On 18 February 2026, the historic Palais des Nations became the backdrop for a major international announcement centered on advancing peace through structured global collaboration. Gathered in Press Conference Room 10 of the former League of Nations building, representatives of UNDSMA introduced an expansive series of initiatives designed to connect nations through education, sport, music, and cultural exchange. The choice of venue, long associated with diplomacy and multilateral dialogue, reflected the broader ambition of transforming traditional peace efforts into dynamic, people driven engagement.
UNDSMA, functioning as an official foundation and movement of iHolding Group LLP, operates with a clear mandate to promote peace, goodwill, and learning across borders through inclusive platforms. At the core of its strategy is the SAMEvision™ Network, a coordinated international structure that unites diverse sectors under a shared commitment to global harmony and youth development.
A key moment during the Geneva announcement was the formal appointment of Kirsan Ilyumzhinov as Chief Patron of Chess for Peace. Recognized worldwide for his leadership as former President of FIDE and former President of the Republic of Kalmykia, Mr. Ilyumzhinov has consistently promoted chess as an instrument of diplomacy and education. During his tenure, chess programs expanded significantly across schools and emerging nations, reinforcing the game’s ability to cultivate analytical thinking, discipline, and cross cultural understanding. His new role strengthens the initiative’s credibility and global outreach.
The gathering also formally acknowledged Alain Khoueiry as Chairman of UNDSMA and the principal architect of the SAMEvision™ concept. His leadership envisions peacebuilding as an active, participatory process, one that integrates sport, artistic expression, and mentorship into a cohesive international movement rather than isolated events.
Chess for Peace stands at the forefront of the initiative’s immediate rollout. The program is designed to introduce structured chess education internationally, organize youth tournaments that bring together participants from different countries, and promote constructive competition rooted in respect and strategy rather than conflict. By encouraging mentorship and intellectual growth, the initiative positions chess as both a symbolic bridge and a practical educational tool capable of transcending political and cultural boundaries.
The broader SAMEvision™ portfolio extends well beyond the chessboard. Fashion City and Design World aim to leverage sustainable design and creative exchange as vehicles for cultural diplomacy. RaceWorld™ highlights motorsport collaboration as a demonstration of engineering excellence and international cooperation, complemented by the symbolic Champions for Peace RaceWorld™ Rally. The World Peace Awards will recognize individuals contributing to humanitarian and cultural advancement, while World Peace Concerts will bring together artists from around the globe to promote unity through music. Programs such as The Legends Tour and the Culture for Peace Tour further emphasize mentorship, diversity, and cross border artistic engagement.
Together, these interconnected initiatives reflect a comprehensive strategy that blends education, creativity, and sport into a unified peace framework. From Geneva’s historic diplomatic corridors, a renewed message has emerged that lasting global harmony can be cultivated through shared experiences, collaborative innovation, and empowering the next generation to think, compete, and create together.
