Australia turns #UNBLUE to mark 70 years

Australia's most famous landmarks will join iconic sites around the world in lighting up #UNBlue this weekend to pay tribute to the United Nations on its 70th anniversary.

The Sydney Opera House will be illuminated tonight and the MCG, Perth's Bell Tower and more than 25 other Australian landmarks on Saturday night, to promote the UN's goals of peace, sustainable development and human rights for all. In a world first, the UN crest will be projected on Uluru, with the support of the traditional owners.
The tribute signifies Australia's commitment to shaping an effective UN that protects the world's most vulnerable people and brings together nations to address global challenges.

Australia played a key role in drafting the UN Charter, driven by a strong conviction that an international system based on rules and cooperation provided the best opportunity for security, peace and prosperity.

Since its inception we have made a significant contribution to the UN's work. Almost 65,000 Australians have served in international peace operations, including in our region. We have played leadership roles in brokering global treaties that make our world a safer place, and promoting gender equality, human rights and the rule of law.

In recognition of Australia's ongoing commitment to the UN, I have announced Australia's candidacy for both the United Nations Security Council in 2029-30 and Human Rights Council in 2018-20.

Since 1945, the UN has worked with its members and partners to end colonialism and apartheid, defeat deadly diseases, provide life-saving humanitarian assistance, keep peace in troubled areas, prevent the spread of nuclear and other weapons, facilitate democratic elections, promote social and economic advancement and strengthen international law and justice.