Reflecting on 80 Years of the United Nations and Looking Ahead

For 80 years, the United Nations has played a vital role in fostering international cooperation, promoting peace, protecting human rights, and driving sustainable development. Yet, for many, the UN is often seen through the narrow lens of political peace and security. The reality is that the UN’s impact extends far beyond diplomacy – it is woven into the fabric of global progress, from eradicating disease, enabling global systems from telecommunications to weather and space, and providing humanitarian aid to shaping policies that affect millions of lives daily.

The “UN at 80: Shaping Our Future Together” conference will celebrate this legacy while asking the essential question:

What must the UN do to remain effective in the decades ahead?

As we reflect on history, we must also look forward – exploring how nations, businesses, communities and individuals can work together to support a more peaceful, sustainable, and just world.

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Who Should Attend?

This event is for all who care about how Australia helps to solve global challenges now and in the future:

• Business and Corporate Leaders – Learn how international cooperation affects trade, sustainability, and corporate responsibility, ESG commitments and corporate social licence. Connect with like-minded organisations seeking to make a difference, create partnerships and explore initiatives to sponsor or participate in.
• Government & Policy Professionals – Understand Australia’s engagement with the UN and explore opportunities for better collaboration locally, state-wide, nationally and internationally.
• Academics, Think Tanks & Researchers – Share expertise, build new audiences, and find new partnerships to further develop evidence-based solutions to global issues.
• NGOs & Advocacy Groups – Build relationships and collaborate on initiatives related to peace and security, human rights, sustainability, and global citizenship.
• Students, Youth & Young Professionals – Gain insights from global leaders and explore career pathways in international relations and diplomacy, and further develop your networks and opportunities, including volunteering.

This conference is a chance to connect, learn, and take action with others who care about making a global impact.

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Why Attend?

• Gain a deeper understanding of the UN’s global impact – beyond the headlines.
• Engage with leading voices shaping the future of global cooperation.
• Explore solutions to pressing global challenges, from peacebuilding to climate action, human rights, and sustainable development.
• Network with like-minded individuals and organisations committed to making a difference.

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Key Themes & Discussions

• The UN at 80: Achievements, Challenges, and the Road Ahead
• Peacebuilding & Conflict Resolution: Australia’s Role in the UN Peacebuilding Commission
• The Future of Global Health: The UN’s Role in Preventing the Next Pandemic
• Climate Action & Sustainable Development: Working Together for a Greener Future for our Children to Inherit
• Women, Peace & Security: How Women Are Making a Difference
• Human Rights in a Shifting World: Defending Dignity, Equity, and Justice for All
• Australia and the UN: Why it Still Matters
• This is not just a reflection on the past – it is a call to action for the future.

The challenges are great, but the UN, with the support of nations, businesses, and individuals, remains a vital force for positive change.