Throughout decades of turbulence and transformation in global affairs, the UN has remained steadfast, reaffirming its role as a “beacon” that spreads the light of hope for a peaceful and cooperative future.
Tracing back 80 years, in the ashes of the Second World War, the UN was born with a noble mission: to maintain international peace and security. On June 26, 1945, nations came together to sign the UN Charter, officially establishing this multilateral organisation.
The Charter entered into force on October 24, 1945. Since then, the UN has consistently upheld its role as the “guardian” of peace — working to prevent and eliminate threats to global security while promoting the peaceful resolution of disputes through negotiation and dialogue.
From its original 51 founding members, the UN has grown into a “common home” for 193 nations. Over the past eight decades, its most significant achievement has been acting as a mediator in international crises and initiating efforts to resolve conflicts worldwide.
This has been exemplified by the recent developments concerning peace in the Gaza Strip. Amid complex tensions and confrontations among the parties involved, under the UN’s facilitation, many countries recognised the State of Palestine during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly — a positive and encouraging step forward for global diplomacy in pursuit of peace.
The UN has also undertaken numerous critical missions, including delivering food aid and deploying peacekeeping forces to conflict zones. Through its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the organisation has advanced global agendas to improve life expectancy, eradicate hunger and poverty, deliver humanitarian relief, and enhance access to education and healthcare.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has affirmed that the UN is not merely a place for dialogue but “a force for peace, a defender of international law, and a lifeline for people in crisis.”
Marking the UN’s 80th anniversary, the Opening Ceremony for the Signing of the United Nations Convention on Countering Cybercrime took place in Ha Noi, the capital of Viet Nam — a historic milestone in the global effort to safeguard cyberspace.
This achievement underscores the irreplaceable role of the UN in fostering international solidarity and reflects the enduring vitality of multilateralism.
Compared with 80 years ago, today’s world faces profound changes. Prolonged conflicts, escalating geopolitical tensions, humanitarian crises, climate change-induced natural disasters, cyberattacks, and pandemics all present complex and persistent challenges.
The UN is under increasing pressure to manage multiple large-scale crises while mobilising sufficient resources for development initiatives.
In response to these challenges, Secretary-General António Guterres has introduced a reform initiative known as UN80, focusing on three key priorities: improving operational efficiency through cost-saving measures, reviewing task implementation mechanisms, and restructuring the entire UN system. Member states have reached a consensus that the UN must undergo reform to strengthen its role and effectiveness in the current context.
The path ahead for maintaining peace and security remains fraught with difficulties. Yet, building on the achievements of the past 80 years and with a strong commitment to comprehensive reform that meets the demands of reality, the United Nations continues to stand as a “global guiding light,” leading humanity toward a fair and rules-based international order.
