The United Nations celebrates Public Service Day annually on June 23. It recognises the contribution of public service to the development process, honours the contributions of public servants, and encourages young people to pursue careers in the public sector. The United Nations established the UN Public Service Awards (UNPSA) programme in 2003 to encourage and recognise innovation and excellence in public service. Then, in 2016, it was revised to conform to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The background of United Nations Public Service Day
The General Assembly designated June 23 as United Nations Public Service Day on December 20, 2002. It encouraged Member States to organise special festivities highlighting the contribution of public service to the process of development on this day. The UNPSA was subsequently created. This organisation recognises the achievements and contributions of public service institutions that contribute to a more efficient and responsive public administration in nations around the world. The UNPSA promotes the function, credibility, and visibility of public service.
The public sector and its employees are indispensable to the community. Public service is a service provided by the government to the citizens of a particular jurisdiction. The government may provide the services directly, or it may pay a private organisation to provide them. The police or fire department, for instance, are government-run agencies, whereas waste collection provided by an independent contractor is a publicly funded service.
Public servants are motivated by a desire to make a difference in the world. They prioritise others because they wish to contribute to their community. Being a public servant requires hard labour and a commitment to serving the public. Public servants work in various occupations and ministries, but their services are founded on the same core values. Integrity is one of their core values, which is essential for establishing trust. The public’s trust in government is predicated on their satisfaction with the services they receive from public servants.
5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT FIREFIGHTERS
Before they are legally permitted to enter a blazing building, firefighters must complete 100 hours of training.
The Union Fire Company, also known as Franklin’s Bucket Brigade, was a volunteer fire department established in Philadelphia in 1736.
In addition to rescuing people during floods, earthquakes, man-made calamities, and terrorist attacks, firefighters also serve as plumbers, electricians, and mechanics.
If a dog falls into a well or a cat becomes trapped in a tree or drainpipe, firefighters will assist them.
According to regulations, firefighters must outfit in less than two minutes.
UNITED NATIONS PUBLIC SERVICE DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | June 23 | Friday |
| 2024 | June 23 | Sunday |
| 2025 | June 23 | Monday |
| 2026 | June 23 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | June 23 | Wednesday |
