President Gorbachev was one of the true giants of the 20th century and a deeply admired Member of Club de Madrid. He will forever be remembered as one of the world’s most prominent leaders, a dedicated multilateralist and a tireless champion of world peace.
The former Soviet leader, co-founder of Club de Madrid, was one of the most crucial world figures in the last quarter of the 20th century.
After becoming General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union in 1985 he introduced a set of reforms that changed the world. Gorbachev initiated perestroika and opened the country to freedom of speech, allowing people to criticise the government in a previously unthinkable way.This process brought the Cold War to a peaceful end after more than 40 years of tensions and led the country to a process of democratic transition.
We share the words of the UN Secretary-General and Member of Club de Madrid Antonio Guterres, who has defined Gorbachev as “a kind statesman who changed the course of history”.
His legacy is now more important than ever in this time of confrontation and return to blocks.
Among many other recognitions for his work to make the world a better place, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1990 “for the leading role he played in the radical changes in East-West relations”.
As co-founder of Club de Madrid, Gorbachev announced the establishment of the organisation in October 2001 “that will create a space for consultation for countries that need help when they are immersed in a transition process”.
Gorbachev worked actively for many years to spread democratic values and multilateralism. From the organisation of which he was one of the leaders, we are proud to have been able to count as one of our Founder Members the voice of a man who changed the course of history.
Club de Madrid and its Members mourn his loss and wish to convey heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.
