Political declaration adopted at the Nelson Mandela Peace Summit (2018), para. 19
Paragraph
Original document
Paragraph text
18. We acknowledge that civil society can play an important role in preventing conflicts, contributing to peacebuilding and advancing efforts to sustain peace. We also recognize that, depending on the nature of the conflict, a wide range of good offices exist that can play an important role across the peace continuum, including current and former Heads of State and Government, groups such as the Elders, the African Union Panel of the Wise, traditional leaders, religious leaders, cultural leaders, community leaders, business leaders, women’s and youth representatives, academics, sports personalities and celebrities. Sports and the arts in particular have the power to change perceptions, prejudices and behaviours, as well as to inspire people, break down racial and political barriers, combat discrimination and defuse conflict.