Public Service Critical for Sustainable Development, Secretary-General Says in Observance Message, Paying Special Tribute to United Nations Staff

Following is UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s message on the United Nations Public Service Day, observed today:

On United Nations Public Service Day, we recognize and celebrate the role of public service in improving peoples’ lives.

The efforts of women and men engaged in public service are crucial to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Each Sustainable Development Goal is linked to the delivery of public service:  from health to education; from safety to the rule of law; from water and energy to economic policies and beyond.

All countries and all people need a public service that is competent, equipped and well-resourced.  Public service needs to be diverse and ethical.  It needs to be dedicated to effectively serving people and improving the lives of the poorest and most vulnerable.

I pay tribute to public servants in all countries for their dedication to excellence.  I would like to offer a special word of recognition to the dedicated staff of the United Nations.  Across 10 years leading this noble Organization, I marvel at their dedication and professionalism every single day.

Once again, thank you for your commitment.  Together, let us to create an environment where public service can flourish with creativity, innovation and a shared drive to realize the 2030 Agenda.