“Closing, Acts of Memory, celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights”

Ambassador Pierce
Excellencies
Colleagues
Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am pleased to welcome you to the official closing of the Luminarium. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Ambassador Pierce and the Permanent Mission of the United Kingdom for organizing one of the most unique tributes to human rights that we have ever had at the Palais des Nations.

At its most fundamental level, this Luminarium is a testament to the significance and widespread application of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
This important document is the cornerstone of all the work of the United Nations to protect and promote human rights.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is truly universal and from this perspective unique because this document has been translated into more than 400 languages. There are no such precedents in the history of international relations. Therefore, the Declaration has become part of the DNA of the United Nations and the whole family of nations around the world.

Let me cite only one sentence from the Preamble of the Declaration in English:

“Whereas the peoples of the United Nations have in the Charter reaffirmed their faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person and in the equal rights of men and women and have determined to promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom.”

As we know from long experience, peace, development and human rights are inextricably linked.

And every member of the human family has a right to grow and develop their full potential in a secure and sustainable environment.

Ladies and Gentlemen:

In several minutes we will listen closely as the words of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights are recited. Today’s gathering is a very good opportunity to recommit ourselves to protecting and promoting human rights for all.

Thank you very much.