Semmelweis was screened on December 5, 2024, at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris, drawing significant attention. The event, organized by the Permanent Delegation of Hungary to UNESCO and the Liszt Institute Hungarian Cultural Center Paris, celebrated Hungary’s official Oscar submission for the year.
The premiere was timed to coincide with Universal Health Coverage Day, December 12, a connection highlighted by Ambassador László Havas, who noted Hungary’s active role in shaping the related UN resolution in partnership with Thailand, Japan, and the World Health Organization (WHO). The screening highlighted the importance of the Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which focuses on ensuring health and well-being for all.
The film tells the story of Ignác Semmelweis, a key figure in medical history, and his pioneering work, aligning with themes like universal healthcare, preventive medicine, and global health preparedness.
The event was attended by a wide range of cultural and diplomatic partners, whose attendance emphasized the importance of the occasion and reflected the broad relevance of the film's message.