Dear Colleagues,

Through most inhumane killing of George Floyd, many of us have been reminded of the continued existence of deep-rooted racism and discrimination in our societies as well as public and private entities.

The Coordinating Committee for International Staff Unions and Associations (CCISUA) strongly condemns and rejects all forms of racism, discrimination, intolerance and systemic injustice and stands in solidarity with all those who have endured and continue to endure their impacts. 

CCISUA is determined to:

a) protect our constituents who are suffering from racism, discrimination, intolerance and injustice,

b) enforce a zero-tolerance policy on racism within CCISUA and being a living example of a respectful community under the principle that all people are equal and all voices count,

c) advocate for a United Nations where all forms of conscious and unconscious bias are eliminated and where those who engage in discriminatory practices are held accountable,

d) drive policy and culture change within the UN system to remove all obstacles to equal opportunities.

In its normative and consultative work, CCISUA will scrutinize all positions expressed and proposals made in order to avoid unwittingly perpetuating discriminatory practices and to contribute actively to removing any that are currently in place.

CCISUA will establish a support mechanism that shall provide the fundament for equal opportunities in being elected, appointed and in carrying out an official function.

CCISUA, stands committed and accountable in ensuring that our body lives up to the ideals enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and human rights instruments. We will do our utmost to lead the change both within CCISUA and in the United Nations Common System.

Sincerely,

Stefan Brezina, CCISUA President

The letter can be found here.