United Nations at Photokina 2016 in Cologne, Germany

UN photo exhibition “The United Nations At 70” shown at world’s largest photo fair. Photo: UN

By Simone Oger (UNRIC)

From providing humanitarian help for refugees to peacekeeping, from protecting children to sustainable development–the UN is presenting a unique view of its history and engagement since it was founded in 1945. Under the theme “The United Nations at 70”, 53 powerful pictures from the UN photo library are currently presented at the world’s largest photo fair in Cologne, Germany, from 20–25 September. The compelling photos offer a unique decade-by-decade view of the UN’s work. Strategically located between two major show halls, the photo exhibit draws thousands of visitors each day.

In his message for the exhibition, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon underlined that the images depict both iconic and intimate moments in the life of the United Nations. But he also urged visitors “to remember the people behind these photographs – the dedicated staff of the United Nations who work around the world, often in dangerous conditions on the front lines of conflicts and disasters. Together, we are striving to advance peace and progress on a healthy planet. Photos touch emotions and connect people. Through the images on display here, I hope you will find your connection with the United Nations. After all, this is your organisation”.

UN photo exhibition “The United Nations At 70” shown at world’s largest photo fair. Photo: UN

The UN photo exhibition is presented by The International Photographic Council (IPC), in coordination with the Department of Public Information of the United Nations. The exhibit is sponsored by Lifetouch Inc..

A dedication ceremony for the UN Photo Exhibition was held on Photokina’s opening day on 20 September. John Segall, Vice President of IPC and Arne Molfenter from the UN Regional Information Centre (UNRIC) in Brussels jointly opened the exhibition.

Photokina is an exhibition on all aspects of photography and the world’s leading imaging fair. Every two years Photokina brings together the industry, trade, professional users and end consumers with a passion for photography. More than 185,000 visitors from over 160 countries attended Photokina in 2014, when the second UN photo exhibition was held in partnership with the IPC, Lifetouch and Photokina.

The compelling photos shown in Cologne allow visitors from all over the world to get a unique insight of UN engagement around the globe. By looking at pictures from people that either work for the UN or are affected by its engagement, the audience can begin to understand, that the task of the United Nations is to serve the peoples of the world.