UN Staff Day was first observed in 1953 but has not been marked in recent years. The decision to reinstate the observance was aligned with an appeal from staff representatives to revive the venerable tradition, which acknowledges and celebrates the work of UN staff.

On 25 October 2016, the United Nations family will gather at all duty stations and field missions in celebration of the courage, commitment and sacrifice of the men and women who have answered the noble call to become international civil servants.

The Secretary-General said: “I have witnessed first hand the high level of professionalism, dedication, and know-how that exists throughout the United Nations [among] the able and courageous men and women who serve this Organization around the world every day, often in difficult and dangerous circumstances”.

Preparations for the day have already begun, with plans for programmes and activities at UN Headquarters including an interactive global townhall meeting with the Secretary-General; musical performances; a food festival facilitated by staff and the Permanent Missions to the United Nations; and a raffle to raise funds for the UN Memorial and Recognition Fund.