Press Release

UN Secretary-General's remarks at Wreath-Laying Ceremony Commemorating the 63rd Anniversary of the Death of Former Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjöld

10 September 2024

Excellencies,

Dag Hammarskjöld is no longer with us.

But the ideals that drove him are ours to pursue:

Peace, justice, and shared humanity. Effective multilateralism and common cause.

Around the world, war is rife – ripping lives and communities apart and taking a terrible toll on United Nations staff.

We have lost more colleagues in the past twelve months than during any other period on record in our organisation’s history.

Our international institutions are creaking.

But the Summit of the Future later this month is an opportunity:

To embrace the spirit of Dag Hammarskjöld’s work, and reform our multilateral institutions so they are fit to pursue peace in our changing world.

Let us follow his example, take this chance, and keep our gaze fixed on the promise of a world of peace and prosperity for all.

I would like to ask all of you to join me in a moment of silence, paying tribute to Dag Hammarskjöld.

Thank you.

Carol A. Gaskin

RCO

Programme Communications and Advocacy Officer

carol-ann.gaskin@un.org +1 (246) 467 6110

Carol Gaskin is a seasoned international development professional and strategic communicator, serving as the United Nations Development Coordination Officer for Programme Communications and Advocacy. With a background in journalism and creative writing, Carol brings a diverse skill set to her role.

In her capacity, she leads communication and advocacy efforts for the UN Resident Coordinator's Office, overseeing operations in 10 Eastern Caribbean countries. Additionally, she chairs the UN Communications Group, fostering collaboration among communicators from 18 agencies.

Carol's expertise lies in developing communication strategies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda. She excels in storytelling, utilizing various channels to amplify the UN's message effectively.

Her achievements include coordinating impactful events such as the "UN in the City" SDG exhibition and spearheading initiatives like the introduction of the Caribbean's first SDG-branded electric bus. Notably, Carol has received recognition for her outstanding work, including the Best Annual Results Report for Latin America and the Caribbean in 2023.

Her work extends to humanitarian efforts, notably providing coverage during natural disasters like the La Soufriere eruption.

With a proven track record of success and dedication to advancing global priorities, Carol A. Gaskin is a respected figure in the field of international development and strategic communication.

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RCO

United Nations Resident Coordinator Office

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