Separate to Goodwill ambassadors, do you know who the United Nations Messengers of Peace are? The United Nations Messengers of Peace are distinguished individuals, carefully selected from the fields of art, literature, science, entertainment, sports or other fields of public life, who have agreed to help focus worldwide attention on the work of the United Nations.
Backed by the highest honour bestowed by the Secretary-General on a global citizen for an initial period of two years, these prominent personalities volunteer their time, talent and passion for raising awareness of United Nations efforts to improve the lives of billions of people everywhere.
- HRH Princess Haya
- Daniel Barenboim
- Paulo Coelho
- Leonardo Dicaprio
- Jane Goodall
- Lang Lang
- Yo-Yo Ma
- Michael Douglas
- Edward Norton
- Charlize Theron
- Stevie Wonder
- Midori
The Messengers of Peace, through their public appearances, contacts with the international media and humanitarian work, help expand understanding of how the ideals and objectives of the Organization demand everyone’s attention.
Thanks to their goodwill and reputation, many of these prominent individuals have successfully helped raise visibility around pressing regional and local issues in international media and more generally about the work of the United Nations.
In the past, celebrity advocates have participated in activities and events ranging from concerts to giving keynote addresses at high-level United Nations events, to using social media such as Twitter and Facebook to broaden a particular campaign’s reach. Messengers of Peace also visit United Nations programmes and activities in the field, which help raise visibility around pressing regional and local issues in international media.