During my recent trip to New York, it was wonderful to be welcomed by a friend to the United Nations headquarters for a behind-the-scenes insight and to learn more about some of the key UN initiatives and important work currently underway. I couldn’t think of a better way to kick off my time in NYC!
‘Sphere Within Sphere’ sculpture.
It was brilliant to visit in-person some of the iconic settings within the United Nations headquarters, such as the General Assembly, the Security Council Chamber, the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), and the Trusteeship Council.
During my visit, it was enlightening to learn more about the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which call for collaborative action amongst developing and developed countries. These goals include eradicating poverty, quality education for all, and economic growth (amongst many more).
While at the UN, it was a privilege to be brought to the exclusive Delegates Lounge (sadly not accessible to the general public). The stylish Delegates Lounge space was commissioned by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where numerous negotiations apparently take place. What struck me was that amongst the sea of business suits, there were also delegates donning the traditional outfits from their respective countries too. Which in itself encapsulated the diverse breadth of member states that the UN represents.
The Delegates Lounge features some pretty impressive views of the Hudson River and beyond. A great place to get the lay of the land if you happen to be new in the city, like me!
Next, it was time for a stroll around the beautiful grounds of the United Nations headquarters. I adored the beautiful rose garden, which was in full bloom at the time, with a whole spectrum of colours and variations.
The grounds of the United Nations headquarters are home to an array of sculptures that have been gifted by the member states. I especially loved that there is a work by an esteemed late Cornish artist, Barbara Hepworth, situated in front of the Secretariat Building.
Peace Is the Way (Gandhi Bust) Presented by the government of India.
‘Consciousness’ by Mongolian artist Ochirbold Ayurza, presented by the government of Mongolia.
‘Non-violence gun’ by Swedish artist Carl Fredrik Reuterswärd, presented by the government of Luxembourg.
It was an absolute honour to get a behind-the-scenes insight into life at the United Nations and to learn more about the organisation’s important work. Since my visit, I’ve been getting increasingly involved with UN Women, and am very much looking forward to attending the UN Women’s awards in London, which I’ll be sharing more about in due course!
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