Anniversary

Today is United Nations Day in celebration of the creation of the UN in 1945. October 24th commemorates the entry into force of the UN Charter that created the international organization and marked what was supposed to be a new era in preventing conflict and establishing prosperity. While the UN is 61 years old, it is faced with demands for reform and questions about its effectiveness. In Kofi Annan’s message today celebrating the successes regarding development, security, and human rights, he acknowledged that many challenges still exist and there is much to be done. This is a pivotal time for the UN, with a new Secretary-General starting his term in two months and serious crises that need to be confronted throughout the world. The hope is that the UN rises to this difficult test.