Nelson Mandela was a colossus of courage and conviction.

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A leader of immense achievement and extraordinary humanity.

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A giant of our times, whose legacy we best honour through action: Action to expel the poison of racism, discrimination and hate;

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Action to extinguish the legacies of colonialism; And action to promote equality, human rights and above all, justice.

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Today, poverty, hunger and inequality are on the rise.

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Countries are drowning in debt.

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The climate crisis is destroying the lives of those who have done the least to cause it.

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And our unfair and outdated international financial system is not fulfilling its function as a global safety net.

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We have it in our power to solve each of these problems.

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So, as we commemorate Nelson Mandela’s life and legacy, let us be animated by his spirit of humanity, dignity and justice.

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Let us stand with women and girls, young people and change makers everywhere.

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And let us take action to build a better world. Thank you.

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- UN Secretary-General António Guterres -

Reminders!