Published 06 December 2024 in News from Javett-UP
On 26 November 2024, the Embassy of Switzerland in South Africa, in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), inaugurated an exhibition at the Javett Art Centre in commemoration of the “75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions”: titled "Dialogues on humanity," the exhibition is a joint endeavour of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland, the International Committee of the Red Cross and Photo Elysée. The concept behind the exhibit is to allow people to take a step back and pause, to think and to feel. The idea is to provide a space for discussion about humanity, the humanitarian sphere, and how it is changing.
Humanitarian crises around the world make news headlines every day. The images associated with these tragedies are often related to tears, suffering, hunger, desperation, loneliness, separation, desolation, etc. Most recently, cyberattacks and misinformation have also blurred our understanding of global events. We sometimes feel helpless and overwhelmed by images of crises, violence, armed conflicts and natural disasters. The contemporary art exhibition “Dialogues On Humanity” is a reaction to these feelings. The photographs of various artists give us the chance to look at the principles of humanity, neutrality and independence from a new perspective. They draw upon the powerful and universal language of images and make us think carefully about humanitarian action. The images do not give us pre-packaged solutions but stimulate new and unexpected reflections and emotions through this change in perspective.
H.E. Ambassador Mirko Manzoni – Ambassador of Switzerland to South Africa and Mr Jules Amoti, Head of Regional Delegation in Pretoria, ICRC at the exhibition opening of Dialogues of Humanity on 26 November 2024.
The Geneva Conventions set limits in order to protect people who are affected by armed conflict. The commemoration of the adoption of the Geneva Conventions 75 years ago provides an opportunity to highlight their continued importance for humanity in the context of ongoing conflicts that cause significant suffering and casualties. The year 2024 also marks the 160th anniversary of the first Geneva Convention. Universally ratified, the Geneva Conventions are the result of the collective political will of all states. They are a legal instrument that establishes obligations for all parties to a conflict. This commemoration serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning our actions and obligations in the service of our shared humanity.
The exhibition is open to the public and will be available for viewing at the Javett Art Centre from 26 November 2024 until 13 January 2025.
