Book launch “Gandhi’s outstanding leadership”

Ambassador Chander,
Ambassador Nazareth,
Professor Milbert,
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen:

A very warm welcome to today’s launch of the book “Ghandi’s outstanding leadership”. I am very happy to welcome Ambassador Pascal Alan Nazareth, the author of this book, who is here with us today. A special thank you to Ambassador Chander and the Permanent Mission of India for supporting this event and also to Ms. Isabelle Milbert, Honorary Professor at the Graduate Institute and a specialist in Anthropology and Sociology, who will contribute her perspective to the discussion.

Ladies and gentlemen,
Today’s discussion is quite timely, as 2 October is not only Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday, but has also been made the International Day of Non-Violence by the General Assembly in 2007. The day serves to honour his legacy. The overwhelming support to this resolution at the time – it had 140 co-sponsors - is ample evidence of the power Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy and ideals continue to hold, even to this day.

Mahatma Gandhi, who lived from 1869 to 1948, led India to independence and inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world with his strategy of nonviolent civil disobedience. By advocating for this new way of thinking, he helped to bring about radical political and social change peacefully. His vision and courage made him stand out as a leader of his time. His ideals continue to inspire people as they oppose violence, conflict and oppression.

Ambassador Nazareth, in his book, looks at Gandhi’s leadership from today’s perspective. What was his strength? What were his qualities compared to other exceptional historical figures? And what can we learn from him today, in a time, when violent conflicts seem to be on the increase?

Ambassador Nazareth’s book has enthused readers around the world – it has been translated into more than 20 languages. As people are concerned about the status of our world, they turn to the wisdom of an acclaimed leader of the past century – and so they should! I am very pleased that we are launching this book today here in International Geneva and I invite you all to draw some inspiration from it.

Ladies and gentlemen,
As you may know, Mahatma means “great soul”. Let’s celebrate today a great soul and let’s say “Happy birthday, Mahatma Gandhi!”.

Thank you for being with us today and please enjoy the discussion!