United Nations Public Service Day
Also known as
Public Service Day
UN Public Service Day
Observed
annually on June 23rd (since 2003)
Dates
Founded by
United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on December 20th, 2002
Hashtags
Sources
United Nations Public Service Day "celebrates the value and virtue of public service to the community; highlights the contribution of public service in the development process; recognizes the work of public servants, and encourages young people to pursue careers in the public sector." It was designated by the General Assembly of the United Nations with the adoption of resolution 57/277. The resolution encouraged member states to organize special events on the day "to highlight the contribution of public service in the development process." Each year, the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs organizes a forum with a host country. The forum includes capacity-development workshops, a roundtable of world leaders, and the United Nations Public Service Awards (UNPSA) ceremony.
The UNPSA was established by the United Nations Economic and Social Council to increase recognition of United Nations Public Service Day and the value of public service. The awards aim "to promote and reward innovation and excellence in public services by recognizing the creative achievements and contributions of public institutions that lead to a more effective and responsive public administration in countries worldwide in support of sustainable development."
How to Observe United Nations Public Service Day
Some ways you could participate in the day include:
- Check the day's official website for information about this year's happenings.
- See if any events related to the day are being held in your community.
- Honor any public servants you know.
- Learn about this year's United Nations Public Service Awards.
- Pursue a career in public service.