- Published: 24.10.2026.
United Nations Day – 24 October 2026
The importance of the United Nations is measured not only by the agreements reached at the negotiating table, but also by their impact on people’s lives. From humanitarian assistance and child protection to public health, education, maritime safety and environmental protection, the work of the UN system helps address challenges people face in their daily lives. Equally important is its role in maintaining international peace and security and developing international rules and standards. Their consistent application, without exception, is the foundation of a rules-based international order and a prerequisite for lasting peace and trust among states.
In a world marked by armed conflicts, geopolitical tensions and humanitarian crises, the need for effective multilateralism is greater than ever. Croatia supports UN reform, including the UN80 Initiative and reform of the Security Council, to make the Organisation more effective, transparent and representative, and better equipped to respond to the needs of the modern world.
The Republic of Croatia, a UN Member State since 22 May 1992, knows from its own experience how important international solidarity, respect for international law and effective international institutions are for peace and security. From being a victim of aggression and emerging victorious from a war of imposed self-defence to the successful peaceful reintegration of the Croatian Danube Region and post-war reconstruction, Croatia’s path has been difficult but formative. This unique national experience has shaped Croatia’s approach to multilateral cooperation today. It serves as a lasting reminder that international cooperation is essential to preserving lasting peace. Croatia shares these experiences with international partners, contributing to conflict prevention, reconciliation and sustainable peacebuilding.
Croatia and its experts actively participate in the work of the UN and its key bodies. Croatia is a member of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for the 2026-2028 term and the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) for the 2026-2027 term, serving as Vice-Chair of the latter in 2026. Through its continued engagement, including its work in these bodies, Croatia contributes to linking peace, security and sustainable development, strengthening conflict prevention and promoting the exchange of experience.
Demonstrating its readiness to assume further responsibility and actively contribute to more effective multilateralism, Croatia has also put forward its candidatures for non-permanent membership of the UN Security Council for the 2030-2031 term, membership of the Human Rights Council for the 2032-2034 term, and re-election to ECOSOC for the 2033-2035 term.
Sustainable development is an important part of these efforts, as long-term peace and security also depend on societies’ ability to address development challenges and ensure better living conditions for their citizens. According to the Sustainable Development Report 2026, Croatia ranks 13th out of 169 countries in progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. This result underscores the importance of sustained efforts, while also highlighting the need to accelerate implementation of the 2030 Agenda to ensure that its goals are achieved for all.
United Nations Day reminds us that, despite its limitations and challenges, multilateral cooperation remains essential. The United Nations is neither a perfect nor a finished system, but a living organisation in which states seek to overcome differences, learn from experience and find common solutions. Croatia remains committed to this process, convinced that dialogue, cooperation and consistent respect for the principles of the UN Charter are key to building a more peaceful, secure and sustainable world for future generations.