United Nations Day 2023: History, significance and theme of world body as it celebrates 75th anniversary

The United Nations acts as a pioneer for international peace and promotes the idea of a fairer world to make the globe a better place to live in. The organisation was established in 1945 and completed its 75th anniversary this year. United Nations Day is an important observance that is celebrated annually on October 24, marking the adoption of the United Nations Charter in the year 1945. This basic document set the foundation of the United Nations and gave hope to people across the globe who wished they would be united and peaceful. Thus, the UN serves as the last hope for unity in the world that has immeasurable legitimacy, convening power, and normative influence.

The United Nations Conference on International Organization was held in San Francisco in 1945 by representatives of about 50 nations. They were tasked to draw up the United Nations Charter and it was adopted by the signatories. Five out of 10 were permanent UN Security Council members. When the agreement was signed by a majority, the United Nations assumed operations. Since then, the UN has been central to the process of international cooperation, peace, and development. It acts as a catalyst in the transformation advocating for human rights, freedoms, and justice.

This year UN Day has an added importance because it commemorates the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) with the theme of “Equality, Freedom and Justice for All”. The declaration, consisting of 30 articles, acts as a blueprint for the UN. This played a positive role in initiating the ratification of a multitude of human rights treaties globally.

The 75th anniversary of the UDHR is an occasion for advancing the cause of universal, indivisible human rights and promoting advocacy and accountability. It highlights the continuing significance of human rights as an internationally recognised cornerstone.

Individuals and nations are drawn towards the United Nations Day 2023 theme of “Equality, Freedom and Justice for All.” This brings us back to the UN’s constant loyalty to these basic principles noted in the UDHR. The theme symbolises a rallying cry that calls upon the UN and its supporters to rededicate themselves to human rights and strive towards a world where equality, freedom and justice are reality rather than mere ideals.

The UN Day 2023 marks the journey of the international organisation from its establishment in 1945 till today when it is a sign of hope and unity. This year's theme encourages everyone to continue the search for a world that functions under these values to live a life based on these principles so the world can be a better place to reside.