Director-General's remarks at the Opening of the "Stand up for Social Justice - Special Concert at the UN"

Opening of the “Stand up for Social Justice - Special Concert at the UN”
Wednesday, 12 February 2025 at 6.30 p.m.
Room XX, Palais des Nations

Excellencies,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Good evening and welcome to the second edition of this unique event in commemoration of the World Day of Social Justice.

It is a pleasure to open the doors of the Palais des Nations once again to the vibrant community of Geneva, and to you all, who are here to celebrate this important cause - social justice.

A heartfelt thank you to the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD) for spearheading this initiative and for its research work, which helps us to understand the issues that socially vulnerable people face around the world and to raise awareness of the need to build fairer, more equitable societies.

I would also like to extend my gratitude to our partners:  the City of Geneva, represented by its Mayor, Ms. Christina Kitsos, who we are honoured to have with us tonight, SHAP SHAP and ANTIGEL, whose Directors are also with us this evening. The support of these partners has made this event possible and has also helped to amplify the voices of artists from the global South.

The Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room, where many important discussions on human rights, gender equality, and social justice take place every day, is the perfect setting for tonight’s event. It is a place where we can help to shape the future we want to see and tonight we will be using the power of art and music and the voices of those who will shape that future - our Youth.

Young people are not just the future. They have a central role to play today and have the ability, energy, and passion to innovate and the power to raise awareness to bring about meaningful and necessary change.

The United Nations is proud to be able to unite so many young people tonight and give you a platform so you can share your voices and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for social justice. Through our ‘Youth 2030’ strategy, the United Nations is supporting young people like yourselves. We believe in your power to lead and create change, and it is our duty to make sure that your voices are heard, loud and clear.

In November this year, in Doha, Qatar, world leaders will come together for the second World Social Summit to advance Social Development. It will be an opportunity to accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Today’s celebration of the World Social Justice Day is a strong reminder of our collective responsibility to strengthen trust and solidarity between people, governments, and the United Nations system, and to contribute to positive change. We must remember that each one of us has the potential to make a difference and strive for change, and how powerful that change can be when we come together in unison.

Thank you all for being here tonight, and for your continued commitment to building a world where social justice is not just a goal, but a reality for everyone.

May tonight’s celebration inspire you to take action, because together, we can help create a better world for us all.

Thank you and enjoy the evening!