United Nations Day, 24 October 2011

On 31 October 2011, the world's population is expected to reach 7 billion. A world of 7 billion poses many challenges: in fighting poverty and disease, in securing education and sustainable livelihoods and in mitigating climate change. But this milestone for humanity can also be seen as an opportunity to renew our commitment to work individually and together for a better world.

A campaign spearheaded by the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), called 7 Billion Actions, seeks to inspire change that will make a difference by highlighting positive action by individuals and organizations around the world.

As part of the annual outreach programme, UN4U, on 24 October Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will visit the New Explorations into Science, Technology and Math High School in New York City. There he will announce the countdown to 31 October and will promote the 2011 theme for UN Day: "Ways the United Nations Makes a Difference in Everyday Life."

"UN Day is a day on which we resolve to do more. More to protect those caught up in armed conflict, to fight climate change and avert nuclear catastrophe; more to expand opportunities for women and girls, and to combat injustice and impunity; more to meet the Millennium Development Goals."

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
Message on UN Day, 24 October 2010

Source: United Nations