The United Nations Public Service Awards (UNPSA) are the highest international recognition of excellence in public service. They are awarded to public institutions and individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the improvement of public administration and the delivery of public services.

The UNPSA were established in 2003 to promote and support innovations in public service delivery. They are awarded in three categories:

• Innovation in Public Institutions: This category recognizes public institutions that have introduced innovative and effective practices in public administration.
• Gender-Responsive Public Services: This category recognizes public institutions that have made significant progress in providing gender-responsive public services.
• Tackling Climate Change: This category recognizes public institutions that have developed innovative and effective approaches to tackling climate change.

The UNPSA are a prestigious award that recognizes the hard work and dedication of public servants around the world. They are a powerful way to showcase the positive impact that public service can have on people’s lives.

The Benefits of Winning a UNPSA

There are many benefits to winning a UNPSA. In addition to the prestige of the award, winners receive a number of other benefits, including:

• Award certificate: Winners receive a certificate of recognition from the United Nations.
• Publicity: The UNPSA are widely publicized, which can help to raise the profile of the winning institutions and individuals.
• Networking opportunities: Winners are invited to attend the UNPSA ceremony, where they have the opportunity to network with other public servants from around the world.
• Financial support: The UNPSA provide financial support to winners to help them to continue their work.

How to Apply for a UNPSA

Applications for the UNPSA are open to public institutions and individuals from all UN member states. Applications must be submitted online through the UNPSA website.

The application process includes the following steps:

1. Complete the online application form.
2. Submit a written proposal that describes the innovative or gender-responsive practice that you are nominating.
3. Provide supporting documentation, such as reports, articles, or other evidence of the impact of your work.
4. Submit two letters of recommendation.

The UNPSA selection committee will review all applications and select the winners. The winners will be announced at the UNPSA ceremony, which is held annually in New York City.

Conclusion

The UNPSA are a prestigious award that recognizes the hard work and dedication of public servants around the world. They are a powerful way to showcase the positive impact that public service can have on people’s lives. If you are a public servant who is working on an innovative or gender-responsive practice, I encourage you to consider applying for a UNPSA. It is a great way to recognize your achievements and to help to promote the importance of public service.