Project Rhythm Seed

The story of the Elders started in a conversation between Sir Richard Branson and Peter Gabriel. The idea they discussed was a simple one. In an increasingly interdependent world – a global village – could a small, dedicated group of independent elders help to resolve global problems and ease human suffering? For inspiration, they looked to traditional societies, where elders often help to share wisdom and resolve disputes within communities. They took their idea to Nelson Mandela, who agreed to support it. With the help of Graça Machel and Desmond Tutu, Mandela set about bringing the Elders together. Prospective members were invited to join on the basis of a distinct set of criteria. Firstly, and most importantly, they should be independent. They should have earned international trust, demonstrated integrity and built a reputation for inclusive, progressive leadership. Mandela announced the formation of the Elders in July 2007, on the occasion of his 89th birthday, at a ceremony in Johannesburg. During the ceremony, he described the mission of the group:

“The Elders can speak freely and boldly, working both publicly and behind the scenes. They will reach out to those who most need their help. They will support courage where there is fear, foster agreement where there is conflict and inspire hope where there is despair.” Nelson Mandela.

The Elders amplify the voices of those who work hard to be heard, challenge injustice, stimulate dialogue and debate and help others to work for positive change in their societies. They do not hold public office and have no political or legislative power. Because they are not bound by the interests of any single nation, government or institution, they are free to speak boldly and with whomever they choose on any issue, and to take any action that they believe is right. When undertaking initiatives, the Elders are committed to listening to the views of all groups and individuals – and especially women and young people. The Elders work both publicly and behind the scenes and at all levels – local, national and international – lending support and advice when invited, and sometimes when it is not.

Current member of the Elders include Kofi Annan, Desmond Tutu, Ela Bhatt, Lakhdar Brahimi, Gro Brundtland, Fernando Cardoso, Jimmy Carter, Graca Machel, Mary Robinson and Muhammad Yunus. Honorary members are Nelson Mandela and Aung San Suu Kyi. Ms. Suu Kyi has been under arrest for numerous periods since her return to Burma/Myanmar in 1988. On May 13th, 2009, Aung San Suu Kyi was rearrested by authorities in Burma/Myanmar and taken to Insein Prison where many political prisoners are held. She was charged with violating the terms of her house arrest after a U.S. citizen, John Yettaw, swam across the lake to her house. The Elders made a statement calling for her immediate release and describing the charges as a further illegal attempt by the junta to extend her incarceration. The Elders keep an open seat at each of their meetings in honor of Aung San Suu Kyi and in the hope that she will be released from prison soon and allowed to rejoin her fellow members.

Project Rhythm Seed has been in touch with the Elders recently and hopes to highlight their work and their members on an upcoming episode of Project Rhythm Seed LIVE. For more information on the Elders, please visit www.theelders.org