In a historic moment that changed the face of the world, the Charter of the United Nations emerged eighty years ago as a shining star in a sky darkened by the smoke of wars, opening doors of hope to a world of tranquility, stability, and safety for the peoples of the earth, who pledged to unite under the banner of peace and weave dreams of unity into a reality flourishing with justice and cooperation.
The Charter served as a bridge across the abyss of conflict, uniting nations in their pursuit of stability and development. From the halls of deliberation to the fields of humanitarian action, written words transformed into deeds that saved lives and rebuilt communities of peoples and tribes, paving countless paths toward a future filled with unwavering optimism, to build a world that embraces all and upholds human dignity in every corner of the globe.
On October 25, 1945, in the aftermath of World War II, representatives of around 50 countries gathered in San Francisco, United States of America, to sign the Charter of the United Nations, a document that carried within it a new hope for a world torn apart by the ravages of war, and a solemn vow that such devastating conflict would never occur again.
In celebration of the 80th anniversary of the signing of the Charter, the United Nations General Assembly held a commemorative event at the organization’s headquarters in New York City on June 26, reviving the spirit of San Francisco and embracing the ideals that united humanity in its darkest hours.
During the ceremony, attendees heard remarks from the President of the UN General Assembly, the Secretary-General, the President of the Security Council, the President of the Economic and Social Council, and the President of the International Court of Justice.
They emphasized the importance of recommitting to the principles of the Charter amid escalating conflicts and violations of international law, affirming that multilateralism remains the only path to safeguarding peace, dignity, and human rights.
President of the General Assembly Philemon Yang stated that the signing of the Charter marked a turning point in modern history following the devastation of two world wars, laying the foundations for a new multilateral system meant to be built on dialogue and cooperation.
He added that the United Nations, over eight decades, has been at the heart of humanity’s response to its greatest challenges, shaping a global agenda that aspires to peace, development, and dignity, not as dreams for some, but as promises for all.
For his part, Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres said that eighty years after the signing of the Charter, the world is witnessing unprecedented assaults on the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, urging all member states to uphold the spirit and letter of the Charter and the future it calls all to build, for peace, justice, and progress, for all peoples of the earth.
Guterres also affirmed that the Charter has provided the tools to change destinies, save lives, and instill hope in the most despairing corners of the world.
The United Nations Charter consists of 19 chapters comprising 111 articles. It begins with an inspiring preamble focused on maintaining international peace and security, fostering friendly relations among nations, and promoting international cooperation to solve economic, social, and cultural problems.
Through its chapters, the Charter outlines a roadmap for peace, justice, and cooperation, affirming principles of sovereign equality, respect for international obligations, and the peaceful resolution of disputes. It also defines the conditions for admitting new members, suspending membership, or expelling any state that violates its principles.
The chapters of the Charter specify the roles and responsibilities of the UN General Assembly, the Security Council, and the Secretary-General.
Chapter VII, one of the most critical sections, addresses actions related to threats to peace. When peaceful means fail, this chapter grants the Security Council the authority to take decisive measures, such as economic sanctions or military intervention. It also recognizes the right of states to self-defense if subjected to armed attack.
