UN75: Shaping Our Future Together

The United Nations have published the concluding report “Shaping our future together” that presents the results of a year-long consultation that marks the 75th anniversary of the United Nations.

The initiative sought to understand what are the issues citizens around the world perceive as most pressing. Through surveys and dialogues, more than 1.5 million people from all walks of life shared their hopes and fears for the future, and discussed how all actors, including the UN, can innovate and work together to better address the global challenges we face.

The great majority of the respondents believe that international cooperation is important for addressing global challenges. While access to health services is expected to be improved over the next 25 years, the long-term challenges identified in all regions are climate change and environmental issues. Other longer-term priorities vary according to income levels, but include rising concern with employment opportunities, respect for human rights and reducing conflict. As COVID-19 reversed progress in human development and widened inequalities, many prioritised access to basic services and support to the hardest hit places and communities in the short-term.