In a landmark celebration of chess as a catalyst for social transformation, the Permanent Mission of Armenia to the United Nations in Geneva, in partnership with the FIDE Social Commission and UNESCO, hosted a prestigious side event on 8 July at Hall XIV of the Palais des Nations, commemorating the upcoming World Chess Day 2026.
The gathering transformed the historic UN venue into a vibrant hub of strategy and solidarity, showcasing the profound impact of chess far beyond the competitive arena. The event underscored the game’s unique capacity to bridge divides, empower marginalized communities, and foster cognitive and emotional resilience across the globe.
The event was organized in close collaboration with a broad coalition of international and local partners, including the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG), UNESCO, the University for Peace, the International Chess Federation (FIDE), the Swiss Chess Federation, and the Geneva BOIS-GENTIL Chess Club. This diverse partnership reflected the shared commitment to advancing chess as a tool for diplomacy, inclusion, and social development.
The proceedings opened with welcoming remarks from H.E. Mrs. Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of the United Nations Office in Geneva, followed by H.E. Mrs. Hasmik Tolmajian, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Armenia to the UN Office in Geneva. Their addresses set the tone for an afternoon dedicated to highlighting chess as an instrument of inclusion and personal reinvention.
Mr. André Vögtlin, President of the Swiss Chess Federation, Chairman of the FIDE Social Commission, delivered a powerful reflection on the global reach of social chess initiatives. His words resonated deeply with the diplomatic audience:
“For centures, this board has been the same: 64 squares, two colors, equal rules for both sides. No passport required. No language needed. No status. No history. Just the next move.”
The FIDE Social Commission had the distinct honour of presenting its flagship social chess projects to a diplomatic audience, detailing the successes of initiatives that are transforming lives worldwide.
FIDE Infinite Chess project, empowering children with autism, was presented by Jonathan Chen, project partner and supporter, Founder and President of the Kindness on Board Foundation (KOBF).
Jonathan shared experience of KOBF in teaching chess to kids with autism with Infinite Chess program, hihglighted main results they achieved after one year. “Every child deserves the place at the board. The E in chess stands for everyone.” – says Jonathan.
The Permanent Mission of Armenia remains committed to making this event an annual tradition and looks forward to welcoming participants again next year. The momentum built at the Palais des Nations has opened new avenues for the Commission to seek representation at future sessions of the UN Human Rights Council, ensuring that the transformative power of chess continues to gain recognition as a vital tool for social development and human dignity worldwide.
Photos copyright ©️insta:agencypointofviews