Director-General's remarks at the Young Activists Summit 2025 "From Hashtag to Action"

Young Activists Summit 2025 “From Hashtag to Action”
Thursday, 20 November 2025, at 10.00 a.m.
Assembly Hall, Palais des Nations

Dear young activists,
Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,

It has been a true pleasure to share this inspiring day with you here at the Palais des Nations — and in this magnificent Assembly Hall, newly renovated yet still instilled with the same spirit of dialogue and cooperation that has guided this institution for 80 years.

As we come to the close of the seventh edition of the Young Activists Summit — one of the most vibrant and uplifting events we host each year — we carry with us renewed hope and energy, thanks to the extraordinary young people we have celebrated today.

Our five remarkable laureates have shown how the power of technology, when guided by empathy, courage, and purpose, can connect, empower, and transform communities — and, through them, our world. Their work has brought to life this year’s theme: “From Hashtag to Action.”

In an age where a single post can mobilize millions — but can also divide or mislead — they have reminded us that technology can and must remain a force for good. Behind every hashtag lies a story, a dream, and the potential to make a difference.

At the United Nations, we share that conviction. From countering disinformation and hate speech to promoting responsible artificial intelligence, our efforts are guided by the same values that these young activists embody: integrity, inclusion, and the pursuit of truth. Technology must serve humanity — bringing people together, not driving them apart.

And that is exactly what today’s honorees have done. Through digital inclusion, climate innovation, advocacy for rights, and online education, they are transforming the virtual world into a real engine of impact.

Dear Laureates,

You have shown that when young people harness technology with heart and purpose, they can move mountains — and change minds. You have inspired us all.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Let me express some words of appreciation for his event. My warmest thanks go to our partners — Dev.tv, Radio Télévision Suisse, and the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, as well as the Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the UN Office at Geneva — whose continued commitment has made this Summit possible, as so eloquently articulated by Ambassador Lauber.

Let me thank Melissa Fleming for her presence and inspiring words this morning. I am also delighted to acknowledge the presence of Nathalie Fontanet, whose support for this event and for Geneva’s role as a hub of global dialogue is deeply appreciated. And my heartfelt thanks to Cyril Dion for his inspiring keynote, which set a powerful tone for our discussions today, and also Mina Dennert for her thoughtful message, which resonates deeply and encourages us all to act with integrity and purpose. And finally, a special thanks to Melati Wijsen, who has guided today’s conversations with the insight of someone who knows what it means to turn inspiration into lasting impact.

This Summit takes place at a time when the United Nations is redoubling efforts to ensure that technological progress works for all — advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, driving climate action, upholding human rights, and building trust in our institutions. The vision is clear: a world where digital innovation empowers the many, not the few; where online spaces are safe, inclusive, and respectful; and where young people are not just users of technology, but architects of its future.

Our five laureates have reminded us that the most powerful technology of all remains the human spirit — creative, resilient, and determined to serve others. They represent the best of their generation: global citizens who turn challenges into opportunities, and connectivity into community.

You are not only shaping the future — you are making a difference here and now. And your voices, actions, and ideas are helping to shape the digital and moral landscape of the century we are building together.

So, as we close this year’s Young Activists Summit, let us carry forward the inspiration and determination we have witnessed today — to move from words to deeds, from hashtags to action.

Thank you.