The “Shared Lives, Shared Future” exhibition showcases stories from nearly 200 countries, illustrating the evolving spirit and mission of the United Nations. It highlights real-life stories of individuals and communities transformed by the UN’s work in humanitarian aid, education, development, and sustainability. Here are some personal perspectives.
Mariam dreams of the return of UNRWA schools
Before the conflict, the United Nations agency UNRWA, which supports Palestinian refugees, operated schools in the Gaza Strip for about 300,000 children. Mariam, a former student, expressed, “We miss the UN schools we went to. I want life to go back to the way it was.” Currently, UNRWA, in coordination with other UN agencies, is providing vital assistance during the humanitarian crisis.
Radwa, a Sudanese refugee, makes humanitarian aid a life project
The war in Sudan since April 2023 has displaced nearly 12 million people, including 878,000 to Chad. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has provided shelter, food, medical care, education, and secure resettlement. Among them, Radwa started a baking business in a refugee camp using UNHCR’s financial help. “I like to help people because everyone needs support,” she said, emphasizing support for fellow refugees.
Young Yemeni girl escapes early marriage thanks to UN support
At fifteen, Afaf faced a choice: find a job or marry a 40-year-old man. “At 15, I was pressured to get married, but the UN helped me get through it,” she shared. In a UNFPA-supported “safe space,” she received advice and training, leading to her marriage being annulled.
Lebanese firefighter faces danger with UN equipment
The UN Development Program (UNDP) provided essential equipment to Beirut firefighters, enhancing their safety and efficiency. Layal, a firefighter, stated, “The new equipment provided by the UN greatly improves our safety and preparedness.”
From drugs to cabbage fields
With the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) support, Afghan farmer Zahoor and many others shifted from opium to legal farming, fostering sustainable income and a safer world. Zahoor noted, “With UN support, I moved from growing opium to growing cabbage.”
Eco-industrial parks, a UN partnership for sustainable production
The UN Industrial Development Organization’s Global Eco-Industrial Parks Program supports parks in Ukraine. Liudmyla, an eco-industrial park director, said their collaboration with the UN on energy-saving projects since 2020 reduced gas and electricity use.
Innovative Water Solutions in Malaysia
Rabiah from the Johor Port Authority worked with the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) to create a water-saving system. “With the support of the UN, we have implemented a solution that saves 10 million liters of fresh water every year,” she reported.
The exhibition is available worldwide and online.
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