Ethiopia and the United Nations: A Shared History, A Renewed Commitment to Multilateralism

Senior Government officials of Ethiopia, diplomats, African Union representatives and UN officials gathered in Addis Ababa to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, reaffirming a shared commitment to multilateralism at a time of growing global complexity.

Hosted in one of the world’s most significant diplomatic capitals—home to both the African Union and one of the United Nations’ largest country presences—the commemoration underscored the enduring partnership between Ethiopia and the UN, while calling for renewed global cooperation and reform.

A shared legacy of cooperation

Marking eight decades since the founding of the United Nations, H.E. Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, reflected on the organization’s establishment and its enduring mission to promote peace, dignity, and collective progress.

“Eighty years ago, the United Nations was created out of necessity… anchored in shared principles of human dignity, justice, equality, and social progress,” he said.

Ethiopia’s longstanding engagement with multilateralism, shaped by its experience as a founding member of the UN and its early encounters with the limits of collective security, continues to inform its commitment to international cooperation. 

Addis Ababa: A global diplomatic hub

United Nations Secretary‑General António Guterres paid tribute to Ethiopia’s historic contributions and its continued role as a key partner in advancing multilateralism.

“Ethiopia remains a crucial champion of multilateralism and international cooperation,” he said.

He highlighted Addis Ababa’s growing significance as a global diplomatic center, hosting the headquarters of the African Union and serving as a major hub for UN operations.

Ethiopia’s contributions extend beyond diplomacy. For decades, Ethiopian personnel have served in UN peacekeeping missions and humanitarian operations worldwide, helping to protect civilians and build stability in some of the most challenging contexts. 

Commemorating 80 Years: The UN80 Stamp

In honour of the United Nations’ journey of eight decades, Ethiopia has also published a special commemorative stamp collection under the theme: “To Live Together in Peace.”

The stamp honors the contributions of those who have advanced the ideals of the United Nations and reflects Ethiopia’s historic role as one of the original signatories to the UN Charter. 

“The four stamps tell our shared story—from signing the UN Charter in San Francisco in 1945, to deploying peacekeepers to the Congo, and hosting the first-ever UN Security Council meeting on African soil,” Prime Minister Abiy said.

He also noted that the initiative pays tribute to individuals who have dedicated their lives to the UN’s mission, while also serving as a reminder of the work that remains ahead. 

“As we unveil this commemorative stamp, we honor all those who have dedicated their lives to the ideals of the United Nations,” he said.

Secretary‑General Guterres emphasized that the commemorative stamp is both a reflection of past achievements—from peacebuilding to development—and a call to strengthen collective action in addressing today’s interconnected challenges. 

“These stamps that Ethiopia is generously printing remind us of our shared history and our enduring responsibility to forge a better future.” 

Advancing reform and representation

The anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect not only on achievements but also on the urgent need to adapt the multilateral system.

Prime Minister Abiy called for a more inclusive and representative United Nations, stressing that Africa must have a stronger voice in global decision‑making processes. 

“The United Nations must continue to evolve to become more representative, more equitable, and more reflective of today’s realities,” he said.

“Africa is ready to contribute, to take on greater responsibility, and to help build a stronger and a more credible global order.” 

In the same vein, the Secretary‑General reiterated the importance of reforming global governance institutions, particularly the UN Security Council, to address longstanding imbalances and ensure fair representation for Africa. 

“We stand firmly with the people of Ethiopia and the people of Africa in their calls for a just representation across the institutions of global governance. And this means reforming the Security Council to reflect today's world and to redress the historical injustice against Africa by making its permanent representation a priority to enhance the Council's legitimacy and effectiveness,” he said.

He also highlighted the need to strengthen the role of developing countries in international financial institutions, noting the growing economic dynamism and resilience across Africa. 

A partnership for impact

The United Nations and Ethiopia continue to work closely to advance peace, development, and humanitarian priorities.

Through its country team, the UN supports national efforts to consolidate peace, build resilient institutions, and deliver critical services to communities across Ethiopia. 

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that multilateral cooperation delivers tangible benefits for people, particularly in times of crisis and transition.

Looking ahead

As the United Nations marks 80 years, the message from both leaders was clear: cooperation remains indispensable.

Secretary General Guterres emphasized the enduring relevance of the UN’s mission.

“In a world marked by challenge, change, and division, the core promise of the United Nations—peace, justice, and prosperity for all—remains as relevant and urgent today as it was 80 years ago.”

In his closing statement to the commemoration, Prime Minister Abiy reaffirmed a shared path forward.

“Cooperation remains the most reliable path to peace, stability, and shared progress,” he said.