Public Service Day

Public Service Day is a professional holiday for all those who work in public service. They are engaged in a noble cause—improving the conditions of our daily lives. Thanks to civil servants, we live in warm and comfortable homes, we are not afraid to walk the streets, we can educate our children, we feel protected from military threats, and we use many services. Let’s remember this together with people from all over the world on Public Service Day.

History

The initiative to create this holiday came from the UN. The UN General Assembly in 2003 selected June 23 for this day, adopting resolution 57/277. Public Service Day was created to celebrate the value and importance of public service to the development of society, to motivate young people to pursue a career in the public sector, and to encourage the activities of civil servants.

The resolution called on the UN member states to organize various thematic events on this day. Every year, the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs holds a forum in the host country. Part of the forum’s activities is the presentation of UN awards for innovation and creative achievements in the field of public service. The UNPSA award is given to government institutions that promote good governance and support sustainable development.

Interesting Facts

The most complex system of civil service appeared in 206 BCE in China. Its foundations were laid by Gaozu, the first emperor of the Han Dynasty. He divided the empire into 10 kingdoms and 1,587 prefectures. These consisted of administrative districts. Nine ministries ruled the state, and all civil servants were divided into nine ranks.

How to Take Part

Celebrate Public Service Day depending on whether you work in the public sector.

• If you do, celebrate this holiday with a party with colleagues.
• If you do not, congratulate the civil servants you know, current and former, and thank them for their work.

When is Public Service Day in 2024?

Public Service Day is observed on June 23 each year.

Observations