Annual General Assembly 2026

29 September 2026

The UNWG held its Annual General Assembly at the Palais des Nations, bringing members together for an afternoon of reflection, appreciation and transition.

Welcoming words were shared by the UNWG’s  Honorary Presidents, Madame Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva, and Mrs Danielle Wertmeister representing H.E. Ambassador Thomas Gürber, Permanent Representative of Switzerland to the United Nations and International Organizations in Geneva.  Their presence marked a special occasion, and in addressing the members, they shared their warm support for the Guild and its continued work.

Address by Ms Tatiana Valovaya, Director‑General of UNOG and Honorary President of the UNWG

Ms Valovaya expressed her pleasure in welcoming the members of the United Nations Women’s Guild to the Palais des Nations for their General Assembly. She highlighted the Guild’s 55‑year commitment to solidarity, compassion, international cooperation and support for those most in need.

She paid special tribute to Ms Ajkuna Thanati, noting that her presidency has been marked by dedication, energy and a clear vision for strengthening the Guild. Under Ms Thanati’s leadership, the Guild modernized its statutes and by‑laws, reinforced its institutional ties with UNOG and Switzerland, and revitalized the International Bazaar with stronger engagement from Permanent Representatives. These efforts enhanced the Guild’s visibility and its ability to raise funds for humanitarian projects and scholarship programmes.

Ms Valovaya also recalled initiatives launched during Ms Thanati’s term, including opportunities for women artists to exhibit their work at UNOG and WIPO, enriching the cultural life of International Geneva. She emphasized that these achievements reflect core United Nations values: gender equality, empowerment of women, and inclusive participation.

Looking ahead, Ms Valovaya expressed confidence that the Guild will continue to flourish under its new leadership, guided by its enduring motto of friendship and understanding. She reaffirmed the Guild’s important role in strengthening bonds within International Geneva and expanding its positive impact worldwide.

Finally, Ms Valovaya conveyed her personal thanks to Ms Thanati, acknowledging her friendship, her support through challenging moments — including organizing Bazaars during COVID — and her unwavering commitment to the Guild and to UNOG. She expressed her hope that Ms Thanati will remain closely involved in the Guild’s future activities.

Address delivered by Ms Danielle Werthmüller on behalf of Ambassador Thomas Gürber, Permanent Representative of Switzerland to the United Nations and Co‑Honorary President of the UNWG:

“Ambassador Thomas Gürber regrets that he is unable to attend today’s Assembly and kindly asks you to excuse his absence. He has conveyed the following message.

The Ambassador expressed his pleasure at addressing the Assembly and his gratitude for the invitation. He noted that he is honoured to serve as Co‑Honorary President alongside the Director‑General of UN Geneva, Ms Tatiana Valovaya, and that he is delighted his spouse, Mrs Valeriia Nadraga, has chosen to engage in the Circle’s activities.

The Ambassador paid special tribute to Ms Ajkuna Thanati, who is concluding her term as President. He highlighted her unwavering commitment, remarkable energy and constant availability throughout her four years of leadership. He emphasised how she strengthened the Circle, nurtured connections among its members, and upheld the spirit of solidarity, friendship and generosity that defines this community. He extended his sincere thanks on behalf of the Swiss Mission and personally, and acknowledged the excellent collaboration she maintained with his predecessor, Ambassador Jürg Lauber.

The Ambassador noted that a new chapter begins with the election of a new President and expressed his eagerness to work with her in a spirit of trust and cooperation. He conveyed his best wishes for her success.

He recalled that since its creation in 1970, the Circle has embodied a generous mission: building connections, fostering encounters, strengthening solidarity and contributing to the life of International Geneva — values that echo those of the United Nations. At a time when dialogue is fragile and multilateralism under strain, he stressed the importance of spaces that encourage listening, understanding and human connection.

The Ambassador underlined the Circle’s longstanding openness and noted that, as International Geneva evolves, so do the families that form it. He suggested that allowing male spouses to participate fully in the Circle’s activities would be a natural continuation of this spirit of openness and an evolution aligned with today’s realities. He expressed the hope that this reflection will continue with confidence, respecting the Circle’s history while looking toward the future.

He concluded by reaffirming that keeping the spirit of the United Nations alive means evolving, bringing people together and opening doors. He wished all members an excellent Assembly.

The Assembly marked the end of two terms of service of President Ajkuna Thanati.  Having taken up office after the COVID-19 pandemic that constrainted so many activities, she worked tirelessly for four years to re-establish the Guild as a vibrant, strong organization.  Members expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the outgoing President for her extraordinary dedication, commitment and service to the UNWG throughout her presidency.

During the AGM, Ms Ajkuna Thanati delivered her closing remarks as she concluded her four‑year term as President of the United Nations Women’s Guild. She expressed her deep gratitude to the members for the trust they placed in her, noting that serving the Guild had been one of the most meaningful experiences of her life. She reflected on the friendships strengthened, the volunteers who gave generously of their time, and the shared commitment that united the Guild in support of those in need.

Ms Thanati highlighted several achievements of her presidency: the revision of the Statutes and By‑Laws, the celebration of the Guild’s 55th Anniversary, the strengthened collaboration with UNOG and the Swiss Mission, and four successful International Bazaars that raised vital funds for children worldwide. She also emphasized the enthusiasm of the Children’s Walk participants and the opportunities created for women artists to showcase their work, noting that these initiatives enriched the Guild’s cultural and humanitarian impact.

She concluded by warmly thanking all members for their support, friendship and dedication. Ms Thanati expressed full confidence in the newly elected President and Executive Committee, assuring them of her continued support as a member and friend. She noted that the Guild’s future is bright and that its spirit of generosity, solidarity and service will continue to guide its work in the years ahead.