The Upper School community celebrated the United Nations’ (U.N.) 69th anniversary of promoting international peace and preventing conflict today.

Established in 1945 in the aftermath of World War II, the U.N. campaigns for peace, advocates for fundamental human rights, combats poverty and provides humanitarian aid in impoverished countries.

The Secretariat, or officers of the Model U.N. club, have planted blue and white U.N. flags all across campus and gave away candy during both lunches to raise awareness.

Sophia Luo (11), Secretary-General of the Upper School’s Model U.N. chapter, comments on the positive impact the U.N. has made since its inception.

“The United Nations has brought world peace to different parts of the world and provided a forum for international collaboration,” Sophia said. “Although it may be slow in its decision making process, it effectively brings otherwise belligerent countries together for open discussion.”

Neymika Jain (10) believes that the U.N. has made a series of beneficial changes in the global community.

“To me, U.N. is an organization that unites the world and creates peace. I feel that the U.N. truly helps provide justice and equality for an international community,” Neymika said. “It advocates equality as the United Nations supports human rights. I think in 2011 the General Assembly advocated rights for the LGBT community.”

The Webmaster of the Model U.N. club, Sandip Nirmel (10), comments on the U.N.’s codification of International law.

“The United Nations is one of the few organizations that unites nearly all of the countries in the world. By setting Millennium Development Goals and structuring international policy, the United Nations sets the framework for proper diplomacy and peace,” Sandip said.

According to the U.N. website, current issues being debated range from environment and refugee protection, disaster relief, nuclear disarmament, sustainable development, counter terrorism, international health, human rights and gender equality, to clearing landmines and promoting democracy.

In an a White House press release concerning U.N. day, U.S. President Barack Obama addressed the pivotal role the U.N. plays in fostering peace.

“The United Nations supports our shared pursuit of a better world…On this day, let us resolve to strengthen and renew the United Nations. Let us choose hope over fear, collaboration over division, and humanity over brutality, as we work together to build a tomorrow marked by progress rather than suffering,” Obama said. “We can build a more peaceful and more prosperous future for all our children and grandchildren.”

On the evening of Oct. 24, a concert will be held in the U.N. General Assembly Hall in celebration where Secretary-General, Ban Ki Moon, will address the audience and acclaimed pianist Lang Lang will perform.

In an interview with Earth Times, Moon called upon both nations and individuals “to work in common cause for the common good.””

The next Model U.N. club conference, Bruinman, will be held at UCLA and take place from Nov. 8-9.