Leonardo DiCaprio nominated as UN Messenger of Peace
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon has decided to appoint the well-known actor Leonardo DiCaprio as the organisation’s Messenger of Peace.
Moon made the announcement at a press conference held on September 16 at the UN’s office after the start of the 69th General Assembly session.
Ban Ki-Moon at the press conference
DtiNews reporter attended the conference among with representatives from over 50 press agencies from all over the world.
The 39-year-old actor from the US, will be the 12th UN Messenger of Peace, following other celebrities such as Stevie Wonder, Michael Douglas and George Clooney. Brazilian writer Paulo Coelho, and conductor Daniel Barenboim have also served.
"Leonardo DiCaprio is not just one of the world’s leading actors; he has also a long-standing commitment to environmental causes, including through his foundation. His global stardom is the perfect match for this global challenge," Moon said.
Leonardo’s mission in the time to come will focus on climate change issues.
Leonardo DiCaprio
According to Moon, Leonardo's first act as a Messenger of Peace will be to address the opening of the Climate Summit on 23 September.
Moon will preside over the summit, which will open on September 23. More than 140 Heads of State or Government, civil society leaders, Chief Executive Officers, and other influential global figures will attend the summit.
Moon would attend two public gatherings on the streets of New York — the People’s Climate March on Sunday on 21 September, and the Global Citizen Festival on Saturday on [27 September.
He will link arms with those marching for climate action.
He will also take part in the Global Citizen Festival in Central Park to thank thousands of young people for helping the UN to fight hunger, protect the planet and promote the rights of women and girls.
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