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United Nations Day is an annual observance commemorated on October 24th each year. We know about the United Nations and its family of specialized agencies like WHO, UNESCO, FAO, and more. These organizations provide various forms of assistance, ranging from disaster relief to medical aid, children’s welfare, food security, and cultural preservation. Why not celebrate a day that honors the work of these organizations functioning under the UN, serving all of us? The commemoration of United Nations Day will highlight, recognize, and reflect the contributions of these organizations.
“The Charter of the United Nations expresses the noblest aspirations of man: abjuration of force in the settlement of disputes between states; the assurance of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language or religion; the safeguarding of international peace and security.” – Haile Selassie
United Nations Day Observance
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | October 24 | Thursday |
| 2025 | October 24 | Friday |
| 2026 | October 24 | Saturday |
| 2027 | October 24 | Sunday |
| 2028 | October 24 | Tuesday |
History of United Nations Day
The origin and history of United Nations Day date back to 1948. The celebration memorializes the anniversary of the Charter of the United Nations, which came into force in 1945. In 1947, the UN General Assembly declared October 24th as United Nations Day to commemorate the anniversary of the UN Charter. The declaration stated that the celebration would be instrumental in raising awareness about the work of the UN. The further goal of the observance is to inform people around the world about the aims and achievements of the UN, encouraging their support for its efforts.
The UN has made significant contributions in areas such as human rights, famine relief, refugee settlement, disease eradication, and health promotion. The UN’s family of specialized agencies includes the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Other notable agencies include the World Food Programme (WFP), the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), among many others.
The intention of the UN, an intergovernmental organization, is to foster cooperation among the governments of the world. The original intent of this organization was to replace the “League of Nations” and thereby prevent another world war. The Treaty of Versailles was one of the treaties that formally ended World War I. It was the same treaty that laid the foundation for the League of Nations. On June 28, 1919, the treaty was signed in Versailles, France. The League aimed to promote disarmament, prevent wars, and encourage negotiations and diplomatic measures to settle international disputes. Furthermore, the League’s goal was to improve the quality of life for people around the world.
However, the outbreak of World War II suggested the need for a different approach from the League of Nations. During the last years of World War II, the concept of the United Nations (UN) was developed. Specifically, the idea for the UN was introduced on April 25, 1945, during the UN Conference on International Organization in San Francisco. The UN was officially created when its charter was approved on October 24 of that year. The day was first observed on October 24, 1948. Since 1971, the UN has suggested that this day be a public holiday in all its member states. There have also been calls to make this day an international public holiday to highlight the work, role, and achievements of the UN and its family of specialized agencies.
Other Celebrations on October 24
October 24 is also celebrated as
- Unfortunately, we couldn’t find any other celebrations on October 24.
How to Celebrate the Day
Celebrating the day is very simple. You can indulge yourself in learning more about these organizations and their practical impact. Celebrate this day as people all over the world benefit from the work of these organizations. Educate those around you about the contributions of these organizations that are helping us in various ways. Share your celebrations and moments on social media using the hashtag #UnitedNationsDay.