Maryam Bukar Hassan from Nigeria has been officially appointed as the United Nations’ Global Advocate for Peace. A distinguished spoken word artist, poet, and peace advocate, Ms. Bukar utilizes her artistry to promote gender equality, empower youth, and foster inclusive peacebuilding.
She has presented her work on esteemed platforms such as the UN SDG Awards, TED Talks, and the World Bank Youth Summit. Ms. Bukar has partnered with the UN on projects like the “Peace Begins With Me” poetry video for the International Day of Peace and delivered a powerful spoken word performance at last year’s Summit of the Future.
Her commitment to peace has garnered her significant recognition, including the Sustainable Africa Award at COP28 and being named a finalist for the 2024 UN SDG Creativity Award.
Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, emphasized the importance of her appointment, noting that “the commitment of the Global Advocate’s time and energy to this cause will significantly enhance awareness of the UN’s peace and security priorities, especially regarding the crucial roles of women and youth in promoting inclusive and sustainable peace.”
Rosemary DiCarlo, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, also expressed support for her new role, stating, “Art has the ability to touch hearts, inspire action, and unite communities. Through her powerful words and performances, Ms. Bukar has demonstrated how creativity can be a catalyst for peacebuilding, dialogue, and inclusion. Her voice will be a vital ally in amplifying the UN’s initiatives to promote political solutions, empower young people and women, and maintain peace.”
As the first Global Advocate for the Peace and Security Pillar, Ms. Bukar will further the UN’s peace initiatives, particularly through the Women, Peace and Security and Youth, Peace and Security agendas, using storytelling, digital outreach, and public speaking. She will be involved in key UN campaigns and events, including a performance at New York City’s SummerStage festival on Sunday, July 27, alongside notable artists like Femi Kuti and Elida Almeida, among others.
