The Participants: The Secretary-General is hosting the Second Gathering of Messengers of Peace and Goodwill Ambassadors. The Messengers of Peace are appointed by the Secretary-General. The Goodwill Ambassadors are appointed by a cross-section of funds, agencies and programmes of the United Nations system. They are prominent personalities who have lent their names, talents and time to support UN programmes.

The Objective: The two-day substantive meeting will provide the Messengers of Peace and Goodwill Ambassadors an opportunity to learn more about the priorities of the United Nations as outlined by the Millenium Declaration through participation in a series of workshops in areas such as health (especially HIV/AIDS), poverty eradication, humanitarian crises, the environment and advocacy on behalf of women and children. While the opening session is open to the public, the remainder of the agenda is closed in order to enable the group to explore ways of enhancing their effectiveness as spokespersons and advocates on behalf of the Organization. The meeting will celebrate and acknowledge their contribution to the institution’s receipt of the 2001 Nobel Peace Prize as well as deepen their understanding of the work of the United Nations.

People around the World: The role of Messengers of Peace and Goodwill Ambassadors is to support the UN’s work around the globe in order to improve the lives of people everywhere.