UNPA marks 80th anniversary of United Nations Economic and Social Council with Jan. 23 definitive

By David Hartwig

On Jan. 23 the United Nations Postal Administration issued a previously unannounced definitive stamp marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

The $3.15 stamp is intended for use from the U.N. post office at U.N. headquarters in New York City. According to the UNPA, the stamp design depicts “a father handing the Earth to his daughter, symbolizing sustainable development and intergenerational responsibility for the planet, aligning with UN goals for climate action and peace.”

Known for his vibrant, large-scale murals, Kobra has shown his work in cities across the Americas, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, making him one of Brazil’s most internationally visible contemporary artists.

He began his career as a graffiti artist in his hometown of Sao Paulo, Brazil, where he still lives today. His work often celebrates historical figures, cultural icons and social themes such as peace, humanity and environmental awareness.

His vivid, socially minded murals align naturally with the themes celebrated by the UN’s Economic and Social Council, which has long addressed issues of global cooperation, peace, and sustainable development.

Established by the United Nations Charter in 1945, the UN’s ECOSOC held its first meeting Jan. 23, 1946. Tasked with coordinating the United Nations’ economic, social, and cultural initiatives, ECOSOC has long promoted international cooperation and the principles of the UN Charter. From the start, its work has emphasized multilateralism, inclusivity, and global solidarity.

Over the past 80 years, ECOSOC has provided a forum where member states, UN agencies, civil society, and other stakeholders collaborate on some of the world’s most urgent challenges.

Its efforts have spanned post-war reconstruction, decolonization, climate change, inequality, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, helping guide international responses and encourage collective action for a fairer, more sustainable, and peaceful world.

The ECOSOC 80th anniversary stamp was designed by Rorie Katz of the United Nations using Kobra’s mural. Joh. Enschede of the Netherlands printed 5,100 panes of 10 stamps by hexachrome. The stamp measures 50 millimeters by 27mm, and the pane is 116mm by 151mm.

For ordering information for these stamps and related products, visit the website unstamps.org; email unpanyinquiries@un.org; telephone 212-963-7684 or 800-234-8672; or write to UNPA, Box 5900, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163-5900.

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