Secretary-General, Commending Finalists at UN 21 Award Ceremony, Stresses Organization Must Innovate, Deliver ‘Now More than Ever’

Following are UN Secretary-General Ban Ki moon’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, at the UN 21 Award Ceremony in New York, 24 October:

It is my great pleasure to be with you for this awards ceremony, especially as it is also UN Day.

With multiple crises around the world, the United Nations is needed now more than ever.  That means we have to innovate and deliver now more than ever.  Today’s ceremony marks 18 years of recognizing the ingenuity, team spirit and perseverance of staff around the world.

This year, the Awards focus on five categories:  first, innovation; second, vision; third, efficiency, which is essential in a time of resource constraints; fourth, highlight the United Nations values of professionalism, integrity and respect for diversity; and fifth, service beyond the call of duty through initiatives that take our shared values beyond the workplace.

We received over 70 submissions.  I am sure you will be impressed by the outstanding quality of the finalists and projects.  Congratulations to all.  You are showing the United Nations at its best.  Thank you.