UN marks 81st anniv

The United Nations marks its 81st anniversary on Saturday, commemorating more than eight decades of efforts to promote international peace and security, strengthen cooperation among nations and uphold human rights. 

Observed annually on October 24, United Nations Day marks the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945, following the devastation of the Second World War and the failure of the League of Nations to prevent another global conflict.

Headquartered in Manhattan, New York, the United Nations was named by then US President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The organisation currently has 193 member states, with its secretary-general serving as its chief administrative officer. António Guterres of Portugal is the current secretary-general.
Bangladesh and the United Nations

Bangladesh became the UN's 136th member state on September 17, 1974, after pursuing membership following independence to strengthen its position in the international community.


In 2026, Bangladesh remains among the leading contributors of military and police personnel to UN peacekeeping missions, underscoring its longstanding commitment to international peace and security.
Bangladesh's place in global diplomacy

Bangladesh has also maintained a presence in the UN General Assembly's leadership. Humayun Rashid Choudhury, a Bangladeshi diplomat, served as president of the General Assembly's 41st session in 1986.


The UN Security Council consists of 15 members: five permanent members and 10 non-permanent members. The permanent members-- China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States -- hold veto power over substantive council decisions.


United Nations Day is observed in countries around the world through discussions, cultural programmes and public awareness initiatives.

The occasion highlights the importance of international cooperation, peaceful conflict resolution and the protection of human rights. It also offers an opportunity for member states to reaffirm their commitment to the principles of the UN Charter amid continuing global conflicts and international challenges.

For Bangladesh, the anniversary serves as a reminder of its decades-long engagement with the organisation, particularly through peacekeeping operations and multilateral diplomacy.