The United Nations Resident Coordinator to Liberia, Madam Christine N. Umutoni, has disclosed that for the first time, Liberia will host the United Nations Day celebrations on the grounds of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In previous years, the event was held at the UN One House compound and on another occasion, in one of Liberia’s counties.
She announced that the United Nations, in collaboration with the Government of Liberia, will commemorate United Nations Day on October 26, 2026, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Monrovia.
Speaking during the regular press briefing of the Ministry of Information,
Madam Umutoni said United Nations Day is normally observed worldwide on October 24 to mark the anniversary of the entry into force of the UN Charter, the founding document of the organization, but noyed that because October 24 falls on a weekend this year, the Government of Liberia has decided to observe the Day on October 26.
Madam Umutoni, who coordinates the work of UN agencies operating in Liberia and represents the UN Secretary-General in the Country, expressed appreciation to members of the media for attending the briefing. She emphasized that the commemoration would highlight the longstanding partnership between Liberia and the United Nations.
According to Madam Umutoni, this year's celebration reflects the strong and enduring relationship between Liberia and the United Nations, as well as their shared commitment to peace, development, human rights, and international cooperation.
She further stated that the commemoration comes at a significant moment in Liberia's history, following the country's assumption of a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
She described the achievement as a source of pride for Liberia, Africa, and the international community, noting that it recognizes the country's progress in peacebuilding, democracy, and its growing role in addressing regional and global challenges.
Madam Umutoni said the celebration would provide an opportunity not only to recognize Liberia's achievements but also to reflect on the work that remains to be done in advancing sustainable development, creating opportunities for young people, strengthening social cohesion, and building resilience against emerging challenges.
She disclosed that the program would feature messages from government officials, young people, cultural performances, exhibitions, and other activities highlighting the cooperation between Liberia and the United Nations.
Particular attention, she said, would be given to young people, who would have the opportunity to share their aspirations under the theme “Liberia We Want by 2030.” She stressed that youth participation is essential to shaping the country's future, especially as Liberia continues to strengthen peace, stability, and development.
The UN Resident Coordinator observed that many young Liberians were born after the country's years of conflict and may not fully understand the history of the nation's peacebuilding journey. She encouraged them to appreciate the progress made and to contribute actively to sustaining peace and transforming the country.
She added that young people want employment opportunities, access to a better standard of living, peace, and stability. These aspirations, she said, must remain central to national development efforts.
Madam Umutoni emphasized that building a peaceful and prosperous Liberia is a collective responsibility that extends beyond the government.
She said the private sector, young people, women, civil society organizations, international partners, and all other sectors of society must work together to consolidate the country's achievements and address emerging challenges.
She reaffirmed the United Nations' commitment to continue collaboration with Liberia, noting that the objectives of both parties remain aligned around peace, dignity, equality, opportunity, and prosperity for all.
She also called on the media and relevant institutions across Liberia to help ensure that citizens in all 15 counties are informed adequately.
