The Government of The Gambia and the United Nations have reaffirmed commitment to multilateral cooperation, consolidating democratic gains, human rights and sustainable development as they marked the 81st anniversary of the UN.
The celebration was held on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo, bringing together Vice President Muhammed BS Jallow, senior government officials, diplomats, civil society, private sector and the UN system.
Speaking at the event, UN Resident Coordinator Karl Frederick Paul said international cooperation remains essential to address armed conflicts, humanitarian crises, climate change and development needs.
He cited conflicts in Sudan, Gaza, Ukraine, Democratic Republic of Congo and Haiti as reminders of the urgent need to protect civilians and strengthen solidarity.
“International cooperation does not require countries to agree on everything. It requires them, nevertheless, to work together, despite their differences, to address challenges that no nation can resolve alone,” he said.
He said challenges should reinforce, not weaken, commitment to multilateralism, calling for a UN that is more effective, responsive and accountable.
Paul commended The Gambia for its democratic transition since 2017, particularly transitional justice, reconciliation and national healing, describing it as a source of inspiration for Africa.
However, he stressed that justice must move beyond recommendations and institutions must deliver tangible results, noting accountability is essential to national unity.
With The Gambia preparing for elections on December 5, 2027, he urged peaceful participation, inclusion, mutual respect and national unity. He warned against hate speech, misinformation and disinformation and stressed reliable information and rule of law.
The UN remains committed to supporting nationally led efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and preserve social cohesion while respecting sovereignty and impartiality.
He highlighted UN partnership covering health, education, food security, gender equality, youth empowerment, access to justice, decent work, migration and climate resilience. He noted nearly 2,000 schools have been mapped through a joint initiative to improve education planning and digital inclusion.
He warned that rising sea levels, coastal erosion, unpredictable rainfall and extreme heat threaten livelihoods, urging investment in opportunities at home and protection of migrants’ rights. He recognised the Gambian diaspora’s contribution to national development.
Delivering the government message, Vice President Jallow reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to the UN Charter and principles of peace, human rights, international cooperation and sustainable development.
He commended the UN for technical assistance, capacity-building and contributions to governance, healthcare, education, economic growth and climate action.
Government called for continued cooperation based on mutual respect, national ownership, accountability, transparency and measurable results, stressing assistance must align with aspirations of Gambians.
The event recognised contributions of UN personnel and development partners.
As the UN marks 81 years since 1945, both sides underscored renewed solidarity and collective action to build a peaceful, inclusive and prosperous future.
The event concluded with a call to uphold UN Charter values and ensure development, justice and peace deliver benefits to all citizens.
