The United Nations was envisioned as a cornerstone of collective security and international cooperation. Established in 1945, its mandate is to maintain international peace and security, promote human rights, and foster social and economic development among its 193-member states. Its founding represented a turning point in the evolution of international relations.

Despite its achievements in averting global conflicts and facilitating development, the UN faces growing criticism regarding its legitimacy, effectiveness and trust. Thus, UN@80 is being seen both a milestone and a moment of reckoning. The debate is about its ability to adapt and reform to serve the 21st-century global order.