By Lara Kajs
Thinking Out Loud
This piece reflects on the life, presidency, and post-presidential humanitarian work of Jimmy Carter, highlighting his enduring commitment to diplomacy, human rights, and global health initiatives. Written shortly after his passing in January 2025, it draws from the author’s personal attendance at Carter’s funeral, providing a deeply reflective and human perspective on one of America’s most service-oriented presidents.
The world bid farewell to James Earl Carter, the 39th President of the United States, on January 9, 2025. Jimmy Carter’s legacy extends far beyond his tenure in the Georgia Governor’s Mansion or the White House; it is a life defined by faith, service, and humanity. He envisioned solutions to inequality, climate change, and global injustice decades before these issues became central to public discourse.
As president, Carter implemented policies that have endured well beyond his term. He established the Department of Energy and the Department of Education, promoted renewable energy initiatives, and famously installed solar panels on the White House roof—a forward-thinking gesture that underscored his commitment to environmental stewardship.
Foreign Policy and Peacebuilding
Carter’s presidency was marked by a dedication to diplomacy and peace. He brokered the Camp David Accords, creating a framework for peace between Egypt and Israel, earning both Anwar Sadat and Menachem Begin the Nobel Peace Prize. He negotiated the Panama Canal Treaty, returning control of the canal to Panama, and pursued nuclear arms reduction through the SALT II treaty, engaging the Soviet Union in constructive dialogue despite the Senate ultimately declining ratification.
During the Iran Hostage Crisis, Carter’s steadfast leadership secured the safe return of fifty-three Americans, a moment that underscored his commitment to the dignity and lives of those he served.
A Lifetime of Service Beyond Politics
Carter’s influence did not end with the presidency. He continued addressing international and domestic policy, advocating for human rights, democracy, and disease eradication through the Carter Center. He authored more than thirty books, including works on the Israel-Palestine conflict, consistently promoting diplomacy and a two-state solution.
Together with his wife Rosalynn, he volunteered with Habitat for Humanity well into his 90s, embodying the principle of service in action. His personal dedication to humanitarian causes, from local community building to global health campaigns, left an indelible mark on the world. Notably, the Carter Center led the near-eradication of Guinea worm disease, reducing cases to just seven worldwide by the time of his passing.
“Blessed are the Peacemakers”
War may sometimes be a necessary evil. But no matter how necessary, it is always an evil, never a good. We will not learn to live together in peace by killing each other’s children.”
Carter’s Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 recognized his tireless efforts to advance peace, social justice, and human rights. His words, spoken decades ago, resonate still: “War may sometimes be a necessary evil. But no matter how necessary, it is always an evil, never a good. We will not learn to live together in peace by killing each other’s children.”
Jimmy Carter’s life was a testament to the power of compassion, integrity, and enduring service. From the corridors of the White House to communities around the globe, his work reminds us that humanity and dedication can transcend political office—and leave a lasting impact for generations.
Jimmy Carter lived a life of peace and compassion. His life was lived to the fullest. May his soul be eternally rewarded.
Photo credit: Personal Photo taken from the funeral of President James Earl Carter, Jr., January 9, 2025, Washington DC, Washington National Cathedral.
Published 9 January 2025
About Thinking Out Loud
Thinking Out Loud is a commentary series by Lara Kajs examining international law, humanitarian crises, and the prevention of mass atrocities. Drawing on field experience in conflict and displacement settings, the column explores the legal and policy challenges that shape contemporary conflicts
Lara Kajs is the founder and executive director of The Genocide Report, a Washington, DC-based educational nonprofit focused on atrocity prevention and international law. She is the author of several field-based books on conflict, displacement, humanitarian crises, and international humanitarian law, drawing on extensive research and field experience in Yemen, Syria, and Afghanistan. Her writing and public speaking focus on atrocity crimes, forced displacement, the protection of civilians, and the legal frameworks governing armed conflict.