The unveiling of the statue of Ignaz Semmelweis at the WHO

Source: https://ensz-genf.mfa.gov.hu/

A bust commemorating the second centenary of the birth of Ignaz Semmelweis, renowned Hungarian doctor, was ceremonially unveiled at the World Health Organization main building on 25 January 2019.

In his speech, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director General of the WHO expressed that the life and work of Semmelweis is of example for the WHO. Minister of State for International Affairs of the Ministry of Human Capacities, Dr Orsolya Pacsay-Tomassich lauded the achievements of Semmelweis that have saved millions of lives, yet she reminded us of the tragic faith of the scientist too visionary for his peers to accept.

Prof Dr György Lázár represented the University of Szeged, the institution that had donated the piece of art to the WHO. In his speech, the Dean of the University highlighted the numerous scientific achievements of Semmelweis that have contributed immensely to the birth of modern medicines.

The ceremony was attended by H.E. Dr Zsuzsanna Horváth, Permanent Representative of Hungary to the United Nations and other International Organizations in Geneva, and Prof Dr Lálszló Rosivall, President of the Semmelweis Commemorative Commission.