Page Stories

Rotary and the United Nations have a shared history of working toward peace and addressing humanitarian issues around the world.

During World War II, Rotary informed and educated members about the formation of the United Nations and the importance of planning for peace. Materials such as the booklet “From Here On!” and articles in The Rotarian helped members understand the UN before it was formally established and follow its work after its charter. 

Many countries were fighting the war when the term “United Nations” was first used officially in the 1942 “Declaration by United Nations.” The 26 nations that signed it pledged to uphold the ideals expressed by the United States and the United Kingdom the previous year of the common principles “on which they based their hopes for a better future for the world.” 

 

Rotary News Feed
Rotary projects around the globe – November 2026
Rotary projects around the globe – November 2026
Learn how Rotary clubs are taking action in Canada, the Cayman Islands, Wales, India, and Indonesia.
The RYLA effect
The RYLA effect
A weekend in the Wisconsin woods sparks new perspectives on leadership for dozens of high school students in District 6250.
Picturing polio pioneer Dorothy Horstmann
Picturing polio pioneer Dorothy Horstmann
For years, polio pioneer Dorothy Horstmann stood in the shadow of great men like Jonas Salk and Albert Sabin. Now she’s ready for her close-up.
Cross-generational club in Barcelona feels like extended family
Cross-generational club in Barcelona feels like extended family
The Rotary Club of Barcelona-Diagonal is focused on building bridges between generations.
Fight online misinformation this World Polio Day
Fight online misinformation this World Polio Day
Members of the International PolioPlus Committee seek to counter false narratives