Nigerian spoken word artist and peace advocate Maryam Bukar Hassan, known as Alhanislam, has been named the United Nations’ Global Advocate for Peace. She becomes the first to hold the role for the entire Peace and Security Pillar.
Ms. Bukar has performed on global platforms such as the UN SDG Awards, TED Talks, and the World Bank Youth Summit. Her work with the UN includes the “Peace Begins With Me” poetry video and a spoken word performance at the Summit of the Future. She has received the Sustainable Africa Award at COP28 and was a finalist for the 2024 UN SDG Creativity Award.
UN peace officials welcomed her appointment with Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, highlighting the significance of her designation, stating that:
“the dedication of the Global Advocate’s time and energy to this effort will greatly increase awareness of the peace and security priorities of the United Nations, particularly the vital role of women and youth in advancing inclusive and sustainable peace.”
Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo also welcomed the designation, noting that:
“art has the power to move hearts, inspire action, and bring communities together. Through her compelling words and performances, Ms. Bukar has shown how creativity can be a force for peacebuilding, dialogue and inclusion. Her voice will be an important partner in amplifying the UN’s efforts to advance political solutions, empower young people and women, and sustain peace.”
In her new role as the first Global Advocate for the entire Peace and Security Pillar, Ms. Bukar will advance the UN’s peace efforts including through the Women, Peace and Security and Youth, Peace and Security agendas, through storytelling, digital engagement, and public speaking.
Congratulations, Maryam Bukar Hassan!
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
