The Elders’ reflection on the US Presidential Election

The Elders’ statement on the election of Donald Trump as the 45th President of the United States.

This news release originally appeared on the website of The Elders.

Following the presidential election in the United States, The Elders believe that the ideals, magnanimity and empathy of their Founder, Nelson Mandela, offer a model of ethical leadership for the new Administration.

As Mandela said at his trial under the apartheid regime in South Africa in 1964:

“I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities.”

Kofi Annan, Chair of The Elders, said:

“The people of the United States have elected Donald Trump as their next president. Mandela’s words remind us all that effective leadership requires vision, humility and openness; they provide a model for all heads of state and government to follow worldwide.”

Gro Harlem Brundtland, Deputy Chair of The Elders, added:

“Today’s world faces challenges that can only be solved by coordinated global action, from climate change to fighting terrorism. The United States remains an indispensable actor and its support for effective international institutions, treaties and frameworks is as vital as ever.”