Exhibition at the 60th Human Rights Council Session
Geneva, 22 September 2025
On the sidelines of the 60th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, the United Nations Human Rights Square at Geneva’s iconic Broken Chair monument—known
worldwide as a symbol of resistance to violence against civilians—hosted a moving cultural and humanitarian exhibition entitled “Peace and Hope in Sudan.”
The event brought together hundreds of participants, including members of the Sudanese diaspora, human rights defenders, civil society representatives, and humanitarian advocates,
in a collective message of solidarity with the people of Sudan. The exhibition had two main objectives: to celebrate Sudan’s cultural diversity and heritage, and to raise awareness of the grave violations committed by the Sudanese Armed Forces against civilians. Through traditional arts, crafts, music, and storytelling, visitors were invited to experience Sudan’s rich cultural identity while also confronting the tragic realities of the ongoing crisis.
Organisers and speakers stressed that Sudanese culture represents resilience, unity, and beauty, but it is now under grave threat due to the armed conflict waged by the Sudanese
army since April 2023. Testimonies and exhibits highlighted the devastating toll of violations and crimes against humanity committed against civilians—including indiscriminate attacks,
mass displacement, and the destruction of communities and infrastructure to ensure that the voices of victims reached the international community.
The Broken Chair monument provided a powerful setting for the exhibition, reinforcing its core message that the protection of human rights is inseparable from the pursuit of
peace.
By situating the event in Geneva, the capital of international diplomacy and human rights, organisers aimed to amplify Sudan’s plight before the global stage.
The exhibition concluded with a strong call to the United Nations, governments, international organisations, NGOs, and humanitarian agencies to step up protection and
support for victims, to demand international criminal accountability for all violations, crimes against humanity, and war crimes committed by the Sudanese Armed Forces and their allies, and to work towards a just and lasting peace in Sudan through the establishment of a democratically elected civilian government capable of delivering peace and
development. Ultimately, the exhibition served as a powerful reminder that, despite war and suffering, Sudan’s cultural heritage endures as a beacon of hope and strength.
