Director-General's remarks at the opening of the United Nations Women's Guild Bazaar 2025

United Nations Women’s Guild Bazaar 2025

Tuesday, 9 December 2025, at 10.30 a.m.
Hall 14, Building A, Palais des Nations

Excellencies, 
Ladies and gentlemen, 
Dear friends,

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2025 International Bazaar organized by the United Nations Women’s Guild.

This year’s Bazaar is particularly important as it coincides with three important milestones.

First, we celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations —eight decades of commitment to peace, human rights, and sustainable development. From the signing of the Charter in 1945 to the complex global challenges we confront today, the UN has remained a cornerstone of multilateralism and dialogue.  The commemorations in New York and Geneva this year reminded us that, even amid mounting pressures, our collective resolve remains strong. Through the UN80 Initiative, we are called to embrace modernization, strengthen efficiency, and renew our sense of solidarity—because the world needs a UN that is truly fit for purpose.

Second, here in Geneva, the Strategic Heritage Plan is transforming the Palais des Nations into a modern and sustainable workplace - one that honors its storied past while preparing it for the decades ahead. The reopening of the Assembly Building earlier this year, where we are gathered today, is a major milestone in that transformation.  Its renewed spaces, upgraded conference facilities, and improved accessibility are already enhancing our daily work.  And while this project is not without challenges, it remains essential to ensure that the Palais des Nations continues to serve as a vibrant and modern hub for multilateralism.

Finally, the UN Women’s Guild in Geneva is celebrating its 55th anniversary. Inspired by its sister organization in New York, it was established in 1970 to foster friendship and understanding amongst women of different nationalities and cultural backgrounds. Over the decades, its main goal has remained: to improve the lives of disadvantaged children and women by financing micro-projects and providing scholarships for secondary school students throughout the world.  The annual Bazaar is more than a celebration of culture - it is a longstanding tradition of solidarity. Its proceeds support vital projects for children worldwide, and each edition showcases the generosity and unity of our international community.

In closing, the UN’s 80th anniversary, the renewal of our historic Palais, and the 55th anniversary of the Women’s Guild in Geneva remind us of what we can achieve together: honoring our past, investing in our future, and caring for those most in need.

Thank you.