23rd June: United Nations Public Service Day

By adopting resolution 57/277 on 20^th December 2002, the United Nations General Assembly designated 23^rd June to be observed as ‘United Nations Public Service Day’ in order to highlight the value and virtue of public service to the community.

The day is also observed so that the value of public service for the development of the society can be understood by the younger generation, further they can be encouraged to pursue careers in the public sector.

Significance for 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has infected millions and has taken the lives of hundreds of thousands of people globally.  At these difficult times when health care organizations are strained, lockdowns have led to a loss of jobs and financial crisis, education system, social life, etc are disrupted, this year’s United Nations Public Service Day is to honour the frontline workers (Healthcare, sanitation, public servants, social welfare groups, transportation, law enforcement etc) who risk their lives to provide the essential services for the society.

Public Service for SDGs

For countries to achieve their Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is essential that the public institutions in an economy are inclusive, effective, and accountable for all in society. The day is also to remind Governments across the world that the critical and essential role public administration plays towards improving people’s lives.

Month: Current Affairs - June, 2020