UN’s 70th anniv: World turns #UNBlue in celebration

To mark the Day, more than 150 iconic monuments, buildings, museums, bridges and other landmarks in more than 45 countries around the world will be lit up blue – the official color of the United Nations.

“Now, more than ever, the significance of United Nations can not be overemphasized as governments continue to resort to the UN and its various agencies for the promotion of peace, health, and development”.

The secretary-general told the assembly that the United Nations over seven decades has brought “freedom to millions, dismantling colonialism, defeating apartheid and defending human rights for all, regardless of race, religion, nationality, gender or sexual orientation”.

To prevent war in the world, October 24, 1945 in San Francisco in 50 countries, the United Nations was formally established after long negotiations. However, several crucial issues remain without solution, in particular the Palestinian cause. The United Nations works for the entire human family of seven billion people, and cares for the earth, our one and only home.

Noting that “no single country or organization can address today’s challenges alone”, the United Nations chief stressed that the world faces many crises, and the limits of collective global action are “painfully clear”.

To commemorate the milestone anniversary, around 200 monuments and buildings across the world – including six in Singapore – were lit in the colour of the UN. “But there is only one flag that belongs to all of us”, Ban said in a message.

Speaking at a time when the organisation he leads is coming under increasing scrutiny, Mr Ban used his annual UN Day message to highlight the good work it is doing, thank his staff and also stress once again its continued relevance.

This celebration started in New York and Australia, where the Sydney Opera House tuned blue to mark the UN Day.

Ahead of this year’s UN day, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said the United Nations remains a ‘beacon for all humanity, ‘ and the UN Charter must remain the guide of the worldwide community.

It is the second year in a row for pianist Lang Lang, UN Messenger of Peace, to join the concert at the UN Headquarters to mark UN Day.

While not legally binding, the Code of Conduct reflects growing concern at the power of the five veto-wielding council members the USA, Russia, China, Britain and France to veto a resolution on crimes against mass atrocities.