In memoriam: Desmond Tutu

On 26 December 2021 the world lost one of the most important fighters for reconciliation and justice in the modern age.

A courageous and unyielding opponent of apartheid and a tireless advocate for the principles of non-violent conflict resolution, Desmond Tutu never ceased in his quest to overcome violence, cruelty and dishonesty.

He was a respected leader, an inspired teacher and a trenchant critic of oppression and domination wherever they occurred. He was also a man of grace and humility, who was much loved for his disarming and irreverent sense of humour.

Desmond Tutu was one of the main pioneers of the modern theory and practice of reconciliation, creating new pathways to forgiveness and healing out of the experiences of pain and suffering, based on open communication, generosity, hospitality and compassion.

Desmond Tutu was one of the original patrons of Global Reconciliation and on numerous occasions provided encouragement to us to continue our own modest struggles for reconciliation and a peaceful world. We are honoured to administer the Desmond Tutu Reconciliation Fellowship award in his name and hope that we will be able to remain equal to the task he has set for us.