AFICS/NY: Ten Achievements and Activities in 2026 — and Why They Matter to Members

The following highlights ten areas of AFICS/NY’s work in 2026 to date, reflecting the Association’s continuing efforts to represent retirees’ interests, keep members informed, strengthen connections with the United Nations and the wider retiree community, and provide resources and opportunities for engagement.

REPRESENTATION AND ADVOCACY

1. Advocating for pension security and retirees' rights

Through the Federation of Associations of Former International Civil Servants (FAFICS) and engagement with the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund and the Pension Board, AFICS/NY has contributed to pension governance discussions on matters affecting retirees, in particular pension security, cost-of-living adjustments and survivors' benefits.

2. Pursuing improvements in after-service health insurance

AFICS/NY continued to raise concerns about after-service health insurance (ASHI), organized a dedicated webinar and provided information on premiums, coverage and claims administration. This work supports members in navigating complex health insurance arrangements and brings retirees' concerns into discussions affecting healthcare costs and coverage.

INFORMATION AND PRACTICAL RESOURCES

3. Launching a redesigned AFICS/NY website

The new website, launched in July 2026, made navigation easier for members and introduced new areas of interest, including a Membership Information tab, an events calendar, announcements and retirement-related resources, with improved access on mobile devices. The new website provides a more accessible point of contact for members, prospective retirees and others seeking information about the Association.

4. Providing practical guidance for retirement and later life

Through its committees, the twice- yearly Bulletin, our new website and other communications, AFICS/NY addressed questions relating to pensions, taxation, health insurance, tax advisers and long-term care planning. These resources help members navigate issues that can have a significant bearing on financial security, healthcare and planning for later life.

5. Expanding access to computers and digital participation

Working with the United Nations Office of Information and Communications Technology (OICT), AFICS/NY distributed 66 donated computers by March 2026. This initiative helped eligible retirees obtain computer equipment and maintain access to information, online resources and digital communications.

6. Keeping members informed and preserving our shared history

Through its twice-yearly Bulletin, website updates and efforts to expand online access to articles and announcements, AFICS/NY continues to improve how it communicates with members. Website improvements include better access to memorial information and the introduction of privacy procedures to safeguard members’ personal information, including names and addresses in the membership directory. Together, these efforts keep members informed about Association activities and developments affecting UN retirees, provide opportunities for engagement, and help preserve the memories and contributions of former colleagues.

CONNECTION AND PARTICIPATION

7. Bringing members together through social, cultural and educational activities.

The Association continued its tradition of bringing members together for the Spring Luncheon while expanding its programme of activities through the newly established Events Committee. More recent initiatives have included cultural visits, a lecture on Harlem’s history, an art exhibition and an East River walking tour. This evolving programme offers members opportunities to maintain friendships, explore new interests and experiences, and remain engaged with fellow retirees. Members are encouraged to look out for announcements of upcoming events and opportunities to participate.

8. Bringing members and UN representatives together

The 29 May 2026 Annual Assembly brought members together with UN officials and representatives of organizations serving UN staff and retirees. The Assembly provides an important annual opportunity for members to hear updates, exchange views on issues affecting retirees, engage directly with the Association’s leadership and participate in its affairs. Members are encouraged to attend in person, as this is the principal annual occasion for them to come together, make their voices heard and help shape the Association’s future direction.

9. Reaching prospective retirees and welcoming new members

AFICS/NY is reaching out to serving staff as they prepare for the transition to retirement. Through its twice-yearly participation in the UN Staff Union’s pre-retirement seminars and its annual Open House, which brings together staff associations from the UN and more recently the retiree networks of its Agencies and Programmes, the Association introduces prospective retirees to the resources, activities and opportunities for engagement available through its membership. These initiatives offer a valuable first connection with a community that understands the UN experience and provides opportunities to maintain friendships, share experiences and stay informed about issues affecting retirees. For those approaching retirement, joining AFICS/NY is an opportunity to remain connected to the UN community and to continue benefiting from the experience and collective voice of fellow retirees.

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

10. AFICS/NY is taking steps to ensure that it remains a strong, effective and sustainable association, able to represent and serve retirees today and in the years ahead. Recognizing the importance of sound financial management and planning for the future, the Association has established a permanent Fundraising Committee, strengthened quarterly financial reporting and begun exploring potential new revenue sources, including legacy giving through bequests or other gifts provided for in a will or estate plan, as well as more efficient office arrangements. These initiatives reflect a commitment to responsible stewardship of the Association’s resources and to preserving its capacity to represent retirees’ interests, keep members informed and provide opportunities for connection and engagement for generations to come.

Stay connected with AFICS/NY

Whether you are preparing for retirement or have been retired for many years, AFICS/NY offers ways to stay informed about issues affecting UN retirees, maintain friendships with former colleagues, explore new interests and participate in the life of the Association. As a member, you can also contribute to the collective voice of the UN retiree community and help shape the future of an Association that serves both current and future generations of retirees.

If you are not yet a member, we invite you to learn more about AFICS/NY and join our community. If you are already a member, stay involved and make the most of the opportunities to connect, participate and contribute.

Note: Pension and health insurance advocacy, as well as some financial and fundraising initiatives, remain ongoing efforts. The highlights describe the Association's activities and contributions during 2026 and do not imply that all desired outcomes have been achieved.