observed, I am not a saint unless you think of a saint as a sinner who keeps on trying. Therein lies his greatest lesson. Progress does not require perfection. It requires perseverance. Even when we fall short, we must keep trying. Nothing is fixed. Injustice can be overcome. Societies can heal. And circumstances can change for the better. It is in our hands. Let us therefore honor Mandela not only through words but through sustained action. Were Madiba to look upon the world today, including at us, those of us he helped to liberate from the scourge of apartheid, may he see not a retreat from his ideals but a determined effort to fulfill them— freedom matched by dignity, reconciliation by justice, and hope by opportunity for all. Let us keep trying, keep building, and ensure that Mandela's long walk continues through our own steps towards a more just and humane world.

I thank you.

I thank the distinguished Thank you, Representative of Zimbabwe. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.

President, China wishes to thank you for convening this meeting. Mr. Mandela was a world-renowned statesman. Whose historic contributions to Africa's development and progress, as well as to the peace and reconciliation for humanity, deserve to be remembered forever. At a time when the global deficits in peace, development, security, and governance continue to widen, commemorating Nelson Mandela International Day calls upon us to carry forward the values he championed— peace, reconciliation, equality, and inclusiveness— and to enable the U.N. to better fulfill its noble mission of maintaining international peace and security and promoting common development, China wishes to share the following 3 points. First, it is important to uphold equality and mutual trust and jointly advance peace. Dialogue and reconciliation are the only viable path to peace and the principles Mr. Mandela dedicated his life to. We should respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, as well as the right of all peoples to independently choose their own development paths and social systems. In addressing hotspot issues and regional conflicts, we should actively promote dialogue to settle disputes, consultation to bridge differences, and cooperation to enhance security. Second, it is important to practice multilateralism and jointly pursue development and revitalization. Mr. Mandela once stated that overcoming poverty is a means of protecting fundamental human rights and Many of today's global challenges can be attributed to underdevelopment and need to be tackled through sustainable development as the fundamental solution. We should accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, restore development to the center of the international agenda, and ensure that all countries enjoy the benefits of development and realize shared prosperity. Third, it is important to promote dialogue among civilizations and foster inclusive societies. Mr. Mandela devoted himself to combating racism and inequality, and to building bridges among different ethnic groups, faiths, and communities. Dialogue and inclusiveness are central drivers of the progress of human civilization. We should jointly reject the rising tide of incitement to hatred and confrontation, fully harness the important role of dialogue among civilizations, eliminate discrimination and prejudice and cultivate a social environment of solidarity and inclusiveness. Mr. President, Mr. Mandela was an old friend of the Chinese people who made significant contributions to China-African relations. China stands ready to work with all parties to carry forward Mr. Mandela's enduring legacy, promote the common values of humanity, advance the implementation of the Global Governance Initiative, and jointly build a better world. Thank you, President. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of China. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the State of Palestine as the last speaker in this session.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Thank you, Mr. President. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, I am honored to speak in this meeting on behalf of the State of Palestine. We thank the speakers for reaffirming the legacy of Nelson Mandela, especially as it relates to the crisis facing the world today. As aptly put by Ms. Reddy and the representative the distinguished representative from the Mayor's Office, Zohran Mamdani, whom we salute for his principled positions and courage. Distinguished colleagues, for the Palestinian people, for our people, for our children, our elders, our men and women, Nelson Mandela Day is not only one day a year.

Year.

We celebrate his legacy and carry his struggle every day of the year. The struggle of Nelson Mandela and that of our brothers and sisters under apartheid South Africa inspire us, the Palestinian people, to continue our struggle against apartheid, racial discrimination, and segregation. The triumph of Nelson Mandela confirmed the justness of our struggle and the inevitability of right over might. And the uncompromising and principled courage of Nelson Mandela as his— and his solidarity challenge us to responsibly free all peoples and communities from the shackles of oppression, colonization, genocide, and all systems of power that have a long— that have long haunted us. We stood by the— he stood by the oppressed everywhere and championed their right everywhere. When he famously said, and I quote, we know too well that our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinians, end of quote, it wasn't just a statement of solidarity. For him, it was a question of self-determination, freedom, human dignity, human rights, persistence, and an open wound. These are the things that our common— our two struggles have in common. From apartheid South Africa to apartheid Israel, his legacy endures and our common struggle continues until liberation and justice. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the State of Palestine as the last speaker. Before concluding, I would like to once again thank all of our volunteers who participated in the traditional Nelson Mandela International Day public service activity, which took place on Friday, 17 July, from 1 o'clock to 3 o'clock PM at the Riveria Harlem. The informal meeting of the plenary on the observance of the annual Nelson Mandela International Day is now concluded. The meeting is We therefore adjourn.