The relationship between Lions Clubs International and the UN began after the end of World War II.

In San Francisco, California, USA, on October 24, 1945 (forever known as UN Day), U.S. President Harry Truman joined Britain's Prime Minister Winston Churchill and other world leaders in signing the UN charter.

In the same year, Lions founder Melvin Jones and Past International Presidents Fred W. Smith and D.A. Skeen were asked to help develop the non-governmental organization (NGO) charter for the new global organization. At the time, Lions Clubs International was already an established worldwide service organization.

During the ensuing years, the two organizations have cooperated on many humanitarian ventures. Lions have provided aid and manpower for UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund), WHO (World Health Organization), and UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) projects.

From the beginning, the relationship between Lions Clubs International and the UN has been limited to humanitarian endeavors. In keeping with its stated Purposes, Lions Clubs International has no involvement in the political or security affairs of the UN.