On Public Service Day, Ban encourages commitment to good governance

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today encouraged public servants across the world to promote the ideals of good governance, integrity, respect for diversity, gender equality and the use of technology for effective management of knowledge to build better lives for all.

“On the annual observance of Public Service Day, we honour those who accept the responsibilities of service to humanity and who contribute to excellence and innovation in public service institutions,” Mr. Ban said in a message to mark the Day, which is being observed for the first time in Africa.

At a ceremony in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, the United Nations paid tribute to public servants from all over the world and acknowledged public service institutions for their achievements.

“Governments and good governance play a central role in addressing the complex challenges of our times,” said Mr. Ban. “Whether it is climate change, the economic crisis, unemployment, health pandemics, or poverty eradication, public servants and good governance are often the first line of defence,” he said.

The implementation of the internationally agreed development targets, including the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), also relied heavily on the work of public servants – their leadership, expertise and innovation in the delivery of vital services, the Secretary-General added.