UNITED NATIONS


MEDIA RELEASE


UN DAY COMMEMORATION

WHEN: Wednesday 24 October 2007 Programme Attached
WHERE: Lesotho Sun Hotel, Maseru, Lesotho.
WHAT: Lesotho and UN System Mark UN Day

As a member of the United Nations Organisation, the Government of Lesotho, supported by the United Nations in Lesotho, will lead the national celebrations to observe the UN Day at Lesotho Sun Hotel. On the occasion, the Minister of Finance and Development Planning will present a speech on the “UN’s Development Role and Challenges”; the Acting UN Resident Coordinator will deliver the Secretary General’s message for the day; and the Minister of Foreign Affairs will give the Government’s response to the Secretary General’s message. Other envisaged activities include showcasing the work of the UN through exhibition, songs and a drama.

The overall objective of the national commemoration is to: (1) facilitate advocacy and dialogue among various stakeholders on the UN’s role in addressing current development challenges amplified by the increasing HIV&AIDS infections; (2) celebrate diversity in the United Nations through dance, music and drama; and (3) showcase the roles played by various UN agencies in development towards the ultimate attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

Lesotho became a member of the United Nations on the 17th of October 1966 after gaining her Independence. For Lesotho, this year marks the 41st Anniversary of its membership to the UN.

In line with the current complex humanitarian situation prevailing in the country, the theme for the UN Day chosen by Lesotho this year is: “Together We Can Tackle HIV, Poverty and Hunger”. This is a call to all of us to re-double our efforts against the intricate combination of HIV/AIDS and poverty which compromise the coping capacities of the affected population groups, recovery in agricultural production as well as access to food.

BACKGROUND
The purposes of the United Nations, as set out in the UN Charter, are to maintain international peace and security; to develop friendly relations among nations; to cooperate in solving international economic, social, cultural and humanitarian problems and in promoting respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms; and to be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations in attaining these ends.

The UN Charter is the constituting instrument of the United Nations, articulating the rights and obligations of the Member States, and establishing the Organisation’s organs and procedures. It embraces the central role of the United Nations in addressing the most profound issues facing the future of humankind.

The anniversary of the entry into force of the United Nations Charter - 24 October 1945 - has been celebrated as United Nations Day since 1948. It has traditionally been marked throughout the world by meetings, discussions and exhibits on the achievements and goals of the UN Organization.

For more information please contact:
Ms. ‘Mamosa Moteetee, Communication, UN Information Centre
Telephone: +266-22-313790; Cell phone: +266-58868932
E-mail: mamosa.ramakatane@undp.org

Ms. Clelia Barbadoro, Communication, UNICEF
Telephone: +266-22-315801; Cell phone: +266-58882872
E-mail: cbarbadoro@unicef.org