On Public Service Day, Ban hails role of good governance in development
Marking United Nations Public Service Day today, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon encouraged countries to focus on the importance of good governance and efficient public administration and to celebrate the contribution of public servants to society's progress
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“Addressing today's inter-linked challenges requires sound, forward-looking public policies and transparent, accountable governance structures that embody solidarity with the poorest and most vulnerable,” Secretary-General Ban said in his message for the Day.
He called on public servants around the world to work towards helping to build “an inclusive, prosperous and sustainable future for all.”
In 2002, the General Assembly designated 23 June as UN Public Service Day “to celebrate the value and virtue of public service to the community” and to encourage young people to pursue careers in the public sector.
Member States are encouraged to organize special events to mark the Day that highlight the contribution of public service and public servants to effective, transparent and inclusive public governance.
Starting tomorrow in Bahrain, the Organization will hold its annual UN Public Service Forum, Day and Awards Ceremony, to honour “creative achievements and contributions of public service institutions worldwide.” Held in the capital city of Manama through 27 June, this year's events will focus on “Transformative e-Government and Innovation: Creating a Better Future for All.”
“The 2013 United Nations Public Service Awards show how public services can be delivered more efficiently, innovatively and equitably,” Mr. Ban said.
“The winners demonstrate the basic ingredients for excellence: commitment and accountability, hard work and innovation, talent and technological know-how.”
Winners of the Awards are chosen in the following areas: prevention of corruption; improving service delivery; promoting innovative mechanisms for citizen participation in policy-making; advancing knowledge management in government; and promoting gender responsive service delivery.