Redesigning the UN logo to mark the 60th anniversary of the world’s most translated document - the UN Human Rights Declaration - started the same way any logo design project usually does - with the best of intentions and the goal of graphically illustrating an event or central theme. Months after it’s release, the new UN anniversary logo has become the topic of a political skirmish, reflective of the long standing row between Tibet and China.

Originally created by a South African artist, after the UN decided to lose the original blue and white logo and the high commissioner for human rights, Louise Arbour sought a new design with more appeal in the developing world. The logo was originally unveiled in December last year, heralding the UN’s launch of a year-long promotion for the 60th anniversary, culminating with high-profile ceremonies at the end of this year.

Nobody noticed any particularly significant about the new red and amber logo, symbolizing a person with outstretched arms, and the chosen deigner, Yolande Mulke said of his work: “I think what the UN likes about it is the continuity of using the wreath device from the UN logo and the feeling of peace and welcoming that the man with his arms wide open projects.”

What a difference a few months make. After heavily reported protests by amber-robed Buddhist monks in Tibet - just as China is preparing to host the increasingly controversial Beijing Olympics - the UN has been embarrassed by the logo’s distinctive colors - also favoured by the Dalai Lama, a popular and high profile symbol of Tibetan resistance. “It’s a complete accident, we had no idea that the colors were those of Tibet,” said a UN official. The issue for the UN – which officially recognises China as the ruling body over Tibet – is that the logo is to replace the official UN Human Rights design, on a permanent basis, and after the 60th anniversary has passed. The design could even be interpreted as being representative of the Dalai Lama himself, certain to give Chinese officials pause as they try to deflect criticism about their handling of the Tibet issue as well as the upcoming Beijing Games.

A spokesperson for the UN is on record as saying that no member state has lodged a complaint about the design, that there was “nothing specific” about the logo’s chosen colors and that the design bore no hidden political message. “The criteria were that we wanted to show colours that were grounded and indigenous”. With the controversy over Tibet, and world-wide concern over Chinese human rights issues, it’s a safe bet that we’ll hear more about this in the upcoming months. See here for more about the Beijing Olympics logo)

Hat Tip: The UK Independent

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