Naïma Abdellaoui is a name that resonates within the halls of the United Nations Office in Geneva (UNOG). A devoted international civil servant and dedicated staff representative, Ms. Abdellaoui has been making significant contributions to the United Nations for over 15 years. Her admirable commitment to the organization has earned her a position in the Executive Bureau of the UNOG Staff Union, where she continues to advocate for the rights and well-being of UN employees.
Ms. Abdellaoui’s remarkable career at the UN began in 2003, when she joined the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). From the beginning, she has been a strong advocate for human rights, working tirelessly to promote equality, justice, and dignity for all. Her valuable expertise and unwavering dedication have led her to hold various positions within the organization, including in the Office of the Director-General of UNOG and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
With her extensive experience and remarkable leadership skills, Ms. Abdellaoui has been an integral part of the UNOG Staff Union’s Executive Bureau since 2018. As a staff representative, she has been a vocal and passionate advocate for the rights and well-being of UN personnel. Her main focus is to ensure that the voices of UN employees are heard and that their concerns and needs are addressed by senior management.
Ms. Abdellaoui’s dedication to her colleagues and the organization extends beyond her work as a staff representative. She has been actively involved in various initiatives to improve the working conditions and career development opportunities for UN employees. Her efforts have contributed significantly to enhancing the overall employee experience at UNOG.
One of Ms. Abdellaoui’s main achievements as a staff representative has been her work on the Joint Inspection Unit (JIU) reports. The JIU is an independent external oversight body that conducts evaluations and inspections of various aspects of the UN system. Ms. Abdellaoui has played a crucial role in reviewing and providing feedback on JIU reports, ensuring that they reflect the concerns and needs of UN employees. This has resulted in necessary reforms and improvements within the UN system, making it more efficient and transparent.
In addition to her role as a staff representative, Ms. Abdellaoui is also a strong advocate for gender equality and diversity within the UN. She has been a key member of the Gender Focus Group at UNOG, working to promote gender balance and diversity in the workplace. Her efforts have led to the development of policies and initiatives that support the recruitment and advancement of women within the organization.
Ms. Abdellaoui’s dedication to her work and her colleagues has not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous awards and recognition for her outstanding service, including the UN Geneva Award in 2019 for her exceptional contribution to the UN. She is also a recipient of the UN Secretary-General’s Award for Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion for her efforts in promoting diversity and inclusivity within the organization.
As a multicultural and multilingual individual, Ms. Abdellaoui brings a unique perspective to her work. Her ability to communicate and collaborate with colleagues from diverse backgrounds has been instrumental in achieving positive change within the UN. She is a true representation of the UN’s values and principles and serves as an inspiration to many.
Despite the challenges and complexities of her role, Ms. Abdellaoui remains a committed and passionate international civil servant. Her unwavering dedication to the UN and its mandate is a testament to her character and values. She continues to be a strong and influential voice for UN employees, advocating for their rights and well-being.
In conclusion, Naïma Abdellaoui is a true asset to the UNOG community and the entire organization. Her commitment to promoting a fair and inclusive work environment for all UN employees is admirable. Her significant contributions and achievements have made a positive impact on the lives of many and are a testament to her unwavering dedication to the UN’s noble mission. The UN is fortunate to have individuals like Ms. Abdellaoui who are committed to making the world a better place through their selfless service and dedication.
