International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members

International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members: A Guide to Remembrance and Advocacy

The International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members is one of the most solemn and significant observances on the United Nations calendar. Observed annually in the United States and across the globe, this day serves as a stark reminder of the immense personal risks taken by humanitarian workers, peacekeepers, journalists, and international civil servants who dedicate their lives to the service of humanity. In an era where geopolitical instability and localized conflicts are on the rise, the safety of those delivering aid and upholding human rights has never been more precarious. This day is not a celebration in the traditional sense; rather, it is a day of mobilization, a call for justice, and a profound gesture of support for those who have been silenced through wrongful detention or disappearance.

What makes this day truly special is its focus on the "human" element of international diplomacy and aid. While we often hear about the political maneuvers of nation-states or the logistical challenges of delivering food and medicine, we rarely stop to consider the individuals—the fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters—who are targeted simply because of the emblem on their vest or the organization they represent. The United States, as a primary host to the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, plays a pivotal role in this observance. It is a day when the international community residing within American borders pauses to reflect on the high price of peace and the ongoing struggle to ensure that the "blue helmet" or the UN insignia remains a shield of protection rather than a target for abduction.

The essence of this day lies in the word "solidarity." It is about ensuring that those currently held in secret prisons, those kidnapped by non-state actors, and those whose fates remain unknown are never forgotten. It is a day where the families of the missing are given a voice, and where the global community demands that governments and militant groups alike respect international law. In the United States, this day bridges the gap between high-level policy and the raw, emotional reality of humanitarian work, reminding us that the mission of the UN is carried out by brave individuals who often work in the shadows of danger.

When is it in 2026?

The International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members is observed on a fixed date every year. In the coming year, the observance will take place on:

Day of the Week: Wednesday Date: March 25, 2026 Countdown: There are 81 days remaining until this important observance.

Because the date is fixed to March 25th, it commemorates a specific historical event, ensuring that the memory of the fallen and the missing remains tied to the anniversary of the tragedy that birthed this movement.

History and Origins: The Legacy of Alec Collett

The origins of this day are rooted in a tragic event that occurred decades ago in the Middle East, which continues to resonate today. On March 25, 1985, Alec Collett, a British journalist who was working for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), was abducted by armed gunmen. He was kidnapped in Beirut, Lebanon, while on assignment. For years, his fate remained a mystery, casting a long shadow over the safety of UN personnel.

The abduction of Alec Collett became a rallying cry for staff unions and humanitarian organizations. It highlighted a terrifying vulnerability: staff members were being used as political pawns. Despite years of searching and diplomatic pressure, it was not until 2009—nearly 24 years after his disappearance—that Mr. Collett’s remains were finally identified and recovered in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley. This long, painful wait for closure for his family and colleagues became the catalyst for the United Nations to formalize a day of solidarity.

The United Nations Staff Union’s Committee on the Security and Independence of the International Civil Service has been the driving force behind this day since its inception. They recognized that without a dedicated day of awareness, the plight of detained staff would often be buried by the fast-moving news cycle. By selecting the anniversary of Collett's kidnapping, the UN ensures that his sacrifice, and the sacrifices of hundreds of others, serve as a constant reminder of the need for heightened security and legal protections for all staff members.

The Growing Risks: Modern Context and Statistics

The relevance of this day has unfortunately grown in recent years. The landscape of global conflict has shifted from traditional state-on-state warfare to complex insurgencies and civil wars where international staff are frequently caught in the crossfire or intentionally targeted. In 2024 alone, 101 UN personnel were detained. As we moved into early 2025, more than 50 of those individuals remained in detention, their whereabouts often unknown or their legal rights ignored.

One of the most concerning trends identified by the UN is the disproportionate risk faced by locally recruited staff. While international staff members often have the protection of diplomatic channels or the ability to be evacuated, local staff—citizens of the countries where the UN is operating—are often the most vulnerable. They are the frontline workers, the drivers, the translators, and the local aid coordinators who live in the communities they serve. When they are detained, they often face even greater hurdles in securing their release or receiving fair legal representation. The International Day of Solidarity specifically highlights the need to protect these local heroes who are the backbone of humanitarian operations.

How the Day is Observed in the United States

In the United States, the observance is concentrated primarily within the professional and diplomatic spheres, particularly in New York City and Washington, D.C. Because it is a day of reflection and advocacy rather than a public holiday, you will not find parades or festivals. Instead, the activities are designed to educate and influence.

United Nations Headquarters (New York City)

The UN Headquarters is the epicenter of the day’s activities. The Secretary-General typically issues a formal statement that is shared globally. This message usually serves two purposes: to honor the missing and to put pressure on Member States to uphold their legal obligations.

Inside the UN complex, the UN Staff Union and the Committee on the Security and Independence of the International Civil Service organize commemorative events. These often include: Webinars and Panel Discussions: These events feature speakers who have been previously detained, family members of those currently missing, and legal experts in international human rights law. In 2025 and 2026, these sessions are increasingly accessible to the public via digital platforms, allowing people across the United States to listen to the harrowing stories and the calls for action. Wreath-Laying Ceremonies: A quiet, somber moment is often held at the UN memorial wall to honor those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Staff Union Briefings: These are internal meetings where staff discuss security protocols and the status of their colleagues who are currently in peril.

Advocacy and Digital Engagement

For the general public in the United States, participation usually takes place through digital advocacy. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) like Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and various journalist protection groups use March 25th to launch social media campaigns. Using hashtags and sharing infographics, they educate the American public about the "Convention on the Safety of United Nations and Associated Personnel."

This 1994 Convention, and its 2005 Optional Protocol, are the primary legal instruments intended to protect UN staff. However, many countries where the UN operates have not ratified these agreements, or they choose to ignore them. Advocacy on this day often focuses on petitioning the U.S. government to use its diplomatic weight to encourage other nations to sign and respect these treaties.

Traditions and Customs of Remembrance

While there are no "traditions" in the sense of food or music, a set of professional customs has developed around this day:

1. The Moment of Silence: At various UN offices and NGO headquarters across the United States, a moment of silence is observed at noon. This is a time to reflect on the names of those who are currently detained.
2. The "Empty Chair" Symbolism: In some high-level meetings or seminars held on this day, an empty chair is placed at the front of the room. This chair represents the missing staff members who should be there but are unable to attend due to their detention.
3. Wearing the UN Blue: While not a formal rule, many staff members and supporters wear a touch of "UN Blue" (the specific light blue color of the UN flag) or a blue ribbon to show their silent support for their colleagues.
4. Professional Pledges: Humanitarian workers often use this day to renew their commitment to their mission, despite the risks, while simultaneously demanding better security infrastructure from their employers.

Practical Information for the Public

If you are interested in observing this day or learning more while in the United States, here are some practical tips:

Accessing the UN: If you are in New York City, you can visit the United Nations Headquarters. However, you must register in advance for a guided tour or to attend specific public events. On March 25th, the atmosphere is professional and somber; it is important to dress respectfully (business casual or professional) and maintain a quiet demeanor in memorial areas. Virtual Participation: Most of the significant briefings and webinars are broadcast on UN Web TV. This is the best way for students, researchers, and concerned citizens across the country to participate without traveling to New York. Educational Resources: The UN website (un.org) provides extensive resources, including the names and stories of staff members who are currently missing. Schools and universities often use these resources on March 25th to discuss international law and the challenges of global peacekeeping. Donations and Support: While the UN itself does not typically solicit public donations on this day, many associated NGOs that provide legal support for detained journalists and aid workers do. Supporting organizations like the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) or Doctors Without Borders (MSF) is a practical way to honor the spirit of the day.

Relevance to the American Public

Why does this day matter to someone living in the United States? Beyond the fact that the U.S. hosts the United Nations, many Americans are themselves on the front lines. Thousands of U.S. citizens work for USAID, the Peace Corps, and various American-based NGOs like the International Rescue Committee or Save the Children. These individuals often work side-by-side with UN staff in conflict zones. When the safety of UN staff is compromised, it signals a breakdown in the "humanitarian space," making it more dangerous for American aid workers as well.

Furthermore, the United States has a long history of advocating for the freedom of the press and the protection of journalists. Since Alec Collett was himself a journalist, this day resonates strongly with the American media community. It serves as a reminder of the importance of the First Amendment and the global struggle to protect those who seek to tell the truth in dangerous places.

Is it a Public Holiday?

It is important to clarify the legal status of the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members in the United States:

Not a Public Holiday: This is an international observance, not a federal or state holiday. Business Operations: All government offices, banks, post offices, and private businesses remain open with normal operating hours. Schools: Schools and universities do not close. However, some academic institutions may hold special lectures or seminars related to international relations or human rights on this day. Public Transit: Transportation systems (subways, buses, trains) in New York City and elsewhere operate on a standard weekday schedule.

Because it is not a "day off," the impact of the day is felt through intentional action and professional remembrance rather than a pause in daily life. For those working within the United Nations system or in the humanitarian sector, it may involve a shift in the daily routine to attend commemorative sessions, but for the general American public, it is a day of awareness that happens alongside the normal work week.

Looking Forward to 2026

As we approach March 25, 2026, the international community remains vigilant. The goal of the United Nations is a world where such a day is no longer necessary—a world where the "Convention on the Safety of United Nations and Associated Personnel" is universally respected and where humanitarian workers can perform their duties without fear of abduction.

Until that day arrives, the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members remains a vital fixture on the calendar. It is a day that demands we look toward the conflict zones of the world and remember the individuals who have disappeared into the silence of detention. In 2026, as we mark 81 days until the next observance, the call remains the same: release those who are wrongfully held, protect those who are in the field, and never stop searching for those who are missing.

By participating in this day—whether through a moment of silence, a social media post, or attending a virtual webinar—you are contributing to a global shield of awareness that helps protect those who risk everything to help others. In the United States, a country built on the values of liberty and justice, this day of solidarity is a profound expression of those very ideals on a global stage.