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| Former UN assistant secretary-general Denis Halliday travelled the world advocating for human rights. Photograph: Dara Mac Dónaill. |
It is with profound regret that we announce the passing of Denis Halliday. Denis was soft spoken, with a wry sense of humor but had the courage of his convictions, the latter demonstrated by his resigning in protest of "political maneuvers/policies".Our deepest condolences to spouse Lena, daughter Francisca (Sisca) and grandson Keaton and other members of the Halliday family. Rest in Eternal Peace, Dear Denis.
One cannot but bring to mind Lena as a young and courageous mother in Asia Section of Programme Division when it was in 866 UN plaza. Wish Lena continued strength and courage, with deep condolences to the family. Habib
ReplyDeleteVery sorry to receive this news. My deepest condolences dear Lena.
ReplyDeleteWhat a loss of a great humanitarian! I got to know and appreciate Denis when we were both Directors of Personnel in UNDP and UNICEF respectively, and through the usual rounds of inter-Agency meetings (CCAQ, ICSC). We quickly found commonality in our approaches and joined forces on issues that affected our field-oriented agencies. That led to our having a monthly informal lunch together with Koffi Annan, when he was the UN's Chief of Personnel (and later with his successor when Koffi moved to other posts) in which we exchanged views on all matters related to our function. Most important we enjoyed the special Irish humor of Denis which lightened up our discussions. I was of course aware that Denis's spouse Lena worked in NYHQ which was another avenue for following Denis in his other posts afterwards. His character and personality were such that it is no wonder he succeeded to rise in the UN System. His sense of righteousness always guided his actions and he stood up to his convictions regardless of the costs. Denis thus represented better than most the ideals of the international humanitarian cause. He will be sorely missed. My deepest condolences to Lena and the Family.
ReplyDeleteDear Lena, My thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time. My deep condolences to you and family.
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