The Institute for Political and International Studies (IPIS) in Tehran hosted the high-level event on October 24, in which an array of notable participants, including the UN Resident Coordinator in Iran Stefan Priesner, the UN Country Team Reza Najafi, Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as representatives from the diplomatic community, government officials, and civil society representatives were brought together at the gathering.
Addressing the audience were Stefan Priesner, Reza Najafi, and Prof. Nasrin Mosaffa, Head of the Iranian Association for UN Studies (IAUNS). Notably, out of the 150 attendees, more than 55 represented various diplomatic missions in the country, including 36 ambassadors.
In a solemn moment at the request of the UN Resident Coordinator, a moment of silence was observed, demonstrating solidarity with the innocent lives lost in the recent tragic developments in the Middle East.
Stefan Priesner emphasized the pivotal role played by the 18 resident UN agencies, funds, and programs in Iran, stating, "The UN family in Iran is well placed to play a bridging role by identifying solutions to critical humanitarian and development problems and in facilitating regional and international cooperation to implement these solutions." He also underscored the extensive experience and trust gained over decades of UN collaboration with national partners in Iran.
As part of the event, publications from across the UN system were showcased, highlighting the technical expertise and added value that the UN provides to its Member States.
In an effort to underscore the importance of UN values, including unity, open dialogue, and solidarity, four prominent monuments in Tehran — Azadi Tower, Milad Tower, Tabiat Bridge, and Golestan Palace — were illuminated in blue on October 24, 2023.
This blue illumination served as a reminder that Iran was among the founding Member States of the UN in 1945.
Participants at the event included prominent figures from the UN, the Iranian government, and diplomatic missions, uniting to celebrate the ideals of the United Nations and address critical issues affecting the Middle East.
Every year on October 24th, the world commemorates United Nations Day, marking the inception of the United Nations and the adoption of the UN Charter. This day serves as a global reminder of the UN's fundamental values and the pivotal role it plays in promoting international dialogue and cooperation to address pressing global challenges.
The United Nations in Iran, composed of 18 Agencies, Funds, and Programs, is actively engaged in development assistance and humanitarian efforts. Their development focus areas include public health management, socio-economic resilience, environmental protection encompassing integrated natural resources management and climate change mitigation, disaster risk reduction, and drug control.
In addition to its development work, UN entities in Iran provide substantial humanitarian support to the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran. This includes emergency response, disaster relief, and significant aid to Iran's commendable efforts in hosting one of the world's largest refugee populations.