copyright : jean christophe Genton
Press Release
Union Nations Federation (UNF)
Thursday, May 22, 2025
The Dove of Peace Takes Flight on the Red Carpet at the Cannes Film Festival 2025
Two days after the international conference marking the 10th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Humankind Rights at the United Nations Palace in Geneva, the Union Nations Federation (UNF) reaffirmed its commitment to peace and human dignity through a highly symbolic gesture: the release of the dove of peace on the red carpet of the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. This emotional and meaningful act was performed by Guila Clara Kessous, UNESCO Artist for Peace, Vice President of the UNF, and Board Member of the Universal Declaration of Humankind Rights, in the heart of one of the world’s most iconic cultural events.
The release of a dove is a universal symbol of peace, steeped in history and spirituality. Since antiquity, the white dove has represented hope, freedom, and reconciliation. It embodies humanity’s deep aspiration to live in a world free of conflict, united in brotherhood. Christophe Giovannetti, President of the UNF, honored the moment with these words: “The release of the dove of peace transcends cultures and time. It is a resounding call for hope, a reminder that even amidst turmoil, humanity longs for a more peaceful future.”
This moment of grace is part of the ongoing mission of the UNF and the Friends of the Universal Declaration of Humankind Rights to uphold the values of peace, environmental and social justice, and intergenerational solidarity across all sectors of society—including the cultural and artistic spheres.
Notably, this was the first time in the history of the Cannes Film Festival that a dove of peace took flight on the red carpet. No other artist has ever made such a call for peace in this epicenter of French art and culture, making this gesture both historic and profoundly symbolic. Through this release, a powerful message was sent to the world: peace is a choice, a commitment, and a shared responsibility.
