18 AUG 2018, UN Environment Press Center

 

The United Nations family and the world has lost a great humanitarian and a great global statesman today.

 

Kofi Annan gave a voice to those without one.

 

He stood up for the downtrodden and the victims of poverty, war and injustice.

 

He stood for respect and dignity in global politics, and of the spirit of dynamic, positive multilateralism.

 

He was also a true champion of the environment, advancing the push for climate action at a crucial moment.

 

I don't think I have ever met a more human, caring person.

 

He will be sorely missed.

 

Erik Solheim 

 

Head of UN Environment