| The World of Philately |
  Back to What's New | There are today a countless number of collectors of postage stamps. People in all professions, of all political persuasions and all social classes devote themselves to this hobby for pleasure, education and profit. As a roving ambassador of the issuing country, the postage stamp offers a glimpse into a country's cultural, artistic and historical heritage. Policies regarding the issue, sale and marketing of postage stamps are a matter for each Union member country. However, UPU Congresses have set down from time to time guidelines and recommended postage stamp themes that are likely to contribute in a general way to strengthening the bonds of international friendship. Toward this end, the 1989 Washington Congress adopted recommendations regarding a "Philatelic code of ethics for use by UPU member countries". The UPU has also undertaken a number of activities designed to promote philately and has established a Contact Committee with the major philatelic associations. The United Nations postal administration, created in 1951, regularly issues postage stamps from New York, Geneva and Vienna on behalf of the United Nations. |
