Nathan Jackson

Bono's Politics: the Future of Celebrity Political Activism Nathan Jackson

Bono's political efforts on behalf of the world's poorest have been well-publicized. Since the late 90s the Irish rock star has expended tremendous energies lobbying the world's richest governments on behalf of those who have few means to lobby for themselves. Bono has deftly used his celebrity, charisma, and issue knowledge in courting world leaders to enact just policies. He has helped turn the world's attention to some of the greatest emergencies of our time, including the HIV/AIDS crisis in Africa. The author demonstrates how Bono's activist strategies were developed throughout his career as lead singer of politically engaged rock band U2. From his early 1980s meetings with Irish Prime Minister Garret FitzGerald to his annual appearance at the G8 summit with the world's most powerful leaders, Bono's politics have resulted in concrete achievements and laid the foundation for the future of celebrity activism.