International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members

International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members

International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members seeks to remember Alec Collett, a UN journalist who was abducted by armed men in 1985. Collett’s body was discovered in 2009 at Lebanon. This day aims to mobilize action, demand justice, and strengthen the UN’s resolve to protect their staff and peacekeepers. This also includes non-government colleagues and the press. According to the UN, since its founding, more than 3,500 men and women have lost their lives in its service. This day serves to recognize and remember them.

International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members was established in 1994 by the UN General Assembly. It is observed annually on March 25th.

Facts about this day

• According to the United Nations (UN), there are more than 14,000 civilians serving in UN peacekeeping operations around the world.
• This day remembers Alec Collett, a former journalist who was working for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency. Collett was abducted by armed gunmen in 1985 while helping Palestine refugees in the Middle East. His body was eventually found in Lebanon’s Beqaa Valley in 2009.
• Whether in their home countries or abroad, United Nations staff members have an admirable commitment to service. Their safety must be our priority. On this International Day of Solidarity, I call on the Member States and the international community to strengthen resolve to give them the protection they need to continue their work for peace and prosperity for all - Secretary-General António Guterres

In the News and Trending in the US for International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members

Top things to do in the US for this observance

• Review the UN General Assembly's adopted resolution to help protect UN personnel.
• Watch a video about the different member states showing their support for UN personnel.
• Browse several UN infographics to learn more about what UN staff and peacekeepers do.