UN Staff Recall 9/11: The Shockwave That Never Faded

Sarah Williams · 2026-09-11

Twenty-five years ago, three UN Headquarters employees in New York started what seemed like an ordinary September morning. It turned out to be a day they would never forget. In this article, we share their stories and explore how the events of 9/11 continue to affect those who witnessed them firsthand. ### A Morning Like Any Other On September 11, 2001, the UN complex in New York was buzzing with its usual activity. Staff members were settling into their routines, preparing for meetings, and enjoying the crisp late-summer weather. Among them were three colleagues who had no idea that within hours, their lives would be forever changed. As they went about their tasks, they noticed a distant rumble. At first, it seemed like an ordinary city noise. But then came the news: a plane had hit the World Trade Center. Confusion quickly turned to shock as a second plane struck the South Tower. ### The Shockwave Hits Home For these UN employees, the reality of the attacks hit close. The headquarters, located just a few miles from the Twin Towers, became a hub of urgent activity. Security was tightened, and staff gathered around radios and televisions, trying to make sense of the unfolding tragedy. "The shockwave was not just physical," one of them recalls. "It was emotional, psychological. It felt like the ground beneath us had shifted." They watched in horror as the towers collapsed, knowing that friends, colleagues, and countless innocent lives were lost. ### 25 Years Later: The Lingering Impact A quarter-century has passed, but for these individuals, the memories remain vivid. The shockwave they felt that day continues to reverberate through their lives. - **Emotional toll:** Many still experience anxiety and grief, especially around the anniversary. - **Professional shift:** The UN's security protocols and emergency response strategies were overhauled. - **Personal connections:** Some lost loved ones; others remain in touch with survivors. "You don't just move on," says another staff member. "You carry it with you. It shapes how you see the world." ### Lessons in Resilience Despite the pain, these UN employees found ways to cope and continue their vital work. They emphasize the importance of community, support, and remembering those who were lost. - Seek support: Talking about trauma helps. - Stay connected: Lean on friends, family, and colleagues. - Honor the memory: Participate in memorial events or volunteer. Their stories remind us that even in the darkest moments, human resilience shines through. The shockwave may never fully fade, but neither does the strength to endure. ### Moving Forward Together As we mark another anniversary, let's remember the UN staff and all those affected by 9/11. Their experiences teach us about loss, courage, and the enduring power of hope. If you or someone you know is struggling with trauma, reach out to a mental health professional. You're not alone.