By Terry Orr
The United Nations’ Public Service Day is held on June 23
each year. It recognizes that democracy
and successful governance are built on the foundation of a competent civil service. The day aims to celebrate the value and
virtue of service to the community.
Background
On December 20, 2002, the United
Nations General Assembly designated June 23 of each year as United Nations
Public Service Day (resolution 57/277). It encouraged member states to organize
special events on that day to highlight the contribution of public service in
the development process.
This day
was created to: celebrate the value and virtue of public service to the
community; highlight the contribution of public service in the development
process; recognize the work of public servants; and encourage young people to
pursue careers in the public sector.
(COMMENT: While corruption, greed, personal agendas have
created significant problem in America and many other countries – the goals and
objectives of Public Service remain honorable and worthwhile. I personally blame the citizens for allowing
this to happen – and the only way to correct it – is by getting involved and righting
the ship.)
The United Nations (UN) holds a
Public Service Awards ceremony each year. It rewards the creative achievements
and contributions of public service institutions worldwide. This event promotes
the role, professionalism and visibility of public service. At the same time, Africa Public Service Day
is celebrated in Africa to coincide with the United Nations Public Service Day.
Many public service organizations
and departments around the world celebrate this day by holding various events
to recognize the valuable role that public servants play in making improvements
in society. Activities include: information days featuring stalls and booths
about the public service; organized lunches with guest speakers; internal
awards ceremonies within public service agencies or departments; and special
announcements to honor public servants.
The Awards for 2013
will be bestowed in the following five categories:
1. Preventing and Fighting Corruption in the Public Service
2. Improving the Delivery of Public Services
3. Fostering Participation in Policy-making Decisions
through Innovative Mechanisms
4. Promoting Whole-of-Government Approaches in the
Information Age
5. Promoting Gender Sensitive Public Service Delivery
What is your take on public service?
(Photos
from Google)
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