United Nations Association of the United States of America

United Nations Association of the United States of America is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to building understanding of and support for the ideals and vital work of the United Nations among the American people. It is part of the global network of United Nations Associations affiliated with the World Federation of United Nations Associations. The organization engages in educational outreach, policy advocacy, and public programs to strengthen the U.S.–UN relationship and advance solutions to global challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, and human rights.

History

The organization was founded in 1943 during World War II as a citizens' movement to promote postwar international cooperation, initially named the American Association for the United Nations. Its creation was encouraged by President Franklin D. Roosevelt prior to the Dumbarton Oaks Conference. It later merged with other groups supporting the nascent United Nations Charter. Throughout the Cold War, it worked to maintain bipartisan support for the United Nations during periods of tension, such as the Korean War and debates over UNESCO. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, it has focused on contemporary issues including the Millennium Development Goals, the Iran nuclear deal, and the Paris Agreement.

Organization and structure

The organization is headquartered in New York City, near the United Nations Headquarters. It is governed by a Board of Directors and a Council of Governors, which includes prominent figures from diplomacy, business, and academia. A national network of over 20,000 members and more than 125 chapters across communities, campuses, and regions drives its grassroots efforts. Key operational divisions include the Global Classrooms program, the Adelphi-based Model United Nations department, and the Washington, D.C.-based policy and advocacy team that engages with the U.S. Department of State and the United States Congress.

Programs and initiatives

Its flagship educational initiative is Global Classrooms, which brings Model United Nations simulations to underserved schools across the United States. The annual Global Engagement Summit at the United Nations Headquarters convenes leaders and youth. It runs the Seton Hall University-accredited UNA-USA Fellowship Program in multilateral diplomacy. Other significant campaigns include the Climate Justice initiative, advocacy for the Sustainable Development Goals, and the Girl Up campaign launched in partnership with the United Nations Foundation. It also organizes the Leadership Summit and the Member Day at the UN.

Advocacy and policy positions

The organization advocates for full U.S. funding and timely payment of dues to the United Nations and its specialized agencies like the World Health Organization. It supports U.S. ratification of treaties such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. Key policy priorities include strengthening UN Peacekeeping, reforming the United Nations Security Council, and promoting American leadership in multilateral forums like the UN Human Rights Council and the UN General Assembly.

Relationship with the United Nations

It holds General Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, allowing it to participate in UN deliberations. The organization regularly briefs UN ambassadors and officials, and facilitates dialogues between U.S. diplomats and the American public. It works closely with the United Nations Foundation and the UN Information Centre in Washington, D.C.. Its members and youth delegates are often credentialed to attend major UN events, including the Conference of the Parties and the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development.

Notable members and leadership

Past prominent leaders include Eleanor Roosevelt, who served as a delegate to the UN General Assembly and first chair of the UN Commission on Human Rights. Other notable figures have been Harry S. Truman, George H. W. Bush, and Jimmy Carter, who have received its annual Global Leadership Award. Distinguished chairs have included Elliot Richardson, former U.S. Attorney General, and Thomas R. Pickering, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. The current executive director is Chris Whatley, and the Council of Governors is chaired by Paula Dobriansky, former Under Secretary of State for Global Affairs.