He won the Nobel Peace Prize for humanitarian work and served two terms as United Nations chief from 1997 to 2006
Former UN secretary-general Kofi Annan has died aged 80 following a short illness.
The Ghanaian served as the world's top diplomat between 1997 and 2006, before going on to become UN special envoy for Syria.
The was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001 jointly with the United Nations organisation for his efforts to "revitalise" the UN and for "having given priority to human rights".
In a statement announcing his passing, the Kofi Annan Foundation described him as a "global statesman and deeply committed internationalist who fought throughout his life for a fairer and more peaceful world".
"Wherever there was suffering or need, he reached out and touched many people with his deep compassion and empathy. He selflessly placed others first, radiating genuine kindness, warmth and brilliance in all he did," the statement added.
Born in Kumasi, Ghana, on 8 April 1938, he leaves his wife, Nane, and three children.
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