International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members 2026; March 25th.

FORUM: “The safety of everyone who works with the United Nations is our top priority.” International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members 2026. During this day, we invite you to draw attention to the risks faced by United Nations staff and peacekeepers and their colleagues in the non-governmental community and the press. Join the conversation by following the hashtags #25march; #UNStaffDay.

EVENTS: On Wednesday, March 25th, a webinar to commemorate the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members 2026 will be held at UNHQ. On this International Day, let us stand in solidarity with all detained colleagues and pledge to protect all United Nations personnel as they work to advance peace and human rights, protect the planet and build a better future for all. The observance is organized by the Committee on the Security and Independence of the International Civil Service and the United Nations Staff Union. Register to participate!

STATEMENTS: “Today is a solemn reminder of the grave risks facing our staff members as they carry out their vital work under the United Nations flag.” Read the full Statement from the UN Secretary-General António Guterres on the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members 2026; March 25th.

EXHIBITS: Explore the virtual exhibit of the UN Staff at work.

International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members 2023; March 25th.

FORUM: "Focus attention on the dangers faced by U.N. personnel and partners as they carry out the vital work of the United Nations." International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members 2023. The International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members has taken on even greater importance in recent years, as attacks against the United Nations intensify. This is a day to mobilize action, demand justice and strengthen our resolve to protect UN staff and peacekeepers, as well as our colleagues in the non-governmental community and the press. Follow the conversations, #DetainedStaffDay; #UNStaffDay, #25March

Statement from the UN Secretary-General António Guterres on the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members 2023; March 25th.

On International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members, we focus attention on the dangers faced by our personnel and partners as they carry out the vital work of the United Nations. We salute their courage and service in some of the most challenging parts of the world — and we call for greater action to ensure their safety and security.

United Nations personnel should never face threats for carrying out their essential mission and serving people. But, the reality is that they may confront deliberate attacks, ambushes, kidnappings, intimidation and unlawful detention. This is unacceptable.

Since 2021, 239 United Nations personnel have been detained, 21 of whom were detained in 2023. In total, 28 United Nations personnel are still in detention. National staff are often at particular risk.

I call on all countries to fully implement the 1994 Convention on the Safety of United Nations and Associated Personnel, as well as the 2005 Optional Protocol to the Convention, which extends protection to personnel delivering humanitarian, political or development assistance.

Today and every day, we stand in solidarity with all detained colleagues and their families and pledge to protect all United Nations personnel as they work to help the world’s most vulnerable people.

U.N. Secretary-General.