Responding to this morning’s announcement of the passing of Kofi Annan, the former UN Secretary-General who won the Nobel Peace Prize for his humanitarian work, Kumi Naidoo, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, said:

“The world has lost a great leader. Kofi’s dedication and drive for a more peaceful and just world, his lifelong championing of human rights, and the dignity and grace with which he led will be sorely missed in a world which needs these characteristics more than ever.

“I had the enormous privilege to work with Kofi on tackling climate change, poverty, and gender equality. I saw first-hand his deep commitment to partnerships with civil society in all the global challenges which the UN addressed.

“My heart goes out to his family today. They will be joined by many others across the world in a profound sense of loss. We can seek comfort in knowing that Kofi’s legacy will inspire countless others to continue to fight for a more just world.”