The UN remembers 77 staff members who died in the line of duty last year
“We are here to mourn together, to remember together, and to pay our respects together,” said Secretary-General António Guterres at the ceremony, which took place in the Trusteeship Chamber at UN Headquarters in New York.
Relatives of fallen officers, members of the diplomatic community and UN staff from around the world attended the event, both in person and online.
Respect dear colleagues
At the beginning of the ceremony, the Secretary General together with the President of the UN General Assembly Csaba Kőrösi and the President of the Security Council for July, Ambassador Barbara Woodward of the United Kingdom, lit a candle representing the eternal flame.
The UN leader called for a minute’s silence “for all our dear, dear comrades who have given their lives for others to be able to live.”
The names of 77 military, police and civilian personnel who died serving the Organization in the past year were read during the ceremony.
Courage and commitment
Mr. Guterres said that these men and women, who come from 36 countries, are colleagues and friends.
“Their work reflects the principle and promise of the United Nations: The principle of common humanity and the promise to work on it – to work together to solve shared problems, and to build a world of peace, prosperity and human rights for all,” he said.
The Secretary-General emphasized how UN staff “breathe life into a noble generation” every day, and often in difficult situations, as peacekeepers and humanitarian aid workers.
“Yet whatever their role, and whatever the situation, all those we are honoring today have given of themselves to others,” he said.
“Their courage saves lives, their commitment protects those in need, and their wisdom helps build a better world – now and in the future.”
Keeping their memory alive
Mr. Guterres noted that in a divided and dangerous world, the vision and values that the UN flag stands for are more important than ever.
It supports the commitment to continue the important work of the UN, in honor of those who give their lives in service to the Organization.
“We promise to keep food
porting family. We are committed to constantly reviewing and improving the safety, care and wellbeing of our staff. And we pledge to keep the memories of our fallen comrades alive: In our thoughts, in our hearts, and in our work to build a life of dignity and hope for all,” he said.
Seventy-seven UN staff lost their lives serving the organization in 2022.
More security is needed
UN Staff Representative Camille Mckenzie offered her deepest condolences to the families, saying “bereaved loved ones have also left a painful void in our lives.”
It also highlights the need for greater protection for UN staff.
Although working for the Organization is not entirely risk-free, “we are well aware that despite our best efforts, some of the losses we mourn today could have been avoided,” Ms. Mckenzie, Second Vice President of the Union said.
“Today’s ceremony should be a sharp reminder that we must not let our guard down in ensuring maximum protection for United Nations workers in the areas of safety and security, occupational health and safety, and mental health and well-being,” he added.
He stressed the firm commitment of the UN Staff to continue efforts to strengthen those protections, “as well as to ensure that there is quick and effective support for family members when the unexpected occurs.”
‘Late sign’
Atul Khare, head of the UN Department of Operational Support, said the fallen comrades were an outstanding example of dedication and faith in the UN mission.
“Their memory will be a lasting inspiration to us all,” he said. “Let us continue the honorable work of the United Nations as a way to honor their memory.”
