18 July 2001

FICSA President Bernard Grandjean wrote the following letter to Mr. Kofi Annan on 9 July 2001:

"Sir,

"I have the honour of writing to you on behalf of the Federation of International Civil Servants' Associations (FICSA) - the staff of some thirty organizations, agencies, programmes and funds - to congratulate you on your appointment for a second term, as Secretary-General of the United Nations.

"The staff of the United Nations system have had the privilege of serving under your able, leadership to uphold the ideals of peace, respect for fundamental human rights, economic and social progress, and international cooperation. Your kind words about the staff's dedication of staff were most appreciated.

"We look forward to meeting the challenges of the next five years and assure you of our continued commitment and support.

"We have noted your desire to equip the Organization to adjust to change, rise to new challenges and serve its Member States and their peoples more effectively, while remaining true to the principles of the United Nations Charter. It is our strong desire that the staff of the United Nations - and of the specialized agencies, programmes and funds on which you exercise your influence in your capacity as the Chairman of the Administrative Committee on Co-ordination (ACC) - be similarly equipped and, in particular, endowed with all the rights that flow from the Charter and the relevant Human Rights and Labour instruments.

"That goal, in fact, is well within reach. Investment in respect for the dignity and worth of international servants, particularly by eliminating inappropriate forms of contractual relations, and by strengthening measures to ensure the security and safety of the staff, will also strengthen the Organization, thus making it a model for the world community and contributing to the achievement of your goals.

"The Federation expresses its commitment to working together to attain those goals.

"Yours sincerely,

"Bernard P. Grandjean

"President"