“Strong UN. Better world” - the 70th anniversary of the United Nations celebrated in Geneva on 24 October 2015
The United Nations Office at Geneva is one of the United Nations Headquarters, where issues related to peace and security, human rights, humanitarian aid, climate and environment, trade and development, as well as many other issues affecting the whole world are addressed every day. Therefore and to mark the 70th anniversary of the United Nations, the UN Office at Geneva has decided to open the doors of the Palace of Nations to general public and hold an Open Day on 24 October 2015.
During the day, visitors will be able to walk through the splendid premises of the Palace of Nations and become acquainted with the history of the UN and its current activities. Visitors are also welcome to listen to music performances, enjoy art and art performances as well as visit the stands of member states and different UN agencies, funds and programmes, among other things. Non-governmental organizations and representatives of the city of Geneva are present as well, the latter to emphasize how significant the international atmosphere is for the city.
In the Ariana Park, surrounding the Palace of Nations, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) will display refugee shelters while the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) will fly a drone designed for collecting information and pictures.
The highlight of the day will be the inauguration of a monumental sculpture by the Italian artist Michelangelo Pistoletto. The event will take place at noon in the Ariana Park. The sculpture, Rebirth, is based on the symbol of infinity and is composed of 193 stones representing each one of the United Nations’ current Member States. The sculpture illustrates the relevance of the United Nations and a balanced and harmonious world that can be achieved through dialogue.
Finland has an additional reason for celebration as December will mark the 60th anniversary of Finland's membership in the UN. By chance, the number of the stone representing Finland in the "Rebirth" sculpture happens to be 60 as if to honor the great national milestone. The stone itself is red granite from Taivassalo.
The significance and the role of the United Nations becomes relevant, in particular, when the world community needs to address the most pressing challenges it is facing. The anniversary of the organization provides an excellent opportunity to learn more about its wide operations and activities. Strong UN, better world!
The exact program is found on webpage of the UN: www.unog.ch/openday(Link to another website.).