Former Prime Minister and Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, Mike Moore, is one of thirteen founding members of the Global Leadership Foundation, a not-for-profit organization established to advise world leaders on complex issues of governance, economic management and public sector reform.
Among the Foundation’s patrons are former South African President, Nelson Mandela and former US President, George Bush.

“I was persuaded to join this group because it’s not about conferences or position papers,” Mr Moore said.

“It will be about practical problem solving. Countries in transition to democracy, leaders seeking ways through complex problems will have a group of professionals who can give advice on how to implement solutions.

“Sometimes leaders become isolated and need people who can be trusted, and have experience, contacts and credibility.

“Already I have been briefed on possible projects where leaders face crises of a political, economic or military nature where the group could assist. A key factor is that there will be confidentiality and discretion,” Mr Moore said.

Founding members of the Foundation include:

• Vaclav Havel, President of the Czech Republic, 1989-2003
• FW de Klerk, President of South Africa, 1989-1994
• HRH Prince Hassan bin Talal of Jordan
• Michel Rocard, Premier of France, 1988-1991
• Lord (Douglas) Hurd of Westwell, UK Home Secretary 1985-1989, Foreign Secretary 1989-1995
• Ketumile Masire, President, Republic of Botswana, 1980-1998
• Annibal Cavaco Silva, Prime Minister of Portugal, 1985-1995
• Carla Hill, US Trade Representative, 1989-1993

In pursuing its objectives, the GLF will:

• Establish high level relationships with key international institutions and organisations such as the United Nations, the IMF, World Bank and World Trade Organisation.
• Advise and assist, on invitation or through confidential intervention (including by international organisations), the leaders of countries, parties and institutions on major issues and challenges. This could include democratisation, economic and social change, good governance and productive co-operation with international institutions and businesses.

The GLF will be low profile, avoiding publicity and maintaining confidentiality as to the identity of those it advises and the nature of the advice. The nature and scope of the assistance it offers will vary depending on specific needs.