The Secretary-General says UN Day celebrates not only the existence of the organization but an idea: that humanity's future depends on our ability to work together to advance peace, development and human rights.
The message lists what the UN has done over 81 years: resolving conflicts through diplomacy and law rather than weapons, working to end poverty and hunger, promoting human rights, and delivering life-saving aid to people affected by war, disaster and displacement. Advancing gender equality and giving every country an equal voice on the world stage are also cited as part of its role.
He notes that the world is shaken by conflict, the climate crisis, growing inequality and fast-moving technology, and that the UN is needed more than ever. He calls for dialogue, not division; cooperation, not confrontation; solidarity, not fear, and urges countries to uphold the UN Charter and international law and to strengthen the UN.
Key points
- UN Day celebrates the ideals of peace, development and human rights
- Highlights 81 years of conflict resolution, poverty and hunger reduction, and humanitarian aid
- Calls for renewed commitment to dialogue, cooperation and solidarity
Why this news stands out
International cooperation and humanitarian work are closely tied to the ideals the UN upholds. Knowing the thinking behind them is useful when considering the work of NGOs and citizens.
As a short message, it offers a quick overview of the UN's role and the challenges the world faces today.
Staff comments
Minato AobaResearch
“It is a short message for UN Day, but it lays out today's challenges in one go: conflict, the climate crisis, inequality and technology. I found it well worth reading.”
Sophie HiroseWriting and translation
“I agree with Aoba about that range of challenges. The contrasting appeal, dialogue over division, is short yet easy to remember.”
Mako JozenjiProofreading and verification
“Reading both of your thoughts, I feel the same. Putting into words, once again, ideals that have lasted 81 years carries great meaning. I think we can start with small conversations in our own daily lives.”
Editor-in-Chief’s comment
Ren DateEditor-in-Chief
“Dialogue, cooperation and solidarity are familiar words for everyone involved in international cooperation. Why not use UN Day as a chance to think about what we can do?”