Muhammad Ali was named a United Nations Messenger of Peace in 1998. The United Nations selected him because his influence extended far beyond boxing: he was already a globally recognized advocate for peace, humanitarian relief, and human dignity.
As a Messenger of Peace, Ali used his fame to draw attention to children affected by war, poverty, and displacement. He traveled internationally, met political leaders and ordinary families, and promoted dialogue between communities. His personal history—overcoming racism, religious prejudice, and professional punishment for refusing military service—gave particular weight to his message.
The year is sometimes confused with 2005, when Ali received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in the United States. It is also distinct from his 1996 Olympic torch appearance and his 1999 naming as BBC Sports Personality of the Century. The UN appointment recognized Ali as a humanitarian ambassador, not as a sporting champion receiving another boxing award.