Csaba Kőrösi, President of the 77th session of the General Assembly

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Opening of 95th session of the International Civil Service Commission

20 March 2023

[As Delivered]

Dear Mr. Chair, Mr. Vice-Chair, Commissioners,

Ladies and Gentlemen,   

It is my privilege to address today’s opening of the 95th session of the UN International Civil Service Commission.

Over the last three years, we have faced difficult circumstances.

We had to deal with the disruptions caused by the pandemic, adapt to immediate needs for remote and hybrid work, and, at the same time, to make our systems capable of handling the unprecedented changes.

As an organization, we are undergoing fast and far-reaching transformation.

I cannot stress enough the important role of the ICSC in strengthening and maintaining high standards in the international civil service, and in continuing our rapid adjustment to new workplace realities.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Your partnership is needed now more than ever.

Twenty-eight organisations under the common system rely on the work of the Commission to ensure that they can work in an efficient manner, operate under a fair system, and have effective control over their management.

I highly appreciate the commission’s efforts in putting forward the work-life balance policies and improving the conditions of service of our common system staff.

The newly approved and established parental leave framework is evidence of the commission’s commendable work, and I congratulate you on that.

Yet, on this occasion, let me extend three suggestions to further the success of the commission’s activities:

First, keep up your great work in closely coordinating with the Fifth Committee.

I believe all Member States want to see an even better managed organization, and they rely upon your valuable guidance on those issues.

Second, please ensure that your efforts are aligned with the findings reported by the relevant oversight bodies within the UN system.

Third, please keep your positive approach and commitment to ensure that all organizations under the common system work fairly and effectively.

On another note, ICSC is faced with the challenging task of conducting a comprehensive review of the compensation system.

I think the success of this endeavour is in the interest of all of us. 

Ladies and Gentlemen,  

We in the UN system should never lose sight of the fact that we are carrying out the mandate for the betterment of the lives people worldwide: the lives of our eight billion constituents. 

And should not forget that, as said by Mahatma Gandhi, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

I wish you a very fruitful session.

I thank you and good luck to all of us.