About

Located in the Turtle Bay neighborhood of Manhattan, the complex consists of four main buildings: the Secretariat, the General Assembly, the Conference Building, and the Dag Hammarskjöld Library. The headquarters is situated on a 17-acre site overlooking the East River. The idea for a permanent headquarters for the UN was proposed in 1946, and the design for the complex was selected in 1947 through an international competition. Construction began in 1949, and the complex was completed in 1952. The headquarters is often referred to as "the glass house" due to its distinctive glass curtain walls. The Secretariat building, also known as the Secretariat Tower, houses the offices of the Secretary-General and various administrative departments. The General Assembly building is where the annual sessions of the UN General Assembly take place, with each member state having one vote. The Conference Building is used for smaller meetings and conferences, while the Dag Hammarskjöld Library provides research and information services to the UN community. The Headquarters of the United Nations has become a symbol of global diplomacy and multilateralism. It is known for its iconic architecture and serves as a venue for important international discussions and negotiations. The complex is a popular tourist attraction, with visitors able to take guided tours to learn about the UN's work and initiatives.