On 23 January, the United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA) will release a US$3.15 definitive stamp to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), which marks eight decades of action for people and the planet.

Established in 1945 by the Charter of the United Nations, ECOSOC held its first meeting on 23 January 1946. Its mandate – to coordinate the economic, social, and cultural activities of the United Nations and promote international cooperation and development – has placed it at the heart of advancing the principles of the UN Charter.

Multilateralism, inclusivity, and global solidarity have been central to the ECOSOC mission from the outset.

For eight decades, ECOSOC has provided a unique platform where Member States, the United Nations system, civil society, and other stakeholders come together to address the world’s most pressing challenges.

From post-war recovery and decolonization to climate change, inequality, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, ECOSOC has helped guide international responses and foster collective action for a more just, sustainable, and peaceful world.

The artwork on the stamp was created by the renowned Brazilian artist Eduardo Kobra, reflecting the importance of humanity, our planet, and sustainability. 

In September 2022, Mr. Kobra painted a large mural for the United Nations, which was displayed at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, depicting a father handing the Earth to his daughter. The stamp portrays ECOSOC's commitment to the people, the planet, and global solidarity.

To commemorate this milestone, a special event will be held on 23 January in the ECOSOC Chamber at UNHQ, where the stamp will be unveiled. The event will begin with a musical performance at approximately 9:40 a.m., followed by the official opening at 10:00 a.m.

All UN staff and delegates are invited to attend the event either in person or online.

The UN stamps are available online at www.unstamps.org and in person from shops located at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, the United Nations Office at Geneva, and the United Nations Office at Vienna, where the stamps can be purchased and used for mailing.

The United Nations Postal Administration is within the Facilities & Commercial Activities Service (FCAS) of the Division of Administration (DOA) in the Department of Operational Support (DOS). 

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