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Photo collage showcasing cultural activities from diverse traditions

Amid interconnected crises that are widening gaps in peace, development, trust and governance, the world faces growing instability at a historic crossroads. The International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations (10 June) highlights the value of diversity and the importance of dialogue, mutual respect and global solidarity to build a more harmonious, connected world. Under the theme "Exploring New Pathways for Dialogue Among Civilizations, and Jointly Writing New Chapters for Global Governance," a High-Level Event takes place today in the Trusteeship Council Chamber to mark the Day. .

A helps governments, law enforcement, and experts to clandestine chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear weapon labs.

After years of displacement, families returning to Yathrib, a small town in Salah al Din, Iraq,  struggle to rebuild destroyed homes and restore stability with limited support.

Modern warfare destroys homes, weaponizes fear, and forces women and girls to survive violence, displacement, hunger, and trauma daily.

An UN mural by Spanish artist Jose Vela Zanetti illustrating humanity's ongoing quest for lasting peace.

Rooted in the UN’s post–World War II mission to prevent conflict and uphold human rights, the General Assembly established the International Day of Living Together in Peace (16 May) to promote respect for differences and advance peace, tolerance, inclusion, and solidarity, and support reconciliation and sustainable development. This year’s theme, “Living Together in Peace: Building Trust through Dialogue, Inclusion and Reconciliation,” is timely, as the Secretary-General has highlighted global strain and urged renewed cooperation through the Pact for the Future and the UN80 initiative.

A dove flying towards the light.

The United Nations commemorates 8–9 May as days of remembrance and reconciliation for those who lost their lives during the Second World War. While countries may have their own national days to mark victory or liberation, all are encouraged to observe one or both of these days each year to honor the victims of the war that led to the creation of the United Nations. We urge all countries to work together to address new challenges, with the UN playing a central role, and to resolve disputes peacefully in line with the UN Charter, so that international peace and security are not put at risk.

Jorge Moreira da Silva, Executive Director of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)

A potential blockage of fertilizers through the could trigger a “very significant and severe” global food crisis, disproportionately affecting the poorest countries, according to Jorge Moreira da Silva of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS). He warned that access to these critical supplies is essential ahead of planting season.

He added that a UN-led task force could activate a “one-stop platform” within seven days to help coordinate the flow of fertilizers and raw materials, if passage through the strait is allowed. The goal, he told UN News journalist Reem Abaza, is to quickly support the world’s most vulnerable communities and prevent worsening .

Photo Credit: UN

A is driving up fuel and food costs worldwide, pushing millions closer to hunger as disrupted supply chains hit the most vulnerable communities hardest.

In Benin, a new generation is learning about workplace rights and boundaries through sex education, helping to change workplace culture.

War, hunger, and displacement continue devastating millions in Sudan, as aid struggles to keep pace with worsening humanitarian needs and funding gaps.

View of the Eduardo Kobra mural at UN Headquarters depicting a man handing an Earth globe to a young girl.

The UN Charter commits us to settling disputes peacefully and saving future generations from war—a goal supported by preventive diplomacy and renewed each International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace (24 April). Today, as conflicts rage from the Middle East to Sudan and Ukraine, the need for effective multilateralism has never been greater. Peace is a choice we must make together. On this International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace, let us recommit to a stronger UN, respect for international law, and a united humanity striving for a better tomorrow.

Escalating violence in and is exposing children to trauma, fear, displacement, and disrupted safety, education, and daily life.

Global shipping disruptions, including closures of the and rerouting via the Cape of Good Hope, are delaying food aid, raising costs, and reducing assistance.

Explosive ordnance contamination remains a deadly, often hidden threat long after conflicts end, endangering lives, livelihoods and especially curious children. In the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT), Sudan and Syria, differing conflicts create the same indiscriminate risks. Communities —often the first to spot dangers—play a vital role in sharing warnings and promoting safe behaviour. Through Explosive Ordnance Risk Education, UNMAS supports people facing layered challenges, strengthening safety and resilience. The exhibition highlights the universal risks of explosive ordnance and showcases how children’s voices and insights help champion safer behaviours.