UN@80: Through young eyes, visions of our shared tomorrow

On a construction site, beneath a translucent sunshade, chef hats and safety helmets come together. Slices of watermelon are passed from hand to hand – to steelworkers, carpenters and managers alike – all savoring the same sweet refreshment. This moment reflects the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of "Decent Work and Economic Growth," highlighting fairness and justice. It resonates with the Global Development Initiative by fostering collaboration through equal care, embodies the Global Security Initiative by respecting laborers as the foundation of stability, and exemplifies the Global Civilization Initiative by sharing warmth and humanity. These small acts of equality collectively nurture the gentle power that drives social progress. /Zhuang Junjie

At dusk, on the floating football field of Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center, football enthusiasts dash after the ball. Gentle waves ripple, and golden sunlight bathes them; the joy of sports merges into the panorama where the sea meets the sky. This scene anchors in the UN Sustainable Development Goal of "Good Health and Well-being," empowering individuals with sports vitality. It echoes the Global Development Initiative – a healthy body is the cornerstone of social progress, infusing momentum into economic recovery and people's livelihood improvement. It aligns with the Global Security Initiative, strengthening physical and mental health to fortify the safety bottom line for both individuals and society. It embodies the Global Civilization Initiative, conveying a positive life attitude and humanistic warmth through the shared joy of sports. The runs by the sea link health, development and humanistic values, interpreting the vivid practice of building a community with a shared future for humanity. They make the vision of sustainable development shine brightly amid the vitality of sports. /Song Yang

At 2: 00 or 3: 00 a.m. along the coast of Quảng Nam Province, Vietnam, the coastal fish market is already bustling. Fishermen paddle their basket boats, laden with crates of fresh catches, docking ashore in an endless stream. Fish vendors hustle to receive the goods, and the dim light is filled with the vibrant energy of fresh produce. This scene embodies the warmth of the UN Sustainable Development Goals of "Zero Hunger" and "Decent Work" – the seafood sustains people's livelihoods and combats hunger, while fishermen's labor vividly illustrates creating value through hard work. It echoes the Global Development Initiative, as everyday livelihood matters form the cornerstone of shared progress; aligns with the Global Security Initiative, where stable incomes underpin social tranquility; and upholds the Global Civilization Initiative, conveying the universal pursuit of happiness through labor across regions. This tiny coastal fish market stands as a vivid testament to people of all nations joining hands to advance sustainable development and build a better future together. /Yuan Yakun

Under the blue sky, the Gongga Mountains tower majestically, like a magnificent backbone of the land. Lush forests nestle against the snow-capped peaks, embodying the profound and majestic beauty of nature. We diligently cherish and protect this land, hoping the glaciers remain intact and the forests stay evergreen, preserving this natural wonder. This protection aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals of "Climate Action" and "Life on Land," forging a strong shield for Earth's ecology. It echoes the Global Development Initiative, as ecological protection forms the foundation of sustainable development; aligns with the Global Security Initiative, where ecological security is a vital part of humanity's collective safety; and embodies the Global Civilization Initiative, conveying reverence for nature and the shared commitment to safeguarding our beautiful home. Let this sanctity and greenery stand as a vivid testament to humanity's joint efforts in protecting the Earth. /Netizen named Nanxiangchuqing

In the Spring Festival celebrations of Bangkok's Chinatown, Thailand, red lanterns hang high above the streets like strings of warm flames. Laughter and festive cheer flow through the alleys, carrying the spirit of the Spring Festival. People from diverse cultural backgrounds gather closely, admiring lanterns and sharing laughter with Chinese friends, jointly celebrating this traditional festival that embodies reunion and hope. This lively scene vividly reflects the UN Sustainable Development Goal of "Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions," conveying the power of harmony through cultural integration. It echoes the Global Development Initiative, as the appreciation of diverse cultures injects vitality into the cooperation among civilizations. It aligns with the Global Security Initiative, where mutual understanding between people serves as a soft cornerstone for regional stability. Moreover, it embodies the Global Civilization Initiative, allowing the cultural bond of the Chinese community to transcend national borders and planting the spirit of unity and integration in everyone's heart – a heartwarming testament to humanity's joint efforts in building a better world. /Netizen named "uncle sweeping fallen leaves"

In the scene, a horse grazes leisurely with its head bowed on the lush grassland. Behind it, distant mountains veiled in mist outline a magnificent panorama of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. This vibrant scene is a vivid testament to the theme of "Protecting the Land" and aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals of "Life on Land" and "Climate Action" – every patch of green is a precious gift from Earth's ecosystem. It echoes the Global Development Initiative, as ecological protection forms the foundation of sustainable development; aligns with the Global Security Initiative, where a healthy terrestrial ecosystem serves as a shield for humanity's collective safety; and embodies the Global Civilization Initiative, conveying the shared wisdom of "the interdependence between humans and nature." The beauty of these green mountains and the grazing horse reminds us that only by joining hands to safeguard the earth can we ensure the green mountains endure, all beings thrive, and together compose an enduring poem of life's harmony. /Netizen named Anxiangshuying

On Shifeng Lake in Tiantai County, Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province in China, a night cruise boat carries tourists forward slowly. A water curtain projection showcases the performance "Harmony of the World." /Wang Qisheng

In the deep blue ocean, fish form a mighty shoal, like a flowing silver ribbon, testifying to the vitality of marine life. Humans are but visitors to this azure world, sharing the home with countless creatures. This scene echoes the UN Sustainable Development Goal of "Life Below Water," reminding us to safeguard the marine ecosystem. It aligns with the Global Development Initiative, as a healthy ocean forms the foundation of development; practices the Global Security Initiative, for ecological stability bears on human security; and embodies the Global Civilization Initiative, conveying reverence for nature. Only through global cooperation can this blue realm become a cradle for enduring life, jointly building a beautiful home for Earth. /Zhen Di

By the world's longest Bage Mani Wall, on a wet muddy road after rain, two Tibetans ride a motorcycle, with a white horse trailing slowly behind, its orange bridle straps fluttering. The Mani Stone Wall and prayer flags, under the overcast sky, silently guard the ancient faith. This scene embodies the warmth of the UN Sustainable Development Goal of "Cultural Heritage and Social Inclusion." Tradition and modernity move forward side by side, a vivid reflection of development. It echoes the Global Development Initiative, allowing diverse lifestyles to progress together; aligns with the Global Security Initiative, as cultural heritage forms a cornerstone for spiritual stability; and embodies the Global Civilization Initiative, conveying the humanistic power of diverse integration. It illustrates a beautiful vision of humanity joining hands to preserve culture and strive toward the future. /Liu Xiang

On the wooded trail of the Camino de Santiago, a family of five pauses. Around them, the northern forest thrives with lush greenery, and their hiking gear complements the ancient path that has endured since the Middle Ages, adding a touch of timeless charm. In the past, pilgrims embarked on this journey with faith; today, it has become a pathway for people to seek life's meaning, converse with history, and connect with nature. In the frame, this family, with smiles and each other's company, transforms this pilgrimage into a precious memory unique to their household. This scene aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals of "Quality Education" and "Climate Action" – on the journey, people gain growth and spiritual enlightenment, and the way of embracing nature advocates the concept of eco-friendly travel. It also deeply resonates with the essence of the three initiatives: humanistic experiences promote cross-cultural exchanges; spiritual richness and inner peace provide an intrinsic foundation for security; and the respect and inheritance of ancient cultures highlight the warmth of civilization. All these together form a heartwarming portrayal of humanity joining hands to pursue a better life. /Liu Xiang