Global Farewell to Jane Goodall, the 'Chimp Whisperer'

Select Language:

World leaders and environmental advocates paid tribute Wednesday to Jane Goodall, the legendary British chimpanzee expert, ethologist, and anthropologist, following her passing at age 91.

Her death prompted widespread reactions:

‘Forever celebrated’
“Tierra Curry, co-leader of the Center for Biological Diversity’s endangered species program, stated, ‘Jane Goodall’s legacy will be remembered forever.’ She praised Goodall for overcoming obstacles, breaking gender barriers, and making conservation careers accessible to women and girls worldwide.”

‘Messenger of Peace’
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres shared on X that Goodall leaves behind an “extraordinary legacy for humanity and our planet.” He expressed his sadness over her passing, referring to her as a “dear Messenger of Peace” — a title she has held since 2002 for her conservation efforts.

‘Enduring legacy’
National Geographic commented, “Jane was a powerful voice for the natural world and a dedicated humanitarian. Her groundbreaking discovery that chimpanzees make and use tools fundamentally redefined what it means to be human. Her work has left a lasting influence worldwide, inspiring hope over despair.”

‘Conservation giant’
Will McCallum, co-executive director of Greenpeace UK, called Goodall “one of the true giants of conservation.” He emphasized the importance of continuing her work by protecting the world’s forests in her honor.

‘Pioneering work’
Tanzania’s president, where Goodall’s chimpanzee research took place, praised her for transforming wildlife conservation. President Samia Suluhu wrote on X, “Her pioneering efforts at Gombe National Park elevated our country to the forefront of global conservation.”

‘Visionary humanitarian’
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle honored Goodall as a “visionary humanitarian, scientist, friend to the planet, and friend to us all.” They highlighted her dedication to changing lives and her personal impact.

‘Great influence’
Kitty Block, president and CEO of Humane World for Animals, remarked that Goodall “made history by inspiring generations to love animals and care deeply about their well-being.” She noted that Goodall’s influence on animal protection remains immeasurable and that her work on primates and animals will never be forgotten.

‘Trailblazer’
PETA founder Ingrid Newkirk described Goodall as “a gifted scientist and trailblazer who forever changed how we view animals.” She acknowledged Goodall’s extraordinary legacy and encouraged everyone to follow her example by adopting animal-respecting lifestyles, including going vegan.

‘Fruitful research’
Audrey Azoulay, director general of UNESCO, stated, “Dr. Jane Goodall shared the fruits of her research with everyone, especially young people, and transformed our view of great apes.”