Beginning in year 2000 the IAU undertook a number of initiatives that changed the Union from being primarily an inward-focused organization whose emphasis was the world of professional astronomy, to being more outward looking in engaging with the public. These initiatives included proposing to the United Nations and then leading the International Year of Astronomy IYA 2009, and the formulation of a Strategic Plan that included creation of the Office of Astronomy for Development. Additional programs are being undertaken by the Union that continue to broaden IAU engagement with the public.
