“We unite in sadness and solidarity,” said Secretary General António Guterres, comfort family members and loved onesparticipate in memorial events from around the world, telling them: “our hearts are with you”.
‘Infinite suffering’
During the past year, COVID-19 he went on to cause “immeasurable suffering and death.”
The head of the United Nations expressed gratitude to all colleagues who died during their service last year, whether by act of malice, natural disaster or illness.
Often away from home, unobtrusive, they dedicate their careers to helping others – UN chief
“Together, they represent the great diversity of our United Nations family,” affirmed the UN chief.
Profile of the fallen
Hailing from 104 countries, 70 are military personnel, one police officer and 414 civilian employees, he said.
Their expertise and backgrounds are as diverse as the work they have done within the United Nations Secretariat, agencies, foundations and programmes.
“Often away from home, unobtrusive, they dedicate their careers to helping others,” he added.
Aspiration for lofty goals
“Not mocked by skepticism, they worked to make a difference – no matter how high the obstacle; no matter how far the reward is; it doesn’t matter, even, how difficult the challenge,” he said.
They worked to ensure peace in forgotten places; feed the hungry; shelter those who have been evicted from their homes; helped protect our planet; provide life-saving support; and fight to give children a better future.
“In short, they uphold the vision and values of the United Nations,” declared the Secretary-General. “We mourn their passing and cherish their memories.”
Work like a
After a moment of silent reflection on their lives and service, he spoke of a chaotic world, “full of conflicts, threatening crises, and overwhelmed by emergencies.”
Hoping to join forces and work together “as an international community”, Guterres reminded that the UN is both “an instrument and an expression of that community”.
“It is the colleagues we honor today who have delivered on that promise and brought to life that hope,” he said.
Dedication and support
The Secretary-General commits to the United Nations’ support to the families of the victims and considers and improves the safety, care and welfare of its staff.
“We vowed to continue with the dedication and courage that made their work,” he said.
“Our colleagues have lost their lives, but their spirit to help others live – today and every day,” the UN chief said, adding that their memory could be ” a blessing and inspiration to all of us”.
UN photo / Mark Garten
Secretary-General António Guterres speaks during a memorial service for United Nations personnel who died in the line of duty, June 22, 2022.
