The United Nations at 70: Has our global experiment worked?.

On Friday 9 October 2015, the United Nations Association – UK (UNA-UK) will hold a public event to mark the 70th anniversary of the United Nations with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and members of The Elders, Gro Harlem Brundtland and Hina Jilani.

Held in association with the City of London Corporation, this event will take place in the magnificent setting of the Guildhall, in the heart of the City where the UN held its first meetings seven decades ago. Doors will open at 5pm for a 5.30 start, and will conclude at 7.15pm.

Speakers and panellists will assess the UN's achievements and its ability to navigate increasingly complex global challenges and to make an impact in a world that has changed dramatically since its founding. The UK's contribution to the UN will also be examined, including the extent to which it remains a pacesetter at the UN.

The event will open with a panel discussion featuring Gro Harlem Brundtland, former Prime Minister of Norway and Hina Jilani, pioneering lawyer and pro-democracy campaigner in Pakistan.

Natalie Samarasinghe, UNA-UK's Executive Director, will lead the debate, asking whether a global organisation still makes sense in 2015 and how the UN can move forward when big powers disagree. Panellists will also comment on how to make the UN more effective and appealing to policy-makers and future generations.

The keynote speech will be delivered by Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, on his first public visit to the UK. He will set out challenges and opportunities for the international human rights system and will also comment on issues of particular relevance to the UK, including the country's role as a human rights standard-setter.

Attendance is strictly by prior registration. Tickets are limited and expected to sell out quickly. Anyone wishing to attend is advised to secure their place as soon as possible.

You will receive an email confirmation of your booking.
Please bring a copy of your ticket (printed, on smartphone or tablet) and photo identification to gain admission.