The United Nations (UN) is set to host a free family festival in Karachi on Saturday to mark its 80th UN Day 2026, featuring live music, cultural activities, interactive exhibitions and career guidance.
The UN Mela will take place on 24 October at the Youth Development Centre in Civil Lines, opposite the Pearl Continental Hotel. The gates are scheduled to open at 16:00 local time, with free entry for the public.
The event aims to bring together music, culture and education while giving visitors an opportunity to learn about the United Nations’ work in Pakistan.
The festival will feature live performances by Pakistani singers Humaira Channa, Rajab Faqeer and Faheem Allan Faqeer.
Organisers have also planned food stalls, activities for children, selfie corners, giveaways and other entertainment for families.
An exhibition involving representatives from 22 UN agencies operating in Pakistan will showcase the organisation’s work in areas including development, humanitarian assistance and public welfare.
Students, graduates and young professionals will be able to visit a dedicated UN careers booth, where human resources officials are expected to provide information about recruitment procedures, application requirements and career opportunities within the organisation.
A separate peacekeeping stall will highlight the role of UN peacekeeping missions, including the contributions of Pakistani military and police personnel serving in conflict-affected regions.
The event will also mark Pakistan’s longstanding relationship with the United Nations, which began in 1947, shortly after the country gained independence.
Pakistan has contributed to UN peacekeeping missions and participated in the organisation’s diplomatic, humanitarian and development work. In 2026, the country is completing its eighth term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.
The celebrations follow a recent visit to Pakistan by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who praised the resilience and generosity of the Pakistani people and recalled the devastation caused by the 2022 floods.
Guterres also highlighted Pakistan’s hospitality towards Afghan refugees, recalling how communities had shared their homes and resources with people fleeing difficult circumstances.
