Source: United Nations (video statements)
In 1953, the United Nations elected Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit as the eighth President of the UN General Assembly, making her the first woman ever elected to the position.
A prominent Indian politician and nationalist, Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit was also the first Indian woman to hold a cabinet position in India before the country gained independence.
A leading diplomat in newly independent India, Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit served as India’s Ambassador to the Soviet Union (1947–49), the United States and Mexico (1949–51), and Spain (1958–61), and as India’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (1955–61).
In 1979, Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit was appointed as India’s representative to the UN Commission on Human Rights. She was also an honorary fellow of Somerville College.
Drawing on material from the United Nations Audiovisual Library, this feature offers a glimpse into the moment Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit delivered her inaugural address after being elected President of the UN General Assembly.
Her message emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and preventing threats to peace, the vital role of women at the United Nations, and the urgent need for international cooperation in the face of global challenges.