On November 27, 2023, at the 20th General Conference of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in Vienna, the Sovereign Order of Malta received notable recognition for its extensive collaboration with United Nations agencies, particularly for its ongoing humanitarian work in Africa and other regions in need. The conference, a high-level gathering focused on development initiatives, included distinguished guests from various nations, with an emphasis on low- and middle-income countries.

During the reception, Ambassador Günther Granser, Permanent Observer of the Order of Malta to the United Nations in Vienna, was honored by four influential UN leaders: Dr. Gerd Müller, UNIDO’s Director General; Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); Ghada Waly, Director General of the United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV) and Executive Secretary of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC); and Dr. Robert Floyd, Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO).

This gesture from the UN directors expressed profound appreciation for the Order of Malta’s contributions to humanitarian and social development, particularly in areas where communities face high levels of poverty, limited healthcare access, and economic challenges. The Order of Malta’s work in these regions has involved extensive cooperative projects with UN agencies in Vienna, aimed at improving healthcare, supporting local economies, and fostering sustainable development in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

This recognition underscores the unique role the Order of Malta plays within the UN framework, affirming its longstanding dedication to humanitarian action and its valued partnerships with key international organizations.