Director-General's remarks at the Special Event on the World Day of Social Justice

Special Event on the World Day of Social Justice

Thursday, 15 February 2024, at 19:30

Room XVIII, Palais des Nations

Excellencies, 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good evening, I am delighted to be able to welcome you to the Palais des Nations, for this very important event organized by the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development and the United Nations Office at Geneva, in collaboration with SHAP SHAP and ANTIGEL. 

We are here tonight to commemorate the World Day of Social Justice, which is celebrated annually on 20 February, in accordance with General Assembly Resolution A/RES/62/10.

The General Assembly recognizes that social development and social justice are indispensable for the achievement and maintenance of peace and security within and among nations. 

Moreover, it acknowledges that social development and social justice cannot be attained in the absence of peace and security, or in the absence of respect for all human rights and fundamental freedoms.

This is more important than ever to remember today, as our world faces multiple and intersecting crises. 

Tonight’s event aims to amplify the messages of fairer social justice and positive change through the power of music.

The artists you will see perform tonight are more than just talented musicians, but inspiring agents for change.

I welcome these powerful artists and look forward to their performances. 

This concert seeks to inspire and engage the audience, in particular youth, in a powerful conversation about justice, social change, and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Young people play a crucial role in achieving these goals and helping to rebuild a better world. 

We need their innovative solutions, skills, generational experience, and above all, moral authority, and commitment to building a safe and healthy environment for themselves, and for future generations. 

And music, as a universal language, has the potential to connect with people on a profound level, and facilitate a deeper understanding of these crucial issues.

This event is not only an opportunity to mark the World Day of Social Justice but also to strengthen the relationship between the United Nations and the local and international Geneva community. 

By uniting musicians, experts, and activists, we hope to foster collaboration and understanding in pursuit of a more just and equitable world, a cause that is central to our shared mission at the United Nations.

Thank you very much and enjoy your evening!