Commemoration of Jan Masaryk as the First President of WFUNA

28.08.2026 / 18:40 | Aktualizováno: 28.08.2026 / 18:44

On 27 August 2026, a ceremonial event was held at the Jan Masaryk Memorial in Geneva's Rigot Park to mark the 80th anniversary of the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA). The event commemorated the historic role of Jan Masaryk as WFUNA's first President and as a champion of multilateralism, human rights, and international cooperation. The program featured remarks by the Secretary-General of WFUNA, as well as representatives of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Together, they laid a wreath at the Jan Masaryk Memorial.

On behalf of the Czech Republic, Gabriela Boiteux Pilná, Deputy Permanent Representative, addressed the event. In her speech, she recalled Jan Masaryk's legacy and emphasized that, at a time of growing geopolitical tensions and new global challenges, the United Nations, international law, and multilateralism remain essential tools for maintaining peace and addressing shared problems. She also commended WFUNA's contribution to strengthening the links between the United Nations and civil society and to promoting the active engagement of citizens in international cooperation.

 

memorial plaque

wreath