The aim of the UNAA Qld Global Citizenship Schools Program is to engage and inspire primary and secondary students across Queensland to become active Global Citizens. The United Nations Association of Australia is a national non-profit organisation dedicated to informing the community about the work of the United Nations and seeking to advance the UN Global Goals for Sustainable Development in Australia and around the world.
Role of the UN
The UN was formed in 1945, at the end of the Second World War. It aimed to prevent the scourge of war, to provide a forum in which nations could negotiate differences rather than resort to violent conflict. For the first time in human history respect for our shared humanity was seen to be the foundation for lasting peace. This idea led to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
Australians played a leading role in negotiating the rules (the UN Charter). They led the smaller nations in resisting domination by the most powerful nations. In recognition of this role, Herbert Evatt, (Australia's Minister for Foreign Affairs at the time) was elected the first President of the UN General Assembly. Evatt argued successfully that lasting peace would be based on economic prosperity and respect for human rights in all nations.
Australians played a leading role in negotiating the rules (the UN Charter). They led the smaller nations in resisting domination by the most powerful nations. In recognition of this role, Herbert Evatt, (Australia's Minister for Foreign Affairs at the time) was elected the first President of the UN General Assembly. Evatt argued successfully that lasting peace would be based on economic prosperity and respect for human rights in all nations.
Global Citizens Schools Program Objectives
- Engage and inspire students to become active Global Citizens
- Empower students to be effective leaders
- Support students to plan two UN Global Goals school initiatives for 2018
- Target Principle 14a of the Earth Charter: Provide all, especially children and youth, with educational opportunities that empower them to contribute actively to sustainable development.
- Build connections between schools and Local Members
