Enabling access to the history of multilateralism
The UN Archives Geneva platform gives access to the fonds and collections managed by the United Nations Library and Archives in Geneva, including the archives of the United Nations in Geneva, the League of Nations (1919-1946), international peace movements (from 1870), and private papers.

It offers the possibility to search both the description of files or archival documents and in the full text of archival documents that have been digitized.

Library & Archives is the official repository of all documents produced or held by UN Geneva that have enduring historical and administrative values. The Institutional Memory Section manages these documents, which are divided into records and archives.

Records are information created, received, and maintained by the Organization that provide evidence of an activity, decision, or transaction. Archives are records that have been assessed as having enduring value and are no longer used for official business, which at the United Nations is usually after 20 years of the closure of the file.

Archival Fonds and Collections include those from UN Geneva Archives, League of Nations, International Peace Movements, and private papers. The Archival Fonds and Collections’ description and the digitized archives can be consulted through the UN Archives Geneva platformOpens in new window. The entire collection comprises fifteen linear kilometers of archives and records.

Library & Archives digitizes archives, records, and official documents. Its largest current project is Total Digital Access to the League of Nations ArchivesOpens in new window (2017-2022), which will ensure state-of-the-art free online access and the digital and physical preservation of the entirety of the League of Nations Archives.
The Archives of the League of Nations are entirely accessible. United Nations records over 20 years old are generally open for public research, unless the classification level “Strictly Confidential” (or related) applies. Records under 20 years old which are not classified may occasionally be accessed on a case-by-case basis, subject to the written consent of the originating office.

For restricted records, the public can submit an Application for Clearance to Access Restricted Records. This application will be forwarded to the record originating office for approval. The applicant will be informed of the decision. Archives staff can provide additional information about these requests. Researchers are advised to begin this process well in advance of their expected visit. Users should use information gained from their research only to analyse the general development. They should not report on any specific situation which could lead to the identification of an individual, and they should not disclose any information which could place anyone in danger or compromise the necessary confidentiality of the internal decision-making processes of the United Nations.

Discover the wealth of these unique collections on the history of modern multilateralism! Read further from the links above