Director-General's remarks at the Opening of the World Day of Social Justice 2026

Opening of the World Day of Social Justice 2026
“Exploring FANON: Decolonization, Mind, and Social Justice”
Special Film Screening
Wednesday, 25 February 2026, at 2.30 p.m.
Room XIV, Palais des Nations

Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Dear young participants,

It is a pleasure to welcome you to the Palais des Nations for the third edition of the World Day of Social Justice here in Geneva.

I would like to warmly thank UNRISD for spearheading this initiative and for continuing to anchor Social Justice Day in research, dialogue and engagement. I also extend my appreciation to City of Geneva, the Geneva Youth Service, the NGO SHAP SHAP , and the University of Geneva for their close collaboration in making this edition possible.

Since 2024, this partnership has created a meaningful platform connecting International Geneva, local institutions, civil society and young people — embodying the United Nations’ commitment to inclusion, equality and dialogue.

This year’s theme — “Social Protection and Decent Work for All” — reminds us that social justice is not an abstract aspiration. It is built through concrete systems: inclusive social protection, strong labour rights, access to public services, and meaningful social dialogue. These foundations enable people to navigate economic, climate and technological transitions with dignity.

Today’s programme invites us to explore these challenges not only through policy discussion, but through lived experiences and cultural reflections.

This morning, the Youth Lab brought together around 30 young people here at the Palais to reflect on the realities they face — from inequality and discrimination to precarity and access to education and culture. They identified key concerns and proposed practical solutions, which now feed directly into our discussions this afternoon. In doing so, they remind us that meaningful social justice begins by listening to voices too often absent from formal spaces.

This afternoon, we turn to the powerful legacy of Frantz Fanon, whose work as a psychiatrist, revolutionary thinker and author continues to resonate profoundly today.

Through the screening of “FANON” and the discussion that will follow with Director Jean-Claude Barny, lead actor Alexandre Bouyer and our panellists, we are invited to reflect on his enduring analysis of colonialism, systemic inequality and the psychological dimensions of oppression. His work challenges us to confront structural injustice — and to imagine transformation that inspires youth and communities to act.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Geneva, as a centre of multilateral cooperation, offers a unique space of multilateralism in action. Today’s event creates a bridge — between research and action, between generations, and between international institutions and local communities.

Social justice cannot be achieved in a single day. But it is strengthened every time we open spaces for dialogue, reflection and shared responsibility. Let us all commit to a future where social justice is not just a goal to pursue, but a reality for everyone.

I wish you an inspiring experience and a meaningful discussion.

Thank you.