The United Nations has officially appointed Maryam Bukar Hassan, a Nigerian poet, renowned spoken word artist, and peace advocate, as its Global Advocate for Peace, having used the power of poetry and performance to champion gender equality, youth empowerment and inclusive peacebuilding.
Speaking in New York, the Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, emphasised the significance of her designation, stating, “The dedication of the Global Advocate’s time and energy to this will greatly increase awareness of the peace and security priorities, particularly the vital role of women and youth in advancing inclusive and sustainable peace.”
Also, the Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, while welcoming the appointment, explained that “art has the power to move hearts, inspire action, and bring communities together.
She added, “Through compelling words and performances, Hassan has shown how creativity can be a force for peace building, dialogue and inclusion. Her voice will be an important partner in amplifying the UN’s efforts to advance political solutions, empower young people and women, and sustain peace.”
DiCarlo said, “In her new role as the first Global Advocate for the entire Peace and Security Pillar, she will advance the UN’s peace efforts, including through the Women, Peace and Security and Youth, Peace and Security agendas, through storytelling, digital engagement, and public speaking.
“She will participate in key UN campaigns and events, including an upcoming performance at New York City’s SummerStage festival on Sunday, 27 July, alongside renowned artists Femi Kuti and Elida Almeida, among others.
However, Hassan has showcased her work on prestigious platforms, including the UN SDG Awards, TED Talks, and the World Bank Youth Summit.
Similarly, she has collaborated with the UN on initiatives such as the “Peace Begins With Me” poetry video for the International Day of Peace and her impactful spoken word performance at last year’s Summit of the Future.
Her dedication has earned her accolades, including the Sustainable Africa Award at COP28 and finalist recognition for the 2024 UN SDG Creativity Award.
Source: Guardian.ng
