UN Day

Post By Olivia Caudle:)

March 19, 2018: Today has been filled with valuable learning and networking opportunities. We had the privilege of visiting the United Nations (UN), as well as the World Health Organization located in Geneva, Switzerland. We began our adventurous day by heading to The Palais des Nations (United Nations) by tram around 8:30am, and from there we met up with our private tour guide. 

The International Child Welfare class during their lecture at the UN

For those who may not know, the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG) is the second largest United Nations center after the United Nations Headquarters in New York. “The UNOG contributes significantly to the Organization’s efforts to maintain international peace and security, to advance disarmament, to protect and promote human rights, to eradicate poverty, to implement sustainable development practices and to provide fast, effective humanitarian relief in emergencies – to mention just a few of the tasks. A large number of dignitaries and high-level delegations come to UNOG every year to participate in bilateral exchanges, intergovernmental meetings, conferences and other events, making UNOG a centre for information sharing and exchange (www.unog.ch).” 

At Hotel De Geneve, I was fortunate to have met Pietro Stefanini, a representative from London, who is a researcher and advocacy coordinator for the Palestinian Return Center. I also met his colleague, Omar Kachouh, who is also based out of London and is a delegate.

Pietro Stefanini (left), Olivia Caudle (middle), Omar Kachouh (right)

Walking from the entrance to the Council Chamber, where many important historical negotiations have taken place, 

there was a feeling of grandiosity with the tall ceilings and the breathtaking view of the park and Lake Geneva. Once we finally made it to the Council Chamber there were immaculate murals by José Maria Sert. 

Outside of the United Nations

The view of the park and Lake Geneva from the United Nations

Maryville College Senior, Kameron Graves, noted how the architecture and murals really displayed the message of the United Nations: “that what harms human nature is war and hatred. The only way we can overcome it and make progress is through solidarity of all men.” This was displayed through the mural on the ceiling. Kameron also felt that the United Nations relayed the overall neutrality of Switzerland.

The mural on the ceiling of the Council Chamber (UN)

Cheryl French, who is a sophomore at Maryville College, was blown away by how huge of an organization the United Nations was. Prior to visiting the UN, she felt that she had formed some negative opinions, however, after touring and learning first hand she gained an entirely new outlook. Cheryl also said that the work, time, energy, security, and collaborative effort that goes into each meeting at the UN was eye-opening, and made her realize just how huge of an issue some of the problems are that we are facing today.

The set-up for meetings in the Council Chamber (UN)

Post By Olivia Caudle