Statement by Mr. SHIRAISHI Kazutomo, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, Agenda item 147: UN Common System Main Part of the 79th Session of the Fifth Committee of the United Nations General Assembly

Madame Chair,
 
At the outset, I would like to express my appreciation to Mr. Larbi Djacta, Chair of the International Civil Service Commission; Mr. Christophe Monier, Director of Management Strategy, Policy and Compliance; and Mr. Amjad Al Kumaim, Vice-Chair of the Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions, for introducing their respective reports.
 
Madame Chair,
 
My delegation fully supports the purpose of the UN Common System; namely, to apply common standards, methods and arrangements to salaries, allowances and benefits for the staff of the United Nations system, in order to avoid serious discrepancies in the terms and conditions of employment and competition in the recruitment of personnel, and to facilitate the interchange of personnel.
 
In order to maintain the confidence placed in it, the Common System needs to remain fair and sustainable through continuous review, and must reflect changes in economic situations, including the cost of living. In this regard, the International Civil Service Commission plays a key role in reviewing the system and guiding all entities under the Common System in order to ensure its coherence and effective management. My delegation recognize that upcoming comprehensive review of compensation package is a critical opportunity to make the system more sustainable and attractive, in particular for younger generation, and look forward to discussing the guidance from General Assembly on this matter.
 
Madame Chair,
 
We notice that the recommendations of the ICSC regarding revisions of the base salaries and allowances, including children and secondary dependant's allowances, will require significant resources. Given that the remuneration of UN staff is funded by the Member States and the General Assembly decided to take no action on the common system-related items last year, we look forward to examining the rationales and justifications behind these proposals, so that we are held accountable for the efficient use of these resources and can maintain the high motivation and confidence of the staff, the United Nations' greatest asset.
 
Madame Chair,
 
Finally, my delegation reiterates our support for the more effective and efficient functioning of the Common System. Let me assure you of our commitment to participating in the negotiations constructively, in order to reach a consensus in a timely manner.
 
Thank you.