MEDIA RELEASE
21 June 2005

Young people to recreate UN Charter signing

A re-enactment of the signing of the United Nations Charter in 1945 will be a highlight of a United Nations youth gathering in Wellington on June 24-26.

The recreation will take place on Sunday 26 June, 60 years to the day since 50 nations, including New Zealand, committed to the formation of a new world organisation.

The event will be part of a United Nations Youth Association of New Zealand (UNYANZ) New Zealand Model United Nations.

“In June 1945 New Zealand and other founders of the UN were just emerging from the Second World War. They were motivated by a vision of peace and cooperation,” says Model UN Coordinator, Anne Molineux.

“That vision is as valid now as it was then and we want to pay particular tribute to it during this 60th anniversary year.”

The recreation will celebrate how far the UN has come in its first 60 years and, by involving young people, look to its future as well.

Youth delegates representing the original UN member states will take part in the re-enactment ceremony. The recreation will combine images and excerpts from the original signing with period dress, young faces, flags and the sentiment of a renewed commitment to the United Nations.

Following the recreation, the 192 secondary school students from around the country attending the conference will continue their simulation of the UN General Assembly. They will be debating a resolution on the conference theme of Sustainable Development.

Delegates to the Model UN, and participants in the recreation will be available for comment, as will UNYANZ Office holders.

Where: Wellington Convention Centre, Wakefield St, Wellington.

When:
Opening 11.30am Friday 24 June (Hon Marian Hobbs),
Charter signing re-enactment 11.15am Sunday 26 June (photo opportunity)

ENDS

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