New Zealand Takes on a Historic Leadership Role in the Global United Nations Association Movement

New Zealand has long been recognised as a principled advocate for international cooperation, the rule of law and a rules-based international system. Across generations, Aotearoa New Zealand has contributed to international peace and security, sustainable development, human rights and humanitarian action through its engagement with the United Nations and the wider international community.

Today, that longstanding commitment has been recognised through a historic milestone for New Zealand’s engagement in the global United Nations Association movement.

For the first time in the 80-year history of the United Nations Association of New Zealand (UNA NZ), a New Zealander has been elected Vice Chair of the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA). At the same time, UNA NZ has secured representation on the WFUNA Executive Board for only the third time since its establishment in 1946.

These elections mark an important moment for New Zealand within the international United Nations Association movement and recognise the growing contribution that Aotearoa New Zealand is making to global civil society leadership.

Congratulations to Joy Dunsheath on her election as Vice Chair of WFUNA.

Reflecting on her election, Joy Dunsheath shared her vision for the role of international cooperation and the importance of strengthening public support for the United Nations through the global United Nations Association movement.

“Global cooperation is the key to our security, prosperity and development, both nationally and internationally. Through WFUNA, we affirm our support for the United Nations. WFUNA strengthens the UN and helps build a future of peace and security.”

— Joy Dunsheath

Vice Chair, World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA)

Understanding the United Nations Association Movement

For many people, the United Nations is best known as the organisation where governments work together to address global challenges. Through the General Assembly, the Security Council and the wider UN system, Member States negotiate agreements, develop international norms and coordinate action on issues that affect people everywhere.

Alongside this intergovernmental work is a vibrant global network of civil society organisations that help connect people with the mission and values of the United Nations.

United Nations Associations are independent, non-government organisations established in countries around the world to promote the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. They encourage informed public dialogue, foster global citizenship, support youth leadership, promote the Sustainable Development Goals and create opportunities for communities to engage with international issues.

Together, these national organisations form the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA), founded in 1946. Today, the Federation brings together more than 100 United Nations Associations and represents one of the world’s largest international civil society networks dedicated to advancing the ideals of the United Nations.

Working alongside the United Nations, governments, academic institutions, philanthropic organisations, businesses and community partners, WFUNA helps strengthen multilateral cooperation by connecting global priorities with local action.

Why This Matters

The World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA) brings together more than 100 national United Nations Associations, creating one of the world’s largest civil society networks supporting the principles and purposes of the United Nations.

International cooperation is built on relationships, trust and shared purpose.

Leadership within WFUNA provides an opportunity to help guide one of the world’s most established civil society movements supporting the United Nations. It brings together diverse perspectives from every region and strengthens collaboration across cultures, sectors and generations.

Joy Dunsheath’s election as Vice Chair gives New Zealand a stronger voice within this global network. It creates opportunities to contribute to international dialogue, strengthen partnerships with United Nations Associations around the world and share New Zealand’s experience in community leadership, inclusive governance and sustainable development.

It also reinforces the important contribution that civil society makes in supporting the work of the United Nations.

Global goals become meaningful when communities understand them, engage with them and translate them into action. United Nations Associations play an important role in building that connection by bringing together citizens, educators, young people, businesses, researchers and decision-makers around a shared commitment to international cooperation.

Celebrating Eight Decades of Leadership

The United Nations Association of New Zealand has been part of this international movement since 1946.

Over the past 80 years, generations of members, volunteers and leaders have strengthened understanding of the United Nations across Aotearoa New Zealand. They have promoted dialogue on international issues, supported youth engagement, encouraged partnerships and created opportunities for New Zealanders to contribute to a more peaceful, just and sustainable world.

This latest milestone builds on that proud legacy.

It reflects the dedication of those who have contributed to United Nations Association of New Zealand over eight decades and demonstrates the confidence placed in New Zealand’s contribution to the global United Nations Association movement.

Looking Ahead

The international community is entering an important new chapter.

As countries continue implementing the Sustainable Development Goals and begin shaping international priorities beyond 2030, collaboration between governments, civil society, the private sector, academia and communities will become increasingly important.

WFUNA has a unique role in bringing these voices together, fostering dialogue and strengthening public engagement with the United Nations.

Joy Dunsheath’s leadership as Vice Chair provides an opportunity for New Zealand to contribute to these global conversations while deepening partnerships across the international United Nations Association network.

For United Nations Association of New Zealand, this milestone represents an exciting chapter in our 80-year journey.

It reflects the strength of New Zealand’s engagement with the global United Nations movement and reinforces our shared commitment to the principles of the UN Charter: peace, human dignity, sustainable development, international cooperation and respect for human rights.

As we celebrate this historic achievement, we congratulate Joy Dunsheath on her election and look forward to the leadership, partnerships and opportunities that lie ahead.

Together, we continue to connect Aotearoa New Zealand with the world and the world with Aotearoa New Zealand.