GENEVA, August 26, 2026 — The World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA) concluded its World Congress 2026 today at World Health Organization Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Held under the theme “Reclaiming Multilateralism,” the one-day Congress brought together United Nations Associations, civil society representatives, young people, experts and members of the public to consider how international cooperation can be strengthened for the challenges of today and tomorrow.
The Congress opened in the WHO Executive Board Room, followed by a keynote panel examining the present state and future of multilateral cooperation.
Throughout the day, participants took part in parallel discussions organized around two central themes: “Reclaiming the UN—Reinforcing and Strengthening the UN We Need” and “Reclaiming the Narrative—Showcasing and Building on the UN’s Successes.”
Reclaiming the UN
The first series of discussions considered how the United Nations can preserve its foundational principles while adapting to a changing international landscape.
“The UN’s Legitimacy and Relevance Through Time: Between Immutable and Changing Fundamentals” examined which elements of the UN system must remain constant and which must evolve to protect the Organization’s legitimacy, relevance and effectiveness.
“A Security Council for the 21st Century” explored how the Council can better reflect contemporary geopolitical realities while strengthening its representation, effectiveness, accountability and capacity to maintain international peace and security.
“Reclaiming Relevance Through a Human Rights-Centred Agenda” considered how a renewed, people-centred human rights agenda can strengthen the UN’s connection with communities, translate international commitments into practical impact and rebuild public trust.
Reclaiming the Narrative
The afternoon programme highlighted achievements made possible through international cooperation and examined how the multilateral system can build upon these successes.
“In Service of Peace: Stories of Peacekeepers and Peacemakers” brought forward the experiences of former peacekeepers and partners who have served alongside them. The discussion reflected on courage, duty, sacrifice and the evolving role of those working to protect civilians and sustain peace in fragile settings.
“Health: Saving Lives Through Global Cooperation” highlighted landmark public health achievements enabled by multilateral action, including the eradication of smallpox and progress against polio, Guinea worm disease and vaccine-preventable illnesses. The session explored how science, diplomacy, fieldwork and community trust work together to save lives at scale.
“AI and the Future of Global Governance” examined how international cooperation can help shape the future of artificial intelligence. Speakers considered the role of the United Nations and the broader multilateral system in developing trusted, inclusive and effective AI governance frameworks that promote innovation while advancing transparency, accountability and equitable access.
Strengthening the Global UNA Network
Following the public programme, representatives of United Nations Associations met in regional groups to exchange perspectives, discuss shared priorities and identify opportunities for stronger collaboration across the global UNA network.
A dedicated Youth Forum, led by William Yotive, WFUNA’s Senior Education Officer and Content Management, provided young participants with a space to exchange ideas, develop recommendations and contribute their perspectives on the future of multilateralism and the United Nations.
Honouring Service to Peacekeeping
World Congress 2026 concluded with a gala dinner at the Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva. The evening opened with a March of the Blue Helmets in honour of United Nations peacekeepers and their service, courage and sacrifice in the pursuit of peace around the world.
During the gala, H.E. Lakhdar Brahimi, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria, was presented with an award recognizing his decades of service and dedication to diplomacy, peacekeeping and international cooperation.
The evening brought participants together to honour those who have contributed to peace and international cooperation while celebrating WFUNA’s global community and its longstanding commitment to a stronger, more inclusive and effective United Nations.
Looking Ahead to the 44th WFUNA Plenary Assembly
World Congress 2026 marked an important moment of reflection and renewal as WFUNA celebrates 80 years as the People’s Movement for the United Nations. Discussions throughout the day reinforced the essential role of civil society in connecting people with the work and values of the UN, demonstrating the achievements of international cooperation and strengthening public support for multilateralism.
Tomorrow, August 27, WFUNA will open its 44th Plenary Assembly at World Health Organization Headquarters. Continuing through August 28, the Assembly will convene WFUNA members and United Nations Associations from around the world for formal governance sessions, leadership elections, commission reports, collective decision-making, capacity-building activities, inter-UNA cooperation and continued Youth Forum engagement.
The transition from World Congress 2026 to the 44th Plenary Assembly represents a historic convergence of public dialogue and member-led governance, creating an opportunity for the global UNA network to translate the Congress’s discussions into shared priorities and collective action.
About World Congress 2026
WFUNA’s World Congress 2026 brought together participants from across the global People’s Movement for the United Nations to reflect on the enduring necessity of the UN, explore how civic actors can strengthen public support for multilateralism and help shape the next chapter of international cooperation.
About WFUNA
The World Federation of United Nations Associations is a global civil society organization dedicated to strengthening and improving the United Nations. WFUNA brings together United Nations Associations and their members to connect people with the work and values of the UN and advance effective multilateral cooperation.
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