International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members

International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members

The International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members is observed on March 25th every year. This day is dedicated to paying tribute to the United Nations staff members who have been detained, imprisoned, or have gone missing while performing their duties. The day also aims to raise awareness about the risks and challenges faced by humanitarian workers, peacekeepers, and other personnel who work in conflict zones or high-risk areas.

The day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1994, following the abduction of 11 staff members in Cambodia in 1993. Since then, the day has been observed annually to honor the memory of those who have lost their lives or have been detained while serving the United Nations. The day also serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting the safety and security of humanitarian workers.

The International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members is an opportunity for governments, organizations, and individuals to express their solidarity with the families of detained or missing staff members and to reaffirm their commitment to protecting humanitarian workers.

Origins of the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members

The International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members has its roots in the early 1990s, when the United Nations was facing a series of abductions and detentions of its staff members. In 1993, 11 staff members were abducted in Cambodia, leading to a global outcry and calls for action to protect humanitarian workers.

In response to these incidents, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 49/59 in 1994, which established March 25th as the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members. The resolution recognized the importance of protecting the safety and security of humanitarian workers and expressed deep concern about the growing number of detentions and abductions of United Nations staff members.

Since then, the day has been observed annually, with the United Nations and its partners working to raise awareness about the risks faced by humanitarian workers and to promote measures to protect their safety and security.

Guide to Observing the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members

To observe the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members, individuals and organizations can take the following steps:

• Organize events and campaigns to raise awareness about the risks faced by humanitarian workers and the importance of protecting their safety and security.
• Share stories and profiles of detained or missing staff members to highlight their bravery and sacrifice.
• Express solidarity with the families of detained or missing staff members through social media campaigns, fundraising events, or other activities.

Taboos Associated with the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members

• Silence: Remaining silent in the face of detentions and abductions of humanitarian workers is a taboo. It is essential to speak out against such incidents and demand action to protect the safety and security of humanitarian workers.
• Indifference: Showing indifference to the plight of detained or missing staff members is a taboo. It is crucial to express solidarity with their families and to work towards ensuring their safe return.
• Inaction: Failing to take action to protect humanitarian workers is a taboo. Governments, organizations, and individuals must work together to prevent detentions and abductions and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.