Italy and the United Nations: Celebrating 70 Years of Membership and 80 Years of Multilateralism

This year marks two important milestones in international diplomacy: the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations and the 70th Anniversary of Italy’s membership in the organization. To commemorate these occasions, the Permanent Mission of Italy to the United Nations co-organized a special panel discussion in New York with the Foreign Policy Association as part of a year-long series of 50th anniversary celebration events.

Since joining the United Nations on December 14, 1955, by unanimous vote of both the Security Council and General Assembly, Italy has built a strong legacy of multilateral engagement. For seventy years, Italy has actively contributed to the UN’s work in peacekeeping, human rights, and sustainable development, upholding the values of the UN Charter and reaffirming its commitment to international cooperation.

Ambassador Maurizio Massari, the Permanent Representative of Italy to the UN discussed at the Harvard Club on June 16th, 2025 some key points:

1. The Evolving Dynamics in Global Affairs: Panelists examined the increasingly complex shifts in international relations, where geopolitical tensions, technological disruptions, and economic interdependencies redefine diplomatic priorities and global cooperation.

2. New Challenges to the UN System: The conversation identified critical systemic challenges facing the United Nations today across its three central pillars: peace and security, sustainable development, and the protection and promotion of human rights. Speakers addressed issues ranging from ongoing regional conflicts, climate change, and humanitarian crises to the protection of civil liberties and the equitable implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

3. Proposing Actionable Solutions: Participants exchanged views on tangible measures to strengthen multilateralism amid a challenging and often divided international environment. Emphasis was placed on reinforcing the relevance of the United Nations as a platform for inclusive dialogue and collective problem-solving, while advocating for reform and innovation in global governance structures.

The panel also explored the evolving dynamics of global affairs, the major challenges facing the UN in peace and security, development, and human rights, and proposed actionable solutions to support multilateralism in an increasingly complex world.

The conversation reflected on the future of global governance and the enduring importance of collective action in addressing today’s pressing international challenges. The event reaffirmed Italy’s deep-rooted partnership with the United Nations and its ongoing commitment to promoting peace, development, and human dignity worldwide.

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