“In Women’s Hands” – Donation Ceremony

Ambassador Zappia
Ms. Garesio [Artist]
Excellencies
Ladies and gentlemen:

It is my honour to accept the gift of this artwork, for the United Nations Office at Geneva. I would like to express my warmest appreciation to Ambassador Zappia and the Permanent Delegation of the European Union, for this generous donation. This is the first donation of the European Union to the United Nations, and we are most pleased to showcase it here. With her artwork, Ms. Garesio has truly given us a wonderful addition to the Palais des Nations. It is also the perfect complement to the panel discussion, “The Power of Empowered Women” in which we will be participating tomorrow.

Ms. Garesio’s piece of art reminds me of the contributions of women across the world. This is a United Nations priority and part of the action plan of the UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to work with and for women around the globe. It is critical that women fully participate in all aspects of life – economic, political, social and artistic. As this piece of art shows, the world - and all of us - are better off for it.

It is clear that in broad terms we have made progress. More women in government, more girls with access to education at every level, more involvement of women in the private sector – these are all important steps forward. But at the same time, we must acknowledge that significant challenges remain. Violence against women and girls, discrimination in their social, economic and professional lives, lack of prioritization of women’s issues in policymaking – these and other issues continue to be stumbling blocks to true gender equality.

Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen:

The theme of hands, the vibrant nature of the work of art; the colours, all underline visually the fact that the contribution of women around the world to society is essential and indispensible.

I am grateful to the European Union for this gift, which will serve as a reminder that the world indeed, is in women’s hands, and that we, the international community, should do everything in our power to ensure women’s empowerment and equality.

Thank you very much.