United Nations Day recognizes the founding of the United Nations (UN) in 1945. The celebration is observed annually on October 24th.
#UnitedNationsDay
U.N. Day has traditionally been marked throughout the world by meetings, discussions, and exhibits about the achievements and goals of the organization.
The United Nations works for the entire human family of seven billion people and cares for the Earth, our one and only home. ~ Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
Today the United Nations consists of 193 member states and 2 observer states. The mission of the United Nation is to maintain international peace and security.
The UN also sets terms for protecting human rights around the world. In 1948, they created international law with a Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The member nations deliver humanitarian aid to populations in crisis. The first aid delivered was an immediate response to the devastation following World War II.
Another aim of the international organization is to promote sustainable development.
Some major achievements of the UN include:
- The UN peacekeeping budget is less than 0.5% of global military spending
- Their World Food Programme (WFP) provides food and assistance to 91 million people in 83 countries
- They also supply vaccines to 45% of the world’s children
- The UN helps people who displaced by violence, conflict, and persecution
HOW TO OBSERVE UNITED NATIONS DAY
Throughout the day, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Paris hosts conferences and meetings. They also display exhibits of UN achievements. On United Nations Day, schools throughout the world celebrate the diversity of their student bodies. These schools also hold cultural performances and food fairs.
A UN Day concert is held each year to commemorate the day. The concert is held at the General Assembly Hall at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City. Performers at the concert have included the KBS Traditional Music Orchestra, Stevie Wonder, the Harlem Boys Gospel Choir, and the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra.
To participate in United Nations Day, think about how diversity makes our lives better. Make it a goal to learn something about each of the 193 countries that make up the United Nations. Find out what all the flags of each country look like. If you know someone who is of a different nationality, ask them questions about their country of origin. To spread awareness, share #UnitedNationsDay on social media.
NATIONAL UNITED NATIONS DAY HISTORY
Franklin D. Roosevelt coined the name “United Nations” during World War II. Twenty-six nations united to pledge their governments to continue fighting against the Axis Powers. In 1945, delegates from 51 countries drew up the United Nations Charter in San Francisco, California. They signed the Charter on June 26th, 1945 and it was ratified on October 24th, 1945. United Nations Day originated in 1948.
United Nations FAQ
Q. What two governments are observer states in the United Nations?
A. The Holy See and Palestine are the two observer states in the United Nations.
Q. What was the 193rd State to join the UN?
A. In 2011, South Sudan joined the UN as the 193rd Member State.