Secretary-General Hails Former Special Representative Peter Sutherland as Trusted Ally, Fearless Advocate for World’s Most Vulnerable People

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message to the memorial event in honour of Peter Sutherland, in Dublin today:

It is my honour to pay tribute to Peter Sutherland.  As Special Representative of the Secretary-General for International Migration for more than a decade, he rendered indispensable service to the United Nations and the world.

His unique and ardent voice contributed to the efforts – which succeeded after his passing – to adopt a landmark Global Compact on Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration.  He helped ensure that the interests of migrants and refugees were reflected in the Sustainable Development Goals.  And he was a key supporter of the International Organization for Migration joining the UN family.

I remember working with Peter when I was UN High Commissioner for Refugees.  He was a tireless ally in addressing the challenges of human mobility and forced displacement.  And he was a fearless advocate for some of the world’s most vulnerable people.

He is missed.