Director-General's remarks at the United Nations Women's Guild Art Exhibition

United Nations Women’s Guild Geneva - Exhibition 2025
“The Palette of the Universe through the Eyes of Women”
Monday, 5 May 2025, at 12.00 p.m.
Mezzanine Gallery, Building E, Palais des Nations

Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen, 
Dear friends,

It is a great pleasure to welcome you all to opening of this exhibition: The Palette of the Universe through the Eyes of Women. Let me take this opportunity to thank the United Nations Women’s Guild Geneva and its President, Ms. Akjuna Thanati, for organizing this beautiful display of artwork here at the Palais des Nations.

The United Nations Women’s Guild serves as a circle of friendship and support for hundreds of women connected to UN Geneva and the wider International Geneva community. It is also a charity organization, dedicated to assisting women and children in need throughout the world. This exhibition is just one of the many activities carried out by the United Nations Women’s Guild, alongside initiatives such as the children’s walk and, of course, the famous bazaar each November, which celebrates the rich diversity of cultures and their traditions.

In light of the Guild’s commitment to supporting women both here in Geneva and around the globe, it is fitting that the theme of this exhibition is The Palette of the Universe through the Eyes of Women. Women have unique experiences of the world, and yet often their voices and views are dismissed, ignored or outright suppressed.  For eighty years the United Nations has fought for the right of women to be seen and heard, whether in the home, the community, the workplace, the political sphere or beyond.

I am therefore pleased that an exhibition such as this, which celebrates how women see and experience our world and universe, is on display at the Palais des Nations. It highlights both the beauty that these female artists see around them, and their impressive artistic talents.

I also welcome the Guild’s initiative to hold live demonstrations of art techniques here this week, which is an excellent way to bring people together and share skills and knowledge.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Art plays a valuable role in international cooperation. It fosters understanding and solidarity, and breaks down barriers between people, communities and nations. At UN Geneva, we are proud to be able to host exhibitions such as this, which not only bring beauty to the Palais, but also offer meaningful opportunities for cultural exchange.

Thank you again to the United Nations Women’s Guild for this inspiring exhibition. I hope you all take the time to enjoy the artworks on display and join the technique demonstrations over the coming days.