Mr. Ahtisaari, who was 86, had been battling Alzheimer’s disease for the past year.
“It is with deep sadness that we received the news of the death of President Martti Ahtisaari,” said the statement of current President Sauli Niinistė.
M. Ahtisaari was the President of Finland in 1994-2000. He has spent decades helping to resolve conflicts around the world, from Indonesia and Namibia to Northern Ireland and the Balkans. In 2008, M. Ahtisaari was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
The former United Nations diplomat mediated the 2005 talks between the Indonesian government and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) separatists, helping to end a three-decade conflict that has killed about 15,000 people. people.
Both sides described Mr. Ahtisaari as a firm but warm negotiator with a sense of humor.
“I have a lot of patience. I don’t usually get angry, but I can be strict,” he said. According to Mr. Ahtisaari, the secret of his success was his ability to understand people.
Mr Ahtisaari also helped Kosovo seek independence and later brokered a deal between Belgrade and Pristina on provincial status – but to no avail. In 2008, Kosovo unilaterally declared independence.
Due to Alzheimer’s disease, M. Ahtisaari retired from public life in September 2021.
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**Interview with Dr. Anna Mäkinen, Historian and Expert on International Peace Initiatives**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Mäkinen. As we reflect on the legacy of Martti Ahtisaari, could you provide us with an overview of his contributions to conflict resolution?
**Dr. Mäkinen**: Absolutely. Martti Ahtisaari was a pivotal figure in international diplomacy. He played critical roles in various peace negotiations, most notably in Namibia, where he helped facilitate the country’s transition to independence in the early 1990s. His work didn’t stop there; he was actively involved in conflicts in Kosovo and Aceh in Indonesia, demonstrating his dedication to peacebuilding.
**Editor**: His passing at the age of 86 seems to resonate deeply with many. What do you think he represented for Finland and the world?
**Dr. Mäkinen**: Ahtisaari was not only a former president of Finland; he symbolized the commitment to peace and reconciliation on a global scale. His approach was characterized by empathy and understanding, which are crucial in negotiations. For Finland, he was a figure of national pride who placed the country on the map as a mediator in international conflicts.
**Editor**: President Sauli Niinistė expressed deep sadness over Ahtisaari’s death. How do you think his legacy will influence future generations of diplomats and leaders?
**Dr. Mäkinen**: Ahtisaari’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future diplomats. He showcased the importance of patience and perseverance in conflict resolution. His belief in dialogue over confrontation will serve as a guiding principle for new generations. Moreover, his battles with Alzheimer’s also highlight the importance of resilience and caring for those who contribute significantly to society.
**Editor**: As we honor his memory, what lessons can we learn from Ahtisaari’s methods and principles in today’s increasingly polarized world?
**Dr. Mäkinen**: One key lesson is the efficacy of listening. Ahtisaari understood that to resolve conflicts, one must hear all parties involved. In today’s world, where divisions often seem insurmountable, his commitment to fostering understanding and collaboration is more relevant than ever. He showed us that even in the harshest of circumstances, diplomacy can prevail if approached thoughtfully.
**Editor**: Thank you, Dr. Mäkinen, for sharing your insights on the remarkable life and legacy of Martti Ahtisaari. His dedication to peace will undoubtedly be remembered and cherished.
