Director-General's remarks at the Opening of the photo exhibition "The Sovereign Order of Malta today"

Opening of the photo exhibition “The Sovereign Order of Malta today”

Thursday, 3 October 2024 at 12.00 p.m.

Room XVIII, Palais des Nations 

Your Most Eminent Highness,

Excellencies,

Ladies and gentlemen,

It is a great pleasure to welcome you all to the opening of this photo exhibition “The Sovereign Order of Malta Today.” The images displayed here tell the stories of the Order’s unwavering commitment to alleviate human suffering, from the battlefields of conflict zones to the aftermath of natural disasters, and from remote communities to the crowded streets of refugee camps.

The Sovereign Order of Malta has a long and distinguished history, with roots stretching back nearly a thousand years. However, what is particularly striking about the Order is its continued relevance and impact in today’s world. Through its humanitarian, medical, and social work, the Order remains a vital force for good, responding to crises with speed, expertise, and empathy. This exhibition allows us to witness firsthand the profound difference that the Order makes in the lives of millions of people around the globe.

I wish to take this opportunity to thank the Sovereign Order of Malta for being a tireless advocate for the protection of civilians in situations of conflict at all multilateral fora, including here in Geneva. In these challenging times, the need to respect the International Humanitarian Law has never been so important.  

May this exhibition remind us about the values that unite us as international community: peace, compassion, and human dignity. These are the principles that the Order has championed for centuries, and they are the principles that guide the work of the United Nations every day.

Thank you.