United Nations Day, 2020

This proclamation designates October 24, 2020, as United Nations Day to mark the UN's 75th anniversary. While largely commemorative, it includes sharp policy messaging criticizing the WHO and China over COVID-19, touting the Abraham Accords and Serbia-Kosovo deal, and urging UN reform on transparency and accountability.

Federal Register Open PDF 85 FR 68707

Impact dates

Oct 24, 2020
United Nations Day observance

Key directives

Proclaim October 24, 2020 as United Nations Day
Urge Governors of 50 States, Governor of Puerto Rico, and officials of other US areas to observe with appropriate ceremonies and activities

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

October 24, 2020 designated as United Nations Day
Urge to governors and officials to observe with ceremonies

Near term (90d)

—

Long term

—

Risks & tensions

Sharp criticism of WHO and China embedded in otherwise ceremonial text may undermine diplomatic relationships
Withdrawal from WHO mentioned as accomplished fact, not new directive
Policy advocacy on UN reform lacks binding mechanisms
Text cuts off mid-sentence regarding China accountability