Helsinki, October 16, 2023 — Finland’s former President and distinguished Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Martti Ahtisaari, has succumbed to Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 86, the president’s office confirmed on Monday.
The incumbent Finnish President, Sauli Niinisto, expressed his profound sorrow in a statement, saying, “It is with deep sadness that we have received the news of the death of President Martti Ahtisaari.”
Serving as the President of Finland from 1994 to 2000, Ahtisaari earned global acclaim as a skilled mediator who resolved conflicts across the world. His remarkable career, spanning over four decades, led to his recognition and the Nobel Peace Prize in 2008.
Ahtisaari, a former United Nations diplomat, was renowned for his role in overseeing the reconciliation between the Indonesian government and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) rebels in 2005. This achievement brought an end to a devastating three-decade-long conflict that claimed the lives of approximately 15,000 individuals.
During the negotiations, both sides described Ahtisaari as resolute, yet he was known for his sense of humor and warmth in informal settings. Reflecting on his negotiation style, he stated, “I have enormous patience. I don’t usually get angry, but I can be tough.” Ahtisaari attributed his success to his ability to understand people.
Additionally, Ahtisaari played a pivotal role in steering Kosovo towards independence, despite his intensive efforts failing to secure an agreement with Serbia before Pristina unilaterally declared independence in 2008.
Martti Ahtisaari withdrew from public life in September 2021 as he battled Alzheimer’s disease, concluding a distinguished career that left an indelible mark on the world of diplomacy and peacekeeping.