Prince Harry celebrates Mandela and calls for climate action at the United Nations

Written by Michelle Nichols

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) – Britain’s Prince Harry addressed the United Nations on Monday about seeking inspiration from Nelson Mandela at a time of global uncertainty and urging nations to take action against climate change.

Harry and his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, entered the United Nations headquarters in New York to celebrate Nelson Mandela International Day, which is celebrated annually on the birthday of the former South African president.

In the General Assembly Hall, Harry spoke about the threats posed by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, what he called the abrogation of constitutional rights in the United States, and the use of lies and disinformation as “weapons”.

“We are witnessing a global attack on democracy and freedom – Mandela’s life cause,” he said.

Mandela became South Africa’s first black president in 1994 after spending 27 years in prison under apartheid. He passed away in 2013 at the age of 95, but remains a symbol of the fight against discrimination and an icon of reconciliation.

Harry warned of the effects of climate change on Africa and the world.

“This crisis will only get worse unless our leaders lead, unless the nations represented in the seats in this room take the decisions – bold and transformative decisions – that our planet needs to save humanity,” the prince said.

(Michael Nichols reports)