The United Nations has appointed 28-year-old Nigerian poet and spoken word artist Maryam Bukar Hassan, widely known as Alhanislam, as its first Global Advocate for Peace. This historic appointment marks the first time an artist has been chosen to represent the entire UN Peace and Security Pillar. Maryam Bukar Hassan, from Biu in Borno State, is internationally renowned for her use of poetry to advocate for gender equality, youth empowerment, and inclusive peacebuilding. Her work has been featured at global platforms such as the UN SDG Awards, TED Talks, and the World Bank Youth Summit. She has earned recognition for blending artistic expression with activism, effectively turning her performances into tools for social transformation.
In her new role, Bukar will help advance the UN’s Women, Peace and Security (WPS) and Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agendas. She has already contributed significantly to peace advocacy through initiatives like the “Peace Begins With Me” poetry video for the International Day of Peace and a performance at the 2024 Summit of the Future.
Her appointment has received widespread commendation from UN leadership. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, stated that her involvement will enhance public awareness of the UN’s peace and security efforts, particularly the role of women and youth. Rosemary DiCarlo, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, highlighted the transformative power of her craft, stating that Bukar’s creative expression fosters peace, dialogue, and inclusion.
As Global Advocate for Peace, Bukar will participate in major UN campaigns, digital storytelling initiatives, and public performances. Her next major appearance will be at New York City’s Summer Stage festival on Sunday, July 27, 2025, alongside artists like Femi Kuti and Elida Almeida.
UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed celebrated the appointment in a message on X, calling Bukar’s voice one of “truth and endless inspiration” and praising her poetic courage. In Nigeria, Bukar’s achievement has been hailed as a national milestone. Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, described her as a beacon of pride for young women and a champion of the #WomenPeaceSecurity and #YouthPeaceSecurity agendas.
Bukar has received numerous accolades, including the Sustainable Africa Award at COP28 and finalist recognition at the 2024 UN SDG Creativity Award. Her appointment signals a growing appreciation for the role of cultural voices in international diplomacy and affirms the importance of African youth and women in shaping a more just and peaceful world. The Voice of Africa commends Alhanislam for reminding the world that peace is not just policy—it is poetry in motion.
Source : https://thevoiceofafrica.com/
