Director-General's remarks at handover of donations

Excellencies
Dear Mr. Executive Secretary
Dear Colleagues
Dear Friends:

It is a pleasure for me to be with you. Today’s handover of donations raised by UNOG staff is a clear illustration of our collective commitment to the values and ideals of the United Nations. The cheques are very practical manifestations of the generosity of our staff, their genuine concern for people in need and their commitment to making a difference.

Every day, working for this organization, they put this dedication and determination at the service of those that need it most: the vulnerable people of this world; those affected by conflict, instability, natural disasters, poverty, and disease. I think that it is very telling that the benefits from Staff Day – staff’s very own event – are donated to alleviate the suffering of others. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you – as representatives of all our staff – for this devotion and for the continued efforts for those that need us most.

Only last week, on 11 January, staff again demonstrated this commitment and generosity in the unparalleled collection in favour of the victims of the earthquake and tsunami. I would like to congratulate the Staff Coordinating Council and all the volunteers who participated on this outstanding result.

As you know, the tsunami focused attention – once again – on the importance of ensuring that pledges of support are transformed into actual donations. The events following 26 December also underscored the value of close and careful coordination and the need to draw on the strengths of civil society partners with knowledge of the affected communities. The tsunami disaster also highlighted the need to ensure that support is sustained throughout the rehabilitation and reconstruction phase and that longer-running crises and conflicts are not forgotten.

I believe that today’s handover of cheques – as well as last week’s collection – show that United Nations staff set an example in this regard. Staff have delivered on their pledges, and the donations have been handled in a transparent and efficient manner. Projects have been identified in collaboration with colleagues in the wider United Nations family and with civil society representatives in order to avoid duplication and overlap. The projects that will be supported are aimed at contributing towards the longer-term rehabilitation and sustainability of the stricken communities. I believe that these aspects may prove an inspiration to others.

Dear Friends: I commend your efforts, which you should be very proud of, and I thank you once again.