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The ̽����ѡ is saddened to learn about the passing of ̽����ѡ Advisor Mort Abramowitz. Mort leaves behind a legacy of profound impact and dedication. Together with his late wife Sheppie, Mort embodied the true spirit of humanitarianism, working tirelessly to promote peace and understanding.

Mort and Sheppie have served as a guiding light for many, including ̽����ѡ Board member Maureen White, who recounted that “Mort was a remarkable human being, dedicated public servant and determined supporter of refugees. My first trip with the ̽����ѡ was to Bosnia with Mort and Sheppie in 1994. I learned so much from them and was inspired by their commitment. They were hard working, humble, principled and relentless even during a difficult trip under harsh conditions in a horrible war. For 30 years they have remained my guiding lights of how to advocate for refugees. They were model leaders, the best standard bearers. Individually they were formidable; together they were unstoppable – simply the gold standard of refugee advocates.”

Mort’s diplomatic career significantly shaped U.S. policymaking in Europe and Asia. As an adviser, analyst, and three-time ambassador, he adeptly navigated post-Cold War challenges, including Islamist extremism and China's rise. Upon his retirement, Mort led the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and the International Crisis Group, the latter inspired by his experiences in conflict-ridden Sarajevo. Throughout his illustrious career, Mort remained dedicated to humanitarian principles and was a leading advocate of using aid as a tool of foreign policy. As ̽����ѡ Board member George Biddle recalls, “Mort was never satisfied. He knew we could always do more. His urgency was driven by his unmatched moral compass and profound humanitarian compassion. From Southeast Asia and the Balkans to Iraq to Syria, he pushed the ̽����ѡ and all of us in the humanitarian world to be our best. Like Sheppie, the ̽����ѡ has lost a true champion, and the world has lost a force for good.” 

In the words of David Miliband, “Mort’s life was extraordinary. His achievements were legion, but above all was the sheer humanity that ran through everything he did.  His partnership with Sheppie was steeped in that humanitarianism, but Mort had his own distinctive trait of the best of the American liberal tradition.” 

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mort and remain grateful for both his and Sheppie’s dedication to the ̽����ѡ. Truly a “dynamic duo,” their legacy will continue on through our commitment to the world’s most vulnerable people. We extend our deepest condolences to Mort’s family and friends at this challenging time.

From left to right, Mort, Cynthia Whitehead, John Whitehead, Sheppie, and Bob DeVecchi, 2010.