Mourning Oscar Niemeyer, Secretary-General Says ‘Outstanding’ Architect Imbued

His Work with ‘Powerful Sense of Humanism and Global Engagement’

The following statement by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon was issued today:

I was saddened to learn of the death of Oscar Niemeyer, a towering figure and one of the original architects of United Nations Headquarters in New York.

Mr. Niemeyer’s career was exceptionally long and illustrious, but what made him an outstanding architect was not just his stamina and talent.  He imbued his work with a powerful sense of humanism and global engagement.

I recall my sense of wonder when visiting some of his modernist masterworks in Brasilia, which have been recognized on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage List.

His work in designing United Nations Headquarters stands as his legacy to the world.  As United Nations staff in New York move back to our newly renovated complex from temporary quarters, we marvel anew at his vision in creating a beautiful and inspiring home from which to carry out our work of service for all humankind.

I offer sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Niemeyer and to the Government and people of Brazil.

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