This weekend, the United Nations in Geneva is opening its doors to the public in an effort to show that the organisation belongs to the peoples of the world.

Visitors young and old have the chance to see firsthand how the UN ticks.

The events at the "Open Days" are divided into different categories highlighting the important role the UN plays in the world, from resolving conflicts and coming to the aid of people affected by natural disasters to health care and social development.

Special focus will be given to the role of volunteers since the UN declared 2001 the "International Year of Volunteers".

Linked to the themes of population and environment, visitors can take part in a live musical theatre performance by musicians from Ghana.

Poets will be on hand to teach the art of haiku as part of an exhibit showing the link between technology and the arts.

The young can have their faces painted with designs linked to environmental themes or try their hand at rebuilding communities with Lego building blocks.

A cyber café will ensure that the UN is wired to the world for the two-day event, and befitting an organisation set up for the people by the people, entrance and all events are free.

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