United Nations Day

United Nations Day History

United Nations Day is an annual celebration recognizing the achievements, goals, and significance of the United Nations (UN), a global organization composed of member countries working for peace, justice, human rights, social progress, and international cooperation. The day aims to raise awareness about the UN's valuable contributions to conflict resolution, economic development, and humanitarian aid, focusing on securing global stability and partnership. It also highlights important aspects such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which set objectives to tackle critical issues such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation.

The history of United Nations Day dates back to 1945, when most of its founding members, including Canada, ratified the UN Charter. Canada has a long-standing commitment to the UN, often contributing to peacekeeping missions, refugee support, and various programs that align with the Sustainable Development Goals. Additionally, Canada has played a significant role in advocating for reform within the UN system, pushing for greater gender equality, better coordination of humanitarian aid efforts, and improved transparency in the organization's work.

In Canada, United Nations Day is observed through various events, educational programs, and awareness campaigns organized by the Government, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and community groups. These initiatives typically promote the UN's role in fostering global peace and cooperation, encouraging Canadians to actively participate in the international community's efforts to tackle pressing global challenges. United Nations Day is observed annually on October 24th, in line with the worldwide commemoration, marking when the UN Charter came into force in 1945.

United Nations Day facts

• The theme for United Nations Day in 2024 was The World Needs the UN; the UN Needs Us. In 2023 the theme was Actions for peace: Our ambition for the #globalgoals.
• The beginning of the United Nations can be traced back to the formation of the 'League of Nations'. This group was formed at the end of World War I with the Treaty of Versailles.
• Canada joined the United Nations in 1945 and was an active participant in drafting the UN Charter. The prime minister at that time, William Lyon Mackenzie King, played a pivotal role in negotiating the specifics of the charter.
• Canada is one of the top donors to the UN, providing millions of dollars each year to aid in peacekeeping efforts, humanitarian aid, and development projects around the world.

In the News and Trending in Canada for United Nations Day

Top things to do in Canada for United Nations Day

• Read the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights to understand what fundamental rights are universally protected.
• Visit the United Nations Headquarters in New York City.
• If you have a United Nations flag, you can proudly display it outside your home or in a prominent location indoors to show your support and solidarity.
• The United Nations has a set of 17 SDGs focused on improving the world by 2030. Use this day to explore these goals, understand their importance, and think about how you can contribute to them in your daily life.