For over 75 years, the United Nations (UN) has stood at the forefront of global initiatives addressing humanity's most pressing challenges. Through its dedication to fostering collaboration, promoting peace, and envisioning transformative change, the UN has consistently demonstrated its unwavering commitment to creating a brighter future for all. The organization invites the global community to reflect on its remarkable history, celebrate its achievements, and actively shape a world grounded in equality, sustainability, and shared prosperity.

The United Nations was founded in 1945, in the aftermath of World War II, as a response to the devastating consequences of global conflict. With the initial participation of 51 member states, the UN embarked on a mission to maintain international peace and security, foster friendly relations among nations, and promote social progress. Its founding principles of dignity, equality, and justice underpin its work, ensuring its efforts are inclusive and impactful. Over the years, the UN has expanded its scope, addressing critical global issues ranging from climate change and poverty to gender equality and human rights.

At the heart of the UN’s efforts to empower future generations is the GYEL. This pioneering initiative, which operates within the framework of the United Nations system, is a multilateral and multistakeholder effort involving intergovernmental organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), permanent observers, and entities with official consultative status in the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). GYEL has focused on nurturing leadership and excellence among global youth for the past decade. The program equips young individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to address the complexities of an interconnected world, ensuring they are prepared to take on leadership roles in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

The UN’s commitment to fostering youth leadership exemplifies its holistic approach to global engagement. Programs like GYEL emphasize viewing young people as active partners rather than passive beneficiaries. By involving youth in initiatives focused on health, education, environmental protection, and innovation, the UN ensures that the leaders of tomorrow are fully equipped to tackle the challenges of today. This approach empowers individuals and strengthens communities, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for achieving a just and sustainable future.

A cornerstone of the UN’s vision for a sustainable world is the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adopted in 2015 by all 193 member states. These 17 interconnected goals provide a comprehensive framework for addressing global challenges by 2030. Covering areas such as poverty eradication, gender equality, quality education, clean water and sanitation, affordable clean energy, and climate action, the SDGs offer a roadmap for creating a world where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. The goals underscore the importance of a balanced approach to development that considers social, economic, and environmental sustainability.

The SDGs also highlight the interconnectedness of progress, where advancements in one area can positively influence outcomes in others. For instance, promoting gender equality (Goal 5) not only empowers women but also contributes to better health outcomes (Goal 3), improved educational access (Goal 4), and enhanced economic opportunities (Goal 8). This integrated approach ensures that the SDGs are pursued in isolation and as part of a broader strategy to create lasting and meaningful change. By mobilizing governments, businesses, civil society, and individuals, the SDG framework serves as a universal call to action, encouraging collective efforts to build a fairer, more inclusive world.