The founder of CNN, the leading cable news network — which created the global 24-hour news cycle — died Wednesday at his home in Florida. He was 87 years old.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was deeply saddened to hear the news of his demise. He described Mr. Turner as “A visionary whose commitment, generosity and courageous spirit left an indelible mark on the United Nations and our world”
Billions of dollars boost to the United Nations
“Ted Turner believed in the United Nations – and in its purpose – at a defining moment. And they invested in that mission“The General Secretary said a statement.
“Ted Turner bet on humanity – and In the process it helped strengthen the security of their own countries and reinforce our common values.”
In September 1997, Mr. Turner pledged $1 billion to the United Nations to support the organization and its objectives.
This commitment – and the establishment of the United Nations Foundation the following year – represents The largest individual charitable gift in history at that time..
The Foundation – which operates as an independent charity – works closely with the United Nations on key priorities such as sustainable development, disease prevention and promoting gender equality.
A ‘Bridgebuilder’ and Champion
Elizabeth Cousens, President and CEO, Said Mr. Turner “was a An outstanding bridge builder and tireless champion for our common humanity. “And also our shared responsibility to steward our precious and fragile planet for the future.”
Following the devastating earthquake that struck Pakistan nearly two decades ago, the United Nations Foundation pledged $1 million to support immediate response efforts, in addition to setting up a fund to help other affected countries.
“Once again, disaster survivors have turned to the United Nations and the international community in their time of need,” Mr. Turner Said In those days.
“At this time the world needs the leadership of the United Nations, and the United Nations needs the support of the world”
UN Photo/Evan Schneider
Former Secretary-General Kofi Annan (left) and Ted Turner at the opening of the Millennium World Peace Summit of Religious, Spiritual Leaders in New York in August 2000.
a lasting legacy
The Secretary-General said Mr. Turner’s legacy goes beyond his commitment of resources, underscoring the importance of his ongoing advocacy and diplomacy for the United Nations.
He recalled, “Ted Turner never stopped pressing for the world to be better, and through the United Nations, to do better.”
“They help us expand our reach, build partnerships and take action on many of the defining challenges of our time – from global health to peace, human rights and the security of our planet.”
The Secretary-General concluded the statement by expressing deep gratitude “for his extraordinary commitment to international problem-solving and his unwavering support for the ideals of the United Nations Charter.”
He said Mr. Turner’s legacy lives on “as we continue to strive for a stronger United Nations and a better world for all.”
UN Photo/Evan Schneider
Ted Turner, President of the United Nations Foundation and Turner Enterprises, photographed with a group of young girls at the official launch of UN Women in February 2011.
