United Nations Radio

A dozen programmes from around the world on Tuesday received this year's United Nations Public Service Awards for innovations that have a positive impact on people's daily lives.

The awards, given in New York on United Nations Public Service Day, the 23rd of June, are for improving transparency and delivery of service, accountability and responsiveness in the public service, as well as fostering participation in policymaking decisions.

This year's winners are from Canada, South Korea, Sweden, Zambia, South Africa, Thailand, Slovenia, Egypt, Oman, India and Poland.

Speaking at the award ceremony, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said this year's winners and finalists show that public services can be delivered more efficiently, effectively and equitably all over the world.

"The ingredients are simple: commitment, hard work, innovation, talent and technological know-how. Combined, they make a powerful recipe. And together, these women and men make vital contributions to our efforts to build a better world for all."

The United Nations Public Service Awards programme, established in 2003 is open to public organizations and agencies as well as public-private partnerships.

Diane Bailey, United Nations.

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