United Nations 80th Anniversary Commemoration: “A Living Legacy”

New York, September 19, 2025 — The United Nations marked its 80th anniversary with a high-level commemorative event entitled “UN@80: A Living Legacy”, celebrating eight decades of global service in advancing peace, security, and sustainable development.
The event was held on September 19, 2025, in the General Assembly Hall at UN Headquarters in New York, the Organization’s most symbolic venue, historically reserved for the General Debate and major international ceremonies. The setting underscored the event’s solemnity and global significance.
Keynote remarks were delivered by top UN leaders. Secretary-General António Guterres reflected on the UN’s tireless efforts over the past eighty years to foster peace and development, while emphasizing its continued mission in addressing climate change, inequality, and conflict. Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed called for urgent action to accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly in education, poverty eradication, and climate action. The Executive Director of UN Women highlighted the central role of gender equality and women’s empowerment in shaping the future of global governance, urging stronger support for women’s leadership in sustainable development.
Among the invited participants was Madam Winny Power Chair of Global Mazu Sustainable Development Foundation (GMSDF) and Chief Representative (Asia-Pacific & Greater China) of the International Business School the Hague (IBSH). Her participation underscored the importance of civil society and academia in advancing the UN agenda, reflecting her longstanding commitment to cross-cultural dialogue, women’s empowerment, ocean sustainability, and education.

The theme “A Living Legacy” not only commemorated the UN’s historic achievements but also reaffirmed its role as a living institution that continues to shape the global order and humanity’s shared future. Madam Lam’s attendance symbolized the convergence of civil society, academia, and cultural diplomacy in strengthening the UN’s mission.

Strategic Cooperation Background

In parallel with her role at the UN commemoration, Madam Winny Power is advancing a Strategic Cooperation Agreement between GMSDF, IBSH, and Track Nepal. Signed in 2025, the agreement seeks to:
- Advance the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through education, women’s empowerment, climate action, and cross-cultural dialogue.
- Launch a Leadership and Education Initiative in 2026 to train 100 women leaders and youth from Asia and Africa in sustainable development practices, climate strategies, and cross-cultural engagement.
- Strengthen international platforms for collaboration by co-hosting forums, conferences, and academic programs aligned with the UN agenda.
This tripartite partnership injects fresh momentum into the joint international influence of GMSDF and IBSH, while delivering tangible opportunities for communities in Asia, Africa, and beyond.