Director-General's remarks at the General Assembly of the United Nations Women's Guild Geneva

General Assembly of the United Nations Women's Guild Geneva
29 September 2026, at 2.00 p.m.
Room XI, Palais des Nations

Dear Ajkuna (outgoing UNWG President),
Ambassador Gürber (Honorary UNWG President),
Dear members of the United Nations Women’s Guild,

It is a great pleasure to welcome you once again to the Palais des Nations for your General Assembly and to address you in my capacity as Honorary President of the United Nations Women's Guild Geneva.

Today, we celebrate a remarkable organization that, for 55 years, has embodied the values that lie at the heart of the United Nations: solidarity, compassion, international cooperation, and service to those most in need.

We also gather to pay tribute to its President. As Ajkuna Thanati concludes her term, let us recognize her contributions to the Guild and the lasting legacy she leaves behind.

Allow me to make a few personal reflections.

Under Ajkuna’s guidance, the Guild has continued to strengthen its mission, bringing together women from diverse cultures and backgrounds not only to build enduring friendships, but also to create meaningful and lasting change in the lives of vulnerable women and children around the world.

Several achievements stand out.

Ajkuna led the revision of the Guild's Statutes and By-Laws, strengthening its governance, ensuring its continued relevance for the years ahead, and strengthening the Guild's institutional links with both UNOG and Switzerland.

Another notable achievement was the modernization of our beloved International Bazaar, including greater engagement of Permanent Representatives in its leadership. This strengthened the event's visibility and diplomatic reach, successfully bringing together the International Geneva community and raising vital funds for humanitarian projects and scholarship progammes.

These accomplishments were not ends in themselves. They strengthened the Guild's ability to deliver on its core mission and expand its impact.

Through sustained fundraising efforts, scholarship programmes, and charitable initiatives, the Guild expanded its support to vulnerable women and children worldwide, turning compassion into tangible action. By expanding access to education and creating opportunities for those facing disadvantage, the Guild is helping to build a more just and inclusive future while contributing to the realization of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Among the initiatives launched during Ajkuna’s presidency were opportunities for women artists to showcase their work at UNOG and WIPO, increasing their visibility and enriching the cultural life of International Geneva.

These achievements reflect a core United Nations principle: that gender equality and the empowerment of women is essential to stronger and more inclusive institutions. By creating opportunities for women to engage, contribute, and lead, the Guild has long demonstrated the transformative value of women's participation.

This conviction continues to guide efforts across the United Nations system and here at UNOG. While important progress has been made, we must continue to ensure that women at all levels have the opportunity to contribute, lead, and help shape our common future.

As one presidency concludes and another begins, I am confident that the United Nations Women's Guild Geneva will continue to flourish. The dedication of its members and the enduring strength of its mission provide a solid basis for continued success.

Guided by its motto, "Friendship and understanding among its members," the Guild remains a powerful example of how people can come together across differences in pursuit of the common good.

As Honorary President, I look forward to seeing the Guild continue to strengthen the bonds that unite the International Geneva community while expanding its positive impact around the world.

Ajkuna, thank you for your outstanding leadership, your vision, and the lasting legacy you leave behind. Your contribution will continue to inspire the Guild and all those who have had the privilege of working alongside you.

And to all members of the Guild, thank you for carrying forward the spirit that has guided this organization for the past 55 years. Through your commitment, the Guild's tradition of friendship, service and solidarity will continue to make a difference in the lives of many.

Thank you.