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In recent weeks, social media platforms have been flooded with posts from influencers claiming to have attended high-profile meetings at the United Nations (UN) headquarters in New York. Dressed in formal attire and posing against the backdrop of the iconic UN flagpoles or empty conference halls, these influencers narrate stories about addressing global issues such as climate change, youth development, and women’s rights. Their posts often begin with the phrase, “Today, I’m attending a UN meeting.”
However, a deeper investigation has revealed that most of these influencers were merely paying for guided tours of the UN building, an experience available to the public for as little as $26. The backlash has been swift, with many netizens labeling the trend as disingenuous and damaging to the credibility of genuine UN initiatives. In response to mounting criticism, many influencers have started deleting their videos or even retreating from social media entirely.
The so-called “elite influencers” often use these posts to cultivate an image of authority and sophistication, sparking curiosity and admiration from their followers. Yet, the reality behind the trend is far less glamorous.
The UN provides various entry options for visitors through its official website, allowing anyone to book a guided tour. Ticket prices range from $15 for children to $26 for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. For an additional $165, participants can access briefings and interact with UN experts. Demand for these experiences is high, with reservations reportedly extending into January 2025.
Some influencers have even gone further, joining costly training programs offered by agencies for up to $6,000. These programs often include activities such as mock speeches at the UN podium, creating the illusion of involvement in official events.
A report from Chengdu Daily cited an industry insider who explained, “Visiting the UN has long been accessible to the public. The influencers are exploiting the allure of prestigious terms to attract followers and profit.”
As details of the trend emerged, social media erupted with criticism. Many users expressed outrage over the blatant misrepresentation, accusing influencers of misleading their audiences. A widely shared comment read, “It’s embarrassing to see them tarnishing the UN’s reputation for clicks and likes.” Another added, “They’ve taken this charade to an international stage - shameful!”
Faced with this public outcry, numerous influencers have deleted their videos, effectively attempting to erase evidence of their misleading claims. Others have gone as far as deactivating their accounts altogether, signaling an acknowledgment of the backlash’s severity.
The controversy has also prompted a response from Marco Suazo, Director of the UN Institute for Training and Research in New York. He emphasized the importance of supporting genuine youth talent involved in UN projects while calling for stricter regulation of false claims. “We must combat these deceptive practices to protect the integrity of the UN’s image,” he stated.
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