Tribute to a global statesman

Glasgow Caledonian University Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Pamela Gillies CBE FRSE, has paid tribute to honorary graduate Dr Kofi Annan.

Dr Annan, former Secretary General of the United Nations and Nobel Peace Laureate, passed away peacefully on Saturday after a short illness.

He was a global statesman and a deeply committed internationalist who fought throughout his life for a fairer and more peaceful world. During his distinguished career and leadership of the United Nations, he was an ardent champion of peace, sustainable development, human rights and the rule of law.

After stepping down from the United Nations, he continued to work tirelessly in the cause of peace through his chairmanship of the Kofi Annan Foundation and as chair of The Elders, the group founded by Nelson Mandela. He was an inspiration to young and old alike.

Professor Gillies said: “Kofi Annan was an immensely distinguished international statesman who championed human rights and was an early advocate of sustainable development.

“He was a genuinely kind and thoughtful man, steadfast in his belief that peaceful resolution to the world’s travails must always be worked for, however hard it may seem.

“An honorary graduate of our University, we are deeply saddened by his loss and send our heartfelt condolences to his wife and family.”