Broken Chair: A Symbol of Peace in Geneva

Located in the Place des Nations in Geneva, the Broken Chair is a monumental sculpture created by Swiss artist Daniel Berset. Crafted from 5.5 tons of wood and standing 12 meters (39 feet) high, the chair depicts a giant seat with one of its legs broken.Commissioned by Handicap International, the Broken Chair was unveiled in August 1997 as a symbol of opposition to landmines and cluster bombs. It was initially intended as a temporary installation to influence the signing of the Ottawa Treaty, which banned the use of anti-personnel mines. However, due to strong public support, it has remained in place for over two decades, becoming an iconic landmark of Geneva and a reminder of the human cost of war.The sculpture's broken leg represents the suffering and loss endured by victims of landmines and explosive weapons. Over the years, its message has broadened to encompass a general call for peace and an end to violence against civilians. The Broken Chair is a powerful and thought-provoking work of art that encourages reflection on the importance of humanitarian efforts and the pursuit of a world free from armed conflict.