Elbegdorj Tsakhia

Elbegdorj Tsakhia rose from a sheep-herding family to become a central figure in Mongolia’s peaceful democratic revolution, ending 70 years of communist rule. He helped draft the country’s first democratic constitution and served twice as Prime Minister and twice as President. He is one of the principal architects of the only enduring democracy between Russia and China since 1990. Since leaving office, he has remained a global advocate for human rights and open societies, working with international institutions and civil society. A frequent speaker at leading universities and international forums, he reflects on democratic resistance, advancing free-market principles, and leadership under pressure. He is a member of The Elders, founded by Nelson Mandela, and currently serves as a Distinguished Visiting Fellow at Stanford University.