Lahore (TDI): The United Nations in Pakistan is marking its 80th anniversary with a vibrant public celebration this Saturday, at Alhamra Arts Council.
The family-oriented “UN Day” will offer an afternoon of music, learning, and community engagement; all centered on the theme for the year, “Building Our Future Together.”
The festival will begin at 3:00 p.m., with free entry for all visitors. The festivities will feature live performances from popular Pakistani artists including Farhan Saeed, Urooj Fatima, Ali Ashraf ft. Dastaan, and Nazakat Ali Shad.
UN DAY is back!
After Islamabad last year, we are heading to LAHORE!
Come meet 22 UN agencies at Alhamra Mall Road on Saturday 25 October, 15:00 to 22:00!
To celebrate #UN80: a UN CAREER BOOTH & Free Live Concerts (Farhan Saeed | Urooj Fatima).#UNdayPk pic.twitter.com/XPlSazwqoU
— United Nations Pakistan – اقوام متحدہ پاکستان (@UNinPak) October 13, 2025
Alongside the entertainment, attendees will be able to explore a “UN Market Place,” where representatives from 22 UN agencies operating in Pakistan will showcase their ongoing projects and initiatives.
A special “Career Booth” will offer guidance for those interested in pursuing a career with the UN, featuring tips from human resources teams.
The event will also include an exhibition highlighting the shared history of Pakistan and the United Nations, children’s activities, selfie corners, food stalls, and giveaways.
“This year’s celebration is not only about looking back at the past 80 years, but also about shaping the future,” said Mohamed Yahya, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Pakistan.
“The challenges we face — from climate change and inequality to new technologies and conflict — require unity and cooperation. The only way forward is together, and that is what we will celebrate in Lahore this Saturday.”
Read More: UNODC, Pakistan Join Hands to Combat Environmental Crimes
UN Day commemorates the ratification of the UN Charter on October 24, 1945. Pakistan joined the organization two years later and has since played an active role on the international stage.
The country is currently serving its eighth term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council and remains one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions worldwide.
Pakistan’s relationship with the UN runs deep, with several distinguished Pakistanis having shaped the organization’s legacy.
Begum Shaista Ikramullah contributed to the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Ahmad Shah Bokhari played a key role in the creation of UNICEF, economist Mahbub ul Haq developed the Human Development Index, and Dr. Nafis Sadik became the first woman to lead a major UN program.
Today, 23 UN agencies maintain 266 offices across Pakistan, working closely with the government and local communities to advance sustainable development, gender equality, climate action, and inclusive economic growth.
Established in December 2008, The Diplomatic Insight is Pakistan’s premier diplomacy and foreign affairs magazine, available in both digital and print formats.
