The United Nations is celebrating its 70th Anniversary in 2015. When we think about the United Nations, many images come to mind such as peace and security, human rights, education, economic development and the environment. However, perhaps one of the most iconic images of this international organization is the UN Headquarters building in New York. As we commemorate this historic year, the UN Postal Administration proudly celebrates this unique landmark with the issuance of stamps and souvenir sheets highlighting the architecture of this iconic building.

Two years after United Nations officially came into existence on 24 October 1945, the UN began searching for a location for its world headquarters. After numerous offers from cities around the world, the UN settled on a 17 acre plot of land on the banks of the East River in New York City, which was donated by John D. Rockefeller. In 1947, the UN commissioned Wallace K. Harrison to lead an international team of renowned architects, including Le Corbusier of France and Oscar Niemeyer of Brazil to create the new world headquarters. Its sleek, modern international style was an intentional decision by the design team to symbolize change and a sense of newness in order to focus on an optimistic future after World War II. The construction began in 1949 and was completed in 1952.

For the past several years, the UN Headquarters in New York has undergone a historic renovation to update the building with a safer, more modern and sustainable work environment. While the integrity of the building and its architectural features have been maintained, there have been substantial improvements, making it more energy efficient, climate friendly and meeting stricter security requirements. Fittingly, this renovation has been completed just in time for the 70th Anniversary of the UN. These enhancements have made it more resilient and at the same time reinforce the message of the UN at 70 which is “Strong UN. Better World”.

The United Nations Headquarters in New York, adorned with its colourful flags of Member States, has provided a forum for people and nations to gather around the globe for the past 70 years. With its innovative updates and restoration, this iconic building is UN Strong, ready to face new challenges and provide hope for an optimistic future, as it continues to be recognized as a visual symbol of world peace.