GENEVA — In the world of diplomacy, we are used to meetings, resolutions and ceremonial gifts. But this week, the United Nations in Geneva received something quite different — five young peacocks.
India gifted five peacocks to the United Nations Office at Geneva on August 7, continuing an unusual tradition of these colorful birds living in the grounds surrounding the Palais des Nations.
UN Geneva presented the story with a touch of humor, describing the arrival as a new twist on the famous concept of “panda diplomacy.”
Four Blue and One White
Among the new residents are four blue peacocks and one rare white bird.
Their colors also carry an interesting symbolism — blue and white are the signature colors of the United Nations.
Peacocks at the Palais des Nations, however, are nothing new.
The birds have long been a familiar sight in Ariana Park, the large green space surrounding the UN headquarters in Geneva. The tradition of keeping peacocks on the property stretches back decades.
According to the UN, most of the peacocks currently seen in the park are descendants of birds donated by a Japanese zoo in 1997, while others have arrived over the years as gifts from the Permanent Mission of India.
New Residents Will First Adapt to Their Surroundings
The five new peacocks will not immediately be allowed to roam freely around the park.
They will first spend time in a specially prepared enclosure, allowing them to gradually adapt to their new environment. After the adjustment period, they are expected to join the other peacocks that roam freely across the grounds of the Palais des Nations.
The birds living in Ariana Park are cared for by United Nations gardeners.
The Indian peacock (Pavo cristatus) is also the national bird of India, giving the gift an additional symbolic connection to the country.
At a time when international diplomacy is usually associated with serious political crises and difficult negotiations, five new “feathered diplomats” have brought something a little different to Geneva.
Perhaps diplomacy can sometimes arrive with feathers, too.
Sources: United Nations Office at Geneva; Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations in Geneva. UN Geneva on X