Afghanistan: 500,000 jobs lost since Taliban takeover

More than half a million people have lost or been pushed out of their jobs in Afghanistan since the Taliban takeover, the UN International Labour Organization (ILO) said on Wednesday. In a warning that the economy has been “paralyzed” since the de facto authorities took control last August, ILO said that there have been huge losses in… Continue reading Afghanistan: 500,000 jobs lost since Taliban takeover

Getting COVID-19 Vaccines to the Most Vulnerable in Nepal

Thirteen-year-old Ashutosh Chhetry lined up to receive his first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine at the Patan Academy of Health Sciences in Lalitpur District, central Nepal on November 14, 2021. That month, the Nepal Government opened eligibility for vaccination to all immunocompromised people age 12 and older. Ashutosh’s history of asthma made him part… Continue reading Getting COVID-19 Vaccines to the Most Vulnerable in Nepal

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UN celebrates 25 years of mandate to protect children caught in conflict

Although international action over the past 25 years has led to the release of more than 170,000 boys and girls recruited to fight, more remains to be done, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Tuesday.  Mr. Guterres was among senior officials, ambassadors and other members of the international community marking the 25th anniversary of the… Continue reading UN celebrates 25 years of mandate to protect children caught in conflict

UNRWA seeks $1.6 billion to support Palestinian refugees in 2022

The UN agency that supports Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, on Tuesday appealed for $1.6 billion to support its lifesaving work this year amid acute regional crises and chronic funding shortfalls.  UNRWA provides services and programmes, including education, health and food assistance, to more than five million Palestinians across the Middle East.  The 2022 budget proposal includes… Continue reading UNRWA seeks $1.6 billion to support Palestinian refugees in 2022

Bachelet: Women’s participation forging peace worldwide, ‘vastly worse’ post pandemic

With COVID-19, the situation for women human rights defenders and the prospects for women’s full participation in building peace, has become “vastly worse”, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said on Tuesday. Michelle Bachelet was participating in a Security Council debate dedicated to the theme “Protecting Participation: Addressing violence targeting women in peace and security processes”.  The human… Continue reading Bachelet: Women’s participation forging peace worldwide, ‘vastly worse’ post pandemic

Tonga volcano eruption: At least 3 dead, amid severe destruction

At least three people have died in Tonga following the massive volcanic eruption and subsequent tsunami wave that hit over the weekend. Homes and other buildings across the archipelago have suffered major damage. Islands covered in ash, dozens of homes destroyed According to a Tongan Government press release on Tuesday, the three fatalities are a… Continue reading Tonga volcano eruption: At least 3 dead, amid severe destruction

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Sudan urged to stop unnecessary use of force against protestors

Authorities in Sudan must immediately halt unnecessary and disproportionate use of force against protesters, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said on Tuesday, calling for those responsible for abuses to be brought to justice.  Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said the human rights situation in Sudan continues to be of serious concern, with peaceful protestors killed or… Continue reading Sudan urged to stop unnecessary use of force against protestors

UN rights office warns over violent escalation in Yemen and beyond

Escalating conflict in Yemen has seen an alarming number of air and drone strikes already this year, notably against civilians and non-military targets, the UN rights office, OHCHR, said on Tuesday. “We are deeply concerned by the continuing escalation of the conflict in Yemen. Overnight, air strikes by the Saudi-led coalition on the capital, Sana’a, are reported… Continue reading UN rights office warns over violent escalation in Yemen and beyond

UNICEF Enters Supply Agreements For COVID-19 Oral Antiviral Medicine Molnupiravir

NEW YORK (January 18, 2022) – UNICEF has signed several long-term agreements (LTA) with suppliers for the procurement of the new antiviral medicine Molnupiravir.   UNICEF procurement of Molnupiravir is dependent on clinical recommendations, regulatory approvals and compliance with UNICEF quality assurance requirements. In December, the US Food and drug administration issued an emergency use authorization for the use of Molnupiravir in the treatment of COVID19 in certain patients. Molnupiravir is currently under assessment by WHO.   These… Continue reading UNICEF Enters Supply Agreements For COVID-19 Oral Antiviral Medicine Molnupiravir

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UNICEF Ready To Support Families And Children In The Aftermath Of Volcanic Eruption And Tsunami In Tonga

NEW YORK (January 18, 2022) – UNICEF Pacific is ready to work together with the government of Tonga and its partners to ensure urgent life-saving support is provided to families and children in the aftermath of the volcanic eruption and tsunami. “We are on standby to provide humanitarian support to the government of Tonga and its… Continue reading UNICEF Ready To Support Families And Children In The Aftermath Of Volcanic Eruption And Tsunami In Tonga

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Guterres condemns attack on Abu Dhabi airport and oil facility

The Secretary-General condemned on Monday the attacks on Abu Dhabi’s International Airport and the nearby Musaffah industrial area, which reportedly caused several civilian casualties and have been claimed by the Yemen-based Houthi rebel group, formally known as Ansar Allah.  According to news agencies, the drone attack targeting an oil facility in the capital of the United Arab… Continue reading Guterres condemns attack on Abu Dhabi airport and oil facility

UN chief: ‘Global solidarity is missing in action’

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, for the second year in a row, the Forum scrapped its annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, for a series of online plenaries and discussions over the year ahead, under the banner of The Davos Agenda.  Speaking from New York, Mr. Guterres said that thisyear’s event takes place “in the shadow of an enormously difficult period for economies, people… Continue reading UN chief: ‘Global solidarity is missing in action’

Concrete action essential to fulfill Darfur promise: ICC Prosecutor

Delivering the ICC’s 34th report on Darfur to the Council, he emphasized the critical need for cooperation and concrete action, both by the authorities in Khartoum and the international community.  Mr. Khan travelled to the Sudanese capital last August, just two months after taking up his appointment, where he met with Darfur survivors, civil society… Continue reading Concrete action essential to fulfill Darfur promise: ICC Prosecutor

New UN Women Executive Board Bureau 2022 elected with historic full Permanent Representative composition

In elections taking place on 11 January, the UN Women Executive Board opened the year by electing its new Bureau for 2022. New UN Women Executive Board Bureau 2022 elected with historic full Permanent Representative composition The incoming and outgoing UN Women Executive Board Bureau representatives celebrate the virtual election of the Bureau 2022 on… Continue reading New UN Women Executive Board Bureau 2022 elected with historic full Permanent Representative composition

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Experts decry measures to ‘steadily erase’ Afghan women and girls from public life

Taliban leaders in Afghanistan are institutionalizing large scale and systematic gender-based discrimination and violence against women and girls, independent UN human rights experts warned on Monday. The group of around three dozen Human Rights Council-appointed experts highlighted a “wave of measures” such as barring women from returning to their jobs, requiring a male relative to accompany them… Continue reading Experts decry measures to ‘steadily erase’ Afghan women and girls from public life

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FAO launches $138 million plan to avert hunger crisis in Horn of Africa

More than $138 million is needed to assist rural communities affected by extended drought in the Horn of Africa, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said on Monday, launching a comprehensive response plan for the region.  A third consecutive year of poor rains is posing a major threat to food security in countries already… Continue reading FAO launches $138 million plan to avert hunger crisis in Horn of Africa

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Tonga volcanic eruption: Too soon to assess damage

Tonga’s capital, Nuku’alofa, is covered in ash and dust following the underwater volcanic eruption at the weekend, but the situation is calm there and first clean-up efforts are underway, UN humanitarians said on Monday. Further afield in the Pacific archipelago, an update from aid coordinating office OCHA, indicated that there has been significant damage to… Continue reading Tonga volcanic eruption: Too soon to assess damage

COVID means labour market recovery still ‘slow and uncertain’

In its flagship World Employment and Social Outlook Trends 2022 (WESO Trends), ILO has downgraded its 2022 labour market recovery forecast, projecting a continuing major deficit in the number of working hours compared to the pre-pandemic era. “Two years into this crisis, the outlook remains fragile and the path to recovery is slow and uncertain”, said… Continue reading COVID means labour market recovery still ‘slow and uncertain’

Tonga: The UN stands ready to support after volcano eruption and tsunami

Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his deep concern after reports of a tsunami and ash affecting Tonga following the eruption on an undersea volcano near the Pacific nation. The UN chief also aired his concern about the tsunami warnings that have been issued in other countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the United States.… Continue reading Tonga: The UN stands ready to support after volcano eruption and tsunami

COVAX COVID-19 Vaccine Deliveries Hit 1 Billion Doses — and Counting

UNICEF delivered a shipment of COVID-19 vaccine doses in Rwanda on January 15, 2022, bringing the total number of doses shipped via COVAX to 1 billion, with more on the way. COVAX, a groundbreaking global partnership to ensure equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines worldwide, is barreling ahead on its mission. Since the rollout began in… Continue reading COVAX COVID-19 Vaccine Deliveries Hit 1 Billion Doses — and Counting

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Horrors of Hiroshima, a reminder nuclear weapons remain global threat

Those first nuclear weapons deployed by the United States, indiscriminately killed tens of thousands of non-combatants but also left indelible scars for the immediate survivors, that they, their children and grandchildren still carry today. “The Red Cross hospital was full of dead bodies. The death of a human is a solemn and sad thing, but… Continue reading Horrors of Hiroshima, a reminder nuclear weapons remain global threat

Harsh Winter in Afghanistan Intensifies Needs for the Most Vulnerable

Children across Afghanistan are increasingly vulnerable to disease and illness due to a deadly combination of rising malnutrition, an unprecedented food crisis, drought, disruptions to vital health and nutrition services, lack of access to and poor quality of water and sanitation services — and crippling winter weather. Rising unemployment leaves families with no income to… Continue reading Harsh Winter in Afghanistan Intensifies Needs for the Most Vulnerable

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Child and woman injured following rocket attack in Iraq

“A child being hurt is a child too many”, said the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Representative in Iraq on Friday, following a rocket attack against a school in Baghdad the previous night, which left a child and woman injured. In a statement, Sheema SenGupta stressed that “children must be protected from attacks at all times” and that… Continue reading Child and woman injured following rocket attack in Iraq

Tigray: Aid operations ‘about to grind to a halt’, warns WFP

Aid and food distribution operations in northern Ethiopia are about “to grind to a halt” amid ongoing fighting, bloodshed and a lack of funding that is making humanitarian access impossible, the UN World Food Programme, WFP, said on Friday. Escalating clashes in Tigray have meant that no WFP aid convoys have been able to reach… Continue reading Tigray: Aid operations ‘about to grind to a halt’, warns WFP

UK Borders Bill increases risks of discrimination, human rights violations

A new bill being debated by lawmakers in the United Kingdom increases the risk of discrimination and “serious human rights violations” and breaches the country’s obligations under international law, five independent UN human rights experts said on Friday. If adopted, the Nationality and Borders Bill would “seriously undermine the protection of the human rights of… Continue reading UK Borders Bill increases risks of discrimination, human rights violations

UN rights office warns against rising hate speech in Western Balkans

Authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and in neighbouring Serbia, must condemn and refrain from any advocacy of national, racial or religious hatred, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said on Friday.  Spokesperson Liz Throssell said OHCHR was deeply concerned by recent incidents in both countries which saw individuals glorify atrocity crimes and convicted war criminals,… Continue reading UN rights office warns against rising hate speech in Western Balkans

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Decade of Sahel conflict leaves 2.5 million people displaced

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) called on Friday for concerted international action to end armed conflict in Africa’s central Sahel region, which has forced more than 2.5 million people to flee their homes in the last decade. Speaking to journalists in Geneva, the agency’s spokesperson, Boris Cheshirkov, informed that internal displacement has increased tenfold since 2013, going… Continue reading Decade of Sahel conflict leaves 2.5 million people displaced

Experts urge Iran to halt imminent execution of juvenile offender

Iran must halt the looming execution of juvenile offender Hossein Shahbazi, four experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council said on Thursday.  Mr. Shahbazi, now 20, was 17 when he was arrested for fatally stabbing a classmate during a fight involving four people.    He was scheduled to be executed on 5 January, which… Continue reading Experts urge Iran to halt imminent execution of juvenile offender

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UN chief: ‘We are in a race against time to help the Afghan people’

Just two days ago, the United Nations launched its largest-ever humanitarian appeal for a single country, requiring more than $5 billion this year. Speaking to journalists in New York, the UN chief said the scale of the appeal “reflects the scale of the despair.” “Babies being sold to feed their siblings. Freezing health facilities overflowing with malnourished children. People burning their possessions to… Continue reading UN chief: ‘We are in a race against time to help the Afghan people’

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COVID-19 pandemic stalls global economic recovery: UN report

The UN’s key report on the global economy, released on Thursday, shows that the rapid spread of the Omicron COVID-19 variant has put the brakes on a rapid recovery, counteracting signs of solid growth at the end of last year.  The 2022 World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) report, produced by the UN Department of… Continue reading COVID-19 pandemic stalls global economic recovery: UN report

Africa’s fourth COVID wave flattens out after six-week surge

After a six-week surge, Africa’s fourth pandemic wave, which has been mainly driven by the Omicron variant, is flattening, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Thursday. WHO said that this marked the shortest surge since the pandemic began on the continent, where total cases have exceeded 10.2 million. Recorded cases of infection show that… Continue reading Africa’s fourth COVID wave flattens out after six-week surge

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Conviction of top Syrian intelligence official ‘a landmark leap forward’

The man, known as Anwar R, was charged with complicity in the torture of thousands of people between 2011 and 2012 in the Al-Khatib Branch of Syrian General Intelligence in the capital, Damascus.   Renewed spotlight on atrocities  UN Human Rights High Commissioner, Michelle Bachelet said his trial cast a much-needed renewed spotlight on the torture… Continue reading Conviction of top Syrian intelligence official ‘a landmark leap forward’

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Statement By UNICEF Bangladesh Representative, Sheldon Yett On The Fire In The Rohingya Refugee Camp In Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh

NEW YORK (January 12, 2022) – “UNICEF is deeply grieved and stands in support of the thousands of Rohingya refugees affected by the fire that broke out in the refugee camps on January 9 in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. “The fire that swept across Camp 16 burnt down 300 shelters and damaged another 500. The host community… Continue reading Statement By UNICEF Bangladesh Representative, Sheldon Yett On The Fire In The Rohingya Refugee Camp In Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh

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Statement By Alice Akunga, UNICEF Afghanistan Representative A.I., On The Death Of Eight Children Due To Detonation Of Explosive Remnant

NEW YORK (January 12, 2022) – “UNICEF is deeply saddened by the killing of eight children in the Lal Pur District, Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan, yesterday, when an explosive remnant of war detonated near a school. Four other children, who had been attending class, were also injured. All twelve children killed and injured were boys. “UNICEF expresses… Continue reading Statement By Alice Akunga, UNICEF Afghanistan Representative A.I., On The Death Of Eight Children Due To Detonation Of Explosive Remnant

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Colombia: Children still ‘used and abused’ despite historic peace accord

Despite a steady decrease in grave violations against children in Colombia since the signing of the 2016 Peace Agreement between the Government and FARC rebels, youngsters there continue to suffer from the impact of hostilities, according to a new UN report published on Wednesday. While welcoming a decline in violations, Virginia Gamba, Special Representative for… Continue reading Colombia: Children still ‘used and abused’ despite historic peace accord

Yemen: ‘Political will, responsible leadership” needed, to end 7-year war

“Genuine political will, responsible leadership and adherence to the interest of the entire population is needed”, he said. Military escalations Mr. Grundberg highlighted recent fighting, which he described as being “among the worst…seen in Yemen for years”. Grundberg to #UNSC: “The continued imposition of road closures &checkpoints across the country, as well as the impediments… Continue reading Yemen: ‘Political will, responsible leadership” needed, to end 7-year war

Sudan: 15 attacks on health facilities and workers in two months

With the crisis escalating in Sudan, there have been 15 reports of attacks on healthcare workers and health facilities since last November, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday.  According to WHO’s Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. Ahmed Al-Mandhari, the Organization is following the escalating crisis “with great concern”.  So far, 11 incidents have been confirmedin the capital, Khartoum, and other cities.  “Most of these attackswere committed against healthcare workers in the… Continue reading Sudan: 15 attacks on health facilities and workers in two months

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Schools Should Be the Last to Close and the First to Reopen

As COVID-19 cases spike again all over the world, fuelled by the highly transmissible Omicron variant, parents, teachers and students are grappling with school closures.  “One thing we do know for certain: Another wave of widespread school closures would be disastrous for children,” UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore warned on December 17. “The evidence is… Continue reading Schools Should Be the Last to Close and the First to Reopen

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COVID-19 variants, rising debt, threaten global economic growth: World Bank

Global growth will slow down over the next two years in the face of “fresh threats” from COVID-19 variants and rising inflation, debt and income inequality, the World Bank said on Tuesday in its latest report. While economic growth experienced a strong rebound in 2021, it is expected to decline markedly from 5.5 per cent… Continue reading COVID-19 variants, rising debt, threaten global economic growth: World Bank

At least four children killed during escalation of conflict in Myanmar

At least four children have been killed and multiple others have been maimed during an escalation of conflict over the past week in Myanmar, said the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on Tuesday.  Last Saturday, the body of a 13-year-old boy was discovered in Matupi, Chin State, while a 12-year-old girl and 16-year-old boy were… Continue reading At least four children killed during escalation of conflict in Myanmar

‘Prompt, independent, impartial investigations’ needed in Kazakhstan: UN rights office

Close to 10,000 people are now estimated to be held in detention following the riots. “We understand that the Ministry of Interior has announced that some 9,900 people are in detention as of the 11th of January. Now, this is clearly a huge number,” said OHCHR spokesperson Liz Throssell, briefing reporters at the United Nations… Continue reading ‘Prompt, independent, impartial investigations’ needed in Kazakhstan: UN rights office

Remarks by Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of UN Women, Ms. Sima Bahous, at the Election of the UN Women Executive Board Bureau 2022

[As delivered] Good morning, Madam President, Your Excellencies, distinguished Delegates and colleagues. It is my pleasure to meet you for the first time in the new year, so Happy New Year. I thank you all for your steadfast support to UN Women and I very much look forward to engaging with you in the coming… Continue reading Remarks by Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of UN Women, Ms. Sima Bahous, at the Election of the UN Women Executive Board Bureau 2022

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Mali: Security Council warned over ‘endless cycle of instability’

A decade after civil conflict erupted in Mali, hopes for an early resolution to insurgency and strife have not materialized, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the country, El-Ghassim Wane, told the Security Council on Tuesday.   Instead, the UN top envoy explained, “insecurity has expanded, the humanitarian situation has deteriorated, more children are of out of school and the country has been affected by… Continue reading Mali: Security Council warned over ‘endless cycle of instability’

Tunisia: UN rights office calls for release of former justice minister

Authorities in Tunisia are being urged to immediately release – or properly charge – former justice minister Noureddine Bhiri, and another man, who have been detained under suspected terrorism offences, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said on Tuesday. Mr. Bhiri, a parliamentarian with the Ennahdha party, was taken outside his home on 31 December… Continue reading Tunisia: UN rights office calls for release of former justice minister

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Eight Afghan students die in explosion outside school

The use of explosives that lie dormant, particularly in populated areas, is “a persistent and growing threat to children and their families”, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said on Tuesday, expressing deep sadness over the death of eight students in Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan. The explosive remnant of war that detonated near a school on Monday… Continue reading Eight Afghan students die in explosion outside school

Afghanistan: UN launches largest single country aid appeal ever

The UN and partners launched a more than $5 billion funding appeal for Afghanistan on Tuesday, in the hope of shoring up collapsing basic services there, which have left 22 million in need of assistance inside the country, and 5.7 million people requiring help beyond its borders. Speaking in Geneva, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths said… Continue reading Afghanistan: UN launches largest single country aid appeal ever

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In Malawi, Vaccination Vans Protect Pregnant Women From COVID-19

As the latest COVID-19 variant, Omicron, surges around the world, vaccine inequity is putting vulnerable communities at higher risk, allowing variants to mutate and impact all of us. Africa has the lowest COVID-19 vaccination rate in the world. But in Malawi, an innovative UNICEF project is increasing vaccine access and vaccine confidence among pregnant women… Continue reading In Malawi, Vaccination Vans Protect Pregnant Women From COVID-19

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Preserve right of asylum, UN refugee agency urges EU Council presidencies

Amid record global displacement, the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, on Monday urged European countries to prioritize the better protection of people fleeing war, conflict and persecution.  UNHCR made the appeal in recommendations to France, which holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU), and the Czech Republic, which assumes the presidency… Continue reading Preserve right of asylum, UN refugee agency urges EU Council presidencies

Scores of civilians dead, UN chief condemns ‘appalling’ attacks in Nigeria  

The Secretary-General, António Guterres, strongly condemned on Monday the “appalling” attacks perpetrated over the weekend in Nigeria’s Zamfara State in which scores of civilians were killed.   According to news agencies, an estimated 200 people were killed and 10,000 displaced in attacks by armed bandits, following military air raids on their hideouts last week.  In a statement, the UN chief extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims,… Continue reading Scores of civilians dead, UN chief condemns ‘appalling’ attacks in Nigeria  

Bangladesh: Second fire in a week tears through vast Rohingya refugee camp

Teams from UN migration agency IOM were mobilized on Sunday after fire swept through a refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, home to thousands of Rohingya who have fled violence in neighbouring Myanmar.  The blaze was first reported just before 5 pm local time and caused considerable damage to sections of the largest camp of… Continue reading Bangladesh: Second fire in a week tears through vast Rohingya refugee camp

UN top envoy: Resurgence of coups d’état, consequence of being ‘completely out of step’  

After a recent wave of attempts and coups d’état in Central African Republic, Mali, Sudan and Guinea, The UN Special Representative for the region told the Security Council on Monday this resurgence, particularly in West Africa, “is often the consequence of political practices that are completely out of step with the aspirations of the populations.”  Annadif Khatir Mahamat Saleh, who also heads the UN Office for West Africa… Continue reading UN top envoy: Resurgence of coups d’état, consequence of being ‘completely out of step’  

Agencies suspend Tigray aid as ‘scores’ are killed due to airstrikes 

Recent airstrikes on camps for internally displaced persons and refugees in Tigray, northern Ethiopia, have reportedly killed scores of civilians, including children, and left many more injured.  On Sunday, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) told reporters that some aid agencies were suspending operations in an area where a deadly air strike hit a camp for displaced people.   “Humanitarian partners suspended… Continue reading Agencies suspend Tigray aid as ‘scores’ are killed due to airstrikes 

‘Keep speaking out’, UN chief urges in message to World Youth Forum

Although everyone has been deeply affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact on young people has been “especially heartbreaking”, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Monday.  In a video message to the World Youth Forum in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt, he urged participants to help shape a better world after the crisis, in line with… Continue reading ‘Keep speaking out’, UN chief urges in message to World Youth Forum

Children Feared Dead and Injured in Recent Attacks on Refugee and Internal Displacement Camps in Northern Ethiopia

NEW YORK (January 9, 2022) – “UNICEF is outraged by the recent airstrikes on camps for internally displaced persons and refugees in Tigray, northern Ethiopia. “The January 5 and 7 attacks have reportedly left scores of civilians, including children, killed and many more injured. “Refugee camps and IDP settlements, including schools hosting displaced children and families… Continue reading Children Feared Dead and Injured in Recent Attacks on Refugee and Internal Displacement Camps in Northern Ethiopia

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First Person: Discovering the reality of life in Iraq

“At the United Nations, there are two worlds: Headquarters and the field. United Nations Headquarters in New York is our mothership. In iconic rooms such as the General Assembly Hall and the Security Council Chamber, our Member States make decisions that affect people across the globe. Meanwhile, the field is where those decisions are felt… Continue reading First Person: Discovering the reality of life in Iraq

Interview: Time to rethink tourism, an economic lifeline for millions

Hopes that the tourism industry would rebound from the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have been dented by the wildfire spread of the Omicron variant. In an exclusive interview with UN News, Zoritsa Urosevic, Executive Director of the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), called for new ideas to restart the sector. The United Nations… Continue reading Interview: Time to rethink tourism, an economic lifeline for millions

From the Field: Working with nature to transform lives

So-called “nature-based solutions” are an important element in tackling the climate crisis, but they also play a major role in addressing other challenges, from food security, to health, and sustainable development. Irrigation schemes enable smallholder farmers, particularly women and young people, to have greater access to water., by © IFAD/FAO/WFP/Petterik Wiggers The UN agricultural development… Continue reading From the Field: Working with nature to transform lives

5 things you should know about the greenhouse gases warming the planet

1. What is the greenhouse effect? In a greenhouse, sunlight enters, and heat is retained. The greenhouse effect describes a similar phenomenon on a planetary scale but, instead of the glass of a greenhouse,  certain gases are increasingly raising global temperatures. The surface of the Earth absorbs just under half of the sun’s energy, while… Continue reading 5 things you should know about the greenhouse gases warming the planet

Myanmar: WFP plans to aid 4 million through 2022 

Ten months since the military takeover in February 2021, food insecurity in Myanmar has risen sharply, the World Food Programme (WFP) said on Friday.   According to the agency, the rise is driven by the ongoing political crisis, poverty, displacement, and the economic fallout from COVID-19.  Needs are now widespread, from areas affected by conflict in border… Continue reading Myanmar: WFP plans to aid 4 million through 2022 

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Release of detainees a ‘significant confidence-building step’ in Ethiopia: UN chief

The Ethiopian Government on Friday freed several high-profile political detainees, a move UN Secretary-General António Guterres hailed as a “significant confidence-building step”.  Some leaders from the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), which has been battling government forces in the north for more than a year, were among those granted amnesty, according to media reports.  I… Continue reading Release of detainees a ‘significant confidence-building step’ in Ethiopia: UN chief

Turning COVID-19 Skeptics Into Health Champions in Rwanda

It’s a sunny Thursday afternoon and the central market at Mahama Refugee Camp in Eastern Rwanda is bustling with people coming in and out. Loud music blares from one corner of the market, where a small crowd has gathered. In between musical breaks, a salesman is heard making his pitch, urging marketgoers to buy potatoes… Continue reading Turning COVID-19 Skeptics Into Health Champions in Rwanda

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Climate change: For 25th year in a row, Greenland ice sheet shrinks 

2021 marked the 25th year in a row in which the key Greenland ice sheet lost more mass during the melting season, than it gained during the winter, according to a new UN-endorsed report issued on Friday.  The data from the Danish Arctic monitoring service Polar Portal – which forms part of the UN weather agency WMO’s annual State of the Climate report – shows that early summer was cold and wet, with unusually heavy and late snowfall in June, which… Continue reading Climate change: For 25th year in a row, Greenland ice sheet shrinks 

A Look Back: UNICEF USA Impact Through Advocacy in 2021

Even in the midst of a devastating pandemic, 2021 brought new hope and opportunities for UNICEF to renew progress towards protecting children’s rights around the world. While UNICEF led procurement and delivery of COVID-19 vaccines through COVAX, the groundbreaking global initiative to distribute vaccine doses equitably, UNICEF USA supporters continued to speak out to U.S.… Continue reading A Look Back: UNICEF USA Impact Through Advocacy in 2021

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Forensic lab aids crack down on illegal wildlife trade in Viet Nam

Despite travel bans and other COVID-19 restrictions, the small team at Viet Nam’s wildlife forensic lab has been bolstering police efforts to crack down on illegal trafficking, with support from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).  The limited research lab worked on almost 250 criminal cases last year, representing hundreds of individual samples… Continue reading Forensic lab aids crack down on illegal wildlife trade in Viet Nam

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Relief teams fear worsening aftermath of Super Typhoon Rai

Communities are still reeling from the effects of the typhoon, which made landfall in no less than nine places across an area the size of Austria, killing some 500 people. Relief teams have compared Rai to Typhoon Haiyan in 2013, which killed more than 6,000 people and left four million homeless. “It just ripped across… Continue reading Relief teams fear worsening aftermath of Super Typhoon Rai

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UN calls for investigation into attack against peacekeepers in Lebanon

The UN is urging authorities in Lebanon to conduct a quick and thorough investigation into an attack earlier this week against peacekeepers maintaining security and stability in the south of the country.  The ‘blue helmets’ were attacked on Tuesday night by unknown perpetrators. Their UN vehicles were vandalized and official items were stolen.  ‘Disinformation’  “Contrary… Continue reading UN calls for investigation into attack against peacekeepers in Lebanon

Two children killed in airstrike on Tigray refugee camp

“Refugees are not and should never be a target”, UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said on Thursday, following reports of a deadly airstrike on the Mai Aini refugee camp in Tigray, northern Ethiopia. While UN refugee agency, UNHCR, continues to gather and corroborate details on yesterday’s attack that left three Eritrean refugees dead… Continue reading Two children killed in airstrike on Tigray refugee camp

UN urges restraint in Kazakhstan, with dozens reportedly killed 

Speaking to journalists on Thursday in New York, the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, Stéphane Dujarric, said the Organization continues to follow the situation “very closely.”  Mr. Dujarric confirmed several contacts between the UN and the authorities in the country, including a call on Thursday morning between Special Representative Natalia Gherman and the Deputy Foreign Minister, Mukhtar… Continue reading UN urges restraint in Kazakhstan, with dozens reportedly killed 

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55 journalists killed in 2021, impunity ‘alarmingly widespread’ – UNESCO 

Fifty-five journalists and media professionals were killed last year, latest UN data showed on Thursday, with nearly nine in 10 killings since 2006 still unresolved.  Impunity is “alarmingly widespread”, said the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).  “Once again in 2021, far too many journalists paid the ultimate price to bring truth to light”, said UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.   “Right now, the world needs independent, factual information more than… Continue reading 55 journalists killed in 2021, impunity ‘alarmingly widespread’ – UNESCO 

Global food prices rose ‘sharply’ during 2021 

The UN’s benchmark food and commodity prices index rose sharply on average through 2021, compared with the previous year, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) informed on Thursday.  The agency’s Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in international prices, averaged 125.7 points – a 28.1 per cent increase over 2020.  FAO Senior Economist Abdolreza Abbassian explained that,… Continue reading Global food prices rose ‘sharply’ during 2021 

Each day ‘a new adventure’ for UN humanitarian air service worker  

Despite having been “around aircraft for so long” due to her personal and family history, Rasha admits that she still gets a “heart flutter” every she watches a plane take to the skies.  “It never gets ordinary being here”, she said.  Like mother, like daughter  Early last year, Rasha joined the World Food Programme’s (WFP) UNHAS team as an Aviation Assistant at Qamishli airport in Syria’s northeast. Prior to that, she’d worked in commercial aviation… Continue reading Each day ‘a new adventure’ for UN humanitarian air service worker  

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UN disarmament chief urges Syria to come clean on chemical weapons 

Izumi Nakamitsu also urged the country to cooperate with international body, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), adding that “full cooperation” is “essential to closing these outstanding issues.”  The UN disarmament chief was presenting an update on the implementation of Security Council resolution 2118 (2013) regarding the elimination of Syria’s chemical weapons programme.  According to Ms. Nakamitsu, Syria has submitted 17 amendments and several… Continue reading UN disarmament chief urges Syria to come clean on chemical weapons 

WFP-backed challenge boosts food system in Rwanda and beyond

Supporting innovations in the food system in Rwanda is the goal of a UN-backed initiative launched in the capital, Kigali, on Wednesday.  The IGNITE Food Systems Challenge comes amid worsening food insecurity in East Africa due to rising conflict, climate change, natural disasters, and the COVID-19 pandemic.  Both technical support and a total of $300,000… Continue reading WFP-backed challenge boosts food system in Rwanda and beyond

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Cambodia: Arrests of strikers may be breach of human rights law 

Most of the strikers were women and many of the arrests were conducted in “a violent way”, the experts added. The arrests appeared to contravene the right to freedom of association, assembly and expression.  “We also strongly condemn the manner in which the first arrests took place, after dark, on a day where multiple other events diverted public attention”, the experts said.   For them, this could be seen as “an… Continue reading Cambodia: Arrests of strikers may be breach of human rights law 

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UNESCO condemns killing of journalist in Myanmar

Authorities in Myanmar are being urged to conduct a full investigation into the killing of a journalist last month, reportedly during an army attack in the southeast, the UN’s educational and cultural agency, UNESCO, said on Wednesday.  Audrey Azoulay, the UNESCO Director-General, denounced the killing of Sai Win Aung, also known as A Sai K,… Continue reading UNESCO condemns killing of journalist in Myanmar

Harsh winter fuels ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan

UN humanitarians warned on Tuesday that a harsh winter in Afghanistan is aggravating already severe conditions faced by millions across the country. In the past 24 hours, heavy snowfall and rain have impacted a number of areas, disrupting flights to and from Kabul Airport, according to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).… Continue reading Harsh winter fuels ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan

UNICEF: Grim start to new year as 2 children are killed, 5 injured, in Syria

Warring parties should never attack children or the services they rely on, a senior official with the UN children’s agency, UNICEF, said on Tuesday, following recent violence and disruption in Syria.  “Only in the past four days – since the new year began – two children were killed and another five were injured in the… Continue reading UNICEF: Grim start to new year as 2 children are killed, 5 injured, in Syria

Bangladesh: Fire rips through COVID treatment centre for Myanmar refugees  

A devastating fire has ripped through a COVID-19 treatment centre for Myanmar refugees sheltering in Bangladesh, UN migration agency (IOM) said on Tuesday.   In a tweet, IOM said that no-one was hurt at the health facility, part of the vast Cox’s Bazar camp complex, after the blaze began suddenly on Sunday evening.   Parts of the hospital were… Continue reading Bangladesh: Fire rips through COVID treatment centre for Myanmar refugees  

Pakistan: Smartcard registration drive for Afghan refugees ends

The first drive to verify data relating to around 1.4 million Afghan refugees on the move over past decade in Pakistan has been concluded, the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) said on Tuesday. The agency commended the Government of Pakistan for its country-wide campaign, the agency’s spokesperson, Babar Baloch, told journalists in Geneva. “Following a short… Continue reading Pakistan: Smartcard registration drive for Afghan refugees ends

A Young Family’s Struggle for Survival During Super Typhoon Rai

As Super Typhoon Rai battered Dinagat Island in the Philippines on the afternoon of December 16, 2021, Nelly Cariño, a housewife in her 50s, kept watch out the window, checking to see if her daughter, granddaughter and the baby’s father were safe in another room across the yard. Cariño’s family was staying in Cuarenta Elementary… Continue reading A Young Family’s Struggle for Survival During Super Typhoon Rai

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Grave Violations of Children’s Rights in Conflict on The Rise Around the World, Warns UNICEF

NEW YORK (December 31, 2021) – This year has brought a spate of grave violations against children in both protracted and new conflicts, UNICEF warned today. From Afghanistan to Yemen, and Syria to northern Ethiopia, thousands of children paid a devastating price as armed conflict, inter-communal violence, and insecurity continued. Just last week, at least four… Continue reading Grave Violations of Children’s Rights in Conflict on The Rise Around the World, Warns UNICEF

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Special Representative regrets resignation of Sudan’s Prime Minister

The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Sudan, Volker Perthes, regretted on Monday the Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok’s decision to step down. According to news agencies, Mr. Hamdok resigned after another day of mass protests that rocked the capital of the country, Khartoum. After being detained during the 25 October military takeover, along with senior officials and political activists, the… Continue reading Special Representative regrets resignation of Sudan’s Prime Minister

First Person: The entrepreneur helping Middle Eastern women enter the digital economy

Mona Ataya, a Palestinian-Lebanese entrepreneur based in the United Arab Emirates, runs the largest online marketplace for mothers in the Middle East. In recognition of her achievements, she has been chosen as one of the six eTrade for Women Advocates for 2021-2022, by the UN trade agency, UNCTAD.  Ms. Ataya is the founding partner and… Continue reading First Person: The entrepreneur helping Middle Eastern women enter the digital economy

UN provides life-saving aid for refugees and migrants in Mexico, as numbers soar

For several years, the number of people transiting through Mexico, many hoping for a better life in the USA, has continued to grow. The UN team in the country, in close collaboration with the Mexican authorities, is working to ensure that they receive essential, and often life-saving, assistance. When life in her country became too… Continue reading UN provides life-saving aid for refugees and migrants in Mexico, as numbers soar

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Waves of Haitians risk treacherous sea journey to find better life

“I was trying the reach the Turks and Caicos Islands, but my boat capsized at sea. If there were opportunities to start up my own business, I would stay in Haiti.”  The story of Jacques* a 32-year-old father from Limonade on Haiti’s northern coast is perhaps typical of the increasing numbers of people who try… Continue reading Waves of Haitians risk treacherous sea journey to find better life

First Person: Combatting stereotypes to prevent violence against women in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijani activist Maryam Majidova is fighting to improve gender equality in her country, and address the daily challenges faced by women and girls. Maryam Majidova is a co-founder of the Gender Hub social platform, which brings together advocacy groups, non-profit organisations, feminists, and human rights activists, to fight against gender-based violence. The platform also aims… Continue reading First Person: Combatting stereotypes to prevent violence against women in Azerbaijan

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Three Tanzanian peacekeepers injured in Central African Republic 

Three Tanzanian peacekeepers  serving on the United Nations’ mission in Central African Republic (MINUSCA) were injured on Thursday, when their vehicle struck an unidentified explosive device.   One of the soldiers was seriously hurt, and needed to be evacuated to Bouar for treatment and then on to the capital, Bangui, MINUSCA informed.  The ‘blue helmets’ were in the… Continue reading Three Tanzanian peacekeepers injured in Central African Republic 

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Sudan: Refrain from ‘disproportionate use of force’ against protesters

Reported killings and injuries during peaceful demonstrations in Sudan is a cause for deep concern, said the UN human rights office on Friday (OHCHR). OHCHR also highlighted attacks which reportedly took place against a hospital and media office on Thursday, during which rights activists were arrested. “We urge authorities to refrain from unnecessary and disproportionate… Continue reading Sudan: Refrain from ‘disproportionate use of force’ against protesters

People of Myanmar face ‘unprecedented’ crisis in 2022 

The people of Myanmar are facing an unprecedented political, socioeconomic, human rights and humanitarian crisis with needs escalating dramatically since the military takeover and a severe COVID-19 third wave.   According to a UN Humanitarian Needs Overview published on Friday by OCHA, the turmoil is projected to have driven almost half the population into poverty heading into 2022, wiping out… Continue reading People of Myanmar face ‘unprecedented’ crisis in 2022 

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UNICEF Warns of Rise in Grave Violations Against Children in Conflict

Every day, girls and boys living in areas under conflict endure unspeakable horrors that no human should ever experience, UNICEF warned today. This year in particular brought a spate of grave violations against children in both protracted and new conflicts. As armed conflict, intercommunal violence and insecurity continued — from Afghanistan to Yemen to Syria… Continue reading UNICEF Warns of Rise in Grave Violations Against Children in Conflict

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2021 Year in Review: Celebrating UN values in action

As the COVID-19 pandemic continued into a second year, many of the exceptional people we featured in 2021 were, unsurprisingly, health workers putting themselves at considerable personal risk to ensure members of their communities survived the pandemic. ‘We pray to God to save us from famine’ These risks are compounded in conflict zones where workers… Continue reading 2021 Year in Review: Celebrating UN values in action

Grave violations rise for children in conflict  

Armed conflict, inter-communal violence and insecurity continued to take a devastating toll on thousands of children throughout 2021, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), warned on Friday.  From Afghanistan to Yemen, and Syria to northern Ethiopia, UNICEF denounced grave violations against youngsters in both protracted and new conflicts.   ‘Dreadful disregard’  Last week, four children were reportedly among the victims of an attack that killed at least 35 people – including two Save the… Continue reading Grave violations rise for children in conflict  

Persisting in the pandemic: Youth activism during COVID-19

Two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, the global crisis has impacted nearly every facet of life. From where people work and go to school to how people engage with and build community, lives look vastly different today, especially for the world’s 1.8 billion young people. Persisting in the pandemic: Youth activism during COVID-19 Throughout the… Continue reading Persisting in the pandemic: Youth activism during COVID-19

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Reflections on COP26 and What Climate Action Must Look Like in 2022

As the world raced to fight the pandemic in 2021, another global threat was very much on the mind of young people as well: the growing climate crisis. From the possibility of a climate-driven famine in Madagascar to recent extreme weather in the Philippines, we’ve seen examples throughout the year of how rising temperatures are… Continue reading Reflections on COP26 and What Climate Action Must Look Like in 2022

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Sudan: Food looted in Darfur, 730,000 people left without 

Last Tuesday evening, a World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse located in the Borsa area of El Fasher town, the capital of North Darfur State, came under attack from unknown armed groups.  Over 1,900 metric tons of food commodities that were meant to feed 730,000 vulnerable people for a month were stolen.  The incident followed the looting and reported violence last week at the former UN-African Union Hybrid Operation (UNAMID) base in… Continue reading Sudan: Food looted in Darfur, 730,000 people left without 

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2021 Year in Review: Climate action, or blah, blah, blah?

Heading into uncharted territory To avoid catastrophic climate change, global temperatures rises need to be kept to a maximum of 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels, but the odds of the world getting hotter in the next five years continue to increase. The World Meteorological Organisation’s (WMO) flagship State of the Global Climate report warned in… Continue reading 2021 Year in Review: Climate action, or blah, blah, blah?

Former ISIL prison transformed to bring joy and support to youth

Once used as a prison by the ISIL terror network in Iraq, the UN sexual and reproductive health agency and partners have converted a former grim detention centre into a sunny space for youth. The UN Population Fund (UNFPA), Iraq Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Governorate of Anbar re-opened on 25 December, the… Continue reading Former ISIL prison transformed to bring joy and support to youth

Urgent action needed to save Rohingya refugees distressed at sea in Indonesia  

The UN refugee agency called on Wednesday for the immediate, life-saving disembarkation of a group of Rohingya refugees in distress at sea off the coast of Indonesia.  In a statement, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said that it was “deeply concerned for the safety and lives of those onboard”.  The… Continue reading Urgent action needed to save Rohingya refugees distressed at sea in Indonesia  

2021 Year in Review: Refugee, migrant numbers rise, despite travel curbs

By November, more than 84 million people had been forced from their homes, according to UNHCR data. This figure is an increase from 2020 and 2019, both of which were record-breaking years in terms of the numbers forcibly displaced around the world.  ‘A paradox not seen before in human history’ This rise was coupled with… Continue reading 2021 Year in Review: Refugee, migrant numbers rise, despite travel curbs

Myanmar: Attack leaves 35 dead, including 4 children 

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) condemned on Tuesday the reported killing of at least 35 people, including four children and two humanitarian workers, in the Kayah state, in Myanmar.  The UN agency was “shocked and saddened” by the reported killing and burning of victims on 24 December, during a time when many prepared to celebrate Christmas.  … Continue reading Myanmar: Attack leaves 35 dead, including 4 children 

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Sixteen defining moments for gender equality in 2021

Originally published on un-women.medium.com As 2021 comes to a close, we’re taking a look back at some of the major moments for gender equality and women’s rights from the past 12 months. From women at the forefront of the ongoing fight against COVID-19, to new laws to support survivors of gender-based violence, from women in… Continue reading Sixteen defining moments for gender equality in 2021

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Three separate shipwrecks leave dozens dead and more missing 

At least 31 people lost their lives in three separate shipwrecks over the course of four days last week in the Aegean Sea, and an unknown number are still missing, the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) said on Tuesday.   According to the UN agency, between 21 and 24 December more than 160 people were rescued by Greece’s Hellenic… Continue reading Three separate shipwrecks leave dozens dead and more missing 

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Escalation in Yemen ‘worst in years’ – UN top envoy 

According to his statement, airstrikes on Sana’a have resulted in the loss of civilian lives, and damage to noncombatant infrastructure and residential areas.  A continued offensive on Ma’rib, where at least 35,000 people have been forced to flee since September, and unabated missile attacks on the governorate are causing civilian casualties, damage to civilian objects and… Continue reading Escalation in Yemen ‘worst in years’ – UN top envoy 

2021 Year in Review: UN support for countries in conflict

Long-running conflicts continued in Syria and Yemen this year, whilst fresh unrest caused serious instability in Myanmar, Afghanistan, Ethiopia and Sudan. United Nations “Blue Helmet” peacekeepers suffered losses and injuries, particularly those serving in the peacekeeping missions in Mali and the Central African Republic (CAR). Nevertheless, the UN reaffirmed its commitment to protect those caught… Continue reading 2021 Year in Review: UN support for countries in conflict

Central African Republic: Scores of militias forced out of Boyo

UN peacekeepers in the Central African Republic (CAR) have ousted scores of militants from the embattled town of Boyo, in the south of the country. The UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the CAR, known by its French acronym MINUSCA, launched an operation on Saturday to expel from Boyo, in Ouaka prefecture, around 200 members of… Continue reading Central African Republic: Scores of militias forced out of Boyo

Rights experts hear how ‘racialized gatekeeping’ impacts development in France

France should consider the economic and development benefits of partnership with people of African descent, the head of a Working Group appointed by the UN Human Rights Council said in a statement on Monday.  Dominique Day, chairperson of the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent, was speaking in the wake of its visit… Continue reading Rights experts hear how ‘racialized gatekeeping’ impacts development in France

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UNESCO marks semi-centennial anniversary of biosphere preservation

The UN cultural agency commemorated on Monday the 50th anniversary of its Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB), which created in 1971, has been promoting a long-lasting connection between people and nature. “This is really a programme for the people, because people are part of nature…so they are incorporated in nature protection but also in sustainable… Continue reading UNESCO marks semi-centennial anniversary of biosphere preservation

UNICEF Calls For $11M To Respond To Children’s Needs Affected By Typhoon Odette

NEW YORK (December 26, 2021) – On Christmas Eve, more than a week after Super Typhoon Odette (international name Rai) battered the Philippines, UNICEF together with the UN and humanitarian community appeal for $107 million to help children and families bounce back from the impact of the catastrophic super typhoon. For the immediate response UNICEF appeals… Continue reading UNICEF Calls For $11M To Respond To Children’s Needs Affected By Typhoon Odette

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Myanmar: UN humanitarian chief calls for probe into ‘grievous’ attack on civilians

Authorities in Myanmar must investigate a recent deadly attack against civilians in Kayah state, the UN humanitarian affairs chief Martin Griffiths said in a statement on Sunday. Mr. Griffiths said he was “horrified” by reports that at least 35 people, including at least one child, were killed in the attack, which occurred on Friday.  They… Continue reading Myanmar: UN humanitarian chief calls for probe into ‘grievous’ attack on civilians

Former ‘failed State’ Somalia on fragile path to progress: A UN Resident Coordinator blog

Somalia has been riven by decades of conflict and extreme weather events but, says Adam Abdelmoula, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in the country, there are signs of progress amidst a host of ongoing challenges. “I arrived in Somalia in September 2019, two decades after having worked here previously. I knew that I was… Continue reading Former ‘failed State’ Somalia on fragile path to progress: A UN Resident Coordinator blog

Lebanon crises increase suffering of migrant domestic workers

Many migrant domestic workers in Lebanon are denied basic human rights, and suffered abuse at the hands of their employers. Since the worsening economic crisis in the country their plight has, if anything, worsened. “The recruitment agencies and employers treat us as if we are human commodities!”, says Adanesh Worko, an Ethiopian worker who works… Continue reading Lebanon crises increase suffering of migrant domestic workers

‘Grasp this opportunity’, Guterres says, following announcements by Ethiopia and Tigray forces

In the wake of recent developments in northern Ethiopia, UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Saturday urged warring sides to seize the opportunity to bring an end to more than a year of fighting in the Tigray region.  Mr. Guterres has welcomed the Ethiopian government’s announcement on Friday that the National Defence Force will pause at… Continue reading ‘Grasp this opportunity’, Guterres says, following announcements by Ethiopia and Tigray forces

Champions of the Earth: The Sea Women of Melanesia

The Sea Women of Melanesia, a group of divers who give women in the South Pacific region the skills to monitor the health of coral reefs, and create and restore marine protected areas, have been named Champions of the Earth, the UN’s highest environmental award, in the Inspiration and Action category. To most people, fins,… Continue reading Champions of the Earth: The Sea Women of Melanesia

US contributes $10 million to support UN food agency efforts on COVID-19 response, future pandemics

The funding, announced on Thursday, will support the UN agency’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery Programme, part of its broader One Health programme . The initiative helps safeguard human, animal, plant and environmental health throughout the food chain, from production to consumption and waste management.  FAO joins with partners the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World… Continue reading US contributes $10 million to support UN food agency efforts on COVID-19 response, future pandemics

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Libyan elections postponed, new date expected within 30 days

Having arrived in Libya on 12 December, Special Advisor Stephanie Williams said that she has heard “time and again the overwhelming desire of Libyans to go to the ballot box to determine their future and to end the long transitional period through the holding of inclusive, free, fair, and credible elections”. “I have also heard… Continue reading Libyan elections postponed, new date expected within 30 days

Authorities urged to protect women and children following violence and protests in Sudan

Kambou Fofana, Acting UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, made the appeal in a statement on reported excessive use of force against children.  “UNICEF calls on all authorities in Sudan to protect all children from all forms of violence and harm including during conflict and political events. The use of excessive… Continue reading Authorities urged to protect women and children following violence and protests in Sudan

Stepping up assistance to Venezuelans crossing Chile’s inhospitable northern border 

In response to the critical needs of a growing number of Venezuelans arriving by foot to Chile’s northern border, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, said on Thursday that it is stepping up its presence and assistance in the South American country.  “Children, adolescents, pregnant women and the elderly often need urgent medical support after several days traveling on… Continue reading Stepping up assistance to Venezuelans crossing Chile’s inhospitable northern border 

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Despite ‘rampant’ poverty, ‘existential’ lack of funding impedes UNRWA’s work

A long-term lack of funding for the UN’s relief agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, now represents an “existential” threat, its top official warned on Thursday.   Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, said that chronic and drastic funding shortfalls could even precipitate its collapse.  “Today, austerity has reached its limit and is impacting the quality of our services”, he said, highlighting that despite “rampant” poverty, the agency can no longer increase… Continue reading Despite ‘rampant’ poverty, ‘existential’ lack of funding impedes UNRWA’s work

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Champions of the Earth: Mia Mottley versus the ‘faceless few’

The Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, has been awarded the 2021 Champions of the Earth Award, the UN’s highest environmental honour, for her policy leadership. When the top Barbadian politician stood up in front of the UN General Assembly earlier this year, she was not in a mood to pull punches. In front of… Continue reading Champions of the Earth: Mia Mottley versus the ‘faceless few’

Iran: UN independent experts condemn secret execution of Kurdish prisoner

Two UN-appointed independent rights experts condemned the arbitrary execution in the strongest terms on Wednesday, of an Iranian Kurdish prisoner as a sign of “clear disregard for their obligations under international human rights law”. The prisoner, Heidar Ghorbani, was secretly executed in Sanandaj Central Prison at dawn on Sunday – without prior notice to his… Continue reading Iran: UN independent experts condemn secret execution of Kurdish prisoner

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Security Council paves way for aid to reach desperate Afghans

The Security Council on Wednesday unanimously adopted a resolution clearing the way for aid to reach Afghans in desperate need of basic support, while preventing funds from falling into the hands of the Taliban, a move welcomed by the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator as a “milestone” decision that will save lives. Martin Griffiths, who is also Under-Secretary-General… Continue reading Security Council paves way for aid to reach desperate Afghans

UNICEF Clubs: 2021 in review

2021 has had many ups and downs, to say the least. Nevertheless, throughout this year, our UNICEF Clubs have consistently exemplified UNICEF USA’s mission: to relentlessly pursue a better world for every child.  Here we take a look back at some of our favorite club moments from this past year: January Giving Back At A… Continue reading UNICEF Clubs: 2021 in review

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Yemen alert: 8 million face reduced rations amid funding shortages

The UN food relief agency warned on Wednesday that it is running out of funds to continue providing food assistance to 13 million Yemenis. From January, eight million who are going hungry in Yemen will receive a reduced food ration, while five million others who are at immediate risk of slipping into famine, will remain… Continue reading Yemen alert: 8 million face reduced rations amid funding shortages

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Meeting Unprecedented Challenges Head On: A Look Back at UNICEF’s 2021

Planes full of COVID-19 vaccines landing on runways throughout the world. Innovative cold chain solutions implemented to safely transport these precious doses. Health workers crossing treacherous terrain to vaccinate families in remote villages. This was the year of Mission Unstoppable, a massive undertaking in which UNICEF and partners rushed lifesaving vaccines to vulnerable communities, all… Continue reading Meeting Unprecedented Challenges Head On: A Look Back at UNICEF’s 2021

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Rising Health Risks For Children Across Afghanistan As Disruption To Health And Nutrition Services Continues And Winter Sets In – UNICEF

NEW YORK (December 22, 2021) – Children across Afghanistan are increasingly vulnerable to disease and illness due to the deadly combination of rising malnutrition, an unprecedented food crisis, drought, disruptions to vital health and nutrition centers, lack of access to and poor quality of water and sanitation services, and crippling winter weather.   As the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate in Afghanistan, outbreaks… Continue reading Rising Health Risks For Children Across Afghanistan As Disruption To Health And Nutrition Services Continues And Winter Sets In – UNICEF

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Experts call for immediate release of Kashmiri human rights defender

Mr. Parvez has documented serious human rights violations in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, including enforced disappearances and unlawful killings, they said, and has faced reprisals reportedly for sharing information with the UN.  Apparent new retaliation  He was arrested in November by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on charges related to conspiracy and terrorism.    “We… Continue reading Experts call for immediate release of Kashmiri human rights defender

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Champions of the Earth: Kyrgystan’s environmental entrepreneur

A picture of the Krygyz capital Bishkek, covered in a thick blanket of polluted air, spurred Maria Kolesnikova to start an environmental movement. Her efforts have been rewarded, as she’s now 2021 Champion of the Earth for Entrepreneurial Vision. Bishkek, home to roughly one million people, is among the world’s cities with the worst air… Continue reading Champions of the Earth: Kyrgystan’s environmental entrepreneur

Libya: Tensions as armed groups mobilize in Tripoli

The UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) on Tuesday expressed concern over the unfolding security situation in the capital, Tripoli, where forces affiliated with different armed groups have been deploying.  The development came as Libyans awaited news about the postponement of long-promised landmark elections, due to take place on Friday.  Appeal for dialogue  The current… Continue reading Libya: Tensions as armed groups mobilize in Tripoli

Middle East: Positive steps needed to restore calm

Tor Wennesland painted a grim picture of “clashes, attacks, military operations” and continued settler-related violence amidst a severe fiscal and economic crisis in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT). “It is crucial that all parties take immediate steps to lower tensions and restore calm”, he said, warning that if left unchecked, the situation in the West… Continue reading Middle East: Positive steps needed to restore calm

What does gender equality look like? Artists around the world share their vision

We all have the potential to create meaningful change in the world around us. Whether by educating family and friends, speaking up on social media, challenging stereotypes through creative expression or otherwise, we can each promote gender equality and #ActForEqual every single day. In the run up to the 2021 Generation Equality Forum — a… Continue reading What does gender equality look like? Artists around the world share their vision

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Guterres in Lebanon: Fair elections in 2022, an ‘essential opportunity’ for voices to be heard

Having heard and seen for himself the suffering of Lebanon’s people, the UN chief told political leaders there on Tuesday that they “do not have the right to be divided”, leaving the nation paralysed, amidst multiple crises. “All government institutions are measured on results: social protection, access to electricity and water, education and basic healthcare,… Continue reading Guterres in Lebanon: Fair elections in 2022, an ‘essential opportunity’ for voices to be heard

The UN belongs to young people, deputy chief tells young Costa Rican activists

Ms. Mohammed spoke with young environmental and climate activists there as part of her two-day mission to the Central American country, which concluded on Tuesday.  Communities across #CostaRica are working to restore the mangroves. Thanks to leaders like Estela in Cuajiniquil, Guanacaste leading the way to restoration of these magnificent ecosystems, bringing livelihoods to families.… Continue reading The UN belongs to young people, deputy chief tells young Costa Rican activists

Finding COVID-19 Vaccines Via SMS in the Democratic Republic of Congo

With more than 90 million people spread across some 888,000 square miles, rolling out the COVID-19 vaccine in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a challenge. Reaching people with timely information about vaccinations when most of the population doesn’t have ready access to the internet has required some creative thinking — and the use… Continue reading Finding COVID-19 Vaccines Via SMS in the Democratic Republic of Congo

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Thousands head home voluntarily from Zambia to DR Congo  

Nearly 5,000 refugees who fled violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) four years ago, are opting to head home voluntarily from Zambia over the coming months, with the first 100 people setting out on Tuesday.  The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, said that security had improved sufficiently in DR Congo’s Pweto territory, Haut-Katanga province, for them to go home… Continue reading Thousands head home voluntarily from Zambia to DR Congo  

Sudan protests: Security forces in spotlight over sexual violence allegations

In Sudan, reports of serious sexual violence and the use of live ammunition against protesters at the weekend must be investigated immediately, the UN rights office, OHCHR, said on Tuesday. The allegations surfaced after demonstrations in Khartoum on Sunday, where tens of thousands had massed to mark the third anniversary of protests that led to the… Continue reading Sudan protests: Security forces in spotlight over sexual violence allegations

End ‘appalling’ Belarus-Poland border crisis, UN rights office urges

Belarus and Poland must resolve the migrant and refugee crisis at their mutual border, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said on Tuesday, describing the on-going situation as “appalling”.  OHCHR again called on the two countries to address the matter in line with their obligations under international law.  This follows a visit by a UN… Continue reading End ‘appalling’ Belarus-Poland border crisis, UN rights office urges

UNICEF Sends Supplies To Areas Impacted By Typhoon Odette; Advocates Needs Of Children

NEW YORK (December 21, 2021) – After Typhoon Odette (international name Rai) brought widespread destruction to the Philippines on December 16, the needs of children and families in affected areas are becoming clear. Based on initial assessments, around 845,000 children need urgent assistance. Immediate needs include food, water, medicines, clothing, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), cooking equipment,… Continue reading UNICEF Sends Supplies To Areas Impacted By Typhoon Odette; Advocates Needs Of Children

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Hand over the mic to: María Adelaida Suárez, Colombia

For the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, we are handing over the mic to women and men on the front line, those who are battling COVID-19 and the pandemic of violence against women and girls that’s relentless and rising. These are the voices of survivors, essential workers, and leaders, telling us what’s urgent,… Continue reading Hand over the mic to: María Adelaida Suárez, Colombia

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Champions of the Earth: The Ugandan vet protecting people and wildlife

Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka this year’s Champion of the Earth for Science and Innovation, has spent three decades helping to safeguard some of the world’s rarest primates, including endangered mountain gorillas.  Much of Dr. Kalema-Zikusoka’s work has been in impoverished East African communities that border protected areas, where she has helped improve healthcare and create economic… Continue reading Champions of the Earth: The Ugandan vet protecting people and wildlife

Lebanese ‘deserve the truth’ over deadly port blast: Guterres

The extent of the devastation has drawn comparisons within Lebanon, to the horrors endured by the residents of Hiroshima in 1945, after one of the two atomic bombs dropped on Japan at the end of World War Two, raised the Japanese city to the ground, killing tens of thousands. Locals refer to the infamous day… Continue reading Lebanese ‘deserve the truth’ over deadly port blast: Guterres

New data show women and girls far less likely to receive COVID-19 relief

Originally published on data.unwomen.org UN Women’s newest report reveals that women and girls have disproportionately suffered the socioeconomic impacts of COVID-19 – be it through lost jobs and reduced work hours, increased intensity of care and domestic work, and strains on their physical and mental health. And yet, the report also shows that women and… Continue reading New data show women and girls far less likely to receive COVID-19 relief

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As Ethiopia Conflict Rages On, Children Pay the Highest Price

Shumuye, 10, lives with his family in Yechella, in central Tigray, an area that has seen intense fighting due to conflict in northern Ethiopia. Their house was burned down during the fighting, and they have been staying with extended family. Shumuye’s father, Barhe Atsma, was taking advantage of a reprieve in armed fighting to farm his land… Continue reading As Ethiopia Conflict Rages On, Children Pay the Highest Price

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ABBA’s Song ‘Little Things’ to Raise Money for UNICEF

On Jan. 9, 1979, the UN General Assembly presented a charity benefit called “A Gift of Song: The Music for UNICEF Concert.” The show, hosted by David Frost, with help from Gilda Radner, Henry Winkler and Henry Fonda, was recorded and broadcast on television around the world the following day. Performers in the star lineup… Continue reading ABBA’s Song ‘Little Things’ to Raise Money for UNICEF

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Lives on the line as UN and partners launch 2022 humanitarian plan for Somalia

Roughly 7.7 million people in Somalia will need assistance and protection in 2022, a 30 per cent rise in just one year, the UN and partners said on Monday, launching a nearly $1.5 billion Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) for the country.  The funding will support 5.5 million of the most vulnerable as Somalia faces its… Continue reading Lives on the line as UN and partners launch 2022 humanitarian plan for Somalia

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UN envoy outlines ‘possibilities for progress’ in Syria next year

“No one should expect miracles or quick solutions – the path forward will be necessarily incremental. But I hope that this coming year we can work on concrete steps towards the implementation of Security Council resolution 2254,” he said.  .@GeirOPedersen Now is the time to explore whether a political process can meaningfully move forward in… Continue reading UN envoy outlines ‘possibilities for progress’ in Syria next year

South Sudan: Senior UN official condemns killing of humanitarian worker

The UN’s Humanitarian Coordinator in South Sudan has strongly condemned the killing of a UN-contracted aid worker on Sunday, that also left another injured, after the convoy they were travelling in came under attack. In a press release issued on Monday, Matthew Hollingworth, said the World Food Programme (WFP) convoy had been deliberately targeted, and… Continue reading South Sudan: Senior UN official condemns killing of humanitarian worker

UNICEF Clubs: 2021 in review

Over the years, many passionate individuals have been driven to improve children’s lives and futures by volunteering for UNICEF — with lasting impact. It was actress and humanitarian Helenka Pantaleoni who led efforts to found UNICEF USA in 1947. And it was the Reverend Clyde and Mary Emma Allison from Philadelphia who started Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF… Continue reading UNICEF Clubs: 2021 in review

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UN humanitarians aid Philippines response to Super Typhoon Rai

Reports of “utter devastation” caused by Super Typhoon Rai have continued to come in from the Philippines, where the UN is helping respond to urgent needs. In an update posted online early on Monday, the top UN humanitarian coordinator in the archipelago, Gustavo Gonzalez, said that aid assessment teams had reached communities in need of emergency assistance… Continue reading UN humanitarians aid Philippines response to Super Typhoon Rai

UN expert underscores importance of human rights for Rohingya

A UN independent expert on Sunday commended Bangladesh for providing a safe haven to Rohingya refugees fleeing atrocity crimes in Myanmar, offering to do all he can to “push for a stronger, more coordinated international response” to the crisis. “Bangladesh saved untold numbers of lives when it opened its arms and hearts to Rohingya people who… Continue reading UN expert underscores importance of human rights for Rohingya

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UN chief calls for unity among Lebanese leaders, affirms solidarity with citizens

Fractured along sectarian lines, successive Governments have been unable to put the country on a sustainable path forward. Kicking off a four-day visit, he met with Lebanese President Michel Aoun, saying they had a “fruitful” talk. One simple message Subsequently, at a joint press conference at the Presidential Palace, the UN chief called on the… Continue reading UN chief calls for unity among Lebanese leaders, affirms solidarity with citizens

I see a light at the end of the tunnel for Nigeria : A UN Resident Coordinator blog

“When I arrived in 2016, I set out to go beyond the traditional engagements with governments, the diplomatic and business communities, and engage and interact with the people, and their diverse cultures and traditions. It has been an incredible journey, with milestones and legacies to build on.  In the last five years, as I applied… Continue reading I see a light at the end of the tunnel for Nigeria : A UN Resident Coordinator blog

Afghanistan economy in ‘freefall’, threatening to take entire population with it

Speaking virtually to the 17th Extraordinary Session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers in Islamabad, Pakistan, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths painted a grim picture of 23 million people facing hunger; malnourished children overflowing in health facilities; 70 per cent of teachers working without salaries; and millions of students… Continue reading Afghanistan economy in ‘freefall’, threatening to take entire population with it

From the Field: Interweaving ecosystems in Indonesia

The UN Development Programme (UNDP) is working with local communities in Indonesia’s Kalimantan forests to protect biodiversity and generate sustainable livelihoods. Traditional weaving in Ensaid Panjang, Kalimantan, Indonesia., by UNDP Indonesia Traditionally, the cultivation of natural dyes are used for traditional weaving in Kalimantan, Indonesia’s territory on the island of Borneo. These methods are being… Continue reading From the Field: Interweaving ecosystems in Indonesia

In a world of choices, ‘let us choose peace’, urges UN chief

Secretary-General António Guterres received the Lamp of Peace award on Saturday, a major honour from the Catholic Church, which he said recognizes the work of UN personnel “striving for peace around the world”. Reminding that after the horrors of World War in the 20th Century, “the UN was created in the name of peace”, he… Continue reading In a world of choices, ‘let us choose peace’, urges UN chief

Can recycling cut unsafe migration from Haiti?

The initiative, launched by the UN’s International Organization for Migration (IOM), will not only help to improve the environment, it may also provide new housing which is resilient to natural disasters. On the International Day of Migrants, celebrated annually on 18 December, UN Haiti looks at how recycling could make a contribution towards people staying… Continue reading Can recycling cut unsafe migration from Haiti?

‘UN stands with the people of Lebanon’, declares Guterres

In a video message to the people of Lebanon, Mr. Guterres said he was deeply concerned about the hardships they are facing, underlining UN solidarity with the country.   Next week I will be traveling to Lebanon with one simple message: the @UN stands with you. I look forward to engaging with people from all… Continue reading ‘UN stands with the people of Lebanon’, declares Guterres

‘Solidarity with migrants has never been more urgent’: Guterres

Today, more people than ever live in a country other than the one where they were born. While many individuals migrate out of choice, many others leave home out of necessity.  Approximately 281 million people were international migrants in 2020, representing 3.6 per cent of the global population. In his message, António Guterres said those on the… Continue reading ‘Solidarity with migrants has never been more urgent’: Guterres

Women leaders examine how to end ‘invisible emergency’ of gender-based violence

Originally published by news.un.org Whether at home, at work, in the streets or even online, women and girls across the world remain highly vulnerable to gender-based violence, something which the COVID-19 pandemic has only magnified, six senior UN women leaders said on Thursday. Women leaders examine how to end ‘invisible emergency’ of gender-based violence The… Continue reading Women leaders examine how to end ‘invisible emergency’ of gender-based violence

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Addressing Fears, Changing Attitudes to Build Vaccine Confidence

Myths and misinformation have fueled vaccine hesitancy around the world. That’s why UNICEF and partners are working nonstop, deploying community engagement teams and some innovative communication techniques to address fears and concerns and boost vaccine confidence — a critical step toward ending the pandemic.  Community outreach teams share COVID-19 vaccine information people can trust A… Continue reading Addressing Fears, Changing Attitudes to Build Vaccine Confidence

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UN rights office urges Viet Nam to release jailed activists

Authorities in Viet Nam must immediately release four activists jailed this week for spreading anti-State propaganda, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said on Friday.  Over a three-day period, prominent human rights defenders Trinh Ba Phoung, Nguyen Thi Tam, Do Nam Trung and independent author Pham Doan Trang, were sentenced to up to a decade in jail, and five years on probation.  Silence and intimidate  Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said OHCHR was… Continue reading UN rights office urges Viet Nam to release jailed activists

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Cameroon: Intercommunal clashes continue to displace thousands

Intercommunal clashes that erupted in Cameroon’s Far North region over the past two weeks have driven at least 100,000 people from their homes, although the actual number may be much higher, UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, said on Friday.    In the last few days, more than 85,000 people have fled into neighbouring Chad while at least 15,000 Cameroonians have been forced to… Continue reading Cameroon: Intercommunal clashes continue to displace thousands

Even as Omicron Variant Takes Hold, School Closures Must Be a Measure of Last Resort

NEW YORK (December 17, 2021) – “COVID-19 cases are again spiking all over the world, fuelled, increasingly, by Omicron, a new variant of concern that public health experts and scientists are working hard to understand. Amid rising uncertainty, many governments are weighing whether to keep schools open. One thing we do know for certain: Another wave of… Continue reading Even as Omicron Variant Takes Hold, School Closures Must Be a Measure of Last Resort

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Ethiopia crisis: Human Rights Council sets up international rights probe

In a special session held at the request of the European Union, to discuss the impact of conflict that began in Tigray in the north of the country 13 months ago, delegates were told that nine in 10 people in the region now require humanitarian assistance. For a special session to happen, one third of… Continue reading Ethiopia crisis: Human Rights Council sets up international rights probe

Lifesaving support for new mothers in crisis-wracked Afghanistan

The Malalai Maternity Hospital is one of the busiest in the Afghan capital, Kabul, welcoming around 85 babies into the world every day, including 20 by Caesarean section. But the ongoing crisis in the country is drastically undermining the staff’s capacity to care for their patients. “Shortages of equipment, supplies and medicine, a lack of… Continue reading Lifesaving support for new mothers in crisis-wracked Afghanistan

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Women leaders examine how to end ‘invisible emergency’ of gender-based violence

The top officials, who included Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed and heads of key UN agencies, examined ways to end this “invisible emergency” during a roundtable discussion held from UN Headquarters in New York.  The frank and open conversation was organized by the Spotlight Initiative, a joint UN and European Union (EU) programme working to eradicate… Continue reading Women leaders examine how to end ‘invisible emergency’ of gender-based violence

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Morocco’s extradition of Uyghur asylum seeker to China could lead to serious rights violations, argue UN experts

Four UN independent human rights experts called on Thursday for Morocco to reverse its decision to extradite a Uyghur Muslim to China as his return would place him under threat of serious human rights violations. If he is made to return, human rights defender Yidiresi Aishan risks detention, enforced disappearance, or torture and other cruel,… Continue reading Morocco’s extradition of Uyghur asylum seeker to China could lead to serious rights violations, argue UN experts

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SpeakUP: An app on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment and Abuse in the Workplace

UN-Habitat has launched An app on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment and Abuse in the Workplace. This application aims to: Raise awareness on the prevention and prohibition of sexual harassment and abuse in the workplace. Provide a single platform, a central repository, for users to easily access the necessary information about the rules and regulations that… Continue reading SpeakUP: An app on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment and Abuse in the Workplace

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Uni

©  2012-2021 United Nations Human Settlements Programme

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Yokohama

35.449997222222, 139.63333055556 Japan City EN No Year Of Publication 2021 VLR Title Voluntary Local Review 2021 Yokohama: Report on the implementation of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development Website https://unhabitat.org/sites/default/files/2021/12/yokohama_2021_en.pdf

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Izmir

38.412730555556, 27.138380555556 Turkey City TR No Year Of Publication 2021 VLR Title Izmir Voluntary Local Evaluation Report 2021 Website https://unhabitat.org/sites/default/files/2021/12/izmir_2021_tr.pdf

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Surabaya

-6.7508305555556, 112.75083055556 Indonesia City EN No Year Of Publication 2021 VLR Title Surabaya City’s Voluntary Local Review (VLR) 2021 Website https://unhabitat.org/sites/default/files/2021/12/surabaya_2021_en.pdf

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Shkodra

42.068280555556, 19.512580555556 Albania City SQ No Year Of Publication 2021 VLR Title Local Voluntary Assessment for the Municipality of Shkodra Website https://unhabitat.org/sites/default/files/2021/12/shkodra_2021_sq.pdf

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Sultanbeyli

40.960719444444, 29.270669444444 Turkey City TR No Year Of Publication 2021 VLR Title Leave No One Behind – Volunteer Local Evaluation Report Website https://unhabitat.org/sites/default/files/2021/12/sultanbeyli_2021_tr_1.pdf

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Skiathos

39.166666666667, 23.483330555556 Greece City EN No Year Of Publication 2020 VLR Title Skiathos Voluntary Local Review 2020 Website https://unhabitat.org/sites/default/files/2021/12/skiathos_2020_en.pdf

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Penang Island

5.3999972222222, 100.23333333333 Malaysia City EN No Year Of Publication 2021 VLR Title Penang Island Voluntary Local Report 2021 Website https://unhabitat.org/sites/default/files/2021/12/penang_island_2021_en.pdf

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International Women’s Day 2022: “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow”

The theme for International Women’s Day, 8 March, 2022 (IWD 2022) is, “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow”, recognizing the contribution of women and girls around the world, who are leading the charge on climate change adaptation, mitigation, and response, to build a more sustainable future for all. International Women’s Day 2022: “Gender equality… Continue reading International Women’s Day 2022: “Gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow”

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Trafficked and returned: Supporting migrant women survivors in Ethiopia during COVID-19

“The soldiers were shooting us from behind as we ran away in the forest. Some girls were raped and beaten. When we got caught [in a neighbouring country], the police made us sleep next to a toilet. We had to beg them for food,” shares Alem Kifle* about her migration journey. “When you are an… Continue reading Trafficked and returned: Supporting migrant women survivors in Ethiopia during COVID-19

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UN Women statement for International Migrants Day, 18 December 2021

In the 12 months since we last commemorated International Migrants Day, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has recorded the deaths of 541 migrant women – and these are just the ones who have been identified. Many lost their lives as a result of violence or because they lacked adequate food or water. Others have… Continue reading UN Women statement for International Migrants Day, 18 December 2021

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Recognize care as a human right, urge leaders of the Global Alliance for Care

At a high-level event on International Human Rights Day, 10 December, the Global Alliance for Care called for a human rights perspective to be incorporated across all efforts to transform the global care agenda. Recognize care as a human right, urge leaders of the Global Alliance for Care “The right to care is a human… Continue reading Recognize care as a human right, urge leaders of the Global Alliance for Care

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Take five: “There are many stories that encourage me to do more”

As a human rights activist you’ve fought for fair treatment for prisoners and detainees in Yemen. Who inspired you to fight for the rights of others? My mother was the one who inspired me. She was always helping others with everything – solving other people’s problems, from marriages to resolving disputes. I have always wanted… Continue reading Take five: “There are many stories that encourage me to do more”

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From victims to leaders: Ending gender-based violence in the Lake Chad Basin

Aissa Doumara Ngatansou was 15 years old when she was forced into marriage. Nearly 30 per cent of girls in Ngatansou’s home in North Cameroon are married before the age of 18, facing loss of education, high rates of maternal mortality, and increased risk of gender-based violence. Many others suffer sexual violence at the hands… Continue reading From victims to leaders: Ending gender-based violence in the Lake Chad Basin

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Joint statement by Sima Bahous, Executive Director of UN Women and H.E. Mr. Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti, Secretary-General of The Organisation of African, Caribbean And Pacific States (OACPS) on Human Rights Day (10 December 2021)

Joint statement by Sima Bahous, Executive Director of UN Women and H.E. Mr. Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti, Secretary-General of The Organisation of African, Caribbean And Pacific States (OACPS) on Human Rights Day (10 December 2021) The new data released by UN Women highlight how the pandemic has impacted women’s safety at home and in public… Continue reading Joint statement by Sima Bahous, Executive Director of UN Women and H.E. Mr. Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti, Secretary-General of The Organisation of African, Caribbean And Pacific States (OACPS) on Human Rights Day (10 December 2021)

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Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and UN Women Executive Director completes her first official visit to Egypt

UN Under-Secretary-General and UN Women Executive Director, Ms. Sima Bahous, concluded her first official field visit to Egypt this week. In her meeting with Egypt’s Prime Minister, Moustafa Madbuly, Ms. Bahous reiterated, “UN Women’s commitment to support the Government to achieve the goals of the National Strategy for the Empowerment of Egyptian Women 2030.” Under-Secretary-General… Continue reading Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and UN Women Executive Director completes her first official visit to Egypt

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In Cox’s Bazar, gender-responsive policing efforts build trust with Rohingya women and girls

Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh is home to over 880,000 Rohingya refugees who fled violence and persecution in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Most Rohingya women and girls in Cox’s Bazar refugee camps are either survivors of, or witnesses to, gender-based violence. In Cox’s Bazar, gender-responsive policing efforts build trust with Rohingya women and girls UN Women works with… Continue reading In Cox’s Bazar, gender-responsive policing efforts build trust with Rohingya women and girls

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Bolivian indigenous women are scaling Latin America’s highest peaks, taking the UNiTE campaign flag to new heights

On the summit of Bolivia’s Huayna Potosí mountain, towering more than 6,000 metres above sea level, a flag proudly flies to promote the United Nations Secretary-General’s UNiTE campaign, a global effort to end all violence against women and girls. Bolivian indigenous women are scaling Latin America’s highest peaks, taking the UNiTE campaign flag to new… Continue reading Bolivian indigenous women are scaling Latin America’s highest peaks, taking the UNiTE campaign flag to new heights

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Take five: “The justice system must be responsive to persons with disabilities.”

Dewi Tjakrawinata, Indonesian advocate for rights of people with disabilities, with her son, Morgan. Illustration courtesy of Dewi Tjakrawinata and Oxfam Originally published on UN Women’s regional website for Asia and the Pacific. Dewi Tjakrawinata is the co-founder of YAPESDI (Yayasan Peduli Sindroma Down Indonesia, or Down Syndrome Care Foundation Indonesia), a Jakarta-based non-profit organization… Continue reading Take five: “The justice system must be responsive to persons with disabilities.”

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COVID-19 and violence against women: What the data tells us

Before COVID-19, a different pandemic was already threatening the lives and well-being of people around the world: violence against women, impacting at least 1 in 3 women and girls. From the early days of the COVID lockdowns, women’s organizations noted a significant increase in reported cases of violence against women. But comprehensive data collection on… Continue reading COVID-19 and violence against women: What the data tells us

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UN Women statement for World AIDS Day

This World AIDS Day, there is progress around the globe to celebrate, in access to HIV testing, life-saving treatment and care. We are seeing increased recognition of the role that gender norms play in the HIV response, leading to improved HIV prevention methods, targeted HIV policies and programmes, and access to comprehensive sexuality education for… Continue reading UN Women statement for World AIDS Day

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From where I stand: “Women coming together, working together, kept me going… Now, we live in fear.”

Mursal Samadi* had worked as a prosecutor, independent investigator, and a civil society leader for more than 16 years in Afghanistan when the Taliban took over Kabul on 15 August. She remains in Afghanistan, advocating for the rights of Afghan women and girls. From where I stand: “Women coming together, working together, kept me going…… Continue reading From where I stand: “Women coming together, working together, kept me going… Now, we live in fear.”

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Action Coalition on Gender-based Violence calls on all actors to join the five-year collective drive to eradicate violence against women and girls

On the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (25 November), global leaders endorsed the powerful steps being taken by the Action Coalition on Gender-based Violence to inspire action across all sectors and ignite lasting change. Action Coalition on Gender-based Violence calls on all actors to join the five-year collective… Continue reading Action Coalition on Gender-based Violence calls on all actors to join the five-year collective drive to eradicate violence against women and girls

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In focus: 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence

Your browser does not support the video tag. The United Nations is marking the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence from 25 November to 10 December 2021, under the global theme set by the UN Secretary-General’s UNiTE campaign: “Orange the World: End Violence against Women Now!” In focus: 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence… Continue reading In focus: 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence

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Working with traditional leaders to end violence against women in West Africa

“We [traditional practitioners] used to teach girls how to behave in the presence of older people, plaiting hair and being modest,” explains Kema Dahn, a community leader and former practitioner of female genital mutilation (FGM) in Nimba County in north-eastern Liberia. “But we are no longer practicing FGM because we realized that it is not… Continue reading Working with traditional leaders to end violence against women in West Africa

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Believe Survivors. Act Now. Milena’s Story, Moldova

Only 1 out of 10 women survivors of violence seek help from the police, globally. But even those that do often withdraw from the justice process due to poor responses from police or other judicial actors. Women’s access to justice starts with believing survivors and taking action, every day. Through this special editorial series for… Continue reading Believe Survivors. Act Now. Milena’s Story, Moldova

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Believe Survivors. Act Now. Diana’s Story, Argentina

Only 1 out of 10 women survivors of violence seek help from the police, globally. But even those that do often withdraw from the justice process due to poor responses from police or other judicial actors. Women’s access to justice starts with believing survivors and taking action, every day. Through this special editorial series for… Continue reading Believe Survivors. Act Now. Diana’s Story, Argentina

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The COVID-19 crisis in Morocco disrupts value chains for women’s cooperatives

Breadcrumb Home News and stories News 20 September 2021 Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to LinkedIn Share to E-mail Image Despite the COVID-19 crisis, members of the women-led Cooperative Tudert continue harvesting aromatic and medicinal herbs while respecting physical distancing and other prevention measures to stop the spread of the virus. The cooperative,… Continue reading The COVID-19 crisis in Morocco disrupts value chains for women’s cooperatives

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From 16 Days of Activism to 365 days of action to end gender-based violence

From 16 Days of Activism to 365 days of action to end gender-based violence “The first campaign was in 1991,” remembers Charlotte Bunch, who was part of a team of 25 women from around the world who came together at the first Women’s Global Leadership Institute at the Rutgers University in New Jersey, USA. “We… Continue reading From 16 Days of Activism to 365 days of action to end gender-based violence

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“There’s a long way to go”: Three women share their stories of overcoming political violence in Colombia

“There’s a long way to go”: Three women share their stories of overcoming political violence in Colombia One of the main challenges is violence against women in politics, which has contributed to stunting Colombia’s path to parity in elected and decision-making posts. This year, to raise awareness of the need to increase women’s participation as… Continue reading “There’s a long way to go”: Three women share their stories of overcoming political violence in Colombia

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Believe survivors. Act now. Layla’s story, Morocco

Only 1 out of 10 women survivors of violence seek help from the police, globally. But even those that do often withdraw from the justice process due to poor responses from police or other judicial actors. Women’s access to justice starts with believing survivors and taking action, every day. Through this special editorial series for… Continue reading Believe survivors. Act now. Layla’s story, Morocco

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Believe survivors. Act now. Romela’s story, Bangladesh

Nearly 1 in 3 women have experienced violence, globally. In times of crises, the numbers may be even higher. Gender-based violence is the most pervasive violation of human rights, but it is neither natural, nor inevitable. It can and must be prevented. Stopping this violence starts with believing survivors and taking action, every day. Through… Continue reading Believe survivors. Act now. Romela’s story, Bangladesh

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Believe Survivors. Act Now. Goretti’s Story, Kenya

Nearly 1 in 3 women have experienced violence, globally. In times of crises, the numbers may be even higher. Gender-based violence is the most pervasive violation of human rights, but it is neither natural, nor inevitable. It can and must be prevented. Stopping this violence starts with believing survivors and taking action, every day. Through… Continue reading Believe Survivors. Act Now. Goretti’s Story, Kenya

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Claiming women’s space in leadership

Originally published on un-women.medium.com Shirley Chisholm, the first Black US Congresswoman once said: “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair”. The future is better with women at every table where decisions are being made. Trailblazing women like Shirley Chisholm have been claiming their space and demanding women’s inclusion… Continue reading Claiming women’s space in leadership

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The Philoptochos Society supporting COVID-19 & Earthquake Response

Brazil On April 30, 2021, Brazil passed the mark of 400,000 deaths due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The month of April was the deadliest since the first case was recorded on February 27, 2020. Approximately 82,000 people died within 30 days. After the first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in Brazil in 2020, UNICEF initiated… Continue reading The Philoptochos Society supporting COVID-19 & Earthquake Response

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UNICEF & the Power of Partnership — Highlights From an Impactful Year

In 2021, a pandemic year full of devastating loss and hardship, there were beacons of hope and resilience — frontline health care workers, psychosocial support counselors, empowered youth and others who, in spite of many challenges, continued the fight for a better present and future with support from UNICEF and its partners. With help from corporate,… Continue reading UNICEF & the Power of Partnership — Highlights From an Impactful Year

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UNICEF Concerned For Children In The Philippines As Typhoon Rai/Odette Strike

NEW YORK (December 16, 2021) – Typhoon Odette (international name Rai) is expected to make landfall today in Surigao Provinces or the southern portion of Eastern Visasyas. Almost 16 million Filipinos are facing threats including strong winds, heavy rains, flooding, landslides, displacement and risk loss to life, home, livelihood and agriculture. Around 700,000 of them are… Continue reading UNICEF Concerned For Children In The Philippines As Typhoon Rai/Odette Strike

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Xylem Partners with UNICEF to Create a Brighter Future for 3.4 Million Children in India’s Most Vulnerable Communities

RYE BROOK, NY, (December 14, 2021) – Xylem Watermark, the corporate social responsibility program of global water technology company Xylem Inc. (NYSE:XYL), aims to reach over 3.4 million children by end of 2023 through its support of UNICEF, the world’s leading organization for children. Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the partnership seeks to… Continue reading Xylem Partners with UNICEF to Create a Brighter Future for 3.4 Million Children in India’s Most Vulnerable Communities

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Gifts Handmade With Love for Everyone on Your List

Do stories about global supply chain issues have you panicked over your last-minute holiday shopping? Fear not! At UNICEF Market, you can still buy a beautiful handcrafted gift that will arrive by December 24. Our warehouse in Texas is stocked with a collection of unique handmade gifts from around the world. They’re wrapped up and… Continue reading Gifts Handmade With Love for Everyone on Your List

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Malnutrition Crisis in Afghanistan: One Girl’s Journey to Recovery

Malika rolls up her 4-year-old daughter’s sleeve revealing an alarmingly thin arm. Little Parwana had come with her mother to the UNICEF-supported health facility in Herat, Afghanistan, in the nick of time. She had little energy, her skin dry and wrinkled, her cheeks hollow. She weighed less than 20 lbs., half the recommended weight for… Continue reading Malnutrition Crisis in Afghanistan: One Girl’s Journey to Recovery

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UNICEF at 75: Volunteering for Every Child

Over the years, many passionate individuals have been driven to improve children’s lives and futures by volunteering for UNICEF — with lasting impact. It was actress and humanitarian Helenka Pantaleoni who led efforts to found UNICEF USA in 1947. And it was the Reverend Clyde and Mary Emma Allison from Philadelphia who started Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF… Continue reading UNICEF at 75: Volunteering for Every Child

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Crisis in Afghanistan: UNICEF’s Manuel Fontaine Explains

Manuel Fontaine, The Director of UNICEF’s Office of Emergency Programs since early 2017, recently joined a CBS News 60 Minutes crew documenting the plight of children in Afghanistan today (their piece airs Sunday, Dec. 12 at 7pm ET). Malnutrition rates are soaring in the country, and millions of children remain out of school, their futures at grave risk.… Continue reading Crisis in Afghanistan: UNICEF’s Manuel Fontaine Explains

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UNICEF Welcomes Announcement of Next Executive Director

NEW YORK (December 10, 2021) – UNICEF welcomes United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres’ announcement today that Catherine M. Russell will succeed Henrietta H. Fore as UNICEF Executive Director. Ms. Russell brings to the role decades of experience in developing innovative policy that empowers underserved communities around the world; delivering high-impact programmes that protect women and girls,… Continue reading UNICEF Welcomes Announcement of Next Executive Director

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COVID-19 ‘Biggest Global Crisis For Children In Our 75-Year History’ – UNICEF

NEW YORK (December 9, 2021) – COVID-19 has affected children at an unprecedented scale, making it the worst crisis for children UNICEF has seen in its 75-year history, the United Nations Children’s agency said in a report released today.  The report Preventing a lost decade: Urgent action to reverse the devastating impact of COVID-19 on children and… Continue reading COVID-19 ‘Biggest Global Crisis For Children In Our 75-Year History’ – UNICEF

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Up To 75,000 People Living In A Remote Camp In Eastern DRC Facing ‘Hellish Conditions’

NEW YORK (December 8, 2021) – Up to 75,000 displaced people – including 35,000 children – living in a remote and inaccessible hilltop camp for displaced people in the province of Ituri in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are braving “hellish conditions” without adequate food, shelter, protection, security and sanitation, UNICEF has warned. The size… Continue reading Up To 75,000 People Living In A Remote Camp In Eastern DRC Facing ‘Hellish Conditions’

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UNICEF Issues Historic Humanitarian Appeal To Save The Lives Of Millions Of Children In Afghanistan

NEW YORK (December 7, 2021) – UNICEF launched its largest ever single-country appeal today to urgently respond to the humanitarian needs of over 24 million people in Afghanistan, half of whom are children. UNICEF’s appeal for $2 billion will help to avert the imminent collapse of health, nutrition, WASH, education and other vital social services for… Continue reading UNICEF Issues Historic Humanitarian Appeal To Save The Lives Of Millions Of Children In Afghanistan

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Latin America and the Caribbean: About 3.5 million children may be affected by migration next year – UNICEF

NEW YORK (December 7, 2021) – The number of children affected by migration in Latin America and the Caribbean is due to hit the 3.5-million-mark next year, UNICEF said today at the launch of its highest-ever humanitarian appeal for the region. This number, which includes children on the move as well as those living in host communities,… Continue reading Latin America and the Caribbean: About 3.5 million children may be affected by migration next year – UNICEF

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UNICEF Launches $9.4 Billion Emergency Funding Appeal For Children Affected By Conflict, The Climate Crisis And COVID-19

NEW YORK (December 7, 2021) – UNICEF launched today a record $9.4 billion emergency funding appeal to reach more than 327 million people – including 177 million children – affected by humanitarian crises and the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide. The appeal is 31 percent larger than last year’s as humanitarian needs continue to grow. “Millions of children around the world are suffering from the impacts… Continue reading UNICEF Launches $9.4 Billion Emergency Funding Appeal For Children Affected By Conflict, The Climate Crisis And COVID-19

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Learning Losses from COVID-19 Could Cost this Generation of Students Close to $17 Trillion in Lifetime Earnings

NEW YORK (December 6, 2021) – This generation of students now risks losing $17 trillion in lifetime earnings in present value, or about 14 percent of today’s global GDP, as a result of COVID-19 pandemic-related school closures, according to a new report published today by the World Bank, UNESCO, and UNICEF. The new projection reveals that… Continue reading Learning Losses from COVID-19 Could Cost this Generation of Students Close to $17 Trillion in Lifetime Earnings

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Learning Losses From COVID-19 Could Cost This Generation Of Students Close To $17 Trillion In Lifetime Earnings

NEW YORK (December 6, 2021) – This generation of students now risks losing $17 trillion in lifetime earnings in present value, or about 14 percent of today’s global GDP, as a result of COVID-19 pandemic-related school closures, according to a new report published today by the World Bank, UNESCO, and UNICEF. The new projection reveals that the… Continue reading Learning Losses From COVID-19 Could Cost This Generation Of Students Close To $17 Trillion In Lifetime Earnings

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UNICEF And WHO, In Partnership With Gavi, Ask Ted Chaiban To Serve As Global Lead Coordinator For COVID Vaccine Country Readiness And Delivery

NEW YORK (December 6, 2021) – “I am pleased to announce that UNICEF and WHO, in partnership with Gavi, have asked Ted Chaiban, currently UNICEF Regional Director, Middle East and North Africa, to serve as Global Lead Coordinator for COVID Vaccine Country Readiness and Delivery.  “This decision is an expression of our joint commitment to reinvigorate… Continue reading UNICEF And WHO, In Partnership With Gavi, Ask Ted Chaiban To Serve As Global Lead Coordinator For COVID Vaccine Country Readiness And Delivery

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Record Number of Children in Crisis, Says UNICEF’s Humanitarian Appeal

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began almost two years ago, the needs of children already living in dire conditions have grown increasingly urgent. The world confronts an unprecedented child rights emergency, with the converging forces of poverty, inequality, climate change, conflict and COVID-19 undoing decades of progress.  In response, UNICEF has launched a $9.4 billion emergency… Continue reading Record Number of Children in Crisis, Says UNICEF’s Humanitarian Appeal

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The World’s Nearly 240 Million Children Living with Disabilities are Being Denied Basic Rights – UNICEF

NEW YORK (December 2, 2021) – All around the world, the nearly 240 million children living with disabilities — 1 in 10 children worldwide — are being denied basic rights, UNICEF said ahead of International Day of Persons with Disabilities.  “Like every child in the world, children with disabilities have the right to be nurtured through responsive… Continue reading The World’s Nearly 240 Million Children Living with Disabilities are Being Denied Basic Rights – UNICEF

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Children With Disabilities Thrive With UNICEF’s Support

There are 240 million children with disabilities worldwide at risk of being left behind, according to UNICEF’s latest research. That’s more than double some previous global estimates. The updated figure reflects increased awareness, knowledge and data availability — and a broader understanding of what it means to be disabled, which has come to include functional… Continue reading Children With Disabilities Thrive With UNICEF’s Support

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K.I.N.D. Fund Delivers Desks to Hard-to-Reach Students in Malawi

On a sunny Tuesday morning, a massive empty freight truck parked outside Raiply Factory in Malawi’s Mzimba district waits for its next shipment, desks bound for selected schools in remote areas of Nkhatabay’s Lake Malawi district. It’s a three-hour drive to Nkhatabay port, where the desks will depart on boats for the final leg of… Continue reading K.I.N.D. Fund Delivers Desks to Hard-to-Reach Students in Malawi

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A Child Was Infected With HIV Every Two Minutes In 2020 – UNICEF

NEW YORK (November 29, 2021) – At least 310,000 children were newly infected with HIV in 2020, or one child every two minutes, UNICEF said in a report released today. Another 120,000 children died from AIDS-related causes during the same period, or one child every five minutes. The latest HIV and AIDS Global Snapshot warns that a prolonged… Continue reading A Child Was Infected With HIV Every Two Minutes In 2020 – UNICEF

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Giving Thanks for Hero Workers

Being there for the world’s children is UNICEF’s mission — and the mission of workers everywhere who have dedicated themselves to making the world a better place for children. On Thanksgiving — and every day — we salute career professionals like Razaqah Ahmed Ahmed Haroon Haban, below, a community health worker who goes door-to-door in… Continue reading Giving Thanks for Hero Workers

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Geneva Palais Briefing Note on Grave Violations Against Children in West and Central Africa

NEW YORK /GENEVA (November 23, 2021) – “West and Central Africa has recorded the highest number of children recruited and used by armed forces and armed groups. This amounts to more than 42,000 violations between 2005 and 2020.   “Over this same period, the region also ranks first – and worst – when it comes to numbers of rape… Continue reading Geneva Palais Briefing Note on Grave Violations Against Children in West and Central Africa

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Lebanon: UNICEF Survey Highlights Children’s Ever-Worsening Situation with Dramatic Deterioration of Living Conditions Over Six Months

NEW YORK / BEIRUT (November 23, 2021) ­- With no sign of a let-up in Lebanon’s crisis, the impact on children is progressively worsening, with a new poll showing an increase in the number of children going hungry, having to work to support their family and not getting the health care they need. These are… Continue reading Lebanon: UNICEF Survey Highlights Children’s Ever-Worsening Situation with Dramatic Deterioration of Living Conditions Over Six Months

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COVID-19: WHO urges Europeans to be smart and safe this holiday season

In a message on Thursday, WHO Regional Director Hans Kluge urged Europeans to “be smart, be kind, be safe this holiday season.”  The COVID-19 threat remains high across the continent, which was already the epicentre of the pandemic even before the emergence of the new Omicron variant.   Use the tools  “My message to the… Continue reading COVID-19: WHO urges Europeans to be smart and safe this holiday season

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Migrant workers still at great risk despite key role in global economy

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the key role that migrant workers play in the global economy, as well as the “terrible risks” that they are forced to take, to find work. The analysis featured on the Global Migration Data Portal, provides snapshots of the latest statistics and trends, including the impacts of COVID-19 on mobility.… Continue reading Migrant workers still at great risk despite key role in global economy

USED VEHICLES AND THE ENVIRONMENT – Progress and updates 2021

Are you sure you want to print? Save the planet. Opt not to print. The export of used light duty vehicles (LDVs) has increased significantly. In 2015, 3.4 million used LDVs were exported globally, by 2019 this had increased to 4.8 million. Most likely due to the covid-19 pandemic, there was a reduction of used… Continue reading USED VEHICLES AND THE ENVIRONMENT – Progress and updates 2021

An Eye on Methane: International Methane Emissions Observatory 2021 Report

Are you sure you want to print? Save the planet. Opt not to print. An Eye on Methane: International Methane Emissions Observatory 2021 Report describes how state actors can take action to curb methane emissions from the fossil fuel industry, and what progress has been made as part of the decarbonization process, particularly in the energy… Continue reading An Eye on Methane: International Methane Emissions Observatory 2021 Report

Emissions Gap Report 2021

What’s new in this year’s report The Emissions Gap Report 2021 shows that new national climate pledges combined with other mitigation measures put the world on track for a global temperature rise of 2.7°C by the end of the century. That is well above the goals of the Paris climate agreement and would lead to… Continue reading Emissions Gap Report 2021

Blockchain Technology and Environmental Sustainability

Are you sure you want to print? Save the planet. Opt not to print. The 19th edition of UNEP’s Foresight Brief explores the contributions of the disruptive features of blockchain technology to enhance environmental sustainability. Blockchain technology is one of many emerging technologies that has the potential to help solve some of the environmental problems… Continue reading Blockchain Technology and Environmental Sustainability

People’s livelihood and cities – building back greener

Are you sure you want to print? Save the planet. Opt not to print. The 26th edition of UNEP’s Foresight Brief explains the ‘build back better’ strategy in the context of urban livelihoods – a strategy, that has to mean ’building back greener’. The livelihoods of urban residents are shaped by the complex relationship between… Continue reading People’s livelihood and cities – building back greener

Progress on SDG 6 Indicators

Healthy freshwater ecosystems are vital for life on Earth, and everyone needs sufficient clean water for drinking, cooking, and washing clothes. But the ecosystems providing freshwater are under increasing pressure from a growing population, human activities, and climate change Sustainable Development Goal 6 “Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all,” must… Continue reading Progress on SDG 6 Indicators

Environmental Governance Update – April 2021

Are you sure you want to print? Save the planet. Opt not to print. The United Nations Environment Programme promotes sound environmental governance; we strengthen the laws, policies and institutions that shape how humans interact with the environment. This Environmental Governance update showcases our work on the development of national, regional and international environmental laws,… Continue reading Environmental Governance Update – April 2021

Building Biodiversity – The Natural Resource Management Approach

Today Izabella Teixeira (former Environment Minister of Brazil) and Janez Potočnik (former European Commissioner for Environment and Science) are colleagues as Co-Chairs of the UNEP/International Resource Panel (IRP). A decade ago, they became friends as negotiators at the 10th Conference of Parties of the Convention of Biological Diversity (CBD COP10) in Nagoya, Japan. They have distilled that decade of experience… Continue reading Building Biodiversity – The Natural Resource Management Approach

Measuring Progress: Environment and the SDGs

Are you sure you want to print? Save the planet. Opt not to print. The “Measuring Progress: Environment and the SDGs” publication informs on the 92 environment-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators, analyzes the progress made in achieving the SDGs targets and identifies data gaps. The statistical approach uses simple correlation analyses between indicator pairs related to… Continue reading Measuring Progress: Environment and the SDGs

Emissions Gap Report 2020

Are you sure you want to print? Save the planet. Opt not to print. For over a decade, the UNEP Emissions Gap Report has provided a yearly review of the difference between where greenhouse emissions are predicted to be in 2030 and where they should be to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. What’s… Continue reading Emissions Gap Report 2020

Democratic Republic of the Congo declares Ebola outbreak over 

The latest Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) North Kivu Province that began in October, is officially over, national health authorities announced this Thursday.   The end of the outbreak, the second in 2021, was declared after no new cases were reported at the end of 42 days, the equivalent of two incubation periods since the last confirmed case… Continue reading Democratic Republic of the Congo declares Ebola outbreak over 

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‘Bodyright’ campaign launched, to end rise in gender-based violence online 

Corporate logos and Intellectual Property (IP) receive “greater protection online than we do as human beings”, the UN’s women’s health agency that works to end gender-based violence, UNFPA, said on Thursday, launching a new bodyright campaign to help shield bodies and minds from cyber violence.  “It’s time for technology companies and policymakers to take digital violence seriously”, said UNFPA Executive Director Natalia Kanem -“right now”.   The bodyright campaign highlights that corporate logos and copyrighted IP are more highly valued and… Continue reading ‘Bodyright’ campaign launched, to end rise in gender-based violence online 

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On International Day, UN chief says ‘violence against women is not inevitable’ 

“In all of our own neighbourhoods, there are women and girls living in danger. Around the world, conflict, climate-related natural disasters, food insecurity and human rights violations are exacerbating violence against women”, she said.  And according to UN Women, more than 70 per cent have experienced GBV in some crisis settings.   Hidden violence  In both rich and poor countries alike,… Continue reading On International Day, UN chief says ‘violence against women is not inevitable’ 

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Violence against women must stop; five stories of strength and survival

“I admit that it was difficult, but with the [mental health] support, legal aid and skills training, I healed a lot,” she explained. Essential services for survivors of domestic violence are a lifeline. “I no longer feel like a prisoner, cornered, or betrayed. There are so many things one goes through as a victim, including… Continue reading Violence against women must stop; five stories of strength and survival

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Spotlight Initiative combats gender-based violence during COVID-19 pandemic

Despite COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions, some 650,000 women and girls were provided with gender-based violence services through a joint UN and European Union (EU) programme working to stamp out what is arguably one of the most prevalent human rights violations.  This is just one of the achievements detailed in the Spotlight Initiative’s impact report for… Continue reading Spotlight Initiative combats gender-based violence during COVID-19 pandemic

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WHO and partners unite for Day of Action for Cervical Cancer Elimination

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, alongside celebrities, First Ladies, cancer survivors and health and community organizations, have united to raise awareness and mobilize efforts, one year after the UN agency launched a landmark global initiative on cervical cancer elimination.  ‘We have the tools’  They pointed to inequalities in accessing lifesaving tools and treatment, similar to… Continue reading WHO and partners unite for Day of Action for Cervical Cancer Elimination

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UNFPA supports health workers delivering hope, and babies, in crisis-wracked Tigray

The UN agency has supported a community-based health care organization called Maedot, which has established a Maternity Waiting Home at a camp for people displaced by the ongoing conflict between Ethiopian government troops and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF).  “They have saved my life and that of my daughter,” said Selam, the first mother… Continue reading UNFPA supports health workers delivering hope, and babies, in crisis-wracked Tigray

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Nepali Superintendent in DR Congo is UN Woman Police Officer of the Year

A Nepali peacekeeper serving in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) was on Friday named the recipient of the UN Woman Police Officer of the Year Award.  Superintendent Sangya Malla with the UN mission in the country, MONUSCO, is Chief of its Police Health and Environment Unit, based in the capital, Kinshasa.  Ms. Malla, a medical professional by training, helped establish the unit, which… Continue reading Nepali Superintendent in DR Congo is UN Woman Police Officer of the Year

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UN commits to long-term support for Afghan mothers and newborns: Najaba’s story

The delivery of reproductive health services, including safe childbirth, has been seriously impacted in Afghanistan, due to the turmoil surrounding the Taliban takeover of the country.  Najaba, 36, has experienced firsthand how the dangers of pregnancy, collided with rising insecurity, according to the UN reproductive and maternal health agency, UNFPA, which continues to provide lifesaving… Continue reading UN commits to long-term support for Afghan mothers and newborns: Najaba’s story

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Women in leadership ‘must be the norm’, Security Council hears

“Today, women’s leadership is a cause. Tomorrow, it must be the norm”, Secretary-General António Guterres told the meeting, covering landmark resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. Women remain on the periphery of formal peace processes, and they’re largely excluded from rooms where decisions are made — UN chief Frontline women Having just visited the… Continue reading Women in leadership ‘must be the norm’, Security Council hears

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‘Sexism and misogyny’ heightened; women’s freedoms supressed

Gender-based violence, hate speech and disinformation are being used extensively online and offline, to chill or kill women’s freedom of expression, an independent UN human rights expert told the General Assembly on Monday. Presenting her report on gender justice and free expression, Special Rapporteur on protecting freedom of opinion and expression, Irene Khan, said that “women’s voices… Continue reading ‘Sexism and misogyny’ heightened; women’s freedoms supressed

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First Person: Levelling the gender playing field in Jordan

Discussing gender equality in Jordan can lead to difficult conversations, as Balqees Shahin, a volunteer for the UN Women gender equality campaign HeforShe, has discovered. Marking International Day of The Girl Child on Monday, Ms. Shahin told UN News that online games can help young people to address gender issues. HeForShe Balqees Shahin is a… Continue reading First Person: Levelling the gender playing field in Jordan

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Somalia: ‘Sustained focus, investments’ needed to boost women’s political participation

Unresolved issues surrounding parliamentary quotas, and women’s participation in elections in Somalia were highlighted by UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed in the Security Council on Tuesday, with the aim of increasing their involvement in the political process. Briefing ambassadors under the Women, Peace and Security agenda, she said that her most recent trip, earlier this… Continue reading Somalia: ‘Sustained focus, investments’ needed to boost women’s political participation

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DR Congo: Abuse allegations amid Ebola outbreak ‘a sickening betrayal of the people we serve’

Sexual abuse and exploitation allegedly carried out by World Health Organization (WHO) staff during the UN health agency’s response to an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is “a sickening betrayal of the people we serve,” Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General said on Tuesday.  An independent panel commissioned by WHO identified more… Continue reading DR Congo: Abuse allegations amid Ebola outbreak ‘a sickening betrayal of the people we serve’

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UNICEF’s women Goodwill Ambassadors, give voice to the voiceless

“It is essential that the hard-won rights of Afghan women and girls are protected”, Secretary-General António Guterres told the Security Council. Women are not just half of the global population, it has been shown that their full participation in public life “enhances economic results, prompts greater investment in social protection, leads to more sustainable peace… Continue reading UNICEF’s women Goodwill Ambassadors, give voice to the voiceless

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Call to action: Prevent gender-based violence in humanitarian emergencies

GBV includes acts that inflict physical, sexual or mental harm – or other forms of suffering, coercion and limits on personal freedoms – and has “long-term consequences on the sexual, physical and psychological health of survivors”, according to the UN’s sexual and reproductive health agency (UNFPA). These are being driven increasingly by conflict, climate change,… Continue reading Call to action: Prevent gender-based violence in humanitarian emergencies

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First Person: The ‘bravery’ of Afghanistan’s girls and women

Afghanistan’s girls and women are showing “bravery” in the face of real “fears and pressures” following the formation of the new, de facto authorities in Afghanistan,  according to a UNICEF member of staff, one of the few westerners to remain in Kabul. Following an announcement by the Taliban that boys could return to secondary school… Continue reading First Person: The ‘bravery’ of Afghanistan’s girls and women

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Afghanistan: ‘Palpable’ fear of ‘brutal and systemic repression’ of women grows

Michelle Bachelet informed a high-level event on safeguarding 20 years of international engagement in Afghanistan, that women have been “progressively excluded from the public sphere”, prohibited from appearing without a male guardian and face increasing restrictions on their right to work. “The Ministry that once promoted women’s rights has been disbanded, and its premises taken… Continue reading Afghanistan: ‘Palpable’ fear of ‘brutal and systemic repression’ of women grows

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UN Women’s feminist roadmap tackles triple crises of jobs, care and climate 

The UN’s gender equality and empowerment organization on Thursday published a flagship feminist plan for economic recovery and transformation, which aims to learn the lessons of the past, and seize the opportunity to handle COVID-related crises better. UN Women’s Beyond COVID-19: A Feminist Plan for Sustainability and Social Justice, draws on the latest data, analysis, and input… Continue reading UN Women’s feminist roadmap tackles triple crises of jobs, care and climate 

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Gender equality ‘champion’ Sima Sami Bahous to lead UN Women 

Secretary-General António Guterres described Sima Sami Bahous of Jordan, as “a champion for women and girls”, announcing on Monday her appointment to lead the UN’s gender equality and empowerment entity, UN Women.  The UN chief said she would also champion gender equality and youth empowerment, as well as being a “keen advocate for quality education, poverty alleviation and inclusive governance”.  Ms. Bahous brings to the job more than 35 years of leadership experience at… Continue reading Gender equality ‘champion’ Sima Sami Bahous to lead UN Women 

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Afghanistan: UN chief following escalation in fighting ‘with deep concern’

With Taliban fighters continuing to gain ground in Afghanistan, the UN Secretary-General is following events “with deep concern” said the UN Spokesperson on Thursday, including the battle for Herat and Kandahar, the country’s second and third largest cities. “We are particularly concerned about the shift of fighting to urban areas, where the potential for civilian… Continue reading Afghanistan: UN chief following escalation in fighting ‘with deep concern’

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For women in e-commerce, ‘entrepreneurship means freedom’

Pierangela Sierra set up an e-commerce platform in Ecuador called Tipti to make shopping easier but also to save people time. Ms. Sierra spent the better part of her career working for prominent international corporations across Latin-America, becoming a renowned marketing expert. A few years ago, she decided to retire from the corporate world to… Continue reading For women in e-commerce, ‘entrepreneurship means freedom’

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First Person: ‘I’m not old enough to be a woman’ says trafficked teen

Some one thousand victims of human trafficking have been identified in Burundi since 2017, according to the UN’s International Organization for Migration (IOM). Elisabeth (not her real name) is one of the lucky ones. She survived the ordeal and received assistance from IOM to return home to Burundi. She told her story for the first time… Continue reading First Person: ‘I’m not old enough to be a woman’ says trafficked teen

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Farmers the ‘lifeblood of our food systems’, deputy UN chief highlights, ahead of key summit

Farmers, especially women and indigenous people, work tirelessly to put food on our tables. UN Deputy Secretary General Amina Mohammed met on Saturday women producers at a farmers’ market in Circo Massimo, Rome, ahead of the Food Systems Pre-Summit taking place next week. Dozens of stalls were set up in the vicinity of the UN event’s venue,… Continue reading Farmers the ‘lifeblood of our food systems’, deputy UN chief highlights, ahead of key summit

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38℃ record Arctic temperature confirmed, others likely to follow: WMO

A new and disturbing high temperature record for the Arctic of 38 degrees Celsius, or just over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, was confirmed by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on Tuesday. Worryingly, the temperature reading taken last June in the Siberian town of Verkhoyansk – which is located 115 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle –… Continue reading 38℃ record Arctic temperature confirmed, others likely to follow: WMO

Mountain Day: ‘Peak ambition must be to keep our summits clean’, declares veteran climber

That’s the message on International Mountain Day from passionate climber and UN Geneva worker, Michel Baronian, who’s been an avid mountaineer for more than 40 years.   Although he has stopped keeping track, Michel estimates that he has climbed Mont Blanc – Western Europe’s highest mountain at 4,807 meters – more than 100 times.   Reaching the heights  He has also scaled peaks higher than 8,000 meters, such as Annapurna in Nepal, without using supplemental oxygen.   “When I am up there, it is… Continue reading Mountain Day: ‘Peak ambition must be to keep our summits clean’, declares veteran climber

Land and water ecosystems, ‘stressed to a critical point’ 

Land and water resources are “stressed to a critical point”, following significant deterioration over the past decade, according to a major new report released on Thursday by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).  Entitled, State of the World’s Land and Water Resources for Food and Agriculture – Systems at breaking point (SOLAW 2021), the report highlights the challenges that lie ahead in feeding a global population that should near ten billion by 2050.  At the… Continue reading Land and water ecosystems, ‘stressed to a critical point’ 

Plastics in soil threaten food security, health, and environment: FAO

Plastic pollution has become pervasive in agricultural soils, according to a new report released on Tuesday by the UN agriculture agency, posing a threat to food security, people’s health, and the environment. While plastic refuse littering beaches and oceans draws high-profile attention, the Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) Assessment of agricultural plastics and their sustainability:… Continue reading Plastics in soil threaten food security, health, and environment: FAO

Women sweep UN’s 2021 ‘Champions of the Earth’ awards 

According to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the all-female Champions were chosen for their impact and leadership in advancing bold action on behalf of people and the planet. “These Champions of the Earth inspire, defend, mobilise and act to tackle the greatest environmental challenges of our time, including ecosystem protection and restoration”, the agency said… Continue reading Women sweep UN’s 2021 ‘Champions of the Earth’ awards 

From the Field: ‘climate-smart’ development in an uncertain world

Today, when the UN plans initiatives to help vulnerable communities become more resilient, the climate crisis has to be part of the equation. The UN Development Programme (UNDP) is connecting the dots between people and the impacts that climate change is having on their lives. Solar water facility in Ethiopia, by UNDP Every solution is… Continue reading From the Field: ‘climate-smart’ development in an uncertain world

Excess salt in soils puts food security at risk: FAO

Soil salinization refers to excessive levels of salt in the soil, which can inhibit plant growth and even be toxic to life.  It can occur naturally, for example in deserts due to lack of water and intense evaporation, or as a consequence of human activity.  FAO is highlighting the issue in marking World Soil Day… Continue reading Excess salt in soils puts food security at risk: FAO

COP26: Convert climate ‘promises to action’, urge UN rights experts

Marking the 35th anniversary of the Declaration on the Right to Development, independent UN human rights experts on Friday issued an urgent call to “move from promises to action” on the outcomes of the UN’s landmark COP26 climate conference. More than three dozen UN experts endorsed a statement calling for greater transparency and rigorous follow… Continue reading COP26: Convert climate ‘promises to action’, urge UN rights experts

Youth embody ‘spirit’ of 21st century more than parents, new survey shows

Even in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change and other global challenges, children and youth are nearly 50 per cent more likely than older people to believe that the world is becoming a better place, according to the results of a landmark intergenerational poll published on Thursday.  The international survey was conducted by… Continue reading Youth embody ‘spirit’ of 21st century more than parents, new survey shows

COP26 closes with ‘compromise’ deal on climate, but it’s not enough, says UN chief

After extending the COP26 climate negotiations an extra day, nearly 200 countries meeting in Glasgow, Scotland, adopted on Saturday an outcome document that, according to the UN Secretary-General, “reflects the interests, the contradictions, and the state of political will in the world today”. “It is an important step but is not enough. We must accelerate… Continue reading COP26 closes with ‘compromise’ deal on climate, but it’s not enough, says UN chief

As COP26 deadline slips, negotiators keep working to agree crucial climate deal

Alok Sharma, the COP26 President, said late on Friday that a small number of key issues remain unresolved. “This is our collective moment in history, this is our chance to forge a cleaner, healthier and more prosperous world, and this is our time to deliver on the high ambition set by our leaders at the… Continue reading As COP26 deadline slips, negotiators keep working to agree crucial climate deal

COP26: Promises ‘ring hollow’ when fossil fuels still receive trillions in subsidies; UN chief calls on negotiators to pick up the pace

Governments need to show the necessary ambition on mitigation, adaptation, and finance in a balanced way, and they can’t settle for the “lowest common denominator”, the UN Secretary-General has said in Glasgow, where crucial climate negotiations are in the final stretch. Meanwhile, a coalition of countries launched a new pledge to end gas and oil… Continue reading COP26: Promises ‘ring hollow’ when fossil fuels still receive trillions in subsidies; UN chief calls on negotiators to pick up the pace

UN chief welcomes China-US pledge to cooperate on climate action

Wednesday’s announcement that China and the United States have agreed to collaborate more closely on climate action was hailed by UN Secretary-General António Guterres as an important step in the right direction. News of the joint declaration between the two countries, both major emitters of greenhouse gases, came late in the evening in Glasgow, where… Continue reading UN chief welcomes China-US pledge to cooperate on climate action

Era free of fossil-fuel powered vehicles comes into focus at COP26; draft outcome is met with calls for more ambition

A world where every car, bus and truck sold is electric and affordable, where shipping vessels use only sustainable fuels, and where planes can run on green hydrogen may sound like a sci-fi movie, but here, at COP26, many governments and businesses said they have started to work to make it a reality. Wednesday was… Continue reading Era free of fossil-fuel powered vehicles comes into focus at COP26; draft outcome is met with calls for more ambition

Landmine casualties ‘exceptionally high’, Syria and Afghanistan worst-hit

Global casualties from anti-personnel landmines were “exceptionally high” last year, with Syrians and Afghans worst-hit, a UN-backed civil society report said on Wednesday According to Landmine Monitor 2021, the number of victims rose by 20 per cent in 2020 compared with the previous 12 months, the result of “increased armed conflict and contamination” of land with improvised… Continue reading Landmine casualties ‘exceptionally high’, Syria and Afghanistan worst-hit

Women bear the brunt of the climate crisis, COP26 highlights

After ‘walking’ some 8,000 miles across Europe, Little Amal, a giant puppet representing a young Syrian refugee girl, arrived in Glasgow right on time for ‘Women’s Day’ at COP26. The 3.5-metre-tall living artwork surprised attendants atTuesday’s plenary when it walked up the stairs and joined Samoan climate activist Brianna Fruean for a hug and a… Continue reading Women bear the brunt of the climate crisis, COP26 highlights

A matter of life or death: At COP26, vulnerable countries tell developed nations it’s time to keep their promise on climate finance

Their main call: developed countries must uphold their promise of finance and support to the small states that are at risk of losing so much to the combat against climate change. “From the ocean came forth life, peace and comfort, a world not known to most but that was one with my people…We will remember… Continue reading A matter of life or death: At COP26, vulnerable countries tell developed nations it’s time to keep their promise on climate finance

UN system generated 25% fewer greenhouse gas emissions in 2020 

With significant travel restrictions and large portions of personnel working from home in 2020, the UN system generated approximately 25 per cent fewer greenhouse emissions than in the year before.  That’s one of the key points to emerge from the Greening the Blue Report 2021, the first study to reveal the impact that COVID-19 has had on the UN system’s environmental footprint.  Addressing the report,… Continue reading UN system generated 25% fewer greenhouse gas emissions in 2020 

Fundamental freedoms squeezed in Ukraine, Human Rights Council hears

The UN Human Rights Council heard on Wednesday that fundamental freedoms in Ukraine have been squeezed in Government-controlled areas, as well as across the contact line in eastern territories, held by mainly pro-Russian separatists.  Addressing the Council in Geneva amid steadily increasing international tensions over Ukraine, UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, Nada Al-Nashif, said… Continue reading Fundamental freedoms squeezed in Ukraine, Human Rights Council hears

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Croatia: Decades after Balkan wars, UN expert urges new push for justice

Following armed conflict from1991 to 1994 in Croatia and the rest of former Yugoslavia, that triggered increased radicalization and hate speech, an independent UN human rights expert urged the authorities on Thursday to redouble efforts towards full justice for victims and survivors. “It is important that the Government gives an unequivocal sign to society and… Continue reading Croatia: Decades after Balkan wars, UN expert urges new push for justice

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Women under fire in Belarus, activists tortured and exiled – UN expert

While women in Belarus overall are being denied rights and freedoms, female political activists are subjected to enforced disappearances, torture, ill-treatment and exile, an independent UN human rights expert told the General Assembly on Tuesday. “The Government’s efforts to promote some rights of women at a policy level are rarely translated into concrete advancement of… Continue reading Women under fire in Belarus, activists tortured and exiled – UN expert

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Recent Kosovo-Serbia tensions could ‘unravel steady but fragile progress’ 

Tensions over vehicle licence plates and anti-smuggling operations, between authorities in Kosovo and Serbia, in recent weeks, may contribute to unravelling “steady but fragile progress made in rebuilding trust among communities” in Kosovo and Serbia.   The warning came from Special Representative and head of the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), Zahir Tanin, in a briefing to the Security Council on Friday.   “[These events] are of deep concern… Continue reading Recent Kosovo-Serbia tensions could ‘unravel steady but fragile progress’ 

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France focuses on responsibility and solidarity in the face of global challenges

“We have a collective responsibility in maintaining international peace and security.  We have a shared responsibility in tackling today’s major challenges and we have a responsibility to individually each uphold the values that unite us,” he said in a pre-recorded message. “For France, this is what this historic period of turbulence that we’re experiencing calls… Continue reading France focuses on responsibility and solidarity in the face of global challenges

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Alarm bells are ringing over conflict, COVID and climate, ‘now we must respond’, Ireland tells UN Assembly 

Looking back over the first four days of the high-level week, the Ireland’s Prime Minister said a series of alarms have sounded in the Hall of the General Assembly: for conflict, for COVID, for climate.   “We have heard the alarms. Now we must respond,” said Micheál Martin. “I believe that this is what the General Assembly, our Assembly of Nations, was created to do. Our purpose, our obligation.”  For the… Continue reading Alarm bells are ringing over conflict, COVID and climate, ‘now we must respond’, Ireland tells UN Assembly 

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Cyprus President determined to get negotiation with Turkey process back on track

Cyprus has been divided for more than four decades, and leaders from its Greek and Turkish communities last met in 2019 at an UN-facilitated conference in Berlin.  He stressed that there is only one plan: to reach a settlement on the basis of a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation with political equality, as set out in relevant UN Security Council resolutions and in line with the… Continue reading Cyprus President determined to get negotiation with Turkey process back on track

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‘The adolescence of humanity is coming to an end’, declares UK Prime Minister

In his speech to the high-level debate at the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson declared that it is time for mankind to grow up and take responsibility for the damage we are inflicting on the planet. The human species, said Mr. Johnson, is nearing the end of the adolescent phase… Continue reading ‘The adolescence of humanity is coming to an end’, declares UK Prime Minister

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International community must harness momentum created by triple crises and act, says Norway

“All of them call for a coordinated response. All of them underline why we need international cooperation. We need to remind ourselves of our collective strength,” she said in a pre-recorded message.  Remembering that “the United Nations was born out of crisis”, she said “crises have the potential to increase unity and resolve” and the world “must harness the… Continue reading International community must harness momentum created by triple crises and act, says Norway

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‘Through the tears, solutions for a better society have sprung up’: Estonian President

The President of Estonia, Kersti Kaljulaid, lauded the world’s embrace of online services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic on Wednesday, in her high-level General Debate speech at the 76th United Nations General Assembly session. Ms. Kaljulaid said that, although many conversations on digital development have been curtailed, online events have continued to provide solutions… Continue reading ‘Through the tears, solutions for a better society have sprung up’: Estonian President

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UN agencies shocked by deaths near Belarus-Poland border 

The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, and migration agency IOM, called on Tuesday for an immediate investigation into the deaths of four people near the border between Poland and Belarus, due to causes yet to be determined.   In a joint statement, the agencies expressed their condolences to the families of the deceased, all of whose nationalities have yet to be confirmed, although two of the victims… Continue reading UN agencies shocked by deaths near Belarus-Poland border 

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IOM concerned for migrants facing ‘dire conditions’ at EU-Belarus border

Migrants are facing “dire conditions” at the European Union-Belarus border, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) warned on Monday.  Reports of cross-border pushbacks and lack of adequate asylum access for those seeking international protections, shelter and assistance, were “particularly alarming”, according to the UN agency. Many migrants have been stranded at the EU-Belarus border in… Continue reading IOM concerned for migrants facing ‘dire conditions’ at EU-Belarus border

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Trials of former Spanish judge lack independence, impartiality: landmark case

Former Judge Baltasar Garzón of the Spanish National Court was suspended in 2010 and criminally prosecuted and tried in 2012 for alleged willful abuse of power in two cases of major political significance at the national level. In the first case, Mr. Garzón assumed jurisdiction to investigate enforced disappearances during the Civil War and the dictatorship of General… Continue reading Trials of former Spanish judge lack independence, impartiality: landmark case

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UK plan thwarts access to truth over Northern Ireland ‘Troubles’

Two independent experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council on Tuesday expressed serious concern over a United Kingdom plan to end prosecutions for grave violations committed during the 30-year conflict in Northern Ireland, long known as “the Troubles”.  The move was announced by Brandon Lewis, UK Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, in July,… Continue reading UK plan thwarts access to truth over Northern Ireland ‘Troubles’

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Cyprus communities weaving closer ties through UN-backed project

Hande Toycan, who is Turkish-Cypriot, and Flora Hadjigeorgiou, a Greek-Cypriot, are among the many women who partner with the UN on the Mediterranean island to strengthen engagement, equality and stability.  A shared bond  Ms. Toycan was born and raised in the northern city of Famagusta, and still lives there.  She is a member of the… Continue reading Cyprus communities weaving closer ties through UN-backed project

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Security Council calls for ‘immediate reversal’ of Turkish and Turkish Cypriot decision on Varosha 

The Security Council said in a statement released on Friday that settling any part of the abandoned Cypriot suburb of Varosha, “by people other than its inhabitants, is “inadmissible”.  The presidential statement approved by all 15 Security Council members, upheld that “no actions should be carried out in relation to Varosha, that are not in accordance with its resolutions”.  “The Security Council condemns the… Continue reading Security Council calls for ‘immediate reversal’ of Turkish and Turkish Cypriot decision on Varosha 

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FROM THE FIELD: A genocide timeline; Srebrenica massacre remembered

Survivors of a massacre of mainly Muslims in the former Yugoslavia, and people associated with the perpetrators of what has become known as the Srebrenica genocide, have been telling their stories in a new exhibition by the United Nations, released 26 years after the events took place. Some 8,000 boys and men were killed by… Continue reading FROM THE FIELD: A genocide timeline; Srebrenica massacre remembered

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EU urged to consider impact of new climate mechanism on developing countries

Although a new European Union (EU) climate initiative unveiled on Wednesday could change global trade patterns to favour countries where production is relatively carbon efficient, its value in mitigating climate change will likely be limited, the UN trade and development agency, UNCTAD, has warned.  The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) comes into force in 2023 as part of new measures to cut carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, including… Continue reading EU urged to consider impact of new climate mechanism on developing countries

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Belarus: ‘Full-scale assault’ ongoing against civil society amid massive human rights violations

Belarus has witnessed an unprecedented human rights crisis over the past year, the independent expert appointed to monitor the country said on Monday, calling on authorities to immediately end their policy of repression and fully respect the legitimate aspirations of their people. Belarus has witnessed an unprecedented human rights crisis over the past year, the… Continue reading Belarus: ‘Full-scale assault’ ongoing against civil society amid massive human rights violations

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Delta variant drives Africa COVID threat to ‘whole new level´: WHO warns; ‘dominant’ in Europe by August

Along with Alpha and Beta, Delta is fuelling an aggressive third wave across Africa, with case numbers climbing faster than all earlier peaks, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).  WHO experts warned on Thursday that the numbers have increased for six consecutive weeks, up by 25% last week, reaching 202,000 positive cases. Deaths also… Continue reading Delta variant drives Africa COVID threat to ‘whole new level´: WHO warns; ‘dominant’ in Europe by August

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UN chief urges European Parliament to support COVID vaccines for all

The European Union (EU) must use its leverage to ensure people everywhere have access to COVID-19 vaccines, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Thursday.  In a wide-ranging multilingual speech to the European Parliament in Brussels, the UN chief underscored the need to ramp up vaccinations globally.  “The pandemic is causing more deaths today than a… Continue reading UN chief urges European Parliament to support COVID vaccines for all

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Security Council urged to bring multilateralism ‘alive’, to tackle serious global challenges 

Josep Borrell, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said that without “global cooperation based on agreed rules” we risk “the law of the jungle, where problems don’t get solved”.  “Every day we see the cost of the absence of multilateral action: reduced access to vaccines, insufficient climate action, peace and security crises… Continue reading Security Council urged to bring multilateralism ‘alive’, to tackle serious global challenges 

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Venezuela violated jurist’s rights, UN Human Rights Committee says

Venezuela violated a jurist’s right to be tried by an independent tribunal and his right to the presumption of innocence, the UN Human Rights Committee said on Wednesday.  In the decision, the Committee requested that Venezuela declare the criminal proceedings against Allan Brewer Carías null and void, and that he be awarded adequate compensation. It also called for the State to take… Continue reading Venezuela violated jurist’s rights, UN Human Rights Committee says

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COVID-19 cases and deaths in the Americas triple in 2021

Compared to the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 was “undoubtedly worse” for the Americas, where infections and deaths tripled, the top UN health official there reported on Wednesday.  Dr. Carissa Etienne, Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), delivered her final briefing of the year, providing a regional update and reflections on… Continue reading COVID-19 cases and deaths in the Americas triple in 2021

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UN rights office urges Colombia to reform policing of protests

Colombia must urgently reform how it polices protests in the wake of demonstrations earlier this year in which several people were killed or injured, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said in a report published on Wednesday.   The report documents various instances of unnecessary or disproportionate use of force by police officers during widespread… Continue reading UN rights office urges Colombia to reform policing of protests

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With 280 prisoners dead in Ecuador, UN experts call for urgent action 

Following a series of riots which have left more than 280 inmates dead and hundreds injured in Ecuadorian prisons this year, UN independent human rights experts on Monday called for urgent government action to address the issue.  In a joint statement, the experts said they were “appalled and gravely concerned” by repeated riots that have resulted in the death of so many prisoners, and the “clear risk” of further incidents. … Continue reading With 280 prisoners dead in Ecuador, UN experts call for urgent action 

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Mexico: Over 95,000 registered as disappeared, impunity ‘almost absolute’

As of last Friday, more than 95,000 people have been officially registered as disappeared in Mexico. That includes a worrying increase in the number of women and children, a trend that has worsened during the pandemic, with migrants particularly at risk.   Those are some of the key findings shared by the UN Committee on Enforced Disappearances, at the end of a visit between 15 and 26 November, noting that more… Continue reading Mexico: Over 95,000 registered as disappeared, impunity ‘almost absolute’

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Hot meals helping Haiti’s children recover from the earthquake

The children of families who were affected by the massive earthquake which devastated large parts of south-west Haiti in August this year are receiving free hot meals at school as part of an initiative by the UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) to support the recovery of the country’s most vulnerable communities. It’s 11 o’clock in… Continue reading Hot meals helping Haiti’s children recover from the earthquake

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First Person: Earthquake brings out ‘heartwarming resilience’ of Haitians

Haitians who were affected by the devastating earthquake which struck the southwest of the country in August have demonstrated their “heartwarming resilience” according to a staff member of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), who has been supporting recovery efforts. Joseph Chlela, who is from Lebanon, is an emergency coordinator with IOM and has been… Continue reading First Person: Earthquake brings out ‘heartwarming resilience’ of Haitians

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Celebrating the UN staffers who ‘carry hope around the globe’

From bringing together fractured communities, to fighting child labour, and advancing climate action, the work of UN staff around the world is contributing to progress and development in many different ways. To mark UN Day this year, UN News is taking a snapshot of just one part of world – featuring the diverse contributions made… Continue reading Celebrating the UN staffers who ‘carry hope around the globe’

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From the Field: Costa Rica points the way to a sustainable world

Costa Rica is one of the winners of the inaugural UN-backed Earthshot Prize, in recognition of the Central American country’s efforts to reverse damage to its environment and develop in a sustainable manner. Red-eye tree frogs are native to the rain forests of Central America., by UNDP/Adriana Dinu The award also highlights just how far… Continue reading From the Field: Costa Rica points the way to a sustainable world

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UNICEF sounds alarm over abductions of women and children in Haiti  

The number of children and women abducted in Haiti until the end of August, has already surpassed last year’s total, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warned this Thursday.   According to UNICEF Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, Jean Gough, “nowhere is safe for children in Haiti anymore.”  “Whether on their way to school, at home or even at church,… Continue reading UNICEF sounds alarm over abductions of women and children in Haiti  

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Colombians cling tenaciously to peace gains, Security Council hears 

Five years after an historic Peace Agreement was reached in Colombia, the process continues to show the benefits of ending the conflict through negotiation and keeping victims at the heart of the discussion moving forward.   That was the main message from the Special Representative and head of the UN Verification Mission in Colombia, Carlos Ruiz Massieu, delivered to ambassadors at the Security Council on Thursday.   For him, the first former conflict… Continue reading Colombians cling tenaciously to peace gains, Security Council hears 

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Paraguay violated indigenous rights, UN committee rules in landmark decision

Paraguay’s failure to prevent the toxic contamination of indigenous people’s traditional lands by commercial farming violates their rights and their sense of “home”, the UN Human Rights Committee said in a landmark ruling on Wednesday.  The Committee, which is made up of 18 independent experts from across the world, monitors countries’ adherence to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.   Lands represent… Continue reading Paraguay violated indigenous rights, UN committee rules in landmark decision

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Haiti facing stalled elections, kidnapping surge, rampant insecurity

Still reeling from the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, on 7 July, the country was crippled on 14 August by a deadly 7.2 magnitude earthquake that affected over 800,000 people in its southwestern peninsula.  Helen La Lime, Special Representative and head of the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) said that “long awaited” national and local elections… Continue reading Haiti facing stalled elections, kidnapping surge, rampant insecurity

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In Barbados, Guterres highlights power of ‘youth voices’ ahead of key trade and development conference

The UN Secretary-General on Sunday said he was committed to ensuring that the Organisation is a place where “youth voices are heard, and their ideas lead”, as he spent the day in Barbados which tomorrow hosts a major UN conference on trade and development, focused on the need to build a global green economy and… Continue reading In Barbados, Guterres highlights power of ‘youth voices’ ahead of key trade and development conference

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‘Overwhelmed by old challenges’, Caribbean leaders say COVID-19 has forced a new battle for the survival of their nations

Saint Lucia: A near-impossible balancing act  Philip Joseph Pierre, Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Economic Development and Youth Economy of Saint Lucia, said his nation suffers from serious challenges due to its small size and vulnerability to natural disasters and climate change. While struggling to find solutions for those existing problems, Saint Lucia was hit with COVID-19.   “We are now being inundated by the new, while still being overwhelmed by the old,” he stated in… Continue reading ‘Overwhelmed by old challenges’, Caribbean leaders say COVID-19 has forced a new battle for the survival of their nations

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Haitian Prime Minister: As long as there is inequality, migration will continue  

The Prime Minister of Haiti, Ariel Henry, said on Saturday that “human beings, fathers and mothers who have children, are always going to flee poverty and conflict.”  “Migration will continue as long as the planet has both wealthy areas, whilst most of the world’s population lives in poverty, even extreme poverty, without any prospects of a better life,” he said in… Continue reading Haitian Prime Minister: As long as there is inequality, migration will continue  

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Mexico calls for respect for migrants’ rights, and ‘true international solidarity’  

In his address to the high-level debate at the UN General Assembly on Thursday, Marcelo Ebrard, the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of Mexico, reaffirmed his country’s commitment against discrimination and hate speech and called for more solidarity.   Mr. Ebrard said that the economic recovery from the crisis resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, has been marked by inequality. “The pandemic has highlighted the need for a strong and effective multilateral system”, he declared, calling for more solidarity between states. … Continue reading Mexico calls for respect for migrants’ rights, and ‘true international solidarity’  

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UNICEF: Haiti children vulnerable to ‘violence, poverty and displacement’

As Haiti continues to reel from the “triple tragedy” of natural disasters, gang violence and the COVID-19 pandemic, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) expressed concern on Thursday that two-thirds of Haitian migrants expelled from the United States border in recent days are women and children – including newborns with “specific and immediate needs”. “When children… Continue reading UNICEF: Haiti children vulnerable to ‘violence, poverty and displacement’

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Colombia calls for global financial consensus to avert COVID debt crisis

The President of Colombia on Tuesday warned that many developing countries have increased their fiscal deficit to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, putting at risk their financial capacity to act on other priorities, such as climate change. “Many (countries) have not begun to process the necessary tax reforms to pay emergency expenses, and today they… Continue reading Colombia calls for global financial consensus to avert COVID debt crisis

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Brazilian President commits country to climate neutrality by 2050 

“We anticipated, from 2060 to 2050, the goal of achieving climate neutrality. Human and financial resources, destined to the strengthening of environmental agencies, were doubled, with a view to eliminating illegal deforestation,” he said.  Mr. Bolsonaro was speaking at UN Headquarters at the opening of the high-level week of the General Assembly. After being held virtually last year due the coronavirus pandemic, this year’s gathering… Continue reading Brazilian President commits country to climate neutrality by 2050 

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UN agency begins COVID vaccine rollout for 7,500 stranded migrants in Yemen 

IOM’s Chief of Mission, Christa Rottensteiner, explained that “immunizing people on the move is key to combatting the spread of the disease.”  An estimated 36,000 migrants have been stranded on their journeys due to mobility restrictions, nearly 3,500 in Ma’rib alone. Many are sleeping in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions where the virus can easily spread.   “Vaccinating against COVID-19 is even more crucial in… Continue reading UN agency begins COVID vaccine rollout for 7,500 stranded migrants in Yemen 

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Rights abuses in Myanmar ‘deepening on an unprecedented scale’  

More than 10 months since Myanmar’s military seized power, the country’s human rights situation is deepening on an unprecedented scale, the UN rights office, OHCHR, has warned. In a strongly worded statement on Friday, OHCHR said that it was “appalled by the alarming escalation of grave human rights abuses” in the country.  “In the last week alone,… Continue reading Rights abuses in Myanmar ‘deepening on an unprecedented scale’  

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General Assembly defers decision on Afghanistan and Myanmar seats

The UN General Assembly on Monday adopted a resolution to delay a decision on who will represent Afghanistan and Myanmar at the world body.  The Assembly agreed to defer action, which means the current ambassadors for the two countries will remain in place for the time being.   The de facto Taliban authorities in Afghanistan, as well… Continue reading General Assembly defers decision on Afghanistan and Myanmar seats

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Myanmar: UN deplores conviction and sentencing of Aung San Suu Kyi

The development follows media reports that a military vehicle slammed into demonstrators in the city of Yangon over the weekend, leaving an unknown number injured and at least five dead. Political motives In a statement on Monday, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet maintained that Ms. Suu Kyi’s guilty verdict was the result… Continue reading Myanmar: UN deplores conviction and sentencing of Aung San Suu Kyi

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UN expert welcomes India plan to repeal farm laws that sparked deadly protests

A UN human rights expert welcomed India’s decision to repeal three contentious farm laws that sparked a year of nationwide protests which left 600 people dead.  In a statement released this Friday, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food, Michael Fakhri, also urged the Government to ensure accountability for the casualties.  “To truly turn the page on this painful chapter, it is incumbent on the authorities to heed calls for accountability… Continue reading UN expert welcomes India plan to repeal farm laws that sparked deadly protests

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Feature: Mobile health teams save lives in Afghanistan’s most remote areas

Shahpirai, 30, is the sole provider for her husband and three children. “With my salary as a teacher, I could just afford to pay rent and buy food for my family, but not to seek treatment for my child”, she said. An upturn Her situation took a turn for the better last July, when while… Continue reading Feature: Mobile health teams save lives in Afghanistan’s most remote areas

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Iran: Execution of juvenile offender ‘deeply alarming and shocking’

The UN human rights office, OHCHR, on Thursday condemned Iran’s execution of a young man who was a minor at the time he was charged with committing a crime.  Arman Abdolali, 25, is the second juvenile offender to be executed in the country this year.    OHCHR expressed serious concern that his case follows the… Continue reading Iran: Execution of juvenile offender ‘deeply alarming and shocking’

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Immediately release sick Chinese journalist, rights experts urge

UN-appointed independent human rights experts urged the Chinese authorities on Monday to release on humanitarian grounds, imprisoned citizen journalist and human rights defender, Zhang Zhan.  Since beginning a hunger strike, Ms. Zhan’s health has deteriorating rapidly, she is unable to walk, and her life is in danger, the rights experts said.   “Failure by the Chinese authorities to act swiftly and effectively could have fatal consequences for Zhang Zhan”, the Special Rapporteurs warned in a joint statement before calling… Continue reading Immediately release sick Chinese journalist, rights experts urge

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From the Field: Saving the Mongolian musk deer

The number of musk deer in Mongolia has plummeted by some 83 per cent since the 1970s, landing them on the country’s red list of critically endangered species. A UN-supported biodiversity initiative is helping to stop the deer from disappearing altogether. Herder community members. Snow Leopard Conservation Foundation The Ensuring Sustainability and Resilience (ENSURE) of… Continue reading From the Field: Saving the Mongolian musk deer

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First Person: ‘Bridge the gap between indigenous youth and the world’

Nadya Zafira, an international relations student at Indonesia’s Gadjah Mada University, won a writing competition for her letter to UN chief António Guterres, in which she addressed the inequalities laid bare by the COVID-19 pandemic, and how indigenous communities and youth are marginalized in global conversations on climate crisis. “In the past two years, my… Continue reading First Person: ‘Bridge the gap between indigenous youth and the world’

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Afghanistan’s farmers, herders desperate for seed, food and cash 

While humanitarian access has never been better, prices are soaring and needs continue to outpace the resources provided, the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) explained.  “The situation is disastrous. Every farmer we’ve spoken to has lost almost all of their crops this year, many were forced to sell their livestock, they have accumulated enormous debts… Continue reading Afghanistan’s farmers, herders desperate for seed, food and cash 

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Interview: On brink of humanitarian crisis, there’s ‘no childhood’ in Afghanistan

UN News spoke with Samantha Mort, Chief of Communication, Advocacy and Civic Engagement at UNICEF Afghanistan, who assured that all offices remain open and warehouses full.  Some 22.8 million people across the country are facing food insecurity, she explained, adding that they cannot access affordable or nutritious food.   Of the 38 million people living in Afghanistan, some 14 million children are food insecure.  For Ms. Mort, “there’s no childhood” these days in Afghanistan. “It’s all about survival and getting… Continue reading Interview: On brink of humanitarian crisis, there’s ‘no childhood’ in Afghanistan

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Anxiety in Afghanistan as Taliban struggles for legitimacy

Deborah Lyons, UN Special Representative and Head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), said that despite an improvement in the security situation, Afghans feel abandoned by the international community and anxious about their new leadership. Snow and ice will soon block roads in hard-to-reach areas across Afghanistan, leaving thousands without access to fresh… Continue reading Anxiety in Afghanistan as Taliban struggles for legitimacy

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Conviction of US journalist symbolic of media repression in Myanmar: UN rights chief

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on Friday urged authorities in Myanmar to immediately release all journalists who have been jailed for practicing their profession.  Rights chief Michelle Bachelet said the conviction and harsh sentencing of American journalist Danny Fenster was emblematic of a wider plight of journalists in the country who have faced… Continue reading Conviction of US journalist symbolic of media repression in Myanmar: UN rights chief

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Security Council appeals for end to violence in Myanmar

The UN Security Council has called for an immediate cessation of violence across Myanmar, and efforts to ensure the safety of civilians, following reports of more clashes between the armed forces and militant groups.  In a statement issued on Wednesday evening, the Council expressed deep concern over the violence, noting that “recent developments pose particular… Continue reading Security Council appeals for end to violence in Myanmar

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Yemen: UN Special Envoy calls for urgent end to fighting, as humanitarian needs escalate 

Ahead of Thursday’s Security Council meeting behind closed doors on Yemen, the UN Special Envoy, Hans Grundberg, said that a UN-led political process could still be part of a sustainable solution to the conflict. Participating by teleconference, Mr. Grundberg briefed the Council Members about his three-day visit to Taiz governorate, where he held meetings in Taiz city, Turbah and Mokha, and discussed the urgent necessity for an end to the violence.  “These visits have given me a… Continue reading Yemen: UN Special Envoy calls for urgent end to fighting, as humanitarian needs escalate 

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Climate change increasing threats in southwest Pacific: WMO report

From rising sea temperatures, to deadly and devastating storms and floods, climate change is increasing threats in the southwest Pacific, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said in a report published on Wednesday.  The State of the Climate in the South-West Pacific 2020 is part of a new series of regional climate reports by the UN… Continue reading Climate change increasing threats in southwest Pacific: WMO report

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Myanmar: 3 million in need of humanitarian aid, ‘world is watching’ UN relief chief warns generals 

Growing conflict, insecurity, COVID-19, and a failing economy, has rendered some three million Burmese in in need of life-saving humanitarian assistance across Myanmar, the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator said on Monday.   “The humanitarian situation in Myanmar is deteriorating”, Martin Griffiths said in a statement, adding that “without an end to violence and a peaceful resolution of Myanmar’s crisis, this number will only rise”.  Growing displacement   Since a military… Continue reading Myanmar: 3 million in need of humanitarian aid, ‘world is watching’ UN relief chief warns generals 

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Rights experts urge Singapore to halt execution of man with mental disability

 A group of UN human rights experts appealed on Monday for Singapore to halt the execution of a Malaysian man who has intellectual disabilities.  Nagaenthran K. Dharmalingam, known as Naga, was originally scheduled to be hanged on Wednesday for drug offences after spending more than a decade on death row.  “We note that a temporary stay has been granted today… Continue reading Rights experts urge Singapore to halt execution of man with mental disability

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Vaccinating refugees in Indonesia, for the benefit of all

Refugees in Indonesia, many of whom have fled Afghanistan’s mounting crises, have lagged far behind the rest of the population when it comes to COVID-19 vaccinations. The UN is helping to reverse this trend. One recent Thursday, Ali Madad Ibrahimi accompanied an elderly man from Afghanistan to a registration desk under a big red and… Continue reading Vaccinating refugees in Indonesia, for the benefit of all

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Myanmar: Systematic attack on civilians, rights mechanism reveals 

Preliminary evidence shows a widespread and systematic attack on civilians in Myanmar in the wake of the coup in February, amounting to crimes against humanity, the head of a fact-finding body established by the UN Human Rights Council said on Friday.  Nicholas Koumjian of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar was updating journalists on its work to collect, preserve and analyze evidence… Continue reading Myanmar: Systematic attack on civilians, rights mechanism reveals 

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COVID cases surging in Africa at fastest rate this year, but deaths remain low

An 83 per cent surge in COVID-19 cases during the past week in Africa, driven by the Delta and Omicron variants, is causing fewer deaths than previous spikes, the World Health Organization (WHO) revealed on Tuesday, but more waves could be on the way, due to the continent’s slow vaccine rollout. Updated forecasts warn that… Continue reading COVID cases surging in Africa at fastest rate this year, but deaths remain low

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UN steps up action on sexual misconduct in wake of CAR allegations

The UN continues to take steps to address allegations of sexual misconduct by peacekeepers in the Central African Republic (CAR) in the wake of the repatriation of Gabonese troops three months ago.  Updating journalists on Monday, Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq reported on action by the UN mission in the country, MINUSCA, and engagement with troop-contributing… Continue reading UN steps up action on sexual misconduct in wake of CAR allegations

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Seven UN peacekeepers killed in latest Mali attack 

On Wednesday morning, seven UN peacekeepers from Togo died and three others were seriously injured when their vehicle hit an improvised explosive device in the Bandiagara region in central Mali.  The peacekeepers were part of a convoy travelling from Douentza to Sevare, informed the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General. António Guterres strongly condemns this heinous attack, he told correspondents in New York at the regular daily briefing.   Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said the UN… Continue reading Seven UN peacekeepers killed in latest Mali attack 

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35.8 million face lean season food crisis in West Africa and Sahel

Growing food insecurity that is already affecting tens of millions of people across West Africa and the Sahel, must not be ignored by the international community, UN humanitarians said on Tuesday. The alert comes as new data from the region indicated that almost 36 million people are expected to be acutely food insecure by the… Continue reading 35.8 million face lean season food crisis in West Africa and Sahel

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The Gambia: Guterres calls for ‘credible and transparent’ election 

As Gambians prepare to choose their next president on Saturday, the UN Secretary-General asked on Friday for voters to help foster “a peaceful environment” at the polls.   In a statement released by his Spokesperson, António Guterres calls “on the electoral management body, candidates, political party leaders and their followers, through their conduct, to ensure a peaceful environment conducive to a credible, inclusive and… Continue reading The Gambia: Guterres calls for ‘credible and transparent’ election 

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Rights experts call for end to violence against women in Tigray conflict

In a statement issued on Friday, they expressed grave concern about the widespread sexual and gender-based violence attributed to Ethiopian, Eritrean, Tigray and Amhara forces, as well as allied militia.  These incidents constitute some of the most egregious violations of human rights and humanitarian law, according to the experts.  ‘A deliberate strategy’  “They appear to… Continue reading Rights experts call for end to violence against women in Tigray conflict

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Violence in Cameroon, impacting over 700,000 children shut out of school 

Over 700,000 children have been impacted by school closures due to often brutal violence in Cameroon, according to an analysis released by the UN humanitarian arm, OCHA, on Thursday.  Two out of three schools are closed in the North-West and South-West regions of the country. On 24 November, four children and one teacher were killed in an attack in Ekondo Titi, in the South-West.  Lockdown  A recent lockdown imposed by a non-State armed… Continue reading Violence in Cameroon, impacting over 700,000 children shut out of school 

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First Person: ‘Disability reminds us that there is no such thing as normal’

This feature has been edited for clarity and length. Eddie Ndopu was talking to Melissa Fleming, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications. You can hear the full interview on the UN podcast, Awake at Night. “At the age of two, I was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy, a degenerative condition that affects the muscles… Continue reading First Person: ‘Disability reminds us that there is no such thing as normal’

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9.4 million people are ‘living their worst nightmare’ in northern Ethiopia due to ongoing conflict 

“Today, 9.4 million people are living their worst nightmare,” Tomson Phiri, the agency’s spokesperson, told journalists in Geneva.  80 per cent ‘behind battle lines’  Of the people across northern Ethiopia in need of assistance, more than 80 per cent – 7.8 million – “are behind battle lines”.    The largest jump in numbers has occurred in Amhara region with 3.7… Continue reading 9.4 million people are ‘living their worst nightmare’ in northern Ethiopia due to ongoing conflict 

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WHO labels new COVID strain Omicron, designates it a ‘variant of concern’

According to the UN World Health Organization (WHO), preliminary evidence also suggests an increased risk of reinfection with this variant of concern, as compared to other strains, such as Delta. Currently the number of cases appears to be increasing in almost all provinces in South Africa. WHO explains that the variant has been detected at… Continue reading WHO labels new COVID strain Omicron, designates it a ‘variant of concern’

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Ethiopia: Humanitarian aid needed as situation deteriorates in Tigray

With the dire humanitarian situation in Tigray, Ethiopia, continuing to deteriorate, it is critical to establish a regular flow of humanitarian aid into the region, the Deputy Spokesman for the UN Secretary-General said on Wednesday.  Yesterday, almost 40 trucks with humanitarian supplies, including food, left the Afar capital of Semera for Tigray – the first convoy to do so since 18 October.   Meanwhile, trucks containing fuel and medical supplies are still waiting for clearance in Semera.  Around… Continue reading Ethiopia: Humanitarian aid needed as situation deteriorates in Tigray

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Worsening drought affects 2.3 million people in Somalia 

With about 2.3 million people already suffering with serious water, food and pasture shortages in Somalia, a rapidly worsening drought could lead to an “extreme situation” by April next year.   The warning comes from the United Nations and the Somali Government. Climate projections show that the country is facing a fourth consecutive failed rainfall season.  In a joint statement on Friday, the organizations said it is… Continue reading Worsening drought affects 2.3 million people in Somalia 

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Madagascar: ‘World cannot look away’ as 1.3 million face severe hunger

The international community must step up support to Madagascar, where more than one million people in the south are facing severe hunger, the top UN aid official there said on Thursday in a renewed appeal for solidarity and funding.  The impacts of the most acute drought in over 40 years, combined with sandstorms and pests,… Continue reading Madagascar: ‘World cannot look away’ as 1.3 million face severe hunger

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Bachelet condemns killings of peaceful protesters in Sudan 

At least 39 people have been killed by security forces in Sudan since the 25 October military coup, 15 of whom were reportedly shot dead on Wednesday, according to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.   On Thursday, Michelle Bachelet condemned the killings, saying it is “utterly shameful” that live ammunition keeps being used against protesters.   “Shooting into large crowds of unarmed demonstrators, leaving dozens dead and many more injured, is… Continue reading Bachelet condemns killings of peaceful protesters in Sudan 

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Completion of Somalia elections more important than ever: UN envoy

Although progress has been made in Somalia’s electoral process, it has been slow and uneven, the UN Special Representative for the country said in a briefing to the Security Council on Wednesday. James Swan, head of the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), welcomed completion of the indirect elections for the Upper House of the… Continue reading Completion of Somalia elections more important than ever: UN envoy

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Ethiopia: Mass arbitrary arrests target Tigrayans, says UN rights office

Over the past week, mass arrests of people reportedly of Tigrayan origin have continued in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa and elsewhere, the UN rights office said on Tuesday.  The alert from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) comes as the World Food Programme (WFP) described the aid situation for vulnerable people in Tigray as “hand-to-mouth”.  Citing reports, OHCHR said that at least 1,000 individuals are believed… Continue reading Ethiopia: Mass arbitrary arrests target Tigrayans, says UN rights office

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Central African children in crosshairs, UN calls for their protection 

The report on children and armed conflict in CAR highlighted that between 1 July 2019 and 30 June 2021, 1,280 children suffered one or more grave violations, with girls accounting for more than 40 per cent of all victims.   While most were committed by armed groups, five per cent were attributed to the national armed forces, FACA.  “The security situation in the Central African Republic has… Continue reading Central African children in crosshairs, UN calls for their protection 

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Ethiopia: $40 million in aid relief for victims ‘living on a knife-edge’

As the humanitarian crisis grows in Ethiopia’s conflict-affected north, the UN announced on Monday that $40 million in funds have been made available to scale up emergency operations.  The UN’s top emergency relief official, Martin Griffiths, said that millions of people in northern Ethiopia are now “living on a knife-edge, as the humanitarian crisis is growing deeper and wider”.  After returning from visiting Ethiopia, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief… Continue reading Ethiopia: $40 million in aid relief for victims ‘living on a knife-edge’

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Bachelet describes ‘disastrous’ human rights situation across Occupied Palestinian Territory 

“This clearly also has damaging impact on prospects for peace and sustainable development for Israel, as well as the surrounding region”, she argued.   Ms. Bachelet was briefing the UN Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, in Geneva.   She argued that, “no matter how long the road has been, ‘never-ending’ cannot be an acceptable description for… Continue reading Bachelet describes ‘disastrous’ human rights situation across Occupied Palestinian Territory 

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Investing in UNRWA is ‘an investment in peace and hope’

 Thanking the Governments of Jordan and Sweden for organizing the pledging conference for the Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), the UN chief pointed out the agency’s many accomplishments. In addition to providing more than half a million children with high quality education, investing in human development and offering… Continue reading Investing in UNRWA is ‘an investment in peace and hope’

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Iran death penalty threat for abortion unlawful: UN rights experts

In a statement released on Tuesday, the experts called on the Iranian authorities to repeal the ‘Youthful Population and Protection of the Family’ law, which was ratified by Iran’s Guardian Council on the first of November. The law, said the experts, severely restricts access to abortion, contraception, voluntary sterilization services and related information, in direct… Continue reading Iran death penalty threat for abortion unlawful: UN rights experts

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Syria: Conflict, COVID and rising costs, ‘pushing people beyond their limits’

Blaming a deadly combination fighting, climate change, COVID-19 and rising food and fuel costs, he said, “Mothers are telling me that with the upcoming winter they are caught between a rock and a hard place”. “They either feed their children, and let them freeze, or keep them warm and let them go hungry. They cannot… Continue reading Syria: Conflict, COVID and rising costs, ‘pushing people beyond their limits’

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Afghanistan: Girls at increasing risk of child marriage

In a statement released on Friday, the agency’s Executive Director, Henrietta Fore, said that she was “deeply concerned” over reports that child marriage is on the rise.   Even before the latest political instability, UNICEF’s partners registered 183 child marriages and 10 cases of selling of children in Herat and Baghdis provinces between the ages of six months and 17 years from 2018 to 2019.   The agency estimates that 28 per cent of Afghan women between the ages 15 and 49 were married… Continue reading Afghanistan: Girls at increasing risk of child marriage

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Salaries for Afghanistan health workers sends ‘message of hope’ to millions

Almost all international support came to a halt, and it seemed certain that for health workers in lifesaving facilities throughout the crisis-wracked nation, and the millions they serve, things would only get worse. But then, as one midwife* recalled, in testimony exclusively supplied to UN News, the support started coming, thanks to a groundbreaking new… Continue reading Salaries for Afghanistan health workers sends ‘message of hope’ to millions

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Israeli military deauthorization of Palestine NGOs, ‘deepens concern’ of UN agencies

UN Agencies and the Association International Development Agencies (AIDA) said on Tuesday they were standing firmly behind civil society organisations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, following an Israely military decision to de-authorize six NGOs.  In a statement released this Tuesday, the agencies said they regretted the decision, made on 7 November by the Military Commander in the West Bank, saying it represents “a… Continue reading Israeli military deauthorization of Palestine NGOs, ‘deepens concern’ of UN agencies

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Iraq: UN condemns assassination attempt on Prime Minister ‘in the strongest terms’

The UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) has condemned “in the strongest terms” the assassination attempt on Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi, following a drone attack overnight on Sunday, aimed on his house in Baghdad’s heavily fortified Green Zone. According to news reports, the exploding drone caused damage to the residence and several of the Prime Minister’s security… Continue reading Iraq: UN condemns assassination attempt on Prime Minister ‘in the strongest terms’

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More than half of Afghans face food insecurity at ‘crisis’ or ‘emergency’ levels

Nearly 23 million people, or 55 per cent of the Afghan population, are estimated to be in crisis or experiencing emergency levels of food insecurity between now and March of next year.   Speaking to journalists in New York, the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General pointed to reports that isolated clashes and violence affecting civilians and resulting in casualties continued countrywide this week.  In Jalalabad, in… Continue reading More than half of Afghans face food insecurity at ‘crisis’ or ‘emergency’ levels

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UN experts call for protection of trafficked workers from Viet Nam in Saudi Arabia 

Some women and girls being recruited in Viet Nam to serve as domestic workers in Saudi Arabia, are suffering sexual abuse and torture, leading a group of UN independent human rights experts on Thursday to call on both nations to curb human trafficking.  “We are seeing traffickers targeting Vietnamese women and girls living in poverty, many of whom are already vulnerable… Continue reading UN experts call for protection of trafficked workers from Viet Nam in Saudi Arabia 

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Israel settlement expansion ‘tramples’ on human rights law, experts contend

Israel’s plan to build thousands of new homes for Jewish settlers in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem has drawn strong condemnation from two independent experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council.  Settlement expansion “tramples” on human rights law, Special Rapporteurs Michael Lynk and Balakrishnan Rajagopal said in a statement on Wednesday.  Solidifying a permanent presence  Nearly… Continue reading Israel settlement expansion ‘tramples’ on human rights law, experts contend

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‘Climate of fear’ prevails for human rights defenders in Afghanistan 

Human rights defenders in Afghanistan report that they are now enduring a “climate of fear”, threats, and becoming increasingly desperate over conditions in the country, an independent UN expert said on Wednesday.   Stating that “the threat is very real”, Mary Lawlor, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights defenders, called for an urgent coordinated response from the international community.  “Defenders tell me of direct threats, including gendered threats… Continue reading ‘Climate of fear’ prevails for human rights defenders in Afghanistan 

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First Person: Telling the tragic story of mercury poisoning in Japan

Masami Ogata is a survivor of Minamata Disease, a debilitating illness caused by industrial mercury poisoning, which originated in the Japanese town of the same name in the 1950s. As a UN conference on preventing future poisoning outbreaks gets underway, we hear Mr. Ogata’s story. As a storyteller at the Minamata Disease Municipal Museum, Mr.… Continue reading First Person: Telling the tragic story of mercury poisoning in Japan

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Syria: Progress still possible, following ‘disappointment’ over constitutional talks

Geir Pedersen reported on the sixth session of the Committee’s so-called “Small Body”, which he convened last week in Geneva.  .@GeirOPedersen It is important that the Constitutional Committee continues its work with urgency & purpose – indeed that it works, as its ToRs say that it should, “expeditiously & continuously to produce results & continued… Continue reading Syria: Progress still possible, following ‘disappointment’ over constitutional talks

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UN experts condemn Israel’s designation of Palestine rights defenders as terrorist organisations 

Independent UN human rights experts on Monday strongly condemned the decision by the Israeli Minister of Defence to designate six Palestinian human rights and civil society groups, as terrorist organisations.  In a joint statement, the experts called the decision “a frontal attack on the Palestinian human rights movement, and on human rights everywhere.”  “Silencing their voices is not what a democracy adhering to well-accepted human rights and… Continue reading UN experts condemn Israel’s designation of Palestine rights defenders as terrorist organisations 

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‘Big disappointment’ over lack of Syria constitution agreement

The process of drafting a new constitution for Syria has been “a big disappointment” UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen concluded on Friday. Following the end of discussions in Geneva, a consensus on how to move forward was not achieved, he added. The drafting process between Government and opposition Co-Chairs of the Syrian Constitutional Committee (Small Drafting Body) and… Continue reading ‘Big disappointment’ over lack of Syria constitution agreement

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Fears grow for the lives of 5 Palestinians on hunger strike in Israeli prisons

Israel has been urged to either release or charge five Palestinian prisoners currently on hunger strike in Israeli prisons. Grave concerns have been expressed for the lives of the prisoners by UN independent rights experts, who on Thursday, called on the Israeli Government to completely end the “unlawful practice “ of administrative detention.  In a statement, the… Continue reading Fears grow for the lives of 5 Palestinians on hunger strike in Israeli prisons

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Four children killed on their way to school in northwest Syria

Four children – three boys and a girl – were killed on Monday morning while travelling to school in northwest Syria, along with a teacher, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said on Wednesday. UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, Ted Chaiban, said in a statement that they were victims of an… Continue reading Four children killed on their way to school in northwest Syria

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Build consensus or face ‘increasingly desperate reality’, warns Middle East envoy

Political stagnation is “fuelling tensions, instability and a deepening sense of hopelessness”, the top UN official working towards peace in the Middle East warned the Security Council on Tuesday.   “We should have no illusions about the current state of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict”, Special Coordinator Tor Wennesland said, describing a situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT) that… Continue reading Build consensus or face ‘increasingly desperate reality’, warns Middle East envoy

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COVID-19 leads to over 50 million more hungry people in Asia-Pacific

COVID-19 led to rising food insecurity for around 54 million people living in the vast Asia-Pacific region during 2020, according to a joint UN agency report published on Wednesday. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF)’s 2021 Asia and the Pacific Regional Overview of Food Security and Nutrition also pointed out… Continue reading COVID-19 leads to over 50 million more hungry people in Asia-Pacific

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COP26 defined by ‘reinvigorated multilateralism’

The UN Climate Change Conference (COP26), held last month in Glasgow, was defined by a “reinvigorated multilateralism”, a top UN official said on Tuesday during an online discussion on how the summit’s outcomes will impact climate action and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “The Glasgow Climate Pact to keep global warming to 1.5C and the… Continue reading COP26 defined by ‘reinvigorated multilateralism’

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Senior White House official Catherine Russell appointed new UNICEF chief

UN Secretary‑General António Guterres announced on Friday, that Catherine Russell of the United States will become the next Executive Director of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF). She will succeed Henrietta Fore, who said she was “delighted to hand over to someone with her knowledge, experience, and deep care for children and women”. “Ms. Russell brings… Continue reading Senior White House official Catherine Russell appointed new UNICEF chief

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COVID-19 is biggest threat to child progress in UNICEF’s 75-year history

The widespread impact of the pandemic continues to deepen, the report warned, increasing poverty, entrenching inequality and threatening the rights of children like never before.  “The COVID-19 pandemic has been the biggest threat to progress for children in our 75-year history,” said Henrietta Fore, the UNICEF Executive Director.  “While the number of children who are… Continue reading COVID-19 is biggest threat to child progress in UNICEF’s 75-year history

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Unilateral sanctions particularly harmful to women, children, other vulnerable groups

Women, children and other vulnerable groups are more likely to have their human rights impacted by unilateral sanctions, an independent UN human rights expert alerted on Wednesday. According to the independent expert, “unilateral sanctions hurt all, but are particularly harmful to vulnerable groups within the populations of countries targeted by the sanctions.” Negative impact For… Continue reading Unilateral sanctions particularly harmful to women, children, other vulnerable groups

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Internet Governance Forum promotes inclusive digital future for all

Leveraging the power of the Internet while tackling the risks of cyberspace is the focus of a UN meeting underway in Katowice, Poland, this week.  The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) brings together more than 7,000 innovators, big tech executives, young people, ministers and parliamentarians to spur efforts to build an open, secure and free digital… Continue reading Internet Governance Forum promotes inclusive digital future for all

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Interview: The most impactful actions at COP26 point to progress on climate change   

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Alexandre Soares of UN News, Martina Donlon acknowledged that after two weeks of tough negotiations, the text that serves as the conference’s outcome is “a compromise that it is not enough”, especially for small island States and other vulnerable countries.  However, it does provide some “positive steps forward”.  Indeed, she said, with the agreement by negotiators at COP26 to begin moving away from fossil fuels, “we will see more electric cars… Continue reading Interview: The most impactful actions at COP26 point to progress on climate change   

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Safe sanitation for all benefits people and the planet: UN chief

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged countries to keep their promise to leave no one behind and deliver health and sanitation to all.  In his message for World Toilet Day on Friday, the UN chief affirmed that everyone should have access to hygienic, safe and sustainable sanitation.  Life without a toilet is dirty, dangerous and undignified. Every day, 700 children under… Continue reading Safe sanitation for all benefits people and the planet: UN chief

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In post-quake Haiti, rebuilding lives and welcoming new ones

On the grounds of the Hôpital de Référence Communautaire de l’Asile in the southwest of Haiti, Désir Murielle rests with her newborn son in a tent just steps away from twisted, metal and fissured concrete hunks that were once the hospital’s maternity wing. “He was born this morning, and he is called Yves”, said Ms.… Continue reading In post-quake Haiti, rebuilding lives and welcoming new ones

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Climate action can deliver a sustainable future for all: UN deputy chief

Speaking ahead of the COP26 UN climate conference, which wraps up this weekend in Glasgow, Scotland, Ms. Mohammed underlined the need for greater funding and commitment, as well as solidarity.   “Climate change doesn’t pause, and neither must we,” she said in her address to the TED Countdown Summitin her recently livestreamed TED Talk held recently in nearby Edinburgh and livestreamed globally.    Another climate change ‘victim’  Ms. Mohammed, who is from Nigeria, recalled her childhood walks along the shores of… Continue reading Climate action can deliver a sustainable future for all: UN deputy chief

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Act now to stamp out child labour by 2025: FAO chief

Effective action and strong leadership are essential to end child labour by 2025, the head of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said on Tuesday. Qu Dongyu, the FAO Director-General, was among UN agency chiefs addressing the opening of the Global Solutions Forum on child labour.   The two-day virtual meeting aims to identify and… Continue reading Act now to stamp out child labour by 2025: FAO chief

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World Heritage forests releasing more carbon than they absorb: UNESCO 

Forests in at least 10 World Heritage sites have become net sources of carbon, due to pressure from human activity and climate change, according to a new report released on Thursday, by the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).  The agency’s new analysis, World Heritage forests: Carbon sinks under pressure , shows that instead of helping mitigate global warming,… Continue reading World Heritage forests releasing more carbon than they absorb: UNESCO 

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‘Vague’ net zero promises not enough: planet still on track for catastrophic heating, UN report warns

Tuesday’s new Emissions Gap Report shows that updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) – the efforts by each country to reduce national emissions, as well as other commitments made for 2030 but not yet officially submitted – would only lead to an additional 7.5 per cent reduction in annual greenhouse emissions in 2030, compared to previous… Continue reading ‘Vague’ net zero promises not enough: planet still on track for catastrophic heating, UN report warns

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Middle East Green Initiative: ‘pathbreaking work’ to protect the planet

The Middle East Green Initiative launch in Saudi Arabia on Monday was hailed by the UN’s deputy chief as a valuable commitment and strategic vision, to transition regional economies away from unsustainable development, to a model “fit for the challenges of the 21st century”. With only a few days until the G20 Summit of leading… Continue reading Middle East Green Initiative: ‘pathbreaking work’ to protect the planet

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UNESCO ‘eDNA’ initiative to ‘unlock’ knowledge for biodiversity protection  

To understand the richness of biodiversity across World Heritage marine sites, the UN scientific organization launched on Monday a project to protect and preserve biodiversity, based on the study of environmental DNA – cellular material released from living things into their surroundings.  Launching the new programme, the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) said that scientists and local residents would take samples of genetic material from fish waste, mucous membranes or… Continue reading UNESCO ‘eDNA’ initiative to ‘unlock’ knowledge for biodiversity protection  

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Food Heroes: Ethiopian avocado farmer’s ‘transformational’ crop

An Ethiopian farmer has been talking about how avocados have transformed the lives of not just his family but also of people living in his community. Bogale Borena set up an avocado nursery in Yirgalem in the south of Ethiopia, and has been so successful with the venture that he was named as one of 17 Food… Continue reading Food Heroes: Ethiopian avocado farmer’s ‘transformational’ crop

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Rising poverty a ‘moral indictment of our times’: Guterres 

Describing current levels of poverty as “a moral indictment of our times”, Secretary-General António Guterres said that the COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on economies and societies around the world, with some 120 million more people falling into poverty last year.  “A lopsided recovery is further deepening inequalities between the Global North and South”, said Mr. Guterres. “Solidarity is missing in action – just when we need it most”. … Continue reading Rising poverty a ‘moral indictment of our times’: Guterres 

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International Day honours rural women’s critical role in feeding the world

Although rural women and girls have an essential role in food systems, they still do not have equal power with men, therefore earn less, and experience higher levels of food insecurity, according to UN Women, the agency supporting countries to reach gender equality.  On the International Day of Rural Women, observed this Friday, UN Women is calling for an end to this paradox by dismantling the… Continue reading International Day honours rural women’s critical role in feeding the world

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Portuguese beaches lead the way during UN, EU clean-up campaign 

In recent months, some 260 different clean-up operations have been undertaken across, aimed at protecting life under the sea, with the UN and European Union’s #EUBeachCleanUp campaign, managing to remove some 50 tons of trash from some of the EU’s finest shorelines. Every year, millions of tons of litter end up in the ocean, often having a direct… Continue reading Portuguese beaches lead the way during UN, EU clean-up campaign 

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Biodiversity commitment builds hope for ‘living in harmony with nature’

More than 100 countries on Wednesday committed to develop, adopt and implement an effective post-2020 global framework, that aims to put biodiversity on a path to recovery, by 2030 at the latest.   The Kunming Declaration, adopted at the end of the UN Biodiversity Conference’s latest High Level Segment, which took place in Kunming, China, calls on the States Parties to act urgently on biodiversity protection in decision-making and recognise the importance of conservation in protecting human health.  Biodiversity Fund  The Segment opened on Monday –… Continue reading Biodiversity commitment builds hope for ‘living in harmony with nature’

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With clock ticking, sustainable transport key to Global Goals

From electric cars and buses to zero-carbon producing energy sources, new and emerging technologies along with innovative policy changes, are critical for combating climate change. But to be effective, they must ensure that transport strategies benefit everyone, including the poorest, according to a new UN multi-agency report launched on Tuesday. The “clock is ticking on… Continue reading With clock ticking, sustainable transport key to Global Goals

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Make mental healthcare for all a reality, urges Guterres 

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on mental health worldwide, and action must be taken to “redress the glaring inequalities exposed by the pandemic”, including over access to vital services, declared UN Secretary-General António Guterres, ahead of World Mental Health Day, marked on Sunday.  Reminding that millions of people face grief over lost family members and friends, that many… Continue reading Make mental healthcare for all a reality, urges Guterres 

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BTS and UNICEF celebrate 4 years of the ‘Love Myself’ campaign to promote child self-esteem

Since 2017, a campaign by South Korean superstars BTS, and the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has reached almost every country in the world with a positive message of self-love and self-care, gathering more than 50 million interactions from Twitter users. “We started LOVE MYSELF as a way to reach young people and help improve their… Continue reading BTS and UNICEF celebrate 4 years of the ‘Love Myself’ campaign to promote child self-esteem

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Decade of climate breakdown saw 14 per cent of coral reefs vanish

Between 2009 and 2018, the continuous rise in sea temperature cost the world 14 per cent of its coral reefs – that’s more than the size of Australia’s reefs combined – a UN-backed report revealed on Tuesday. In the Sixth Status of Corals of the World: 2020 Report, experts from the Global Coral Reef Monitoring… Continue reading Decade of climate breakdown saw 14 per cent of coral reefs vanish

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UN World Data Forum meets at ‘critical time’ with COVID battle ongoing

The forum, which takes place from 3-6 October in Bern, Switzerland, comes at “a critical time as the world is still dealing with the pandemic,” Stefan Schweinfest, Director of the United Nations Statistics Division said. “Disaggregated data is needed to contain the disease and for citizens to understand the world around them and guide their… Continue reading UN World Data Forum meets at ‘critical time’ with COVID battle ongoing

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First Person: Cultivating Haiti’s future

“The earthquake which struck south-west Haiti in August impacted mostly rural populations, and obviously farmers were affected a lot. Many lost their houses as well as their grain and seed stores which collapsed in the tremor; the land of some farmers was also damaged due to landslides. In some cases, fissures could be seen as… Continue reading First Person: Cultivating Haiti’s future

Promoting sustainability and the UN at Dubai Expo: A UN Resident Coordinator blog

Around two months into a six-month residency at Dubai Expo, the UN Hub has already attracted a large number of visitors, including several delegations from UN Member States. Dena Assaf, the UN Resident Coordinator for the UAE, and Deputy Commissioner-General of the UN at Expo, says that the event is a unique opportunity to highlight… Continue reading Promoting sustainability and the UN at Dubai Expo: A UN Resident Coordinator blog

Africa Free Trade Area, likely spur for growth and development 

With productivity-boosting measures, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement could reduce poverty and inequality while spurring sustainable and inclusive growth, according to a report launched on Wednesday by the UN trade and development body, UNCTAD. The Economic Development in Africa Report 2021, underscores the importance of  infrastructure financing that helps link up urban… Continue reading Africa Free Trade Area, likely spur for growth and development 

Omicron: Don’t panic but prepare for likely spread, says WHO

Heralding South Africa’s and Botswana’s decision to report the appearance of the Omicron coronavirus mutation last month, the UN health agency repeated that it will take another two weeks before more is known about how transmissible and how dangerous it actually is. Speaking in Geneva, WHO spokesperson Christian Lindmeier stressed that data suggesting that Omicron… Continue reading Omicron: Don’t panic but prepare for likely spread, says WHO

Despite COVID-19 connectivity boost, world’s poorest left far behind  

Some 2.9 billion people still have never used the internet, and 96 per cent live in developing countries, a new UN report has found. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the estimated number of people who have gone online this year actually went up, to 4.9 billion, partially because of a “COVID connectivity boost”.    This is good news for global development, but ITU… Continue reading Despite COVID-19 connectivity boost, world’s poorest left far behind  

World trade reaches all-time high, but 2022 outlook ‘uncertain’: UNCTAD

Global trade is expected to be worth about $28 trillion this year – an increase of 23 per cent compared with 2020 – but the outlook for 2022 remains very uncertain, UN economists said on Tuesday. This strong growth in demand – for goods, as opposed to services – is largely the result of pandemic restrictions easing,… Continue reading World trade reaches all-time high, but 2022 outlook ‘uncertain’: UNCTAD

Financing sustainable development needed more than ever, says UN deputy chief Mohammed 

Securing the funding needed for sustainable development by involving as many actors from different sectors as possible, is more urgent than ever, amid a widening “trust deficit” between the haves and the have-nots, the UN Deputy Secretary-General said on Monday.  Speaking at the Building Bridges Summit for sustainable finance in Geneva, Amina Mohammed urged all those present… Continue reading Financing sustainable development needed more than ever, says UN deputy chief Mohammed 

Coronavirus pandemic could cost global tourism $2 trillion this year

The coronavirus pandemic will likely cost the global tourism sector $2 trillion in lost revenue in 2021, the UN’s tourism body said Monday, calling the sector’s recovery “fragile” and “slow.” According to the latest forecast by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the same amount was lost in 2020, making it one of the sectors hit… Continue reading Coronavirus pandemic could cost global tourism $2 trillion this year

From the Field: Pioneer brings farming jobs to marginalized Bangladesh communities

Farzeen Alam, a Bangladeshi entrepreneur, was laughed off when he approached banks for a loan to start his farming business: today, Oggro Dairy is helping to lower unemployment, particularly amongst marginalized youth. Oggro Dairy is the first social enterprise dedicated to agriculture in Bangladesh. Founded in 2007 by Mr. Alam, the enterprise works with farmers… Continue reading From the Field: Pioneer brings farming jobs to marginalized Bangladesh communities

Arrested development and poverty take a $57 billion economic toll in Palestine

With an economic toll of an estimated at $57.7 billion, the study estimated the cost to be equivalent to three and a half times the 2019 GDP of the occupied Palestinian territory’. Moreover, it indicated that the minimum cost of eliminating poverty in the West Bank had increased six times between 1998 and 2007 – from… Continue reading Arrested development and poverty take a $57 billion economic toll in Palestine

One billion more people could join the ranks of those already unable to afford healthy diet

Approximately three billion people, almost 40 per cent of the world’s population, cannot afford a healthy diet and another one billion people could join their ranks should further unpredictable events reduce incomes by one-third, the UN food agency said, launching a new report on Tuesday.  The Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) 2021 State of Food and Agriculture (SOFA) report – Making agrifood systems more resilient to shocks and stresses – states that, without proper preparation, unpredictable shocks will continue to undermine… Continue reading One billion more people could join the ranks of those already unable to afford healthy diet

Smart, sustainable maritime transport critical to global recovery: UNCTAD

Maritime trade contracted by 3.8 per cent in 2020, but later rebounded, and is estimated to increase by 4.3 per cent this year, according to the report.  UNCTAD’s Review of Maritime Transport 2021 reveals the outlook for the medium term remains positive but subject to “mounting risks and uncertainties”, such as unprecedented pressures on global… Continue reading Smart, sustainable maritime transport critical to global recovery: UNCTAD

‘Dire’ economic and fiscal situation in Palestine requires integrated response

A piecemeal approach to the current political, economic and security challenges in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT) only risks perpetuating a continuing crisis, according to a new UN report published on Thursday. “Short-term fixes, focused on stabilizing and managing recent crises are necessary, but not sufficient”, stated UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace… Continue reading ‘Dire’ economic and fiscal situation in Palestine requires integrated response

World food import bill to reach record high in 2021 

The global food trade should hit an all-time record high in both volume and value terms, according to a new report released on Thursday by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).  By the end of 2021, the global food import bill should extend beyond $1.75 trillion, marking a 14 per cent increase from the previous year, and 12 per cent higher than the previous forecast.   According to FAO’s new Food Outlook, trade in foodstuffs has shown “remarkable resilience” to disruptions throughout the pandemic, but rapidly rising… Continue reading World food import bill to reach record high in 2021 

Rebuilding a future for the displaced people of Burkina Faso: a Resident Coordinator Blog

More than a million people in Burkina Faso have been displaced from their homes, victims of ongoing conflict and poverty. Nevertheless, following a recent visit to the central and northern regions of the country, Barbara Manzi, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Burkina Faso, says she met a resilient people keen to find their own solutions,… Continue reading Rebuilding a future for the displaced people of Burkina Faso: a Resident Coordinator Blog

World food prices reach highest level in more than a decade

The UN barometer of world food prices has surged to a new peak, reaching its highest level since July 2011, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) announced this Thursday.  The FAO Food Price Index, which tracks the international prices of a basket of food commodities, is up 3.9 per cent from September, rising for a third consecutive month.  Cereal prices overall increased by 3.2 per cent, with wheat rising five per cent, due to reduced harvests in major exporting nations, including Canada, Russia and the United States. Prices of all… Continue reading World food prices reach highest level in more than a decade

Bachelet: right to social security, matter of ‘the utmost urgency’ 

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said on Monday that the impact of the COVID-19 crisis, and the changing world of work, makes the right to social security for all, “a matter of the utmost urgency.”  Michelle Bachelet was participating in the first ever intersessional panel discussion on the right to social security hosted by the Human Rights Council.  The goal was to identify challenges and best practices, through debate… Continue reading Bachelet: right to social security, matter of ‘the utmost urgency’ 

Green industrial policies key for climate adaptation in developing world

Green industrial policies will be critical for developing countries to adapt to climate change, UN trade and development body UNCTAD said in a report published on Thursday.  The agency has called for a “transformative approach” that will allow these nations to address current and future climate threats while also driving growth and job creation.  The… Continue reading Green industrial policies key for climate adaptation in developing world

Pandemic impact on jobs, worse than expected: ILO 

The agency is projecting that global hours worked this year will be 4.3 per cent below pre-pandemic levels, the equivalent of 125 million full time jobs. This is a dramatic revision of the projection made in June, of 3.5 per cent or 100 million full-time jobs.  The eighth edition of the ILO Monitor: COVID-19 and the world of work also warns of a “great divergence” between developed and developing countries,… Continue reading Pandemic impact on jobs, worse than expected: ILO 

$667 million funding call to help Afghans through economic crisis

To help ordinary Afghans, the UN Development Programme (UNDP) has announced the launch of a “people’s economy” fund, to provide desperately needed access to cash. The fund will tap into donations frozen since the Taliban takeover in August. Germany has already pledged $58 million of the more than $660 million required over the next 12 months, UNDP… Continue reading $667 million funding call to help Afghans through economic crisis

Only ‘real equality’ can end vicious cycle of poverty

Although poverty and privilege “continue to reproduce themselves in vicious cycles”, it is possible to break the chain and shift the paradigm, an independent UN human rights expert told the General Assembly on Wednesday.  Presenting his report, The persistence of poverty: how real equality can break the vicious cycle, Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, Olivier De Shutter, said that “with political will”, it is possible… Continue reading Only ‘real equality’ can end vicious cycle of poverty

Rush for new profits posing threat to human rights, UN experts warn 

The finance industry’s demand for new sources of capital worldwide to satisfy investors, is having a serious negative impact on the enjoyment of human rights, a group of UN-appointed independent rights experts have warned.  Among the rights at risk from increasing speculation in the financial markets by hedge funds and other investment funds, are the right to safe drinking water and sanitation, food, adequate housing, development, and a healthy and… Continue reading Rush for new profits posing threat to human rights, UN experts warn 

Business leaders join UN chief to step up action for sustainability 

Business leaders joined UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Tuesday, to step up delivery of critical investment, for a ‘sustainable, net zero, resilient and equitable world’.  The Global Investors for Sustainable Development (GISD) Alliance, which brings together 30 business giants worth an estimated $16 trillion, met Mr. Guterres in New York, and outlined concrete actions for the future.   Since October 2019, when the Secretary-General convened the GISD Alliance, its CEOs and other top executives have… Continue reading Business leaders join UN chief to step up action for sustainability 

In highly uneven recovery, global investment flows rebound 

That’s according to the latest Investment Trends Monitor, released this Tuesday by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).   It shows the increase in the first two quarters in FDI, recovered more than 70 per cent of the losses stemming from the COVID-19 crisis in 2020.  For the UNCTAD‘s director of investment and enterprise, James Zhan, the good news “masks the growing divergence in FDI flows between developed and developing economies, as well as the lag… Continue reading In highly uneven recovery, global investment flows rebound 

Food Heroes: Cameroon’s shrimp entrepreneur

Anastasie Obama, a Cameroonian woman who set up her own smoked shrimp business, has been recognized by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Agency (FAO) as a Food Hero, for her contribution towards unlocking the potential of selling shellfish locally and abroad. Cameroon sits on the Atlantic coast where Western and Central Africa meet. It was named… Continue reading Food Heroes: Cameroon’s shrimp entrepreneur

‘Time for action’ to support most fragile States: Guterres

From COVID-19 to the climate crisis and growing inequality, Secretary-General António Guterres underscored, at a financial meeting on Thursday, the importance of greater commitment and cooperation for a “more peaceful and prosperous future”. The pandemic has forced more than 100 million people into poverty and more than four billion have little or no social support,… Continue reading ‘Time for action’ to support most fragile States: Guterres

Trade can play a pivotal role in addressing climate change, says UN report 

Economies in the Asia-Pacific region need to urgently reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including to maintain their trade competitiveness as carbon taxes at borders threaten to rise, according to a new United Nations report.   Around 16 million new jobs could be created in clean energy, energy efficiency, engineering, manufacturing and construction industries in the Asia-Pacific region, more than compensating for the estimated loss of five million jobs by downscaling… Continue reading Trade can play a pivotal role in addressing climate change, says UN report 

Cotton sustains more than 100 million families worldwide 

A single metric tonne of cotton provides jobs for five people on average, often in some of the world’s most impoverished regions; that adds up around 100 million families across the globe.  To recognize these and other contributions, the United Nations is marking World Cotton Day, this Thursday.  Cotton is an important means of livelihood for millions of smallholders and attracts export revenues to some of the poorest… Continue reading Cotton sustains more than 100 million families worldwide 

Inequalities between ethnic groups are stark, new UN report reveals 

Differences in so-called multidimensional poverty among ethnic groups are consistently high across many countries, according to a new analysis released this Thursday.  The global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), produced by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative, also found that in nine specific ethnic groups surveyed, more than 90 per cent of the population is trapped in poverty.   In some cases, disparities… Continue reading Inequalities between ethnic groups are stark, new UN report reveals 

Remember the Rohingya ‘forced to run for their lives’

The world must not forget the roughly one million Rohingya from Myanmar “forced to run for their lives from the military’s genocidal attack against them”, an independent UN human rights expert said on Monday, beginning his first mission to Bangladesh. The Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, Tom Andrews, began his… Continue reading Remember the Rohingya ‘forced to run for their lives’

UN raises alarm over ‘continuing’ expulsions of asylum seekers from Libya 

Asylum-seekers and other migrants continue to be forcefully expelled from Libya, raising concerns at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).  Speaking to journalists in Geneva, Spokesperson Rupert Colville, pointed out a “continuing series” of expulsions, including two large groups of Sudanese over the past month, and another group of 24 Eritreans, apparently at imminent risk of similar treatment. … Continue reading UN raises alarm over ‘continuing’ expulsions of asylum seekers from Libya 

Mexico: With scores killed in truck crash, UN urges States to agree ‘controlled’ migration

Despite repeated calls for concrete international action to reduce the tragic death toll of migrants, dozens were killed in Mexico when a crowded truck overturned in Chiapas on Thursday night, the International Organization for Migration’s (IOM) said in a statement released on Friday.  At least 54 reportedly Central American migrants died and more than 100 were injured – the single deadliest incident for migrants in Mexico since at least 2014, when IOM… Continue reading Mexico: With scores killed in truck crash, UN urges States to agree ‘controlled’ migration

Climate change fuels violence and mass displacement in Cameroon 

A flare-up in intercommunal fighting in northern Cameroon has forced tens of thousands of people to flee their homes and brought a halt to aid operations there, the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, said on Friday.  The development is just the latest episode in the difficult relationship between the region’s herders, fishermen and farmers, who have seen the… Continue reading Climate change fuels violence and mass displacement in Cameroon 

$1.79 billion needed to help Venezuelan refugees and migrants

The increasing needs of refugees and migrants from Venezuela have worsened with the COVID-19 pandemic, say UN rights experts. The number of Venezuelans worldwide who’ve gone on the run has now topped six million, with the vast majority hosted by countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) and migration agency… Continue reading $1.79 billion needed to help Venezuelan refugees and migrants

Navigating complex peace and security challenges together: Grandi

Conflict, climate change and COVID-19, have created a perfect storm of challenges facing refugees, displaced people and their hosts, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, told the Security Council on Tuesday. The deadly mix has increased forced displacement and increased hardships, while the climate emergency has fuelled conflict in Sahel, he said. Underlining the importance… Continue reading Navigating complex peace and security challenges together: Grandi

Clashes displace thousands in Darfur, where 6.2 million will need assistance next year 

With escalating violence displacing thousands of people since November, the humanitarian situation in Sudan’s Darfur is getting worse and around 6.2 million people will need humanitarian assistance next year, UN agencies reported on Tuesday.   The Principal Situation Coordinator for the region at the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), Toby Harward, told journalists in Geneva that the agency is deeply concerned about the situation.   According to him, nearly 10,000 Sudanese have fled a wave of intercommunal violence in the Jebel… Continue reading Clashes displace thousands in Darfur, where 6.2 million will need assistance next year 

Avoid starvation – ‘Immediate priority’ for 3.5 million Afghans 

Amidst “truly unprecedented levels” of hunger in Afghanistan, the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) said on Friday that as winter arrives, avoiding widespread starvation “is an immediate priority”.   Launching a global fundraising winter campaign to help forcibly displaced families in Afghanistan and elsewhere to cope with the most life-threatening months of the year, UNHCR Spokesperson Babar Baloch described it as “a crisis of hunger and starvation”. “People don’t have… Continue reading Avoid starvation – ‘Immediate priority’ for 3.5 million Afghans 

UNHCR chief calls for mechanism to deal with ‘unprecedented’ displacement in Mexico and Central America

Lack of opportunities, gangs, organized crime, the ravages of the pandemic and climate change, have triggered the displacement of nearly one million people in Mexico and Central America in recent years.  To deal with the problem more effectively, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees called on Thursday for a new mechanism that could operate across the whole region, to deal with what is now an unprecedented displacement crisis.   At the… Continue reading UNHCR chief calls for mechanism to deal with ‘unprecedented’ displacement in Mexico and Central America

Global displacement rising despite lockdowns that kept billions grounded

There was a dramatic increase in internal displacement due to disasters, conflict and violence in 2020, but global mobility overall, ground to a halt due to COVID-19 travel restrictions.   That is the main finding of the World Migration Report 2022, launched on Wednesday by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).  For IOM‘s Director General, António Vitorino, the world is “witnessing a paradox not seen before in human history.”  “While billions of… Continue reading Global displacement rising despite lockdowns that kept billions grounded

IOM scales up aid at EU-Belarus border, as migrant hypothermia deaths tick up  

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and partners, are scaling up aid along the border between the European Union and Belarus, amid worsening winter weather, which is leading to rising deaths due to hypothermia among asylum seekers stranded there.  It is estimated that there are up to 2,000 migrants and refugees at the border with Poland, predominantly Kurds from Iraq, but also Syrians, Iranians,… Continue reading IOM scales up aid at EU-Belarus border, as migrant hypothermia deaths tick up  

UN refugee agency concerned about indigenous Venezuelans in Guyana 

One meal a day, no shelter, and no drinking water are only some of the difficult living conditions that indigenous Warao families from Venezuela are facing in remote locations across Guyana, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has warned.  More humanitarian presence and support from the international community is needed, said on Friday Philippa Candler, UNHCR’s Multi-Country Office Representative in Panama, speaking to journalists in Geneva.  An estimated… Continue reading UN refugee agency concerned about indigenous Venezuelans in Guyana 

Violence against refugee women surged in 2020, but grassroots solutions can help tackle scourge

One in five refugee or internally displaced women have faced sexual violence, and the situation continues to worsen globally, the UN refugee agency, (UNHCR), said on Thursday. On the 30th anniversary of the campaign for 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, the UN agency said that there’s been a global surge in domestic violence,… Continue reading Violence against refugee women surged in 2020, but grassroots solutions can help tackle scourge

Drowning of 27 migrants in English Channel is worst disaster on record: IOM 

Urgent action is needed to avoid a repeat of tragedies like this week’s drowning of at least 27 people in the English Channel, the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) said on Thursday.  The incident amounted to the largest single loss of life in the English Channel since the UN migration agency, IOM, started recording data in 2014.   Another 106… Continue reading Drowning of 27 migrants in English Channel is worst disaster on record: IOM 

Poverty and violence push 378,000 Central Americans north each year 

For the past five years, poverty, food insecurity, climate shocks and violence have pushed, on average, some 378,000 Central Americans a year into the United States, according to a new report launched on Tuesday by the UN food relief agency.  A joint report published by the World Food Programme (WFP), Migration Policy Institute (MPI), and Civic Data Design Lab at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) also showed that a high price was paid in human and… Continue reading Poverty and violence push 378,000 Central Americans north each year 

Belarus-Poland crisis: Human rights of trapped migrants ‘paramount’ 

Amid growing concerns about the plight of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers at the Poland-Belarus border, the UN rights office and UN refugee agency on Friday urged all parties to respect human rights and refrain from using them for political ends.  Following weeks of rising tension, the development follows news footage earlier in the week showing migrants located between the… Continue reading Belarus-Poland crisis: Human rights of trapped migrants ‘paramount’ 

Violence, insecurity and climate change drive 84 million people from their homes

As more people flee violence, insecurity and the effects of climate change, the number forcibly displaced now exceeds 84 million globally, according to new data released on Thursday by the UN refugee agency, UNHCR.   UNHCR’s Mid-Year Trends report, covering the first six months of this year, revealed a surge from 82.4 million since December – largely… Continue reading Violence, insecurity and climate change drive 84 million people from their homes

Resolve ‘intolerable’ Belarus-Poland border migrant crisis: UN rights chief

The UN Human Rights High Commissioner has urged Belarus and Poland to urgently resolve the burgeoning migrant crisis on their mutual border, where thousands of people have gathered in an attempt to enter the European Union (EU).  In a statement on Wednesday, UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet said she was appalled that large numbers of migrants and refugees continue to be left in a… Continue reading Resolve ‘intolerable’ Belarus-Poland border migrant crisis: UN rights chief

Uphold safety, human rights on Belarus-Poland border, UN agencies urge

Alarmed by the latest reports, the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) issued a joint statement calling on States to ensure “the safety and human rights of migrants and refugees”. The border became a flash point after the European Union imposed sanctions on Belarus on the basis of alleged human… Continue reading Uphold safety, human rights on Belarus-Poland border, UN agencies urge

Thousands flee DR Congo fighting for Uganda: UNHCR

Fighting in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has forced at least 11,000 people to flee to neighbouring Uganda since Sunday night, representing the largest refugee influx in a single day for more than a year, the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, said on Tuesday.  Women and children comprise the majority of those who… Continue reading Thousands flee DR Congo fighting for Uganda: UNHCR

Ordinary Afghans ‘broke and broken’, warns UN migration agency chief

“We are indeed in a race against time, as emphasized by the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, to help these people prepare for winter,” said the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Director-General. People are “broke and broken”, he insisted, after returning from a two-day visit to the country. “More than half the population is struggling to eat, malnutrition… Continue reading Ordinary Afghans ‘broke and broken’, warns UN migration agency chief

UN rights experts condemn US expulsion of Haitian migrants and refugees 

A group of UN human rights experts have condemned the United States of America’s recent and ongoing systematic mass deportation of Haitian migrants and refugees, declaring them a violation of international law.  According to their analysis, US policies have also deterred Haitians from pursuing protection including asylum claims and forced them to return to other… Continue reading UN rights experts condemn US expulsion of Haitian migrants and refugees 

Conditions worsen for stranded migrants along Belarus-EU border 

At least eight people have died along the border between Belarus and the European Union, where multiple groups of asylum-seekers, refugees and migrants have been stranded for weeks in increasingly dire conditions.  The UN Refugee Agency, UNHCR, appealed for urgent action on Friday, to save lives and prevent further suffering at the border with Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland. The latest casualty was reported within the past few days.  UNHCR warned that… Continue reading Conditions worsen for stranded migrants along Belarus-EU border 

Libyan Government plan needed to end ‘dire situation’ of asylum seekers, refugees 

The Libyan government must immediately address the dire situation of asylum-seekers and refugees, in a humane manner, consistent with international human rights law, the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) said on Friday.  According to UNHCR, authorities carried out raids and arbitrary arrests this month which targeted areas largely populated by refugees and asylum-seekers.  This resulted in several deaths, thousands detained, and many homeless and destitute. … Continue reading Libyan Government plan needed to end ‘dire situation’ of asylum seekers, refugees 

Humanitarian assistance stepped up on Yemen’s west coast, amid clashes

Humanitarian assistance has been ramped up on Yemen’s west coast where ongoing violence has increased the needs of communities displaced by years of conflict, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said on Wednesday. The response has primarily been focused on the two governorates of Ta’iz and Hudaydah, where active frontlines continue to cause instability and force families… Continue reading Humanitarian assistance stepped up on Yemen’s west coast, amid clashes

Afghanistan: Reuniting families on the run should be priority, urges UNHCR

Spokesperson Shabia Mantoo said Afghan refugees have been approaching UNHCR offices, desperately concerned about the safety and welfare of their loved ones left behind, or living in neighbouring countries.  “While recent political developments in Afghanistan have not led to large-scale cross-border displacement, many among pre-existing Afghan refugee and asylum seeker populations remain separated from their… Continue reading Afghanistan: Reuniting families on the run should be priority, urges UNHCR

Alert over spike in security operations against Libya migrants  

In an alert on Tuesday, the UN human rights office (OHCHR) said that vulnerable people on the move in the north African nation experience “a myriad daily violations and abuses at the hands of both State and non-state actors.”  These include expulsions of individuals to countries in sub-Saharan Africa without due process, in violation of the principle of… Continue reading Alert over spike in security operations against Libya migrants  

UNHCR recommends the end of refugee status for Ivorians by June

Following an in-depth analysis of the situation in Côte d’Ivoire, the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, recommended on Thursday that countries hosting Ivorians end their refugee status, and help them to voluntarily repatriate, obtain permanent residency or began the naturalization process to remain. “In light of the fundamental and durable changes in Côte d’Ivoire, I am… Continue reading UNHCR recommends the end of refugee status for Ivorians by June

UN rights chief calls for investigation into ‘heartbreaking’ killing of veteran Rohingya activist

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on Friday called for a prompt, thorough, and effective investigation into the killing of a veteran Rohingya activist at a refugee camp in Bangladesh.  Mohib Ullah, chair of the Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace and Human Rights (ARSPH), was shot dead on Wednesday by unknown assailants in the Kutupalong refugee camp in… Continue reading UN rights chief calls for investigation into ‘heartbreaking’ killing of veteran Rohingya activist

Comprehensive support needed for Haitians facing expulsion in Americas

Vulnerable Haitian men, women and children on the move in the Americas, should not be expelled from countries where they have found shelter, UN agencies said in a protection appeal on Thursday. In a joint appeal by UN migration agency IOM, the refugee agency UNHCR, Children’s Fund UNICEF, and human rights office OHCHR, they highlighted that many… Continue reading Comprehensive support needed for Haitians facing expulsion in Americas

COVID-19: Students face $17 trillion loss in lifetime earnings

The projection is among the findings of The State of the Global Education Crisis: A Path to Recovery, published by the World Bank, the UN Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (UNESCO) and the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF).  $17 trillion. That’s how much this generation of students risks losing in lifetime earnings due to COVID-19 school… Continue reading COVID-19: Students face $17 trillion loss in lifetime earnings

DreamWorks Trolls join UN campaign for healthier eating, sustainable living 

The colourful characters from  DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls movie franchise are encouraging their fans to become food heroes through eating healthier, and reducing food waste.  As part of the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables, the bright-eyed bushy-haired children’s favourites have joined the United Nations, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the UN Foundation, in a global digital campaign that mobilizes action for a healthy diet and sustainable living, and adds these actions… Continue reading DreamWorks Trolls join UN campaign for healthier eating, sustainable living 

193 countries adopt first-ever global agreement on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence

All the Member states of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) adopted on Thursday a historic agreement that defines the common values and principles needed to ensure the healthy development of AI. Artificial intelligence is present in everyday life, from booking flights and applying for loans to steering driverless cars. It is also… Continue reading 193 countries adopt first-ever global agreement on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence

Are you sure you want to share that? Sorting online fact from fiction

Since the creation of the World Wide Web, we have had access to more information than ever before. However, we are also bombarded with dangerous disinformation. The UN’s Verified campaign has launched an online course to help us decide which is which, and protect vulnerable people from potential harm. It has become increasingly apparent that,… Continue reading Are you sure you want to share that? Sorting online fact from fiction

Don’t be afraid to be the change, fearless youngsters tell activists summit

In her address to the summit, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, commended young activists everywhere for “challenging discrimination, injustice and inequalities… pushing the world forward”. But their campaigning work often came at a cost, Ms. Bachelet cautioned, noting how in many countries, young people “face attacks, intimidation and harassment”. Young activists often… Continue reading Don’t be afraid to be the change, fearless youngsters tell activists summit

UN backs plans to ensure regular, healthy school meals for every child in need by 2030

Following pandemic-driven school closures, five UN agencies threw their strong support behind an international coalition to improve the nutrition, health and education of school-age children around the world. In a joint declaration on Tuesday, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the World… Continue reading UN backs plans to ensure regular, healthy school meals for every child in need by 2030

‘We cannot lose hope’, UN chief tells media seminar on peace in the Middle East

Sensitizing public opinion to the question of Palestine, and promoting a peaceful settlement to the decades-long conflict between Israelis and Palestinians, are among the goals of the 2021 UN International Media Seminar on Peace in the Middle East, which began on Tuesday.  The two-day event is taking place online and brings together journalists, media experts, think tanks, diplomats and academics from across… Continue reading ‘We cannot lose hope’, UN chief tells media seminar on peace in the Middle East

Feature: Woman mentor empowers girls to reach for the stars in space careers

Now, an astronaut coach and the founding director of the Netherlands-based Inner Space Training, the world’s first and only space training to mentally prepare commercial astronauts for flight, Ms. Howard is empowering girls to reach for the stars in the international space industry and pursue careers in the still male-dominated field.  A mentor with the… Continue reading Feature: Woman mentor empowers girls to reach for the stars in space careers

New UNESCO education report calls for ‘new social contract’ 

Imagining a new future for education by 2050, the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is asking three questions: What should be continued? What should be abandoned? And what needs to be creatively invented afresh?   In its new global report published on Thursday, entitled Reimagining our futures together: A new social contract for education, the agency is proposing answers to these three essential… Continue reading New UNESCO education report calls for ‘new social contract’ 

Millions missing out on remote learning during emergencies: UNICEF

At least 200 million boys and girls, live in 31 countries which do not have the resources to deal with remote learning during any future emergency school closures, the UN Children’s Fund, UNICEF, said in a study released on Thursday.  More than half, or 102 million, are students in 14 countries which either fully or partially closed their classrooms for at least… Continue reading Millions missing out on remote learning during emergencies: UNICEF

Latin America and Caribbean sees COVID-19 progress, but must remain vigilant

More than half the population of Latin America and the Caribbean has not been vaccinated against COVID-19, a senior official with the regional arm of UN health agency WHO said on Wednesday.  Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Assistant Director at the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), was speaking during the agency’s regular media briefing on the pandemic.  Thanks in… Continue reading Latin America and Caribbean sees COVID-19 progress, but must remain vigilant

UN Chief: ‘We need to make lying wrong again’, curb hate speech 

The UN Secretary-General warned on Tuesday that “hatred takes root in the soil of ignorance” of historical facts, science, and the human qualities which “bind all people together.”  Antonio Guterres was speaking at the Global Education Ministers Conference on addressing hate speech through education. Remembering the horrors of the Second World War and the genocides in Rwanda, Bosnia and Cambodia, he argued that “denial of historical or scientific facts… Continue reading UN Chief: ‘We need to make lying wrong again’, curb hate speech 

UN condemns ‘despicable’ suicide attack at mosque in southern Afghanistan

The attack marked the second consecutive week that a Shia mosque in the country has been targeted, following a blast last Friday in the northeastern city of Kunduz, which left more than 100 worshippers dead.  I condemn in the strongest terms the despicable attack on the Imam Baragah mosque in Kandahar City, Afghanistan. The perpetrators… Continue reading UN condemns ‘despicable’ suicide attack at mosque in southern Afghanistan

Nobel laureate Dmitry Muratov won’t keep ‘a single cent’ of his prize money 

The pair received the award for their efforts to defend freedom of expression in their respective countries, and the Nobel committee called them “representatives of all journalists who stand up for this ideal”.  Mr. Muratov is the co-founder and editor of Novaya Gazeta, which has stood up for press freedom and freedom of speech in Russia for decades. Six journalists who… Continue reading Nobel laureate Dmitry Muratov won’t keep ‘a single cent’ of his prize money 

Mali maestro’s message of peace to Sahel region’s youngsters drawn to extremism

An ambitious project to raise awareness about rising insecurity and mass displacement in the Sahel has resulted in an original musical score from Mali songwriter Vieux Farka Touré.  In partnership with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) Mr. Toure’s A Song For The Sahel, highlights the crisis in many countries of the… Continue reading Mali maestro’s message of peace to Sahel region’s youngsters drawn to extremism

‘It will help me to achieve my dream’: Helping Iraqi girls stay in school

When COVID-19 closed schools in Basra, southern Iraq, the academic prospects for many schoolgirls were put at risk. On International Day of The Girl Child, we look at a UN program which is helping girls in the region to keep learning. When COVID-19 closed schools in Basra, southern Iraq, the academic prospects for many schoolgirls were… Continue reading ‘It will help me to achieve my dream’: Helping Iraqi girls stay in school

Landmark report highlights untapped potential of Africa’s film industry

Africa’s film and audiovisual industries could create over 20 million jobs and contribute $20 billion to the continent’s combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the UN cultural agency, UNESCO, said on Tuesday in a new report highlighting this untapped potential.  The African Film Industry: Trends, Challenges and Opportunities for Growth is the first-ever mapping of the sector, which currently employs some… Continue reading Landmark report highlights untapped potential of Africa’s film industry

UN-backed initiative reached 4.6 million children in ‘crisis within a crisis’

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic devastated education systems throughout the world, making the year even more difficult for youngsters already embroiled in emergencies and protracted crises, according to a new UN-backed report launched on Tuesday, coinciding with World Teachers Day. UN-supported Education Cannot Wait (ECW) – the first global fund dedicated to education in emergencies… Continue reading UN-backed initiative reached 4.6 million children in ‘crisis within a crisis’

Teachers are driving force behind ‘global education recovery’ from COVID-19

For the education system to recover from the COVID pandemic, it requires more investment in the well-being, training, professional development and working conditions of the world’s 71 million educators, UN agencies chiefs said on Monday, just ahead of World Teachers’ Day.   “Today we celebrate the exceptional dedication and courage of all teachers, their capacity… Continue reading Teachers are driving force behind ‘global education recovery’ from COVID-19

‘We are one’: musical performance ‘King Clavé’ reveals that we are ‘interconnected’   

Based on the core belief that “humanity is deeply interconnected” and “we are one”, the new performance piece, “King Clavé” is adding some musical inspiration to this year’s 20th anniversary of the historic Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (DDPA) against racism around the globe.   “Rhythm is at the center of humanity. One who knows rhythm knows the world”, said American percussionist Mickey Hart, best known as one of the… Continue reading ‘We are one’: musical performance ‘King Clavé’ reveals that we are ‘interconnected’   

John Lennon, stamps inspiring message of peace, on UN’s big week

This year’s International Day of Peace has been marked by the release of new stamps featuring music icon and peace campaigner, John Lennon, by the UN Postal Administration (UNPA), as the UN General Assembly High Level Week gets underway. It’s a reminder that as K-pop sensation BTS take UNGA76 by storm with their message of hope and youthful idealism… Continue reading John Lennon, stamps inspiring message of peace, on UN’s big week

UNESCO hails return of looted ancient Gilgamesh tablet to Iraq

The Gilgamesh Dream Tablet – one of the oldest surviving literary works in history – is to be returned to Iraq by the United States later this week, the UN agency for Education, Science and Culture (UNESCO), said on Monday. Made of clay and priceless, the Gilgamesh Tablet features inscriptions in Sumerian, a civilisation of ancient Mesopotamia.… Continue reading UNESCO hails return of looted ancient Gilgamesh tablet to Iraq

UNGA76: Giant eco-friendly artwork set to inspire world leaders

A new 11,000 square metre ‘ephemeral fresco’ created by Swiss artist Saype, has set the stage at UN Headquarters in New York, to welcome world leaders for the General Assembly High Level Week. It shows two children building the world of the future using origami, highlighting the participation of young people.  “World in Progress II is perfectly suited… Continue reading UNGA76: Giant eco-friendly artwork set to inspire world leaders

UNICEF stresses Afghan girls must not be excluded from school

The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on Friday welcomed the news that secondary schools are due to reopen in Afghanistan on Saturday, after months of closure due to COVID-19, but stressed that girls must not be kept from the classroom. “We are deeply worried”, UNICEF chief Henrietta Fore said in a statement, “that many girls may… Continue reading UNICEF stresses Afghan girls must not be excluded from school

77 million children have spent 18 months out of class: #ReopenSchools, urges UNICEF 

The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) says the world is facing an education crisis due to the COVID pandemic, that has left nearly 77 million children shut out of the classroom for the past 18 months.   This Thursday, the UN agency is closing down its social media channels for the next 18 hours to send one message to the world: #ReopenSchools for in-person learning as… Continue reading 77 million children have spent 18 months out of class: #ReopenSchools, urges UNICEF 

Protecting education, means ‘we protect the future’: UN chief 

“Schools must be places of learning, safety and peace”, he said, lauding education as not only providing knowledge and skills but also transforming lives and driving development for people, communities and for societies.  Nevertheless, he added, “year after year, this fundamental right comes under attack”.  Stretching the imagination  The top UN official encouraged the participants to imagine being a child in a classroom eager to learn, or a teacher… Continue reading Protecting education, means ‘we protect the future’: UN chief 

COVID jabs needed for educators and kids to keep schools open: WHO, UNICEF

As the school year begins for millions of children in Europe and Central Asia, UN health and child experts on Monday issued a series of COVID-19 risk reduction measures to ensure that in-person lessons can go ahead, despite rising infection rates. In addition to calling for all school staff to be included in nationwide coronavirus vaccination plans,… Continue reading COVID jabs needed for educators and kids to keep schools open: WHO, UNICEF

Protect human rights defenders in Afghanistan, says UN rights expert

Afghanistan faces a “cultural disaster”, following the fall of Kabul to Taliban forces, a UN Special Rapporteur said on Tuesday, in a statement urging countries to provide urgent assistance to human rights defenders, including those working on women’s and cultural rights, as well as artists, trying to flee the country.  “It is deplorable that the… Continue reading Protect human rights defenders in Afghanistan, says UN rights expert

Youth need ‘seat at the table’ to lead struggle for better future: Guterres

Young people are on the “frontlines of the struggle to build a better future”, the UN chief said on Thursday, International Youth Day. “They are tackling inequities in food security, biodiversity loss, threats to our environment and much more”, Secretary-General António Guterres spelled out in his message for the day. And noting that COVID-19 pandemic… Continue reading Youth need ‘seat at the table’ to lead struggle for better future: Guterres

Beirut’s youth rebuild the Lebanese capital, brick by brick

Young people in Beirut, which was devastated by an explosion in a warehouse at the city’s port on 4 August 2020, have been pitching in to get the Lebanese capital back on its feet, with support from the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF). With no employment prospects in sight, Rafah found it hard to stay positive,… Continue reading Beirut’s youth rebuild the Lebanese capital, brick by brick

South Sudan: ‘Headwinds’ warning from UN mission chief over peace accord 

“I call on the parties to muster a renewed sense of political will and build trust, to avoid a state of paralysis, and, in a worst-case scenario, a collapse of the peace agreement”, Mr. Haysom said.   The world’s youngest nation has been mired in instability and conflict since gaining independence from Sudan 10 years ago.  In 2018, President… Continue reading South Sudan: ‘Headwinds’ warning from UN mission chief over peace accord 

‘Additional effort and patience’ needed to revive Iran nuclear deal

Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo briefed ambassadors on developments surrounding the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which sets out rules for international monitoring of the country’s nuclear programme. Iran signed the JCPOA in 2015 alongside China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States, together with Germany and the European Union.  Expedite pledges Negotiations are… Continue reading ‘Additional effort and patience’ needed to revive Iran nuclear deal

‘Restraint, de-escalation and dialogue’ needed to stem war in Yemen

“Even as the conflict parties all profess to me their desire for peace, their focus remains on military options…[which] will not result in sustainable solutions”, he said. Grundberg to #UNSC:”The process should be designed to allow for parallel progress on different agenda items of importance to Yemenis. It’ll address the parties’ priorities in the context… Continue reading ‘Restraint, de-escalation and dialogue’ needed to stem war in Yemen

Afghanistan: Humanitarian crisis threatens basic human rights

Briefing the UN Human Rights Council, Nada Al-Nashif detailed how the profound humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan is threatening basic rights, with women, girls, and civil society among those most affected.  Dignity or deprivation  “How the de facto authorities – indeed, and the international community – address the drastic economic and humanitarian crises in the country will determine Afghans’ enjoyment of human rights, now and into the… Continue reading Afghanistan: Humanitarian crisis threatens basic human rights

Sudan: Mistrust deepens following military takeover

In the wake of the 25 October military takeover in Sudan, discussions on the way forward are underway but restoring trust will be a challenge, the top UN official in the country, Volker Perthes, told the Security Council on Friday.  The UN Special Representative briefed ambassadors on a deal last month under which civilian Prime… Continue reading Sudan: Mistrust deepens following military takeover

Afghanistan: Political affairs chief has ‘frank and useful exchanges’ with the Taliban  

The UN’s Political and Peacebuilding Affairs chief, Rosemary DiCarlo, concluded a three-day visit to Afghanistan on Thursday in which she met with senior Taliban representatives, urging them not to “erase” gains made by women and girls across the country in recent years.   “I had frank and useful exchanges about what needed to be done to bring about an Afghanistan that is inclusive,… Continue reading Afghanistan: Political affairs chief has ‘frank and useful exchanges’ with the Taliban  

Climate change ‘aggravating factor for terrorism’: UN chief

In Iraq and Syria, terrorist group Daesh, also known as ISIL, has exploited water shortages and taken control of water infrastructure to impose its will on communities, while in Somalia charcoal production provides a source of income for Al-Shaabab, UN Secretary-General António Guterres explained during a debate on Security, in the Context of Terrorism and… Continue reading Climate change ‘aggravating factor for terrorism’: UN chief

UNHCR staff members wounded in DR Congo, UN chief calls for full investigation

The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) on Wednesday expressed outrage over an attack on a convoy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in which one of its vehicles was hit, wounding three staff members Unidentified attackers opened fire on the convoy which was being escorted by ‘blue helmets’ from the UN Stabilization Mission in the DRC… Continue reading UNHCR staff members wounded in DR Congo, UN chief calls for full investigation

UN hails ‘strong political support’ to boost peacekeepers in the field

They include measures to improve technology and provide extra medical capacity in the field – the cross-cutting themes of the 2021 Seoul UN Peacekeeping Ministerial, held virtually from the Republic of Korea.  Enhancing performance & safety of personnel are critical for our missions to protect civilians & pursue lasting peace. We continue to improve through… Continue reading UN hails ‘strong political support’ to boost peacekeepers in the field

At Seoul meeting, Guterres urges greater support for peacekeeping amid mounting threats

With the world now facing the highest number of violent conflicts since 1945, Secretary-General António Guterres on Tuesday urged countries to step up support for UN peacekeeping operations across the globe, and the thousands who serve within them.  Mr. Guterres made the appeal in remarks to the opening ceremony of the 2021 Seoul UN Peacekeeping… Continue reading At Seoul meeting, Guterres urges greater support for peacekeeping amid mounting threats

DR Congo: Limitations to ‘strictly military approach’ to stem violence, mission chief warns 

Bintou Keita argued that, for stability to return to eastern Congo, “the State must succeed in restoring and maintaining the confidence of the people in their ability to protect, administer, deliver justice and meet their basic needs.”  Ms. Keita, who also acts as the head of the UN Stabilization Mission in the country (MONUSCO), said that she has stressed this regularly in her exchanges with the Head… Continue reading DR Congo: Limitations to ‘strictly military approach’ to stem violence, mission chief warns 

Severe cash crunch threatens WFP operations in Ethiopia

Millions of people in Ethiopia could be pushed deeper into hunger as the World Food Programme (WFP) faces a major funding shortfall that threatens its operations there over the coming six months, the UN agency warned on Monday.  WFP urgently needs $579 million to deliver food aid and livelihood support to some 12 million Ethiopians… Continue reading Severe cash crunch threatens WFP operations in Ethiopia

Somalia: Security Council adopts resolution to keep pirates at bay

The Secretary-General’s latest report on the situation in the country illustrates that joint counter-piracy efforts have resulted in a steady decline in attacks and hijackings since 2011. However, although piracy off the coast of Somalia has been “repressed”, the ongoing threat of resurgence remains. As such – under Chapter VII of the Charter, which provides… Continue reading Somalia: Security Council adopts resolution to keep pirates at bay

‘Turning point’ reached for survivors of ISIL crimes in Iraq, Security Council hears

Delivering his first briefing to ambassadors, Special Adviser Christian Ritscher said evidence collected so far is capable of supporting trials.  SA Christian Ritscher during his first brief to the #UNSC: I believe we now stand at a turning point, a moment of unexpected hope. We can now envision a new landscape in which those who… Continue reading ‘Turning point’ reached for survivors of ISIL crimes in Iraq, Security Council hears

Emergency aid needs set to rise by 17% to assist 274 million, UN humanitarians warn 

A total of 274 million people worldwide will need emergency aid and protection in 2022, a 17 per cent increase compared with this year, UN humanitarians said on Thursday.  The amount is equivalent to “the world’s fourth most populous country”, Martin Griffiths, UN Humanitarian Affairs chief said at the launch of the 2022 Global Humanitarian Overview (GHO) in Geneva.  The document, published annually by… Continue reading Emergency aid needs set to rise by 17% to assist 274 million, UN humanitarians warn 

WFP appeals for greater support for Afghanistan as hunger increases

Humanitarian needs in the country have increased, the UN agency said, with all 34 provinces facing crisis or emergency levels of food insecurity.  ⏯️On the ground in #Afghanistan, working tirelessly to meet the most pressing needs of the Afghan people. WFP needs US$ 2.6 billion to ramp up our life-saving support to reach 24 million people in 2022.… Continue reading WFP appeals for greater support for Afghanistan as hunger increases

Burkina Faso facing ‘multitude of challenges’ – human rights chief Bachelet

She noted the landlocked West African nation faced the on-going threat of violent extremism, climate change and humanitarian crises, but Michelle Bachelet also stressed that her fact-finding mission was “a testament” to the State’s openness the promotion and protection of human rights, in collaboration with the UN. Armed Islamist groups have killed hundreds of civilians… Continue reading Burkina Faso facing ‘multitude of challenges’ – human rights chief Bachelet

‘Unity’ of purpose and action needed: Guterres tells AU-UN Conference

He highlighted the wide range of progress made through collaboration, from frameworks around peace, security and sustainable development, to joint missions and programmes for humanitarian operations, elections and peaceful transfers of power. Mr. Guterres also focussed on areas critical for an inclusive, resilient and sustainable recovery on the continent, that are grounded in the 2030… Continue reading ‘Unity’ of purpose and action needed: Guterres tells AU-UN Conference

Israel-Palestine: Risk of ‘deadly escalation’ in violence, without decisive action

Tor Wennesland told Council Members that “recent developments on the ground are worrying”, pointing out the situation in the West Bank and Gaza and the challenges faced by the Palestinian Authority.   “I therefore emphasize again the importance of concerted efforts by the parties to calm things on the ground. I am concerned that if we do not act quickly and… Continue reading Israel-Palestine: Risk of ‘deadly escalation’ in violence, without decisive action

Series of appalling deadly attacks on displaced people in DR Congo

The UN refugee Agency, UNHCR, is “appalled by a series of deadly attacks” on displaced people in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the agency’s spokesperson told journalists on Tuesday in Geneva. In the latest incident carried out by armed groups, UNHCR spokesperson Boris Cheshirkov cited local authorities in saying that 26 people were… Continue reading Series of appalling deadly attacks on displaced people in DR Congo

UN chief calls for nuclear weapons-free Middle East  

The UN Secretary-General on Monday called on all Middle East States to transform the vision of a region with no nuclear weapons, or other weapons of mass destruction, into a working reality.    Antonio Guterres was speaking in New York at the second session of the Conference on the Establishment of a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and Other Weapons of Mass Destruction.   Since 1967,… Continue reading UN chief calls for nuclear weapons-free Middle East  

Violations of Palestinian rights puts two-State solution at risk UN chief warns 

The situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, continues to pose a significant challenge to international peace and security, United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, said on Monday.  In a message to mark International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. The UN chief warned that persistent violations of the rights of Palestinians, along with the expansion of Israeli settlements, risk eroding the… Continue reading Violations of Palestinian rights puts two-State solution at risk UN chief warns 

Colombia’s peace process is taking ‘deep roots’, but all sides must work together to overcome lingering challenges

“As we take stock today, we can confidently affirm that the implementation of the peace process is taking deep roots,” Mr. Guterres said in Bogotá during an event commemorating the 2016 peace deal between the Colombian Government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, or FARC-EP, that ended the Western hemisphere’s longest-running war. Speaking from… Continue reading Colombia’s peace process is taking ‘deep roots’, but all sides must work together to overcome lingering challenges

Libya at ‘delicate and critical juncture’ ahead of landmark elections: UN envoy

He reported that the political climate remains “heavily polarized” ahead of the presidential and parliamentary polls, which are being held in line with a roadmap adopted last year following a historic ceasefire and the establishment of an interim government.  Even though Libyans are eager to cast their votes, “vocal opposition” persists surrounding the legal framework… Continue reading Libya at ‘delicate and critical juncture’ ahead of landmark elections: UN envoy

UN chief sees firsthand the progress and challenges five years after Colombia’s historic peace deal

Peace and ‘family ties’ The Secretary-General visited the northern town of Llano Grande, in the Department of Antioquia, along with Colombia’s President, Ivan Duque, as well as the former FARC-EP commander, Rodrigo Londoño. The town is one of several areas in the country where the former guerillas are being reincorporated into civilian life. Colombia has… Continue reading UN chief sees firsthand the progress and challenges five years after Colombia’s historic peace deal

Importance of sound, inclusive elections in Iraq ‘cannot be overstated’

Following “hard-earned” parliamentary elections on 10 October, Iraqis of all political stripes must exercise restraint, eschew violence and await the outcome’s final certification by the Federal Supreme Court, the senior UN official in the country told the Security Council on Tuesday. Jeanine Plasschaert, Special Representative and Head of the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) said clashes… Continue reading Importance of sound, inclusive elections in Iraq ‘cannot be overstated’

Yemen recovery possible if war stops now: UNDP report

Yemen has been mired in seven years of fighting between a pro-Government Saudi-led coalition and Houthi rebels, generating the world’s worst humanitarian and development crisis and leaving the country teetering on the brink of famine.  The report sends a hopeful message that all is not lost, arguing that its extreme poverty could be eradicated within a generation, or by 2047, if the fighting ceases.    A brighter future  “The study… Continue reading Yemen recovery possible if war stops now: UNDP report

UN will use technology and medical capacity to improve peacekeeping  

Beginning on 7 December, ministers from around the world will meet in Seoul, Republic of Korea, to close UN Peacekeeping capability gaps through concrete pledges with a focus on technology, medical capacity building, reducing the UN’s environmental footprint and increasing the number and role of women peacekeepers, UN officials said at a press conference on… Continue reading UN will use technology and medical capacity to improve peacekeeping  

Arms trafficking, a ‘defining factor’ in undermining peace 

Small arms trafficking is a “defining factor in undermining peace and security”, the Director of the UN Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) told the Security Council on Monday during a ministerial debate.  Robin Geiss said that that diversion and trafficking of arms “destabilizes communities and exacerbates situations of insecurity, including by committing serious violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law, as well as… Continue reading Arms trafficking, a ‘defining factor’ in undermining peace 

Feature: Five years after peace deal, Colombian town of Llano Grande is forging a ‘family’ out of disparate parts

This small village is an example of how, through peace and reconciliation – and determination – a new ‘family’ can be forged from among old enemies. UN News traveled to the region ahead of the Secretary General, who’s two-day visit will begin Tuesday 23 November. Familia Llano Grande reads a mural at the entrance of… Continue reading Feature: Five years after peace deal, Colombian town of Llano Grande is forging a ‘family’ out of disparate parts