Annually on March 25, the United Nations observes the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members. This day marks the anniversary of the abduction of Alec Collett, a former journalist associated with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). In 1985, Collett was kidnapped by gunmen, and his remains were ultimately discovered in the Bekaa Valley, Lebanon, in 2009.

History and Significance

• Origin: The day marks the anniversary of the abduction of Alec Collett, a former journalist who was working for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) when he was abducted by armed gunmen in 1985. His body was finally found in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley in 2009.
• Significance: This day underscores the dangers faced by UN staff working in volatile and conflict-affected areas, highlighting the need for stronger measures to protect them and ensuring that perpetrators of such crimes are held accountable.

Objectives

• Awareness: Increase global awareness of the plight of detained and missing UN staff and other international personnel.
• Advocacy: Advocate for the safety and security of UN staff and associated personnel.
• Justice: Call for justice for those who have been detained or have disappeared while working to uphold peace, security, and humanitarian efforts.

Celebrations and Activities

• Ceremonies and Events: The UN and related organizations often hold ceremonies and events to honor detained and missing staff members, including speeches, discussions, and commemorative activities.
• Advocacy Campaigns: Various advocacy campaigns are launched to demand the safe release of detained staff and to highlight the challenges faced by those working in dangerous environments.
• Reports and Publications: The UN and human rights organizations release reports and publications detailing incidents involving detained and missing staff, as well as measures being taken to enhance their protection.
• Social Media Campaigns: Awareness is spread through social media platforms using hashtags like #SolidarityDay and #DetainedMissingStaff to share stories and advocate for the safety of international personnel.

Challenges Faced by UN Staff

• Security Risks: UN staff and associated personnel often work in conflict zones, facing threats such as kidnapping, detention, violence, and intimidation.
• Legal and Political Barriers: In some cases, the detention of UN staff is complicated by legal and political issues, making it difficult to secure their release.
• Lack of Accountability: Perpetrators of crimes against UN staff are often not held accountable, leading to a lack of justice for victims and their families.

Efforts to Enhance Safety and Security

• Protective Measures: The UN implements various measures to enhance the safety and security of its staff, including security training, risk assessments, and the use of protective equipment.
• Diplomatic Efforts: Diplomatic efforts are made to negotiate the release of detained staff and to address the legal and political issues surrounding their detention.
• International Cooperation: The UN works with member states and other international organizations to improve the legal and operational framework for the protection of its personnel.

Support for Affected Families

• Assistance Programs: The UN provides support to the families of detained and missing staff, including financial assistance, counseling, and legal aid.
• Communication and Advocacy: Regular communication with affected families and advocacy on their behalf to ensure their loved ones are not forgotten.

Notable Incidents

• Alec Collett: His abduction and subsequent death highlight the risks faced by UN staff and the ongoing struggle for justice and protection.
• Other Cases: Numerous other cases involve UN staff being detained or going missing in conflict zones and other high-risk areas.

The International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members is a crucial reminder of the sacrifices made by those working for peace and humanitarian efforts worldwide. It calls for collective action to ensure their safety, support their families, and bring justice to those who risk their lives in service to humanity.