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

United Nations Women's Guild-Geneva (UNWG-Geneva) Art Exhibition
Thursday, 18 June 2026, at 1.00 p.m.
Building A, AC Space, 3rd floor

Dear Madam President of the United Nations Women’s Guild [Mme Ajkuna Thanati],
Dear Members of the Guild,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Dear friends,

It is a pleasure to join you today for the opening of “Her Voice, Our World”.

I would like to warmly thank the UN Women’s Guild for organizing this exhibition and for its longstanding commitment to solidarity, cultural exchange and international understanding.

The title of this exhibition is both simple and powerful. “Her Voice, Our World” reminds us that every voice brings a unique perspective to the world around us. In a city dedicated to dialogue, art offers another powerful form of conversation — one that takes place not through negotiation tables or conference rooms, but through personal expression, creativity and reflection.

Through painting, sculpture and photography, the artists featured in this exhibition invite us to see the world in new ways. By bringing together such a diverse range of artistic voices, the exhibition highlights the richness that multiple perspectives bring to our shared human experience.

As the UN Secretary-General has observed, “diversity is a richness, not a threat.” At a time when divisions and uncertainties continue to challenge societies around the world, opportunities to foster understanding and human connection are more important than ever.

Today’s event also reflects the spirit of solidarity that has long guided the work of the United Nations Women’s Guild. The proceeds from this exhibition will support the Guild’s scholarship fund, helping provide educational opportunities for disadvantaged and vulnerable children in developing countries. In this way, the exhibition not only showcases artistic talent, but also contributes to creating opportunity, dignity and hope for others.

I warmly congratulate all the artists whose works are featured in this exhibition, and I thank everyone who has contributed to making it possible.

I hope each of you takes the time to explore and enjoy this exhibition and I encourage you to join one or more of the six workshops and live painting sessions taking place between today and next Thursday.  

Thank you.