United Nations Public Service Day

United Nations Public Service Day History

United Nations Public Service Day is observed annually to celebrate the contributions and achievements of public servants at both local and national levels. The day acknowledges the important role public service plays in building and maintaining effective, inclusive and responsive societies. This global observance aims to raise awareness of the value of public service and its vital role in promoting sustainable development and good governance.

New Zealand has a long history of strong public service which is central to its social and economic fabric. The United Nations Public Service Day is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the Kiwi public servants and pay tribute to the commitment and dedication they have in serving their communities. This day is recognised by government agencies, local councils and non-governmental organisations across the country. In New Zealand, the Public Service Association is developed to represent and advocate for public servants. It aims to assist in achieving fair and reasonable wages, safe and healthy working conditions and a democratic working environment.

In New Zealand, the United Nations Public Service Day is observed in various ways. It is an opportunity for public servants to highlight their achievements and share best practices to develop a more efficient and effective public service. Various events are held to celebrate the day, such as seminars, training sessions, forums, and award ceremonies. The United Nations Public Service Day is celebrated on June 23rd every year.

Facts & quotes about United Nations Public Service Day

• Every year the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) organizes a world forum with a host country. The forum operates as a space for world leaders, ministers, and other senior decision-makers to debate emerging issues and trends. It allows them to discuss good practices, strategies, actions, and innovative approaches that will improve and benefit the public sector.
• Today, as we honor these essential workers and so many more, we must also reflect on how to better protect, recognize and invest in their well-being as we build back better, together. And I say directly to these inspiring public servants: We are all deeply indebted to you for your remarkable acts of service to humankind - UN Secretary-General António Guterres, UN Public Service Day, 2020
• In 2021, it was reported that 49.6% of Public Service chief executive positions were held by women.
• In 1988, New Zealand underwent a significant public service reform, known as the New Zealand Model, which transformed its public sector from a traditional bureaucracy to a more efficient, innovative, and results-oriented system. These changes have become an international benchmark for public sector reform.

In the News and Trending in NZ for United Nations Public Service Day

Top things to do in NZ for this observance

• Learn more about the role of public service workers. The Covid-19 pandemic has put a lot more responsbility and burden on public workers. The UN highlights their efforts and continued contributions.
• Listen to the UN Symphony Orchestra's tribute to public service.
• Use the day as an opportunity to explore careers in public service, engage with local government agencies, or volunteer your time with a non-profit organization that serves the public interest.
• Research and learn about the best practices in public service in different parts of the world to understand how these can be applied in New Zealand.