Category: Uncategorized

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk appealed to the leaders of the Sudanese Armed Forces and of the Rapid Support Forces, locked in conflict since 15 April, to “issue clear instructions” to those under their command that sexual violence will not be tolerated, and to ensure that all perpetrators are held accountable. Mr.… Continue reading Türk appeals to Sudan’s warring generals; calls out ‘dangerous anti-rights tendencies’ worldwide

24 May 2023UN Affairs New ideas must open fresh pathways towards finally ending the era of colonialism and to help advance sustainable development in the world’s 17 remaining colonies, the UN chief said in a video message to the Organization’s decolonization seminar in Bali, Indonesia “Our shared goal is to give greater priority to the… Continue reading Guterres: ‘We can turn the tide’ towards ending colonialism

In Myanmar, the UN appealed on Tuesday for $333 million to assist 1.6 million of the most vulnerable people, many of whom have lost their homes as the cyclone hit the west of the country over a week ago. The UN’s top aid official in the country, Ramanathan Balakrishnan, told reporters in Geneva that the… Continue reading Cyclone Mocha: urgent funding needed as hunger, diseases loom

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus was delivering his report to the 76th World Health Assembly, the UN agency’s decision-making body, which is meeting this week.  Threat still remains  “The end of COVID-19 as a global health emergency is not the end of COVID-19 as a global health threat,” Tedros told Member States.  “The threat of… Continue reading World must be ready to respond to next pandemic: WHO chief

Secretary-General António Guterres was addressing the annual opening of the World Health Assembly, the decision making body of the WHO, and said that the agency was born out of a spirit of cooperation, leading to dramatic improvements in human health. “Global life expectancy – up over 50 percent; Infant mortality – down sixty percent in… Continue reading Progress on human health ‘in peril’, warns UN chief

24 May 2023Peace and Security The UN’s top advocate on ending violence against children, joined UN agencies on Wednesday in highlighting the urgent need to protect the rights of young people on the move, amid spiralling crises worldwide. With more than 42 million children displaced worldwide and increasing exposure to multiple forms of violence, the… Continue reading Unprecedented joint call to shield children on the move from violence

“There is no time to spare,” said Tor Wennesland, the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process. “We must take action, not only to ensure Palestinian well-being and governance, but as an integral part of ending the occupation and restoring a political horizon toward a viable two-State solution, based on UN resolutions, international… Continue reading ‘No time to spare’: Israel-Palestine ceasefire holds, but hunger, tensions mount

24 May 2023Humanitarian Aid With “crisis atop of crisis” threatening millions in the Horn of Africa, the international community cannot afford to stand idly by, Secretary-General António Guterres said at a pledging event to raise $7 billion for the region, held at UN Headquarters in New York on Wednesday.  More than 43 million people across… Continue reading UN and partners seek $7 billion to prevent catastrophe in the Horn of Africa

The landmark decision comes as heat-trapping greenhouse gas concentrations are at record levels – “higher than at any time over the last 800,000 years”, WMO warned. Data from Earth and space The new Global Greenhouse Gas Watch will combine observations from Earth and from space with modelling, to fill critical information gaps. It will build… Continue reading Green light for global greenhouse gas tracking network

In 2022, the UN recorded a 53 per cent increase in the number of civilians killed across 12 armed conflicts, from Sudan to Ukraine. Here are five reasons why strengthening the protection of civilians is imperative. 1. Minimize civilian harm Armed conflicts result in civilian deaths, injuries, and psychological wounds. In 2022, nearly 94 per… Continue reading Protecting civilians in times of crisis

The UN chief was speaking during a debate on ensuring the security and dignity of people caught in the crossfire and addressing the related issue of access to food and essential services.  Suffering and ‘outrage’  “Civilians have suffered the deadly effects of armed conflict for too long.  It is time we live up to our… Continue reading Uphold promise to protect civilians caught in conflict: Guterres

The Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant in Ukraine. 22 May 2023Peace and Security The Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in Ukraine lost all external power for several hours on Monday morning, highlighting the urgent need to protect the facility and prevent an accident, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said in a… Continue reading Ukraine: Power loss at nuclear plant underscores ‘highly vulnerable’ safety situation

More than seven million children under the age of five remain malnourished and in need of urgent nutrition aid, and over 1.9 million boys and girls* are at risk of dying from severe malnutrition. As the region comes out of one of the worst droughts in 40 years, vulnerable communities have lost cattle, crops, and entire livelihoods over the past three years of failed rains.  “The crisis… Continue reading Horn of Africa: Over 7 million children under the age of 5 remain malnourished

“Lives and infrastructure are being destroyed, and the security situation is impeding the delivery of humanitarian aid,” said Volker Perthes, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Sudan, briefing the Security Council on Monday about recent developments. Five weeks since the eruption of fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF)… Continue reading Ceasefire in Sudan could ‘pave the way’ to peace talks

Captain Cecilia Erzuah, 32, who has served in Abyei since March last year, as the Commander of the Ghana Engagement Platoon, will receive the award from Secretary-General António Guterres during a ceremony marking the International Day of UN Peacekeepers this Thursday, said the Department of Peace Operations in a press release. Abyei is a disputed and resource-rich area between Sudan and… Continue reading Ghana peacekeeper named UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year

According to WMO, weather, climate and water-related hazards caused close to 12,000 disasters between 1970 and 2021. Developing countries were hit hardest, seeing nine in 10 deaths and 60 per cent of economic losses from climate shocks and extreme weather.   WMO said that Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States suffered a “disproportionately” high… Continue reading Extreme weather caused two million deaths, cost $4 trillion over last 50 years

That was the message from the President of the UN General Assembly, Csaba Kőrösi, on an official visit to Salt Lake City in Utah, where he met with top state officials, students and academics, and local community members. “There are commonalities because the entire world is in a water crisis, which is ignited by climate… Continue reading Advocating for sustainable water ‘gamechangers’, Kőrösi goes West

The G7, which consists of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, together with the European Union, is meeting in the city where the first atomic bomb was dropped in 1945, a place which Secretary-General António Guterres described, as a “testament to the human spirit”. “Whenever I visit, I am inspired by… Continue reading G7 nations, ‘central to climate action’ says Guterres, calling for global reset

From Hurricane Ivan in Jamaica in 2004 to earthquakes in Peru in 2007 and Haiti in 2010, Raul – chief of the regional office for disaster risk reduction – has developed an acute understanding of what the impact of disasters are, and what can be done to avoid or prevent them. “We continuously face a… Continue reading First Person: Rising from disaster

Adedeji Ebo was briefing the Security Council on the issue of Western weapons supplies to Ukraine, called by permanent member Russia – the fourth time it has been presented for discussion in light of the ongoing conflict. The Deputy to the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs said the transfers of weapons systems and ammunition from… Continue reading Ukrainian civilians subject to ‘unbearable routine’ of Russian attack

“Now is not the time to be complacent, or to take for granted that Iraq has turned a corner,” said the UN Special Representative for Iraq Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert. Achievements range from fighting corruption to advancing energy independence, said Ms. Hennis-Plasschaert, who also heads the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), briefing on recent developments. But… Continue reading Despite gains, Iraq has not yet ‘turned the corner’, Security Council hears

Reports of gender-based violence (GBV) against girls and women there have increased by 37 per cent during the first three months of the year, compared to the same period a year ago, according to the GBV coordination group for North Kivu. More than 38,000 cases of GBV were reported for all of 2022 in North… Continue reading UNICEF alert over ‘sickening’ levels of sexual violence in eastern DR Congo

The report states that some “UN Member States are enabling this trade” through a combination of outright complicity, lax enforcement of existing bans, and easily circumvented sanctions, according to a news release from the UN rights office OHCHR. Access to advanced weaponry  “Despite overwhelming evidence of the Myanmar military’s atrocity crimes against the people of… Continue reading UN rights expert exposes $1 billion ‘death trade’ in arms for Myanmar military

Ambassadors were briefed by UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg, who reported on his ongoing engagement with representatives from the internationally-recognized Government, which is backed by a Saudi-led coalition, and opposing Houthi rebels, as well as regional and international actors. Mr. Grundberg said he was encouraged by the positive and detailed discussions, noting that all interlocutors… Continue reading UN envoy reports on progress towards Yemen peace agreement

17 May 2023Climate and Environment Global temperatures are likely to surge to record levels in the next five years, fuelled by heat-trapping greenhouse gases and a naturally occurring El Niño weather pattern, according to a new update issued by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on Wednesday. There is a 66 per cent likelihood that the… Continue reading Global temperatures set to break records during next 5 years: WMO

Amid claims and counter claims, the army has been reportedly attempting to cut the supply lines of the Rapid Support Forces and defend its bases from continued attack. The RSF claimed to have captured hundreds of soldiers, following an attack on an army base. Airstrikes and heavy fighting have left hundreds of thousands of city… Continue reading Sudan crisis: UN continues to scale up aid, as security allows

“Non-State armed groups continue to carry out large-scale attacks against civilian and military targets and engage in clashes over access to resources, territorial control and influence,” said Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, part of the political and peacebuilding affairs department, and UN Peace Operations. The Council was meeting to assess the… Continue reading Security situation in Sahel remains very worrying, Security Council warned

“The way we produce, use, and dispose of plastics is polluting ecosystems, creating risks for human health and destabilizing the climate,” said UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen. ‘Roadmap’ to slash plastic pollution “This UNEP report lays out a roadmap to dramatically reduce these risks through adopting a circular approach that keeps plastics out of ecosystems,… Continue reading New UN ‘roadmap’ shows how to drastically slash plastic pollution

15 May 2023Peace and Security The world must make every effort to eliminate chemical weapons, the UN chief said on Monday, raising grave concerns about their continued use. “We cannot go backwards,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in a video message addressing the fifth Special Session of the States parties to review the operation of… Continue reading Guterres: Eliminate ‘weapons of terror’ to avert future chemical warfare

Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths said that it was “imperative that we explore all options to reach civilians”, stressing that all parties to the fighting must allow and facilitate the “rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief”. “I urge the parties to strengthen facilitation efforts so we can reach all civilians in need”, he said. Cut… Continue reading Ukraine: Imperative to ‘explore all options’ to reach civilians – UN relief chief

These buildings were destroyed during an Israeli air strike, amid a flare-up of Israeli-Palestinian violence in Gaza City. (file) 14 May 2023Peace and Security UN Secretary-General António Guterres has welcomed last night’s ceasefire agreement in Israel and Gaza and reiterated that only a negotiated political solution will lead to lasting peace and end the devastating… Continue reading Guterres welcomes ceasefire in Israel and Gaza

12 May 2023Human Rights A declaration by Sudan’s warring parties committing to protect civilians is an “important first step”, after more than three weeks of heavy fighting, the UN’s top official in the African nation said on Friday. Volker Perthes – Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Sudan and Head of the UN Integrated Transition… Continue reading Sudan’s warring generals take ‘important first step’ on humanitarian protection

To date, four warrants have been issued and two others are in the application process, ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan said, highlighting this key step as recognizing the rights of victims to justice. “If this Council’s referrals are to be vindicated, it requires everyone to step up,” he said. “Partnerships are key to justice.” The Council… Continue reading New arrest warrants seek justice for victims in Libya, ICC prosecutor says

Unless donors meet the gap, 60 per cent of the people the agency assists in the Occupied Palestinian Territories will no longer be receiving food assistance in June, the World Food Programme (WFP) announced, adding that by August, the agency will be forced to completely suspend operations in the West Bank and Gaza. “Desperate times… Continue reading Severe funding shortfalls could leave 200,000 Palestinians hungry

10 May 2023Peace and Security The UN Secretary-General on Wednesday, called for an end to the violence that has continued across parts of Pakistan, following the arrest a day earlier of former Prime Minister, Imran Khan. Mr. Khan pleaded not guilty to corruption charges on Wednesday, appearing before a judge at a police guest house,… Continue reading Pakistan: Guterres calls for end to violence following arrest of Imran Khan

In an alert on the situation, the World Food Programme (WFP) said that it expected between two and 2.5 million more people to face acute hunger in the coming months, because of conflict that erupted on 15 April between forces loyal to rival Generals Abdel Fattah Al Burhan and Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. This development would… Continue reading Violence in Sudan likely to spark record levels of hunger

In the month of April alone, more than 600 people were killed in violence in the country’s capital, according to information gathered by the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH). This follows the killing of at least 846 people in the first three months of 2023. BINUH said that overall, the number of victims of… Continue reading Haiti: International support needed now to stop spiralling gang violence

“The outbreak of violence in the Sudan may deeply impact the chance for political progress on Abyei and border issues,” Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, Assistant Secretary-General for Africa in the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, told the Council. Security in Abyei, a disputed oil-rich border region straddling both African nations, had… Continue reading Sudan violence threatens fragile cross-border progress with Juba

In response to the assault on the principles behind the United Nations, António Guterres said that the international community needed to raise the alarm, and “reaffirm those values.” ‘Elusive and fragile’ Above all, “we need peace” he told the audience gathered for the prestigious award championing multilateralism in Europe, at the Royal Monastery of Yuste,… Continue reading Values of UN Charter under threat like never before, warns Guterres

9 May 2023Peace and Security The top UN official involved in the Middle East peace process raised the alarm on Tuesday following an Israeli military operation which reportedly killed more than a dozen Palestinians, including three commanders from the militant group, Islamic Jihad. “I am deeply alarmed by developments in Gaza after Israel launched a… Continue reading UN Middle East envoy condemns deadly Israeli airstrikes in Gaza

In a statement issued by his Spokesperson, António Guterres noted that “most, if not all, United Nations agencies and our humanitarian partners, have been impacted by large-scale looting”, since the military power struggle between the national army and rival RSF militia began, which fighting now entering a fourth week. Speaking to journalists at the daily UN briefing on Monday,… Continue reading Sudan crisis: Guterres condemns looting of main WFP compound in Khartoum

8 May 2023Climate and Environment The sustainable management of the world’s forests takes centre stage at the UN Forum on Forests, which opened on Monday at UN Headquarters in New York. Stakeholders from across the world, from Member States to civil society partners, will gather to discuss this critical planetary resource. Here are 5 key… Continue reading UN Forum on Forests: 5 things you need to know

That’s according to the UN Trade and Development body UNCTAD’s Trade and Environment Review 2023, published on Monday, which analyses the world’s $3-6 billion ocean economy, and assesses how human activity and multiple global crises have significantly impacted sectors like fishing, seafood, shipping and coastal tourism. The report, presented at the 3rd UN Trade Forum in Geneva, calls for… Continue reading Countries must forge ‘Global Blue Deal’ to protect the ocean: UNCTAD

6 May 2023Peace and Security At a time when more than 100 armed groups are plaguing communities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) with grave human rights violations and sexual violence, the UN chief said on Saturday that swift, bolstered efforts must end the chronic cycle of conflict in the natural resources-rich Great… Continue reading UN chief calls for bolstered efforts to end violence in Great Lakes region

“Everyone must put an end to hate speech, work to restore trust, and refrain from any action that could undermine the progress made for peace” in DRC, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said, on the eve of the high-level meeting of the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for DR Congo and… Continue reading In Burundi, Guterres outlines challenges facing the region

“We are alarmed about widespread mental health issues and accounts of escalating suicides among women and girls,” they said in a joint statement. “This extreme situation of institutionalized gender-based discrimination in Afghanistan is unparalleled anywhere in the world.” ‘Extreme’ discrimination Since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021, de facto authorities have issued a… Continue reading Afghanistan: Women tell UN rights experts ‘we’re alive, but not living’

5 May 2023Humanitarian Aid Recurring attacks by armed groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continue to drive forced displacement and extreme hardship for millions of Congolese, the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) said on Friday. The country has 6.2 million internally displaced people, while more than 1.3 million have become refugees. UNHCR said that… Continue reading DR Congo: Desperate situation facing millions displaced by armed violence

Emergencies tend to exacerbate the vulnerabilities people who work in the arts already experience, as they face multiple threats such as online and offline harassment, loss of income, legal prosecution, violence, censorship, and silencing.  Creatives also often lack minimal safety nets due to their precarious legal status, according to the report.  Artists under assault  In… Continue reading UNESCO calls for more protection for artists under attack

According to news reports, Russian airstrikes targeted the capital Kyiv for the third time in four days, following on from what Russian authorities said was an assassination attempt by drone strike, on President Vladimir Putin, earlier on Wednesday. Ukrainian authorities, who deny any involvement in the drone incident in Moscow, said Thursday morning’s large-scale attack… Continue reading UN in Ukraine ‘appalled and saddened’ at deadly airstrikes and attacks

“Despite being charged with terrorism, they were reportedly arrested for resisting forced evictions in the name of the NEOM project and the construction of a 170km linear city called The Line,” the UN experts said. ‘Smart city’ project NEOM is a futuristic urban development project backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund. Shadly Ahmad Mahmoud… Continue reading Human rights experts alarmed over ‘imminent executions’ in Saudi Arabia

Ambassadors met to examine the Council’s efforts towards building trust that leads to sustainable peace, in light of current and emerging threats.  “Full compliance with human rights is the best antidote to the inequalities, unaddressed grievances and exclusion which are often at the root of instability and conflict,” said Mr. Türk, speaking via videolink from… Continue reading Human rights ‘best antidote’ to advance peace, Security Council hears

El Niño and La Niña are natural phenomena which WMO describes as “major drivers of the Earth’s climate system”. After a three-year La Niña spell, which is associated with ocean cooling, the world faces an 80 per cent chance of an El Niño event developing between July and September. Tell-tale signs are a warming of… Continue reading New temperature records, food security threats likely as El Niño looms

António Guterres was speaking to journalists in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, where he will be chairing a meeting of chief executives from across the whole UN system. Since violence erupted in Sudan on 15 April, more than 334,000 have likely been uprooted and more 100,000 people have fled to neighbouring countries, according to UN aid… Continue reading Sudan: ‘Secure and immediate access’ needed for lifesaving aid, urges Guterres

The first so-called blue helmets were deployed as military observers to the Middle East in 1948 and since then more than two million uniformed and civilian personnel have served in 71 peacekeeping operations around the world. The exhibition shows how, over three quarters of a century, peacekeepers have supported nations in the often-difficult journey from conflict… Continue reading From the Field: ‘Ordinary people’ pursuing ‘extraordinary outcomes’ – UN peacekeeping at 75

1 May 2023Climate and Environment Over 2,000 delegates from around the world gathered at the UN in Geneva on Monday to discuss how best to curb chemical pollution, which has had increasingly dire consequences for health and the environment. Over the course of two weeks of meetings, countries are expected to make progress on adding… Continue reading Countries urged to take more action against chemical pollution

1 May 2023Peace and Security A new photo exhibit on UN Peacekeeping opened at Headquarters on Monday, honouring the service and sacrifice of uniformed and civilian peacekeepers as it marks its 75th anniversary. “For 75 years, UN Peacekeeping has helped to end conflict, protect civilians, advance political solutions, and secure sustainable peace,” said Jean-Pierre Lacroix,… Continue reading UN Peacekeeping turns 75: Photo exhibit opens at UN Headquarters

1 May 2023Humanitarian Aid The World Food Programme (WFP) has lifted a temporary suspension of operations in Sudan as fighting between rival military groups pushes millions into hunger, Executive Director Cindy McCain announced on Monday.  WFP had paused its life-saving activities after three staff were killed in North Darfur on 15 April, the first day… Continue reading WFP resumes operations in Sudan, as fighting continues

“The scale and speed of what is unfolding is unprecedented in Sudan. We are extremely concerned by the immediate as well as long-term impact on all people in Sudan, and the broader region,” UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said in a statement. The UN again urged the warring sides to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, allow safe… Continue reading Guterres dispatches UN ‘relief chief’ to Sudan as humanitarian crisis deepens

“There is no doubting the importance of the current foundations for the sustainability, from environmental protection to the fight against climate change, and green lifestyles. In the foreseeable future, upholding all these principles will be fundamental if humanity is to thrive. To continue to grow, one must get out of the cradle, and it’s the… Continue reading First Person: ‘Humanity must get out of the cradle’

28 April 2023Peace and Security The acting UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine, Matthew Hollingworth, has condemned a wave of deadly strikes that hit several cities early on Friday, reportedly the most intense aerial bombardment in weeks.  Dozens of civilians across the country were killed and injured, and homes and other vital infrastructure, destroyed.  More than… Continue reading UN condemns ‘inexcusable’ deadly airstrikes in Ukraine

“A society can only succeed on its path towards sustainable peace and development when all its constituencies can participate on an equal footing,” Ilze Brands Kehris, Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, said ahead of progress reports delivered by high-level representatives of Colombia, The Gambia, and Timor-Leste. The preventive potential of transitional justice can only be… Continue reading Transitional justice hinges on ‘equal footing’, say UN peacebuilders

“The international community’s response to the crisis in Myanmar is failing, and that failure has contributed to a lethal downward spiral that is devastating the lives of millions of people,” Tom Andrews, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, said at the end of a 10-day official visit to Japan. Referring to… Continue reading UN expert urges Japan to ‘step up pressure’ on Myanmar junta

28 April 2023Peace and Security A turbulent transition to civilian rule has been underway in Sudan since the ouster of former President Omar Hassan El-Bashir in April 2019. The civilian-led transitional Government put in place later that year, through a power-sharing agreement between military and civilian leaders, was toppled by a military coup in October… Continue reading In Sudan, the stakes are high for the whole of Africa 

The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) said that tens of thousands of refugees from South Sudan, Ethiopia and Eritrea living in the country have fled the fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the Khartoum area. The newly displaced have found shelter in existing refugee camps further east and south, creating new humanitarian… Continue reading Sudan latest: Tens of thousands on the move; spectre of ethnic clashes, hunger draws closer

“We are at a potentially important juncture, with renewed attention on Syria – particularly from the region – that could assist our efforts in advancing a political solution to this conflict”, he said.  “But for this renewed attention to help unlock progress, many actors will need to take concrete steps – not just one set… Continue reading Syria: UN envoy points to ‘important juncture’ in efforts towards peace

27 April 2023Peace and Security Leaders in Albanian-majority Kosovo and the Serb minority there backed by Belgrade, need to take “courageous” action towards normalizing relations, or risk growing regional instability, the head of the UN mission there (UNMIK) told the Security Council on Thursday. UN Special Representative and head of the UN Interim Administration Mission,… Continue reading Regional stability still at risk without ‘increased commitment’ to negotiations: UN Kosovo mission chief

27 April 2023Human Rights A new UK law affecting people’s rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, is “incompatible” with the country’s international obligations, the UN rights chief said on Thursday. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, called the Public Order Bill “deeply troubling legislation”, after it completed its passage through… Continue reading New UK law curtails key civil and political rights: UN rights chief

26 April 2023UN Affairs One year after the General Assembly adopted its so-called “veto initiative”, Member States met on Wednesday to discuss how it could contribute to a more efficient and impact-oriented UN.  The landmark resolution, adopted by consensus, calls for the General Assembly to automatically meet within 10 days if any of the five… Continue reading Security Council veto should be ‘very last resort’: General Assembly President

Gang violence is expanding at an alarming rate in areas previously considered relatively safe in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and outside the city, with a shocking increase in criminality and abuses, and a police force that is unable to handle the situation.  At the same time, almost half the population, 5.2 million people, needs humanitarian aid,… Continue reading ‘Unprecedented insecurity’ in Haiti requires urgent action: new UN envoy

António Guterres was addressing an emergency session of the UN Security Council in New York, and again demanded an end to the fighting between troops loyal to Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) leader Fatttah al-Burhan, and his deputy on the so-called Transitional Sovereign Council, Rapid Support Forces (RSF) leader, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo “Hemedti”. “It is incumbent… Continue reading Power struggle imperils Sudan’s future, ‘lights fuse that could detonate across borders’

Launching a special edition of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) progress report, he warned that their collective promise made in 2015 of a more green, just and equitable global future, is in peril.  “Unless we act now, the 2030 Agenda will become an epitaph for a world that might have been,” he said.  Rising poverty… Continue reading Guterres urges countries to recommit to achieving SDGs by 2030 deadline

Mr. Wennesland expressed deep concern over recent violence and inflammatory actions, particularly the violent confrontations inside al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem earlier this month.  He urged the sides, regional States and the international community, to show leadership, re-engage and work towards peace and the vision of a two-State solution.  “There must be an end to the… Continue reading Israel-Palestine: UN envoy calls for greater effort towards peace amid mounting violence

Ten days of fighting between rival military forces have had a devastating impact on the country’s population. The UN humanitarian affairs office (OCHA) warned that people are lacking food, water, medicines and fuel, power is limited, and the prices of essential items as well as transport have skyrocketed. OCHA spokesperson Jens Laerke told reporter in… Continue reading Sudan: UN aid operation continues amid dire humanitarian conditions

25 April 2023Human Rights Authorities in Burkina Faso must conduct a full and independent investigation into the recent killing of scores of civilians in a village near the border with Mali, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said on Tuesday.  The incident occurred on Thursday when armed men in uniform encircled Karma village, located in… Continue reading Burkina Faso: UN rights office calls for probe into latest deadly attack on civilians

This is particularly vital during key life stages such as pregnancy and lactation, childhood, adolescence and older age, says the study, entitled  Contribution of terrestrial animal source food to healthy diets for improved nutrition and health outcomes. Comprehensive analysis It’s the most comprehensive analysis yet of the benefits and risks of consuming animal source foods and is based on data and evidence… Continue reading FAO makes case for meat, eggs and milk as ‘essential source of nutrients’

“We face unprecedented and interlocking crises,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in his briefing at the Council’s ministerial-level open debate on effective multilateralism through the defence of the principles of the UN Charter. “Tensions between major powers are at an historic high, so are the risks of conflict, through misadventure or miscalculation. It is time… Continue reading Guterres: Urgency of global challenges demands bold, swift action

Dr. Calvin advises NASA leadership on its science programmes and related strategic planning and investments. Also serving as its senior climate advisor, she provides insights and recommendations for related science, technology, and infrastructure projects for climate action, from developing a new instrument to track pollution hourly to launching a water-tracking satellite. NASA Chief Scientist and… Continue reading First Person: Saving the Earth from space

“I am horrified by the toll the clashes are having on civilians”, said Abdou Dieng. “At least 331 people have been killed nationwide, including five aid workers, and nearly 3,200 have been injured.” The fighting between troops from the national army and a powerful rival militia known as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) erupted six days ago, and… Continue reading UN coordinator calls for urgent ‘humanitarian pauses’ in Sudan, as death toll mounts

WMO latest State of the Global Climate report shows that the last eight years were the eight warmest on record, and that sea level rise and ocean warming hit new highs. Record levels of greenhouse gases caused “planetary scale changes on land, in the ocean and in the atmosphere”. The organization says its report, released… Continue reading Human, economic, environmental toll of climate change on the rise: WMO

Antonio Guterres was addressing via videolink, the fourth meeting of the Major Economies Forum, convened by the United States President Joe Biden, which is designed to galvanize efforts to keep the global temperature rise of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, within reach – in line with the Paris Agreement. Biggest coffers, biggest emitters “You are the… Continue reading Current climate polices ‘a death sentence’ for the world, warns Guterres

The meeting took place amid reports that a 24-hour ceasefire between rival forces, which began on Wednesday evening, appeared to be holding in the capital, Khartoum, according to media reports.  Clashes between the Sudanese armed forces and the paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) – who are at odds over the return to civilian… Continue reading UN reiterates appeal for end to Sudan crisis

The UN chief spoke earlier in the day to President William Ruto of Kenya and with the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, Moussa Faki.  Mr. Guterres will attend a virtual meeting on Sudan on Thursday, bringing together the AU Chairperson, the Secretary-General of the Arab League, the Executive Secretary of the East African… Continue reading UN, African and Arab leaders to hold virtual talks on Sudan crisis

19 April 2023Humanitarian Aid UN humanitarians have reached nearly two million Ukrainians whose lives have been impacted by Russia’s ongoing invasion with multi-purpose cash assistance in just the first three months of 2023, the UN Spokesperson said on Wednesday. Stéphane Dujarric described the direct transfer of money, mostly to those who have been displaced and… Continue reading Nearly 2 million Ukrainians provided with crucial cash assistance

The region is plagued by violence emanating largely from multiple armed groups, including the rebel M23 force, which has been fighting a major campaign against Government troops, who are backed by the UN mission there known by its French acronym, MONUSCO, as part if its vital protection-of-civilians mandate. Hundreds of civilians have been killed at… Continue reading ‘Fragile ceasefire’ holds in eastern DR Congo, Security Council hears

For the first time in the Sahel, 45,000 people are at risk of experiencing catastrophic levels of hunger, or one step away from famine, they said.  The majority, 42,000, are in Burkina Faso and Mali, where violent unrest in some areas has hampered the delivery of humanitarian aid.   The combined effects of conflict, climate… Continue reading West Africa and Sahel: Food insecurity, malnutrition, set to reach 10-year high

“There has been a new dynamic in Libya,” Abdoulaye Bathily said, urging authorities to meet the people’s expectation that they will be able to choose new leaders via the ballot box, and deliver on all their commitments. “All international partners should support the current momentum and speak with one voice on Libyan matters.” “Intensive consultations… Continue reading Libya’s ‘new dynamic’: Bathily calls on partners to support momentum

18 April 2023Human Rights The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, on Tuesday called for an immediate end to the hostilities in Sudan and pleaded for the opposing sides in the military power struggle to return to the negotiating table, as reports emerged of a proposed 24-hour pause in the fighting.  “Sudan has… Continue reading Sudan: UN rights chief calls for a return to talks, amid reports of 24-hour pause

12 October 2019Climate and Environment Saturday marks World Migratory Bird Day which, this year, is raising awareness about the serious threats that plastic pollution poses to bird life, with a call for urgent measures to end the problem.  These include getting caught up in fishing gear and other plastic debris; confusing plastic waste with food and… Continue reading World Migratory Bird Day highlights deadly risks of plastic pollution

23 September 2019Climate and Environment UN Secretary-General warned leaders not to come to his landmark Climate Action Summit with beautiful speeches, but to present concrete plans for cutting harmful greenhouse gas emissions, and strategies for carbon neutrality by 2050. So what, exactly, was promised at Monday’s all-day event at UN Headquarters in New York? Country… Continue reading Actions not words: what was promised at the UN’s landmark climate summit?

The eyes of all future generations are upon you, and if you choose to fail us, I say, we will never forgive you. Greta Thunberg, Climate Activist She added, bluntly, “you are failing us, But the young people are starting to understand your betrayal. The eyes of all future generations are upon you, and if… Continue reading Greta Thunberg tells world leaders ‘you are failing us’, as nations announce fresh climate action

The landmark new report, which will be presented to the UN Climate Action Summit, underlines the glaring – and growing – gap between agreed targets to tackle global warming and the actual reality. Compiled by the UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the report, United in Science, includes details on the state of the climate and… Continue reading Ahead of UN summit, leading scientists warn climate change ‘hitting harder and sooner’ than forecast

“We have been waiting for you!” Jayathma Wickramanayake, the UN Youth Envoy, said, welcoming the boisterous crowd of young climate leaders, who made it clear from the very start of the day-long event that global political leaders are now on notice: they must make radical changes to shift the world away from fossil fuels and… Continue reading At UN, youth activists press for bold action on climate emergency, vow to hold leaders accountable at the ballot box

20 September 2019Climate and Environment Staff at UN Headquarters in New York joined untold numbers of students, scientists, organized labour, and everyday people worldwide, who took to the streets on Friday, demanding action to address climate change. The global climate strike was inspired by weekly demonstrations held by the Swedish teen activist Greta Thunberg, and… Continue reading UN staff support youth-driven global action on climate crisis

Young activists, innovators, entrepreneurs and change-makers are due to gather at UN headquarters in New York at the Youth Climate Summit on Saturday 21 September to put pressure on global leaders to take action to prevent climate change. Ms. Wickramanayake will be there, and UN News asked her why young people are so important to… Continue reading World’s 1.8 billion youth must ‘have a say in the future of the planet’

World leaders will be gathering at the United Nations in New York next week at a Climate Action Summit convened by the UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Ms. Andersen will be there to promote the idea of nature-based solutions to combatting climate change. UNEP is supporting one of the nine summit action tracks designated by… Continue reading Nature ‘one of most effective ways’ of combatting climate change

Ms. Sharif will be joining world leaders at United Nations headquarters in New York next week at the Climate Action Summit convened by the UN Secretary-General António Guterres. UN-Habitat is supporting one of the nine action tracks designated by the Secretary-General “Infrastructure, Cities and Local Action” under the leadership of the Governments of Kenya and Turkey. UN News… Continue reading Cities: a ’cause of and solution to’ climate change

“We know why tackling climate change is important”, said Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed on Wednesday. “The devastation wreaked by Dorian on the Bahamas, what the Secretary-General called a Category Hell hurricane, is a glimpse into one aspect of a future powered by climate change – a future with super storms that grow in intensity and… Continue reading New UN report launched to help ratchet up action to combat climate crisis

For UN Secretary-General António Guterres, there is no time to lose in the face of climate change, rising inequality, increasing hatred and intolerance; and what he described as an “alarming” number of peace and security challenges. “The biggest challenge that leaders and institutions face is to show people we care – and to mobilize solutions… Continue reading UN summits to urge ‘ambition and action’ on climate change, sustainable development: Guterres

Heads of State, representatives from the private sector, and the teenage activist Greta Thunberg are expected in New York to tackle what the UN considers the defining issue of our time. Amina J. Mohammed, the UN Deputy Secretary-General, outlined some of the expectations during a press conference on Tuesday. “The Summit will present practical and… Continue reading UN climate summit aims to speed up transition to cleaner, greener future

16 September 2019Climate and Environment At the current momentum, scientists predict the planet’s protective shield of gas – or ozone layer as we know it – will be completely healed as far as some regions of the planet are concerned, by the 2030’s, the UN’s environmental agency (UNEP) revealed on Monday. The phaseout of controlled… Continue reading Ozone on track to heal completely in our lifetime, UN environment agency declares on World Day.

Ozone on track to heal completely in our lifetime, UN environment agency declares on World Day At the current momentum, scientists predict the planet’s protective shield of gas – or ozone layer as we know it – will be completely healed as far as some regions of the planet are concerned, by the 2030’s, the… Continue reading Monday’s Daily Brief: Ozone layer heals, ‘regional conflagration’ risk rises over oilfield attacks, South Sudan update, Myanmar genocide threat remains

Dorian was “Category Hell”, said Secretary-General António Guterres, “but he was not powered by a devil. We have always had many hurricanes, but now they are more intense, and more frequent, and they are powered by climate change.”  He said it was key for the international community to learn two things from the monster storm… Continue reading In The Bahamas, Guterres sees impact of ‘Category Hell’ hurricane, ‘powered by climate change’ 

13 September 2019Climate and Environment A major UN conference on fighting desertification agreed on Friday to make the Sustainable Development Goal target of achieving “land degradation neutrality” (LDN), a national target for action. The Governments which are party to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), met in the Indian capital of New Delhi over… Continue reading Delhi Declaration: Countries agree to make ‘land degradation neutrality’ by 2030, a national target for action

UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued the charge on Friday during a visit to The Bahamas, which continues to reel from the onslaught of Hurricane Dorian. UN agencies are on the ground to support relief efforts in the affected islands of Abaco and Grand Bahama. Speaking to journalists in the capital, Nassau, the UN chief expressed… Continue reading In visit to hurricane-ravaged Bahamas, UN chief calls for greater action to address climate change

Around three years ago, the global community gathered in Paris in order to build a common approach to fighting climate change. They agreed to make efforts to restrict the rise in global temperatures to “well below”  2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and, if possible, reach 1.5 degrees Celsius. However, in July of this year… Continue reading Is the world living up to its climate commitments?

The UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)’s Commodities and Development Report 2019, maintains that diversification could be either “horizontal”, meaning venturing into new goods and sectors to reduce dependence on a narrow range of commodities – or vertical, which involves increasing a commodity’s value. UNCTD Secretary-General Mukhisa Kituyi (2019) by UN News Kiswahili/ Patrick Newman “The climate crisis…will… Continue reading Climate crisis could see ‘collapse’ of some economies without diversification, warns UN trade chief

In a direct appeal to the forum’s 47 Member States to unite to tackle climate change, Michelle Bachelet insisted that every region of the world stands to be affected. In the short-term, however, the worst effects of the fires and “drastic acceleration of deforestation” in Bolivia, Paraguay and Brazil were on the families living in… Continue reading We are ‘burning up our future’, UN’s Bachelet tells Human Rights Council

“We certainly expect the death toll to rise, I can’t tell you what that would be, but we’re really worried about it,” Dr. Ian Norton, Manager of the World Health (WHO) Emergency Medical Teams Initiative, told journalists in Geneva. In the eye of the storm, you either drown, or survive “What we’ve seen unfortunately in this… Continue reading Hurricane Dorian: Bahamas death toll expected to rise as thousands remain missing

6 September 2019Climate and Environment The urgent need to move towards a low carbon economy and build resilience, would not only mitigate the worst impacts of climate change in the Asia-Pacific, but also lift the region economically, according to the body overseeing the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). As Asia-Pacific Climate Week (APCW 2019)… Continue reading Mitigating climate change in Asia-Pacific could give region an economic boost

6 September 2019Climate and Environment Investing in land restoration could not only help keep our planet healthy, but also be the starting point for resolving some of the biggest issues of our time, the head of the UN entity tackling desertification told journalists on Friday via video conference, from the ongoing global summit on the issue, underway in India’s… Continue reading Restore land to save the planet, boost the economy, says head of UN body combating desertification

Restore land to save the planet, boost the economy, says UN expert Investing in land restoration could not only help keep our planet healthy, but also be the starting point for resolving some of the biggest issues of our time, the head of the UN entity tackling desertification told journalists on Friday via video conference, from the… Continue reading Friday’s Daily Brief: Desertification summit, Dorian death toll rising, UN project eases Mali tensions, Yemen funding crisis, hope for Cameroon

Briefing journalists one year since she took office, High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, appealed for greater international cooperation. In our increasingly interconnected world, human rights violations in one part of the planet can have serious repercussions on another, she maintained. “We have seen this with large numbers of people fleeing their countries due… Continue reading Human rights are everyone’s business, amid relentless crises around world: UN’s Bachelet

Briefing journalists in Geneva, Jens Laerke from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that initial assessments from Grand Bahama and the Abaco Islands – where the storm made landfall and is effectively stationary as of Tuesday morning, local time – were “rather catastrophic”. He added: “As we heard, it made… Continue reading UN ‘prioritizing needs’, ramping up aid, as Hurricane Dorian continues to batter the Bahamas

3 September 2019Climate and Environment Somalia’s 2019 cereal harvest is the poorest the country has seen since 2011, when famine strained already scarce resources, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), announced on Tuesday, blaming unreliable weather patterns and “climatic shocks”. Delayed rains during what is known as the “Gu” peak season for crop growing (April-June), and parched river beds, have produced… Continue reading Somalia: worst harvest since 2011, with more than 2 million expected to go hungry

2 September 2019Climate and Environment Subsistence farmers in Ghana are learning how to hold back the decline in the fertility of the smallholdings they cultivate while revitalizing their soils as desertification increasingly threatens their land and livelihoods.  An increase in the population in the West African country has put more pressure on agricultural lands resulting in the clearing of forests and woodlands, a development which is hastening… Continue reading FROM THE FIELD: Restoring life to Ghana’s land

30 August 2019Climate and Environment Two days after disembarking from her carbon-free yacht in New York, teen climate activist Greta Thunberg paid a visit to UN Headquarters on Friday, after joining participants of her global climate strike movement, Fridays for Future, at the Organization’s gates. The 16-year-old and two other teens got a preview of the… Continue reading Activist Greta Thunberg gets preview of UNHQ ahead of climate summit

29 August 2019Climate and Environment “Little undermines development like disaster,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres told attendees at a thematic session on Africa and climate change, on day two of the Tokyo international Conference on African Development (TICAD), now in its seventh year. “Decades of sustainable development gains can be wiped out overnight,” he lamented in Yokohama, citing… Continue reading Decades of progress ‘can be wiped out overnight,’ UN chief laments at climate session in Yokohama

“Diplomacy, not isolation, is the only way forward,” the senior official from the Department of Peace Operations said. “The lack of unity and action in the Security Council does little to slow the negative trajectory on the Korean Peninsula.” The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), more commonly known as North Korea, “is unconstrained, and… Continue reading Diplomacy, not isolation, must reverse ‘negative trajectory’ on Korean Peninsula

“One year on since the parties agreed to a truce under UN auspices, Yemen is again at a critical juncture,” he said, speaking via videoconference.  “I believe we have not seen such a serious opportunity for making progress towards ending the conflict in eight years. But the tide could still turn unless the parties take… Continue reading Yemen at ‘critical juncture’ in bid to end eight-year war: UN Special Envoy

16 April 2023Humanitarian Aid The World Food Programme (WFP) has temporarily halted all operations, as a result of the fighting between rival military groups in Sudan, which led to the deaths of three WFP employees on Saturday. According to a statement attributable to the Executive Director of the UN agency, Cindy McCain, the workers were… Continue reading WFP chief puts hold on Sudan aid operations, following death of 3 staff in unrest

16 April 2023Humanitarian Aid Haiti’s population is being held hostage to brutality and gang violence, according to a report from the UN humanitarian office (OCHA), which contains harrowing testimony from a country seemingly in freefall. Artwork from Francisco Silva, featured in a UN humanitarian report on Haiti. The 2023 Humanitarian Needs Overview (HNO) for Haiti describes… Continue reading From the Field: Haiti’s ‘hostage population’ struggle to survive

15 April 2023Peace and Security Following an outbreak of armed fighting in the Sudanese capital, Khartoum, on Saturday, the head of the UN Mission in the country has issued a statement strongly condemning the violence, and other senior officials are voicing concern. The statement was released on Saturday by Volker Perthes, the Special Representative of… Continue reading Fighting between Sudan military forces strongly condemned by senior UN official

A toddler’s dress, and a five-year-old’s dress and sweater. Washed, cleaned, but still stained with blood. These are the personal items that Immaculée Songa donated to “Stories of Survival and Remembrance -​ A call to action for genocide prevention,” currently on show at UN Headquarters, along with a photo album, showing her daughters, Raissa and… Continue reading First Person: Keeping memories of Rwandan genocide victims alive

UN Secretary-General António Guterres noted that the gathering was taking place at a unique moment:  on the last Friday of Ramadan, as Christians celebrate Easter, Jews mark the end of Passover, and Sikhs enjoy the festival of Vaisakhi.    “Even the calendar is sending a message of unity,” he remarked.   “Today, at this blessed… Continue reading Religious leaders join UN in praying for peace – ‘our most precious goal’

“We are together to mourn the more than one million children, women, and men who perished in 100 days of horror 29 years ago,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. “We pay tribute to the resilience of the survivors [and] recognize the journey of the Rwandan people towards healing, restoration, and reconciliation. And we remember –… Continue reading ‘It can happen anywhere’: General Assembly reflects on Rwandan genocide

14 April 2023Peace and Security Nearly a decade after Boko Haram militants abducted 276 schoolgirls from their dormitory in Chibok, northeast Nigeria, 96 remain in captivity, the UN children’s agency UNICEF said on Friday.  Meanwhile, thousands more girls and boys have been subjected to grave violations amid ongoing conflict in the region, UNICEF added, underscoring… Continue reading Conflict in NE Nigeria still affects children 9 years after Chibok girls ‘nightmare’: UNICEF

14 April 2023Humanitarian Aid The UN and partners are appealing for $720 million to support more than three million people in Haiti, where gangs, hunger, and cholera have plunged nearly half the population into humanitarian need.  The 2023 funding appeal is the largest for the Caribbean country since the devastating 2010 earthquake and more than… Continue reading Haiti: $720 million plan to support millions facing gangs, hunger and cholera

“There has been an ongoing and unchecked tragedy: the forced eviction of Palestinians from their homes,” they said in a joint statement.  “Israel’s transfer of its own population into the occupied territory confirms a deliberate intention to colonize the territory it occupies, a practice strictly prohibited by international humanitarian law,” they said. “It amounts to… Continue reading UN independent experts spotlight ‘prima facie war crime’ in East Jerusalem

“Somalia faces many challenges, but in the spirit of Ramadan, I also bring a message of hope and renewal – the United Nations stands in solidarity with the Somali people. “Let us come together to advance peace and security, sustainable development and human rights – and build a better future for all Somalis,” the UN… Continue reading Guterres delivers message of ‘hope and renewal’ for Somalia

Military aircraft dropped bombs and fired on a crowd of people in Kanbulu Township, located in Sagaing Region, who had gathered that morning for the opening of a new town hall, according to media reports.  Guterres condemns attack  UN Secretary-General António Guterres strongly condemned the attack and called for those responsible to be held accountable,… Continue reading Myanmar: UN condemns deadly military airstrike on crowd of civilians

“I am also here to ring the alarm on the need of massive international support,  because of the humanitarian difficulties the country is facing, massive humanitarian support in relation to the build-up of a security capacity of Somalia, and massive humanitarian support in stabilisation and development of the country,” Secretary-General António Guterres said in the… Continue reading On surprise visit to Mogadishu, UN chief urges ‘massive international support’ for Somalia

“Emanating from any arms transfer is the inherent risk of diversion of the equipment to unauthorized end users,” said Izumi Nakamitsu, UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs. Addressing the Council during the first open meeting of Russia’s month-long presidency – and during which many delegates referenced the ongoing conflict in Ukraine – she emphasized that… Continue reading International system crucial to countering threat of weapons diversion, Security Council hears

The 2016 peace deal between the authorities and the FARC-EP militia group ended five decades of conflict, and the report is the first to cover verification of its chapters on comprehensive rural reform and ethnic issues, in line with a Security Council resolution adopted in January.  The report spans the period from late December to… Continue reading Curbing ‘expressions of violence’ a key to peace in Colombia: Guterres

10 April 2023Peace and Security Talks between Saudi and Omani delegations with officials from the Houthi rebel movement in Yemen’s capital Sana’a over the weekend, were described as “a welcome step towards the de-escalation in tensions”, by the UN Spokesperson on Monday. Stéphane Dujarric was responding to questions from correspondents at the regular noon briefing… Continue reading Yemen: UN says Saudi-Houthi talks in Sana’a ‘a welcome step’

According to news reports, as yet unidentified militants fired a barrage of rockets across the border, forcing Israeli civilians to seek shelter, and wounding at least two people. Avoid unilateral action “Concerning the situation between Lebanon and Israel, I can tell you that we condemn the multiple rockets being fired from Lebanon into northern Israel today”,… Continue reading Tensions mount in Middle East as UN reiterates need for ‘maximum restraint’

5 April 2023Migrants and Refugees The UN chief has called for people of faith worldwide to “join their voices in a common prayer for peace”, as the holy festivals of Ramadan, Easter and Passover coincide this week. Secretary-General António Guterres issued his plea for peace acknowledging that it is “dramatically lacking” in many parts of the world,… Continue reading Guterres calls for world ‘united in peace’ as Ramadan, Easter, Passover coincide

5 April 2023Peace and Security UN Middle East envoy Tor Wennesland on Wednesday appealed for Israeli and Palestinian leaders to exercise restraint following the latest violence surrounding a holy site in Jerusalem.   Israeli forces stormed Al-Aqsa mosque, also commonly known as al-Qibli mosque, overnight, arresting more than 350 people, according to media reports.    The… Continue reading Israel-Palestine: UN calls for restraint following violence at Al-Aqsa mosque

The appeal comes in the latest report by the UN Committee on Enforced Disappearances, which visited the country in November.  The report examines five “waves of disappearance” in Iraq, including enforced disappearance. It covers the period starting with the Ba’ath era from 1968-2003 – characterized by the authoritarian rule of Saddam Hussein – through to… Continue reading Iraq: Rights experts call for new laws to end ‘waves of disappearance’

“Since the escalation of the war, at least 501 children have been killed,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. “This is another tragic milestone for Ukraine’s children and families.” OHCHR’s latest update recorded 765 civilian casualties in Ukraine, from 1 to 31 March, which included 178 deaths and 587 injuries. Since the invasion on 24… Continue reading Child deaths hit ‘tragic milestone’ in Ukraine

3 April 2023Climate and Environment The global transition to renewable energy will require greater investment in integrated weather and climate services, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Monday.  This investment is critical, including to ensure that energy infrastructure is resilient to climate-related shocks, and to harness the power of energy generated from sources such… Continue reading WMO calls for more investment in integrated weather and climate services

“For the millions living amidst the chaos of armed conflicts, especially women and children, every step can put them in danger’s path, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said, in a message for the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, observed on 4 April. Why mine action cannot wait The international day’s theme… Continue reading Mine Action Week: ‘Peace brings no assurance of safety’

“Libyan authorities, armed groups, smugglers, and human traffickers should not assume that the eyes of the international community have now left Libya,” UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk said. “It is crucial that we redouble efforts to secure accountability for past violations and continue to monitor the reality on the ground to prevent… Continue reading New mechanism must track and tackle ‘gross’ violations in Libya

The report by the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan details how perpetrators of the most serious crimes – including widespread attacks against civilians and extrajudicial killings – go unpunished, with senior Government officials and military implicated in serious violations.  “Over several years, our findings have consistently shown that impunity for serious crimes… Continue reading Impunity driving violence in South Sudan, UN rights commission says

Born into peace but maimed by a weapon of war Two deminers work to decontaminate the land in Bunia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. “Minga had never owned a toy. In her village, in Angola, children often made do with sticks or broken wheels – but this was something different. It was green, metal… Continue reading The deadly legacy of landmines

“The risk of a nuclear weapon being used is currently higher than at any time since the depths of the cold war,” said Izumi Nakamitsu, UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs. “The war in Ukraine represents the most acute example of that risk.” The Security Council met on the heels of President Vladimir Putin’s announcement… Continue reading Top UN official urgently calls for de-escalating nuclear tensions over Belarus

Children in conflict zones must be protected, not punished, said the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child, together with Fionnuala Ní Aoláin, UN Special Rapporteur on the protection and promotion of human rights while countering terrorism, in a joint statement. “It is now time to bring them home,” they said. “Many children are… Continue reading ‘Bring them home’: UN experts call for repatriating detained Syria children

“A more gender-responsive mission builds trust with the communities they serve and improves its effectiveness,” said UN Women’s Executive Director Sima Bahous at the start of the event. She also highlighted the vital role women play in today’s multifaceted peacekeeping missions and stressed the need to ensure the equal participation of women. The Fund was… Continue reading Women in peacekeeping: UN Fund calls for new ideas and investment

Aware of the worsening situation involving multiple armed groups clashing with Government forces, and each other, a Security Council delegation visited the DRC earlier this month in solidarity with the people of DRC, and to mobilize the United Nations peacekeeping and humanitarian operations in the face of security, electoral and structural challenges. Abuses by militia… Continue reading DR Congo: Security Council warned of ‘considerable’ deterioration in restive east

The resolution was put forward by the cyclone-battered Pacific Island nation of Vanuatu, supported by a “core group” of 17 countries from various regions, and is focused on the adverse impacts of climate change on small island developing States as well as climate justice.  The ICJ, also known as the world court, is the UN’s… Continue reading General Assembly votes to seek world court’s opinion, in quest for ‘bolder’ climate action

28 March 2023Human Rights Top UN officials called for creating a new institution to help locate tens of thousands of missing Syrians and bring peace to their families, as the General Assembly debated on Tuesday the human rights situation in the country. Entering its 13th year of brutal civil war and scrambling to recover from… Continue reading UN chief calls for new tool to find 100,000 ‘disappeared’ Syrians

Leaders from across the continent joined ambassadors in examining how to counter terrorism and better prevent violent extremism through stronger cooperation between the UN and regional organizations.  The debate was chaired by President Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique. The country, which holds the rotating Security Council presidency this month, has been battling a deadly insurgency in… Continue reading UN underlines support for Africa’s fight against terrorism

Some 13 months of often brutal fighting and attacks on civilians since Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine began, have left millions displaced, with key civilian infrastructure in need of urgent protection. Ensuring nuclear safety Touring the area around Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant, Rafael Mariano Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) met with… Continue reading Ukraine: End war so children can ‘regain their childhoods’

27 March 2023SDGs UN food and atomic energy agencies are readying to reap the rewards of a ground-breaking ‘astrobotany’ investigation, announcing on Monday that seeds sent to space in 2022 are now poised to return to Earth. “This is science that could have a real impact on people’s lives in the not-too-distant future, by helping… Continue reading Cosmic crops poised for harvest on Earth

27 March 2023Health UN agency chiefs issued a call on Monday for global action to balance and optimize the health of people, animals and the environment, as part of a new “One Health” approach. The heads of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the… Continue reading Holistic approach urgent for health of people, animals and environment

In the case of State security forces, human rights violations were committed to quash dissent and exploit vulnerable migrants, with no justice in sight, according to the latest report, from the Independent Fact-Finding Mission (FFM) on Libya. It documents the “widespread practice” of arbitrary detention, murder, torture, rape, enslavement and enforced disappearance in the country. In addition,… Continue reading Libya: Crimes against humanity committed since 2016 – rights probe

Known by her nickname, Ega was one of 15 women selected to participate in the UN Development Programme-supported Perempuan Inspiratif Mitra Polhut (Inspiring Women to Partner with Forest Rangers) initiative, which aims to protect the Bogani Nani Wartabone National Park and provide opportunities to nearby communities. Fadlun Arrayan Bonde (Ega) “I have always been passionate… Continue reading First Person: The Indonesian power ranger

The Agenda sets out a series of action-oriented game changing commitments, from making smarter food choices to re-evaluating water as a powerful economic driver, and part of the Earth’s cultural heritage. Water-secure future for all The conference, and its 2,000 participants, forged an “ambitious vision”, the UN Secretary-General António Guterres said. “Your dedication to action… Continue reading New agenda sets sail with bold action as UN Water Conference closes

“The international armed conflict has led to a wide range of human rights violations affecting both civilians and combatants”, the executive summary states, adding that the Office has “verified numerous allegations of arbitrary deprivation of life, arbitrary detention and enforced disappearance, torture and ill-treatment, and conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV).” During the reporting period, a total of 5,987 civilian… Continue reading Human rights in Ukraine still ‘dire’ amid wide-ranging violations: OHCHR

During the UN Water Conference, held at UN Headquarters between 22-24 March, Two countries joined the Convention, against the backdrop of a growing global water crisis, in which climate change, pollution, and rising demand are posing challenges for developing and developed countries alike. On Thursday Nigeria became the 48h country to join the treaty. The… Continue reading UN Water Conference: reducing cross-border tensions

24 March 2023Humanitarian Aid Without urgent action, millions in Yemen could face ever greater risks of hunger and malnourishment, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warned on Friday. Eight brutal years of conflict have left around 11 million children in need of humanitarian assistance and many of their families facing serious malnourishment. “The lives of millions… Continue reading UNICEF calls for urgent support to save millions from desperate hunger in Yemen

A worldwide network of water analysis laboratories and a tool to foster collective national level action to improve coordination on water management, were among the commitments announced on Thursday by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on the margins of the UN 2023 Conference, which has been… Continue reading UN’s nuclear agency and food and agriculture wing announce key commitments to tackle global water crisis

War-torn Syria and neighbouring Türkiye were rocked by twin earthquakes on 6 February, which killed more than 56,000 people and caused widespread destruction, displacing millions.   “The situation today is so unprecedented that it calls for leadership, bold ideas and a cooperative spirit,” said Mr. Pedersen, speaking via videoconference from Geneva.  “A political solution is… Continue reading Deadly Syria earthquake provides chance to move forward: UN envoy

UN Secretary-General António Guterres (left), is participating in a meeting with the Heads of State and Government of the European Union in Brussels, Belgium. 23 March 2023UN Affairs UN Secretary-General António Guterres attended an EU summit in Brussels on Thursday, seeking support for action on climate change, sustainable development and addressing the ongoing challenges linked… Continue reading UN chief calls on EU to help world get ‘back on track’

23 March 2023Climate and Environment Humanity is facing a “difficult truth” the UN chief said just ahead of World Meteorological Day, marked on Friday – the damage already being caused by climate change is “making our planet uninhabitable.” He laid down the challenge to governments worldwide, to make 2023 a year of “transformation, not tinkering” when it… Continue reading Climate change making Earth ‘uninhabitable’ Guterres warns

22 March 2023SDGs Glaciers are “critical to all life on Earth”, the UN chief reminded the UN 2023 Water Conference on Wednesday, warning that unless the rise in sea level due to global warming is reversed, “the consequences will be catastrophic.” Secretary-General António Guterres told a conference side event dedicated to the issue of preserving the world’s glaciers that new… Continue reading Guterres warns of ‘catastrophic’ consequences of a world without glaciers

Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo was speaking on Wednesday at a meeting at UN Headquarters to draw attention to the widening financing gap at the year-old operation. “Despite initial generous donor support, contributions have significantly declined, leaving the mission in a dire financial situation,” she said.  Contributing to progress  ATMIS builds on the work of a previous… Continue reading Funding for African Union Somalia mission critical to security: UN political chief

“This should be a period for safe and peaceful religious reflection and celebration for all,” said Tor Wennesland, the UN’s Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process. Diplomatic engagement The Special Coordinator recalled that, on 26 February, senior officials from Jordan, Egypt, Israel, Palestine and the United States met in Aqaba, Jordan, to reaffirm… Continue reading Crystalize recent diplomatic shifts, top UN envoy urges Israelis, Palestinians

21 March 2023Climate and Environment On the morning of the 2023 UN Water Conference, ultra-marathon runner Mina Guli has completed a year-long, campaign to run 200 marathons, raising awareness of the world’s water crisis. She completed her last run at UN Headquarters, the location of the major event, the first of its kind in almost… Continue reading Running towards a global water solution

Launched ahead of the UN 2023 Water Conference, the new edition of the UN World Water Development Report focuses on twin themes of partnerships and cooperation. Published by the UN Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the report highlights collaborative ways actors can work together to overcome common challenges. “There is an urgent need to… Continue reading Flagship UN report extolls win-win water partnerships to avert global crisis

21 March 2023Climate and Environment A global initiative launched by the UN Secretary-General to ensure that all countries are protected by early warning systems, by 2027, is being fast-tracked into action on the ground, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Tuesday. UN chief António Guterres convened an Advisory Panel of top UN agency officials… Continue reading Extreme weather: UN global early warning initiative ‘fast-tracked into action’

21 March 2023Climate and Environment Six months after catastrophic floods struck Pakistan, more than 10 million people, including children, still lack access to safe drinking water, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said on Tuesday. The crisis has left families in the flood-affected areas with no choice but to use potentially contaminated water. “Safe drinking water… Continue reading Pakistan: 10 million deprived of safe drinking water in flood-affected areas

“We are gravely concerned that extreme violence continues to spiral out of control in Haiti,” said Marta Hurtado, spokesperson for UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), Volker Türk. In the first two weeks of March alone, clashes among gangs left at least 208 dead, 164 injured, and 101 kidnapped. Mirroring those grave concerns, UN… Continue reading Haiti: Deploy specialized force to take down gang violence, UN rights chief

Covering 31 per cent of Earth’s land and providing a home to 80 per cent of all land-based species, forests are crucial to human health and well-being, but their loss across the planet is threatening people everywhere. Here are five things you need to know about the age-old and ever-growing interlinked relationship between forests and… Continue reading Healthy forests, healthy planet, healthy humans

Called “Peace begins with me” the poem pays tribute to the strength and resilience of communities affected by conflict as well as those who help them rebuild their lives and livelihoods. It is a reminder of our responsibility to promote peace in our communities, countries and across the world – a conviction that has driven more… Continue reading Young poets lend their talents to promote peace, marking the 75th anniversary of UN peacekeeping

“For hundreds of Yemeni families, today is a good day,” Special Envoy Hans Grundberg told reporters at a press conference in Switzerland. “Today, hundreds of Yemeni families can look forward to reuniting with their loved ones.” The Supervisory Committee on the Implementation of the Detainees’ Exchange Agreement concluded the latest round of talks with several… Continue reading Yemen: Fresh negotiations conclude with release of 887 prisoners

20 March 2023Peace and Security The parties to a watershed political agreement in Sudan – signed in December 2022 – have launched a fresh round of consultations on key challenges facing the country, the senior UN official in Khartoum told the Security Council on Monday, citing several important breakthroughs that have already emerged from that… Continue reading Sudan holds massive political ‘workshops’, embarks on new transition phase, Security Council hears

UN agencies on Monday were scrambling to reach millions affected by the deadly tropical cyclone Freddy, which has worsened cholera outbreaks in Malawi and Mozambique as communities recover from devastating damages caused by storms, massive flooding, and mudslides.

20 March 2023Humanitarian Aid Humanitarians have strongly condemned the latest deadly assault on aid workers in South Sudan, urging the Government to step up security and bring those responsible to justice.  The appeal comes after a convoy of more than 100 trucks transporting food and other assistance was ambushed on Friday in Jonglei state.  Two… Continue reading South Sudan: Humanitarians call for justice after latest deadly attack

The study, “Climate Change 2023: Synthesis Report”, released on Monday following a week-long IPCC session in Interlaken, brings into sharp focus the losses and damages experienced now, and expected to continue into the future, which are hitting the most vulnerable people and ecosystems especially hard. Temperatures have already risen to 1.1 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial… Continue reading A liveable future for all is possible, if we take urgent climate action: flagship UN report

20 March 2023Peace and Security A Japanese initiative to colourize photos of Hiroshima survivors, taken before the war, has been hailed by the UN as a way to breathe new life into conversations about peace, and a world without nuclear weapons. Only a few survivors of the World War Two Hiroshima and Nagasaki nuclear bombings… Continue reading Rebooting memories of life before the nuclear devastation of Hiroshima

19 March 2023Climate and Environment A new analysis from the UN children’s agency, UNICEF, shows that some 190 million children in 10 African countries are at the highest risk from a convergence of three water-related threats – inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH); related diseases; and climate hazards. The study, released on Monday ahead of… Continue reading 190 million children at risk from water-related crises: UNICEF

In an ancient Peruvian folktale, a hummingbird fetches water to put out a forest fire, one drop at a time. The other animals look on and laugh at her. Then, the little bird replies, “I’m doing what I can.” The tale inspired UN-Water, which coordinates the world body’s work on water and sanitation, to launch… Continue reading Origami hummingbirds to make a splash at UN Water Conference

Water is at the core of sustainable development. It supports all aspects of life on Earth, and access to safe and clean water is a basic human right. However, decades of mismanagement and misuse have intensified water stress, threatening the many aspects of life that depend on this crucial resource. Clean water is essential to… Continue reading 5 Things You Should Know About the UN 2023 Water Conference

18 March 2023Peace and Security The Black Sea Grain Initiative, a UN-brokered deal aimed at supplying markets with food and fertilizer amid global shortages and rising prices, exacerbated by the Ukraine war, was extended on Saturday, the day it was due to expire. The announcement was made in a Note to Correspondents, released by the… Continue reading Black Sea Grain Initiative extended on deadline day

Martin Griffths, the UN Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, briefed ambassadors on the eve of the expiration of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which has allowed nearly 25 million metric tonnes of foodstuff from Ukraine to reach global markets.  The accord was signed in Türkiye in July 2022, in parallel with a Memorandum of… Continue reading Ukraine-Russia: Extension of grain export deals vital to global food security

Their role is to act as climate justice advisers and push for the acceleration of bold climate goals based on their diverse expertise and grassroots work, across the different countries they represent. The announcement was made as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) gathers in Switzerland to wrap up its crucial Synthesis Report, the… Continue reading Announcing new youth advisers, Guterres praises their ‘unrelenting’ drive for climate justice

17 March 2023Peace and Security The UN chief condemned on Friday the latest ballistic missile launch by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), calling on Pyongyang to resume dialogue leading towards sustainable peace and a nuclear weapons-free Korean Peninsula. Strongly condemning DPRK’s Thursday launch of an intercontinental-range missile, UN Secretary-General António Guterres reiterated his… Continue reading DPR Korea: UN chief strongly condemns ballistic missile launch

Overall levels of documented violent incidents rose by 27 per cent, from 714 recorded acts of violence in 2021, to 982 last year. 2022 was marked by three distinct surges of violence, the UNMISS report said: between April and May, in southern Unity State; between July and September, in Warrap State; and between August and December, in the… Continue reading South Sudan: Violence against civilians ticks up despite fall in attacks overall

“Brutal” armed conflict has left 10 million children in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger in need of humanitarian assistance – more than double the number in 2020, UNICEF warned in a new report. And hostilities spilling over into neighbouring countries, are putting an extra four million children at risk. “The conflict may not have clear boundaries, there… Continue reading Central Sahel: Lives of 10 million children on the line as conflict rages

“Our work is not done,” said Aleksander Zouev, Assistant-Secretary-General in the Department of Peace Operations told the UN Security Council. Providing members with a progress report, he cited gains made on implementing the UN Secretary-General’s bold vision for security sector reform outlined in his inaugural report on the issue, published in 2022. New plan and… Continue reading Security Council: Despite progress on reforming global security, ‘our work is not done’

According to the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, set up one year ago at the request of the Human Rights Council, Russian troops committed a “wide range” of violations across the country, many of which are war crimes. These included attacks with explosive weapons in populated areas, wilful killings of civilians, unlawful confinement, torture, rape… Continue reading Russia’s energy grid attacks, torture in Ukraine, could be crimes against humanity: UN rights probe

15 March 2023Peace and Security More than 100,000 people have been displaced, and dozens killed, following a string of armed group attacks in North Kivu province in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the UN reported on Wednesday.  Citing humanitarian sources, UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said more than 50,000 people displaced… Continue reading Attacks by armed groups displace more than 100,000 in DR Congo

“The truce can only be a stepping stone,” said Hans Grundberg, the UN’s Special Envoy for Yemen. Reiterating that short-term solutions and piecemeal approaches can only bring partial relief, he outlined a range of fresh diplomatic efforts currently underway to bring the conflict to a sustainable end. Truce holding, despite lapse The nearly decade-long conflict in Yemen – and the… Continue reading Diplomacy in Yemen reaches new pitch following year of relative calm, Security Council hears

14 March 2023Human Rights Some countries and private companies are using “counter-terrorism and security rhetoric” to justify a major increase in the deployment and use of cutting-edge surveillance technology, with no regulation, and at an “enormous cost” to human rights, said an independent UN expert on Tuesday. In a report to the latest session of the Human Rights Council,… Continue reading Counter-terrorism ‘rhetoric’ used to justify rise of surveillance technology: human rights expert

13 March 2023Peace and Security The UN chief on Monday confirmed the UN would “do everything possible to preserve the integrity” of the Black Sea Grain Initiative – the deal agreed between Ukraine and Russia last July that is due to expire in just a few days. Russia announced earlier that it would agree to… Continue reading UN stresses ‘full commitment’ to Ukraine grain deal as Russia offers 60-day extension

13 March 2023Climate and Environment World leaders need to listen to and act on solid scientific guidance to urgently reduce global warming, the UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in a video message at the opening of the new session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) on Monday. Underlining the “urgent need to end… Continue reading Sticking to ‘cold, hard’ climate facts can end global warming: Guterres

The Commission of Inquiry on Syria pointed to “failures that hindered the delivery of urgent and lifesaving aid” to the largely opposition-held northwest region, in the days after the 6 February quakes. Humanitarian assessments point to more than 7,000 people killed in Syria by the natural disaster. Rescue equipment lacking At a press conference in… Continue reading Syria rights investigators back calls for earthquake ‘failures’ probe

10 March 2023Peace and Security Support provided to Syria following the recent deadly earthquakes must be directed towards finding a political solution to the civil war, now entering its 12th year, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Friday.  “Now is the time for us to act in unison, to secure a nationwide ceasefire, advance the… Continue reading Syria: Guterres demands ‘renewed energy’ for peace as war enters 12th year

10 March 2023Humanitarian Aid A three-truck convoy of aid from UN agencies reached the Ukrainian town of Chasiv Yar on Friday, close to the most intense battle of the war on the eastern front, for the shattered city of Bakhmut. The UN aid coordination office, OCHA, said the humanitarian supplies had been off-loaded in Chasiv… Continue reading Ukraine: UN aid trucks reach frontline town of Chasiv Yar

The International Day was proclaimed following the unanimous adoption of an Assembly resolution last March that called for global dialogue that promotes tolerance, peace and respect for human rights and religious diversity.  As the UN Secretary-General stated, the nearly two billion Muslims worldwide – who come from all corners of the planet – “reflect humanity… Continue reading UN observes first International Day against Islamophobia

In a statement, the dozen experts said representatives from the Russian-owned mercenary outfit had been “offering pardons for criminal sentences to prisoners who join the group and take part in the war in Ukraine, as well as a monthly payment to their relatives”. The experts – members of the Working Group on the use of Mercenaries, the Working Group… Continue reading Rghts experts ‘deeply disturbed’ by Russian Wagner Group recruitment of prisoners

Renewed violent clashes between non-state armed groups and government forces have sparked the latest emergency, with 300,000 people forced to flee their homes in North Kivu Province in February alone. According to the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, another 20,000 fled at the start of the week and nearly 50,000 became displaced from the Kitchanga region in Masisi territory… Continue reading 300,000 flee ongoing violence in DR Congo in February alone: UNHCR

Pierre Vauthier is the chief of office for the FAO in Ukraine. He told UN News how the FAO team in the country – around 100 staff members, mostly Ukrainian specialists in agriculture-related areas – was dispersed throughout the country, in often difficult working conditions. “One of the difficulties we faced, once the war began,… Continue reading First Person: Vulnerable Ukrainian farmers plough a self-sufficient furrow

The FSO Safer has been moored off the west coast of Yemen for over three decades but has not been properly maintained since war erupted across the country in 2015 between Government forces, backed by a Saudi-led coalition, and Houthi rebels.  The decrepit ship has been described as a “time bomb” because it could leak,… Continue reading Vessel to remove oil from stricken Yemen tanker could arrive by May

This is the first time the site has lost all power since November 2022 – but the sixth time that all off-site power has been cut since the Russian invasion last February – IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said, in a statement to agency directors. The agency said late on Thursday that power had been restored after 11 tense… Continue reading Ukraine: IAEA chief slams ‘complacency’ over stricken Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant

8 March 2023Peace and Security In response to the latest violent unrest in the West Bank, the UN Middle East envoy has underlined the need for Israelis and Palestinians to exercise restraint to avoid further escalation.  “We are in the midst of a cycle of violence that must be stopped immediately,” Tor Wennesland said in… Continue reading Envoy ‘deeply disturbed’ by mounting violence between Israelis and Palestinians

António Guterres expressed “deep solidarity” with all of those who have become victims of the full-scale Russian invasion of February last year. Violation of the Charter “The position of the United Nations, which I have consistently expressed, is crystal clear: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a violation of the UN Charter and international law”, declared… Continue reading In Ukraine, Guterres pledges to keep seeking ‘solutions and a just peace’

Sima Bahous, Executive Director of UN Women, was speaking during a Council meeting to reaffirm the importance of Resolution 1325 on women, peace and security,  adopted in October 2000, and to take stock of implementation since it turned 20 nearly three years ago.  “As we meet today at the mid-point between the 20th and 25th anniversaries, on… Continue reading ‘Radical change of direction’ needed in women, peace and security agenda

7 March 2023Climate and Environment Tropical Cyclone Freddy – which is threatening communities in Madagascar and Mozambique for a second time in as many weeks – could become the longest-lasting storm of its kind on record, the World Meteorological Office (WMO) said on Tuesday.  WMO continues to monitor the “remarkable” tropical storm, which has cut… Continue reading Tropical Cyclone Freddy on track to become record-breaking storm

7 March 2023Health Malawi’s deadly cholera outbreak could worsen if – as expected – Tropical Cyclone Freddy triggers further heavy rainfall in the south of the country, UN humanitarians said on Tuesday. “Malawi is really experiencing the deadliest cholera outbreak in its recorded history – nothing less than that – and the country is also… Continue reading Tropical cyclone Freddy set to further weaken cholera-hit Malawi

In a statement released by his Spokesperson, António Guterres welcomed the international and regional efforts which took place last week, led by the President of Angola and African Union (AU) Champion for Peace and Reconciliation, João Lourenço, with the Mouvement du 23 Mars (M23). Eastern DRC is home to multiple armed groups, including the rebel M23 force, which has been… Continue reading DR Congo: Guterres urges M23 rebels to respect Tuesday ceasefire agreement

“We see 2023 as a ‘make or break’ year and as a test for all parties on the peace agreement,”said Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). Briefing the Council on the UN Secretary-General’s latest report on South Sudan, he offered a priority action… Continue reading South Sudan faces ‘make or break’ year on road to lasting peace

6 March 2023Human Rights The human rights situation in Eritrea remains dire against of backdrop of “complete” impunity for State security and defence forces, the UN’s deputy human rights chief said on Monday. Addressing the Human Rights Council, Nada Al-Nashif warned that serious violations of people’s basic freedoms in Eritrea have continued “and show no sign of improvement”.… Continue reading Eritrea: human rights situation remains dire amid complete impunity

5 March 2023Law and Crime Prevention Secretary-General António Guterres has congratulated UN member countries for finalizing a text to ensure the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction, calling it a “breakthrough” after nearly two decades of talks.    “This action is a victory for multilateralism and for global efforts… Continue reading UN delegates reach historic agreement on protecting marine biodiversity in international waters

“I urge decision-makers and people on all sides to give effect to the recommendations of our reports and to step back from the precipice to which increasing extremism and violence have led,” said Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), after presenting the Council with his latest annual report on the situation.… Continue reading Occupation ‘eating away’ at Israeli, Palestinian societies: Türk

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, tens of thousands of people have been killed and maimed on Ukrainian soil, many Ukrainian cities have been reduced to rubble, and their inhabitants forced to flee; UN investigations have found evidence of war crimes. Throughout the year, UN staff have continued to provide humanitarian… Continue reading The UN and Ukraine: year-long war spreads global fallout

3 March 2023Peace and Security Increasingly sophisticated and high-calibre firearms and ammunition are being trafficked into Haiti, fuelling an ongoing surge of gang violence that has plagued residents for months, according to a new UN assessment released on Thursday. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) report, Haiti’s criminal markets: mapping trends in firearms… Continue reading Haiti: Surge in gun trafficking fuels spike in gang violence

“Continuous” violence, including the killing, arbitrary arrest, torture and enforced disappearance of opponents in Myanmar between 1 February 2022 and 31 January 2023, have left the country’s people desperate for outside help, OHCHR’s James Rodehaver said, unveiling the Office’s latest report on the crisis. “Despite all the challenges that they face, so far there has… Continue reading Myanmar: Tatmadaw army’s ‘scorched earth’ policy in spotlight

“One million species teeter on the brink of extinction, due to habitat destruction, fossil fuel pollution and the worsening climate crisis. We must end this war on nature,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned in his message for the Day.  The scores of species of fauna and flora under threat from human activities include some that… Continue reading To save a million species, World Wildlife Day underscores crucial role of partnerships

2 March 2023Climate and Environment Niger announced on Thursday that it is to join a key UN water-sharing agreement with its Lake Chad neighbours in the increasingly drought-prone Sahel region. The development comes ahead of the UN water summit in New York next month, where countries will gather to find solutions to tensions caused by… Continue reading Niger joins crucial UN transboundary water-sharing accord

1 March 2023SDGs The United Nations on Wednesday called for more action to protect one of the most widespread and important marine ecosystems on the planet, marking the first ever commemoration of World Seagrass Day. Seagrasses are marine flowering plants that are found in shallow waters from the tropics to the Arctic Circle, covering over… Continue reading First-ever World Seagrass Day focuses on conservation

“I am here in a visit of solidarity to underscore the commitment of the United Nations to support Iraq in the consolidation of its democratic institutions and advancing peace, sustainable development and human rights for all Iraqis,” Mr. Guterres told journalists in Baghdad, after touching down late on Tuesday. After “decades of oppression, war, terrorism, sectarianism and foreign interference” in… Continue reading Guterres stresses UN commitment to Iraq during first visit in 6 years

The UN Emergency Coordinator and the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Syria called for robust support for ongoing emergency efforts and a “bold” plan for paving a political path towards lasting recovery and reconciliation. Race against time Briefing the 15-member body on the severity of humanitarian needs, Rasha Muhrez, Response Director at the international non-governmental organization… Continue reading UN officials call for Security Council’s support for post-quake Syria

Bringing together Governments, institutions, banks, businesses, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), youth, women, indigenous peoples and many other stakeholders from around the world, the UN 2023 Water Conference (22 to 24 March) will seek to find game-changing solutions to the multifaceted global crisis of ‘too much water’, such as storms and floods; ‘too little water’, such as… Continue reading INTERVIEW: Turn the tide on water crisis with game-changing commitments, urge co-hosts of UN conference

27 February 2023Human Rights Independent experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council on Monday welcomed Armenia’s commitment to combat the use of mercenaries and private security companies, following an eight-day mission to the country.  The members of the UN Working Group on the use of mercenaries also called for greater oversight by the Government… Continue reading Armenia: Rights experts commend laws to curb use of mercenaries

“The political process remains protracted and falls short of the aspirations of Libyans, who seek to elect their leaders and reinvigorate their political institutions,” said Abdoulaye Bathily, Special Representative for Libya and head of the UN’s political mission in the country, known as UNSMIL. “In short, Libyans are impatient,” he stressed, noting that they are… Continue reading Libya: Bathily proposes election support body, as public frustration mounts

Despite a six-month truce last year, widespread suffering persists mainly due to the deteriorating economy and the collapse of basic services.  UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the truce “delivered real dividends for people” following years of death, displacement, destruction, starvation and suffering. Funding and commitment  However, humanitarian needs continue to soar as more than 21… Continue reading UN and partners appeal for $4.3 billion for aid operations in Yemen

Speaking only days since a large majority of the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution calling for the immediate withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine, the UN chief stressed that Russia’s decision to go to war against its neighbour on 24 February 2022 had unleashed “widespread death, destruction and displacement”. Also present at the opening… Continue reading Human Rights Council: Russia responsible for ‘widespread death and destruction’ in Ukraine

25 February 2023Climate and Environment Women in arid parts of rural Sudan, where water is becoming increasingly scarce due to climate change, are learning techniques to adapt to new weather patterns which will build their resilience for the future, thanks to support from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Women farmers in Sudan are being… Continue reading From the Field: Weathering climate change in Sudan

25 February 2023Peace and Security The UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide, Alice Wairimu Nderitu, said on Thursday that genocide denial and the glorification of war criminals continues to present a “serious challenge” to reconciliation efforts in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Raising concerns over such continuous reports of revisionism concerning atrocity crimes perpetrated during… Continue reading UN special adviser denounces genocide denial in Bosnia

Accurate early warnings and early action on the ground helped limit loss of life over the course of the cyclone, UN officials said. UN agencies delivered a host of supplies ahead of the approaching cyclone and are providing assistance to those in need. Currently, strong winds and high seas are threatening Mozambique with dangerous and… Continue reading Early action saves lives, as Tropical Cyclone Freddy hits Mozambique

“Since the start of the full-scale war we, along with our humanitarian partners in Ukraine, have made every effort to ramp up operations to provide life-saving support to those who need it most,” UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told journalists in New York.  Last year, thousands of convoys delivered vital supplies to people in all regions… Continue reading Ukraine: 18 million need support as war enters second year

“Life is a living hell for the people of Ukraine,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres told the Council, which has held more than 40 debates on the conflict since Russia’s full-scale invasion one year ago. On the occasion, the 15-member organ held a ministerial-level meeting on the heels of the UN General Assembly’s new demand that… Continue reading UN Security Council hears echoed demands to end war in Ukraine

23 February 2023Peace and Security The UN General Assembly on Thursday called for ending the war in Ukraine and demanded Russia’s immediate withdrawal from the country, in line with the UN Charter. At its resumed eleventh emergency special session, the world body adopted a new resolution calling for an end to the war, only hours… Continue reading UN General Assembly calls for immediate end to war in Ukraine

The UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, Ilze Brands Kehris, concluding a 10-day visit to the country on Wednesday, reported a resurgence of attacks by armed groups and the devastating toll on communities alongside the need for action. “The violence must stop,” she said, encouraging authorities to redouble their efforts to counter rising hatred and… Continue reading DR Congo: Senior UN rights official calls on authorities to stop ‘appalling’ violence

23 February 2023Peace and Security Top UN officials have called for halting escalating cycles of violence following Israeli-Palestinian clashes and airstrikes on Wednesday that left 11 dead and more than 100 injured. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk called to halt the “illogic of escalation” that has been building up to the detriment… Continue reading Raising alarms over deadly Israel-Palestinian clashes, UN officials call for immediate de-escalation

Ms. Gbeho said she has welcomed the Federal Government’s continued commitment to implementing the women, peace, and security agenda, as demonstrated by the launch of a new national action plan on Security Council resolution 1325.  The landmark document, adopted more than 20 years ago, reaffirms women’s role in peacebuilding and conflict prevention and resolution.  Action… Continue reading Somalia: UN official underlines need to advance women’s participation in public life

Assembly President Csaba Kőrösi said that, for almost a full year, the world body, UN Secretary-General, and international community have been consistent and vocal in calls to end this war, and to adhere to the UN Charter and international law. “Let this anniversary and the anguish of millions before our eyes over the last year… Continue reading Ukraine: General Assembly resumes emergency special session, taking up new text to end war

22 February 2023Peace and Security Regional and international partners must collectively work with greater urgency and determination to help Palestinians and Israelis break chronic cycles of violence and restore a credible political horizon, the UN chief said on Wednesday. “Our immediate priority must be to prevent further escalation, reduce tensions, and restore calm,” UN Secretary-General… Continue reading ‘Time is working against us’, UN chief says, calling for action to end clashes, restore credible Israeli-Palestinian political horizon

The report – Building blocks out of the crisis: The UN’s SDG Stimulus Plan – was issued ahead of the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting in Bangalore, India, which begins on Friday.  UNDP has called for action to protect developing nations from the impact of today’s overlapping crises while also ensuring that… Continue reading SDG stimulus could unlock $148 billion in debt savings: UNDP

Special Representative Valentine Rugwabiza reported on recent progress by the Government, including in election preparations and security sector reform.  Political engagement with the leaders of armed groups remains essential and is starting to yield modest results, she added, pointing to the dissolution of four armed groups who were signatories to the February 2019 Peace Agreement. … Continue reading Local elections chance to advance peace in Central African Republic: UN envoy

Instead, he said, the UN Secretary-General “is someone we trust” to lead an investigation following reports in September of four leaks in the 1,224-kilometre-long pipelines that supply gas from Russia to Europe. There was “proof that explosives had been planted” near the pipeline during a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) exercise in the summer of… Continue reading UN Security Council debates Nord Stream pipeline incidents

21 February 2023Peace and Security Three peacekeepers in Mali were killed and five others seriously injured when their vehicle hit an explosive device, the UN Mission in the country, MINUSMA, reported on Tuesday. The incident took place that morning near the village of Songobia, in central Mali, as their supply convoy was heading to its… Continue reading Mali: Three UN peacekeepers killed in explosive attack

Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Khiari, who briefed the Council on Monday afternoon, reiterated the UN Secretary-General’s strong condemnation of the launch and his appeal for action to reduce tensions on the Korean Peninsula.  “The Secretary-General deeply regrets the divisions that have prevented the international community from acting on the DPRK, as well as on other threats… Continue reading Korean Peninsula ‘must be an area for cooperation’, Security Council hears

“We are witnessing a surge in violence, including some of the deadliest incidents in nearly 20 years,” said Tor Wennesland, Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process (UNSCO). “We have seen ominous signs of what awaits if we fail to address the current instability.” Raising concerns that developments on the ground are continuing along… Continue reading Amid ‘ominous’ surge in Israeli-Palestinian violence, top UN officials call on parties to swiftly reduce tensions

20 February 2023Peace and Security The UN chief on Sunday strongly condemned the launch of yet another ballistic missile of intercontinental range by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), as news reports said two more missiles had been launched on Monday. News reports said DPRK had launched a long-range missile on Saturday that landed… Continue reading UN chief strongly condemns DPRK missile launch

18 February 2023Climate and Environment Some 1.8 billion people on the planet are threatened by flood risks, the United Nations General Assembly President warned on Saturday, at a water management event in Tokyo, Japan. “This is a challenge that we can master with ingenuity and determination,” said Csaba Kőrösi, calling for science-based solutions and solidarity,… Continue reading UN Assembly President calls for Apollo 13 ingenuity to navigate flood risks

18 February 2023Economic Development UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his support for an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa on Saturday, in remarks delivered to the African Union Summit, which is being held in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa. Mr. Guterres praised the many African Union (AU) initiatives aimed at bringing about this vision for the… Continue reading Despite challenges, Africa ‘poised for progress’ – Guterres

Johannes Fromholt is currently near the frontline in Donetsk Oblast and has been describing the support the UN is providing. “I am currently in Kurakhove, which is close to the frontline. We see heavy fighting, which has intensified even in the past week. We came here as part of a UN interagency humanitarian convoy, to… Continue reading First Person: The towns in Ukraine which no longer exist

17 February 2023Climate and Environment Weather balloons play an important part of a vast, intricate global observation system, providing vital information for climate monitoring and forecasters, the UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Friday. On the heels of recent news reports about Canada and the United States shooting down several flying objects, including an… Continue reading Amid ‘spy balloon’ controversy, WMO highlights key role of weather balloons in climate monitoring

17 February 2023Peace and Security While a peaceful resolution is desperately needed to the war in Ukraine, any agreement reached must be tangible, implementable and address the conflict’s root causes, officials told the Security Council on Friday, citing lessons learned from the fate of the so-called Minsk accords. “Peace is not just about signing an agreement,”… Continue reading Ukraine needs ‘implementable’ peace, Security Council hears, meeting on anniversary of Minsk accord

“The suffering across the country remains immense,” Commissioner Barney Afako said at a press conference in Juba, the capital. “South Sudanese women and girls continue to face unspeakable sexual violence.” On the penultimate day of a five-day visit, the Commission took stock of reports from civil society and stakeholders in Juba and Upper Nile state,… Continue reading Rights experts say peaceful transition in South Sudan crucial, amid ‘immense suffering’

“What is urgently needed is the political will to break the protracted political stalemate and achieve progress on multiple fronts,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said at the latest meeting of the High-level Committee on Libya, taking place in Addis Ababa. Progress is sorely needed towards holding elections and advancing gains in security, national reconciliation and… Continue reading Guterres in Africa: End political stalemate in Libya now, UN chief urges leaders

16 February 2023Climate and Environment Reducing mercury use by nearly 370 tons in nine countries, a UN environment agency initiative now plans to scale up efforts in 15 other affected nations, making conditions safer for millions of small-scale miners. “Over 100 million people rely on artisanal gold mining for their livelihoods, so it’s critical that… Continue reading UN environment agency tackles mercury-tarnished gold mining industry

15 February 2023Peace and Security A newly signed plan for election security represents a “major development” for peaceful, inclusive elections in the Central African Republic (CAR), a spokesperson for the UN mission in the country said on Wednesday. The security plan represents “an essential tool” paving the way for the coming local elections, UN mission… Continue reading UN mission signs new plan for election security in Central African Republic

The situation for many in Ukraine remains desperate, amid “relentless” shelling of civilian targets and infrastructure, the UN’s Emergency Relief Coordinator, Martin Griffiths, told journalists in Geneva. Humanitarian funding is needed to continue supporting lifesaving aid convoy deliveries to communities on the front line, “into areas of great danger and difficulty and priority needs”, said… Continue reading Ukraine: UN appeals for $5.6 billion to help millions affected by relentless conflict

The initiative will support a holistic approach to phase out the harmful chemical and promote the beauty of all skin tones.  Consumers unaware of risks  Skin lightening products inhibit the body’s production of melanin, the pigment that plays a role in determining skin, hair and eye colour.    They have been used around the world… Continue reading UN-backed project aims to eliminate mercury from skin lightening products

“The impact of rising seas is already creating new sources of instability and conflict,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who opened the meeting. Noting that some nations’ coastlines have already seen triple the average rate of sea level rise, he warned that, in the coming decades, low-lying communities – and entire countries – could disappear forever. “We would witness… Continue reading Sea level rise poses ‘unthinkable’ risks for the planet, Security Council hears

“Even without verified numbers it’s tragically clear the number of children killed, the number of children orphaned is going to keep on rising”,” said UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) spokesperson James Elder. In Türkiye, the total number of children living in the 10 provinces before the emergency was 4.6 million, and 2.5 million in Syria. Growing… Continue reading Children sleep in streets, too afraid to go home after quake disaster

Only a single crossing point – Bab al-Hawa – has been open to humanitarians since the 6 February earthquakes struck across the border region of southern Türkiye and northwest Syria, which has been in the grip of civil war for the past 12 years, and is the last remaining region partly under the control of… Continue reading Earthquake disaster: UN chief welcomes Syria decision to open aid corridors

“Sport has the power to convey essential values of respect, inclusion, and solidarity,” said Mauro Miedico, deputy director and chief of the special projects and innovation branch at the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT). “When applied in tandem with wider preventing violent extremism (PVE) strategies, it can work against the drivers of radicalization which lead… Continue reading Power of sport to counter violent extremism amplified at UN

Virginia Gamba, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Children and Armed Conflict, who is currently preparing her latest report, said data gathered so far reveals that trends showing high levels of violations are continuing.  Nearly 24,000 grave violations were verified in 2021, the last reporting year.  Most involved killing and maiming, as well as recruitment and… Continue reading Experts demand better measures to protect children caught in conflict

11 February 2023Peace and Security With extremist groups expanding their reach, the international community cannot let up its guard against terrorism, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Sunday. The appeal came in his message to mark the first-ever International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism, established in December… Continue reading ‘We must be more vigilant than ever,’ Guterres says on first International Day to prevent violent extremism

10 February 2023Human Rights Extreme violence and gross human rights abuses, including mass incidents of murder, gang rape and sniper attacks, have sharply increased in Cité Soleil on the outskirts of the Haitian capital, said a UN report published on Friday. “The findings of this report are horrifying,” said Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner… Continue reading New UN report warns of spike in gang attacks, ‘gross human rights abuses’ in Haiti

Under-Secretary-General Vladimir Voronkov briefed the Security Council where he presented the latest UN report on the terrorist organization, underlining the need for concerted global action.  Mr. Voronkov began by focusing on the plight of victims and survivors of terrorism worldwide.  “Because beyond the headlines and behind the numbers, there are numerous people and communities who… Continue reading ISIL terror threat still high and increasing in conflict zones, Security Council hears

“Violence continues to take a heavy toll on children’s lives in and around Port-au-Prince, and schools are no longer spared,” said Bruno Maes, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) representative in Haiti. “As children reel from the effects of armed violence, insecurity in Haiti shows no sign of abating.” ‘Huge impact’ on children “The targeting of… Continue reading Haiti: UNICEF reports nine-fold increase in violence targeting schools

Speaking during the meeting, which was requested by the delegation of the Russian Federation, Izumi Nakamitsu, UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, noted that a number of governments have already provided heavy conventional armaments and munitions to Ukraine. Those include battlefield vehicles, air defence capabilities, large-calibre artillery systems, and uncrewed combat aerial vehicles, or drones,… Continue reading Ukraine: Influx of weapons ‘must not derail aspiration for peace’, Security Council hears

Human Rights Officers from MINUSMA conduct regular monitoring visits to a jail in Sévaré, in the Mopti region of Mali. 7 February 2023Peace and Security The UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Tuesday he deeply regrets Mali’s recent decision to declare the top UN human rights representative as persona non grata. The transitional Government of… Continue reading UN chief ‘deeply regrets’ Mali’s decision to expel senior rights official

The event aimed to mobilize Prime Ministers to support the Early Warnings for All initiative (EW4ALL) in the face of mounting climate hazards.  2021 was the region’s fourth costliest hurricane season on record, with 21 named storms, including seven hurricanes.   Protecting vulnerable communities  UN Secretary-General António Guterres announced EW4ALL at the COP27 climate change… Continue reading Caribbean sees first regional launch of global plan on early warning systems

Fernando Arias, Director-General of the UN-backed OPCW, said the findings are laid out in the third report of an Investigation and Identification Team tasked with ascertaining the perpetrators of specific instances of chemical weapons use in Syria. According to the report, he said, there is evidence that, on 7 April 2018, at least one Syrian air force helicopter –… Continue reading ‘Reasonable grounds’ to believe Syrian Government was behind deadly chlorine gas attack on Douma: OPCW report

The study focuses on the environmental dimensions of AMR, which occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines.  It calls for strengthening action to reduce the emergence, transmission and spread of “superbugs” – strains of bacteria that have become resistant to every known biotic – and other… Continue reading Reduce pollution to combat ‘superbugs’ and other anti-microbial resistance

“My Command appreciates the recognition of female officers as a catalyst of systematic change within the Zambia Police Service,” said the Inspector General of Police Lemmy Kajoba. “We take very seriously our role in driving policy reforms, ensuring gender mainstreaming and accountability for gender equality and women’s empowerment within our institution.” Rostering more female officers… Continue reading Zambia: New grant gives boost to women peacekeepers

According to the Government of Türkiye, at least 3,381 people died and more than 20,000 were injured after a 7.8 magnitude quake struck close to the southern city of Gaziantep early on Monday, followed by another 7.5 magnitude earthquake several hours later. Almost 6,000 buildings have reportedly collapsed in the country, too, said Jens Laerke,… Continue reading Türkiye, Syria quake latest: full scale of disaster still unfolding, UN humanitarians warn

The report entitled, Journey to Extremism in Africa: Pathways to Recruitment and Disengagement, underscores the importance of economic factors as drivers of recruitment. Desperation factor Lack of income, the lack of job opportunities and livelihoods, means that “desperation is essentially pushing people to take up opportunities, with whoever offers that”, said Achim Steiner, UNDP Administrator,… Continue reading Lack of jobs, the main driver of violent extremism in sub-Saharan Africa: UNDP

6 February 2023Human Rights The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on Monday called on Malian authorities to rescind their expulsion order for his top representative in the country. “I deeply regret the decision by the Malian authorities to declare my representative, Guillaume Ngefa, as persona non grata and to order him to leave the… Continue reading UN human rights chief calls on Mali to reverse ‘regrettable’ expulsion order

“On the eve of the horrific one-year milestone, we have a lot to do and we can do better,” said Martin Griffiths, who also serves as the Emergency Relief Coordinator. 14,000 civilian casualties A recent World Health Organization (WHO) report documented 14,000 civilian casualties, 17.7 million people in need of humanitarian assistance and 7.5 million… Continue reading UN relief chief tells Security Council ‘we can do better’ in Ukraine

In a statement issued by his Spokesperson, UN Secretary-General António Guterres strongly condemned the attack, which left the South African ‘blue helmet’ dead, and another wounded. Emergency landing According to news reports, the severely injured peacekeeper was able to continue flying, and along with the rest of the crew, managed to land at the airport of the… Continue reading South African peacekeeper killed after helicopter comes under fire mid-flight in DR Congo

3 February 2023Humanitarian Aid Two UN aid convoys have reached communities with acute needs near the contact line in Ukraine’s war-shattered east this week, relief coordinators reported on Friday. Medicines, roofing repair kits, bottled water and solar lamps were offloaded, highlighting the desperate plight of many thousands of people who are unable or unwilling to… Continue reading UN aid convoys deliver lifesaving relief to Ukraine’s war-ravaged east

Internally displaced mothers with their children attend a WFP famine assessment exercise in Borno State, northeastern Nigeria. 2 February 2023Peace and Security The UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide on Thursday voiced concern over the worsening security situation in Nigeria, while urging the authorities to ensure counter-terrorism operations are conducted in line with… Continue reading Nigeria: UN genocide expert warns against worsening security situation

Highlighting recent achievements and challenges ahead following a year of tensions and political discord, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert said the hope is that the confirmation of the new Government will provide an opportunity to structurally address the many pressing issues. ‘Glass half full’  “Effecting meaningful change will take time, as this can only happen through structural change… Continue reading Iraq must seize ‘brief window of opportunity’ to turn tide of instability

On World Wetlands Day, observed this Thursday, the United Nations is calling for urgent action to revive and restore these ecosystems, which are disappearing three times faster than forests.  Wetlands cover roughly six per cent of the Earth’s land surface and are vital for human health, food supply, tourism and jobs.   Fighting climate change … Continue reading Revive and restore wetlands, home to 40 per cent of all biodiversity

1 February 2023Climate and Environment A UN-led plan to tackle climate change by radically improving the way heat-trapping atmospheric pollutants are measured all over the planet, is being given serious consideration by governments and the international scientific community, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Wednesday. The WMO initiative would create a network of ground-based measurement… Continue reading Climate change: WMO unveils plans for sustainable monitoring of greenhouse gases

“Our priority in 2023 is to take a ‘peace to people’ approach with the Government’s facilitation,” Stephen Par Kuol, Minister of Peacebuilding of South Sudan, told the Commission, via video link. Addressing the ambassadorial-level meeting on building peace in communities through local governance and community reconciliation in South Sudan, he said efforts included tackling such… Continue reading Peace in South Sudan hinges on local accountability, landmark Peacebuilding Commission meeting hears

The State Administration Council (SAC) is illegal and illegitimate, Special Rapporteur Thomas Andrews said at the launch, co-hosted by the democracy and electoral assistance body, International IDEA. He called on the international community to stand firm against military rule, create a coalition of Member States to enforce strong, coordinated sanctions, and support the democratic National… Continue reading Deny legitimacy of Myanmar’s military junta, UN expert urges

The rights experts – who include the UN Working Group on Mercenaries – said that a “climate of terror and complete impunity” has surrounded Wagner’s activities in the northwest African country. Systematic killings “We are particularly worried by credible reports that over the course of several days in late March 2022, Malian armed forces accompanied… Continue reading Mali: Independent rights experts call for probe into Wagner Group’s alleged crimes

30 January 2023Peace and Security The UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Monday called for Member States to urge the military leadership in Myanmar to respect the will and needs of its own people, as risks to regional stability grow. Ahead of 1 February – marking two years since the military overturned and arbitrarily detained members… Continue reading Two years on from Myanmar military coup, UN chief stresses international unity, as arrests, airstrikes continue

30 January 2023Peace and Security Alarmed by the recent killing and injury of many children in Israel and Palestine, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) voiced an appeal to parties on Monday to de-escalate tensions and refrain from violence. “Children continue to pay the highest price of violence,” the statement declared. “As the situation remains very… Continue reading Israel-Palestine: UNICEF warns children are paying ‘the highest price’ as violence escalates

30 January 2023Peace and Security The UN chief and top officials have strongly condemned the suicide bombing at a mosque in Peshawar, Pakistan on Monday, that left at least 59 dead and 150 injured. News reports stated that a militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack, which occurred at a crowded mosque. Reports showed that… Continue reading Guterres strongly condemns deadly mosque attack in Pakistan

Mr. Trukhanov spoke to UN News shortly after the decision was announced, on Wednesday, and explained the laborious process that led to the inclusion. Odesa Mayor, Gennady Trukhanov Gennady Trukhanov We applied for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List back in 2009 and were accepted into the provisional list. But the procedure dragged on and,… Continue reading ‘A great victory’: Odesa mayor reacts to UNESCO Heritage List inclusion

27 January 2023Peace and Security The UN Secretary-General on Friday strongly condemned Friday’s terrorist attack by a Palestinian man outside a synagogue in a Jerusalem neighbourhood which has left at least seven Israelis dead, and three others injured. According to news reports, the incident happened in the Neve Yaakov district in the middle of the… Continue reading Guterres strongly condemns attack at Jerusalem synagogue which left at least seven Israelis dead

The envoy was addressing ambassadors at what he called a “unique juncture” in the efforts to promote lasting peace and security in the West African country.    “Mali is ushering in a critical year in terms of returning to constitutional order,” he said, with several votes scheduled starting in March.   Work in progress  Mr.… Continue reading Mali: ‘Critical year’ begins in country’s return to constitutional order

27 January 2023Climate and Environment The head of the UN migration agency IOM, and leading climate justice activist, Greta Thunberg, called on Friday for immediate action to help tackle the impacts of climate change on those forced to flee their homes, or leaving in search of a better life. António Vitorino, and Ms. Thunberg said… Continue reading Climate crisis and migration: Greta Thunberg supports IOM over ‘life and death’ issue

Traveling with UN Women chief Sima Bahous, and other senior officials, she told journalists on Thursday that she had informed Taliban leaders that a society based on exclusion and repression could never flourish.  The first goal of the visit focused on “solidarity and the importance of women’s rights…with a view to education, secondary and tertiary”.  … Continue reading UN deputy chief reminds Taliban: Islam does not ban women from education 

26 January 2023Peace and Security The top UN official for the Middle East peace process, said on Thursday he was “deeply alarmed and saddened” at the continuing cycle of violence in the occupied West Bank, after nine Palestinians were killed during an Israeli military raid. Tor Wennesland described the deaths – during an intense gun battle at… Continue reading UN envoy ‘deeply alarmed’ over deaths of nine Palestinians in West Bank raid

“People’s sense of safety and security is at a low in almost every country, with six in seven worldwide, plagued by feelings of insecurity”, she stated. The world is facing the highest number of violent conflicts since the Second World War she said, with a quarter of humanity live in war zones – triggering grave… Continue reading Peacebuilding must be rooted in ‘bedrock of inclusive, sustainable development’

25 January 2023Peace and Security “Swift progress” has been made at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the trial against a former Janjaweed leader in Sudan’s Darfur region, but cooperation with the Government has deteriorated, the UN Security Council heard on Wednesday.  Presenting his latest report, ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan updated ambassadors on proceedings against… Continue reading Sudan: Progress in Darfur militia leader trial, but Government cooperation wanes

The UN humanitarian affairs office OCHA is calling for $4.3 billion to reach the 17.3 million most vulnerable people in need, whose lives have been turned upside down because of protracted war, displacement and economic collapse, compounded by recurrent natural disasters. Yemen’s civil war began in 2014 when Houthi rebels took the capital, Sana’a, forcing… Continue reading Two-thirds of Yemenis need humanitarian support and protection

25 January 2023Peace and Security UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the fight against terrorism will never succeed if we perpetuate the “denial and destruction” of human rights.  Speaking at the ninth meeting of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Coordination Compact in New York, he urged for all counter-terrorism policies and initiatives to be “firmly grounded”… Continue reading Human Rights must be defended in the fight against terrorism: UN chief

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay made the appeal in her message to mark the International Day of Women in Multilateralism, which highlights their role in building peace and ensuring sustainable development.  It also provides an opportunity to advocate for increased representation of women in key decision-making positions in global collaboration.  ‘Incomprehensible inequality gap’   “Celebrating their… Continue reading ‘Equal rights cannot wait’ on International Day of Women in Multilateralism

25 January 2023Peace and Security The historic centre of the port city of Odesa, in Ukraine, has been inscribed on the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Heritage List, 11 months since the full-scale Russian invasion.  This decision recognizes the outstanding universal value of the site and the duty of all humanity to… Continue reading Odesa added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List amid threats of destruction

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a tweet posted on Tuesday that WHO was working with local authorities to investigate the abduction of Dr. Mahamadou Diawara, who had worked for the agency in the town for around three years, “and ensure our colleague’s quick return to his family.” WHO said in a statement that he had… Continue reading Mali: WHO doctor seized by ‘unidentified assailants’, as UNHCR raises alarm over continuing violence

The UN fears risk of these atrocities is heightened given current global crises that include conflict, soaring food and energy costs, and deepening inequalities and tensions, all exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change.  In her opening remarks, ECOSOC President Lachezara Stoeva highlighted how the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, together with global commitment… Continue reading Top UN body asks what more can be done to stop genocide, atrocity crimes

24 January 2023Peace and Security Haiti’s protracted political and humanitarian crisis – marked by spiking levels of gang-related violence and a badly struggling national police force – are reversing crucial security and development strides made since the country’s devastating 2010 earthquake, the senior UN representative in Port-au-Prince told the Security Council on Tuesday.  “Years of… Continue reading Police overwhelmed, development stalled, as gang violence spirals in Haiti

“And by working as one, it’s a race we can win. Let’s all become the champions the ocean needs. Let’s end the ocean emergency and preserve this precious blue gift for our children and grandchildren,” urged the UN chief.   The Secretary-General was speaking from the Ocean Science Centre Mindelo, in São Vicente, a state-of-the-art facility… Continue reading ‘Let’s all become the champions the ocean needs’ – UN chief Guterres

23 January 2023Humanitarian Aid Amid worsening security, economic, and humanitarian crises, the third Lake Chad Basin High Level Conference has begun, aimed at addressing a range of long-standing issues and the needs of the population, including some 11 million people, who are in need of assistance. The UN describes the conference as a critical international… Continue reading UN convenes Lake Chad countries, amid growing regional crisis

For hours, António Guterres’ car had moved along a sinuous road, which opened against an arid landscape, but then one last curve, and a few hundred feet up a hill, the view outside his window bursts into myriad shades of green, as small terraces supported by stone walls filled with banana trees, palms and sugar cane,… Continue reading In drought-stricken Cabo Verde, UN chief finds hope for creating sustainable oasis

The answer goes back to 2015, when the national Government detailed a strategic plan on how the blue economy would be a central part of the island nation’s future, as well as to a series of investments that have been made since then.   But this evening, looking out at nearly a dozen boats participating in… Continue reading Cabo Verde ‘on the frontlines’ of climate crisis, says Guterres ahead of Ocean Summit

Jens Laerke from UN aid coordinating office, OCHA, said that three trucks had been granted access to the heavily disputed city in the Donbas region, which has been an intense battleground, as Russian forces seek to advance on the strategically important town of Bakhmut. He told journalists at Friday’s briefing in Geneva that the convoy… Continue reading Ukraine: UN aid reaches Soledar as IAEA boosts safety measures at nuclear sites

19 January 2023Peace and Security The United Kingdom’s plans to offer limited immunity from prosecution to those accused of crimes during Northern Ireland’s “Troubles” have been called into question by UN rights chief Volker Türk.  The High Commissioner for Human Rights acknowledged on Thursday that addressing the violent legacy of intercommunal relations in Northern Ireland from the 1960s to… Continue reading Northern Ireland: UK ‘immunity’ legislation could hamper victims’ rights, warns Türk

The UN humanitarian coordination office, OCHA, said in a press release that a seven-truck convoy had reached Vovchansk in the Kharkiv region – just five kilometres from the Russian border. “This community has been heavily impacted by months of hostilities and the 4,500 people who remain there depend on humanitarian aid to meet their needs.”… Continue reading UN aims to boost aid to frontline areas of Ukraine; Black Sea grain exports near 18 million tonnes

“The violent trends that dominated the last months of 2022 continue to take a devastating human toll,” said Tor Wennesland, Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process.  Citing rising political tensions and the long-stalled peace process, he said preventing more loss of life must go hand-in-hand with the international community’s ultimate goal – ending the… Continue reading Negative trends prevail in Occupied Palestinian Territory; human toll ‘devastating’: Senior UN Official

Following that sobering assessment, António Guterres also told the World Economic Forum meeting in Davos, Switzerland, that he remained committed to alleviating the suffering of Ukrainians and vulnerable people in the wider world, still reeling from the conflict’s “dramatic, devastating impacts” on the global economy. “There will be an end…there is an end of everything,… Continue reading Ukraine war: No chance for serious peace negotiations yet, says UN chief

17 January 2023Human Rights Addressing the Security Council on Tuesday, Ilze Brands Kehris, the UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, expressed concern about restrictions to freedom of religion in Ukraine, including territory under Russian control. The theme of the Council meeting briefing on Ukraine came under the “Threats to International Peace and Security” agenda item.… Continue reading Security Council: UN rights official raises concerns over Ukraine religious freedoms

The coup ended a power-sharing agreement between military and civilian leaders established following the April 2019 overthrow of President Omar al-Bashir, who had ruled for 30 years.  “After almost 15 months after the coup of 25 October 2021, returning to the transition path would be a major, major step forward for all Sudanese whether they… Continue reading UN envoy sees ‘real chance’ of political solution in Sudan

17 January 2023Peace and Security Following the latest meeting of rival military leaders in Sirte, Libya, the head of the UN Mission in the country (UNSMIL) has called upon the national authorities to recommit to fully supporting the implementation of Libya’s 2020 ceasefire agreement. On Monday, Abdoulaye Bathily, who is also the Special Representative of… Continue reading Recommit to Libya ceasefire, urges senior UN representative

Associate Spokesperson Stephanie Tremblay told Monday’s regular briefing for correspondents in New York that António Guterres had condemned Saturday evening’s missile strike adding that it was “another example of a suspected violation of the laws of war.” Violation of international law In a statement issued later in the day, the Spokesperson reiterated that “attacks against… Continue reading Ukraine: Civilian attacks ‘must end immediately’ says UN, as search for Dnipro survivors continues

Special Envoy Hans Grundberg reported on his ongoing mediation efforts with the Government and Houthi rebels, also known as Ansar Allah, following their failure last October to extend a landmark truce that lasted six months.  Regional and international efforts towards ending their eight-year war have also intensified, pointing to “a potential step-change” in the trajectory… Continue reading Yemen: Lull in major fighting provides space for dialogue

“Only renewables can safeguard our future, close the energy access gap, stabilize prices and ensure energy security,” he said in a video message to the 13th Session of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Assembly, taking place this weekend in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. “Together, let’s jumpstart a renewables revolution and create a brighter… Continue reading UN chief calls for renewable energy ‘revolution’ for a brighter global future

The upcoming summit “will be an occasion to unite the global community to take action and address the broad challenges surrounding water,” said Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs and the Secretary-General of the UN 2023 Water Conference, during a press conference at UN Headquarters. He noted that the Conference, taking place from 22 to 24… Continue reading Water’s a ‘dealmaker’ for multilateral cooperation and the SDGs

Addressing a private meeting of the Council, Roza Otunbayeva reiterated to ambassadors that Taliban decisions including the ban on girls attending high school, preventing women from going to university, and barring them from doing humanitarian work, are all “grave violations of fundamental rights”, according to UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric. He told reporters at the noon briefing… Continue reading Unity in Security Council essential, in face of Taliban rights violations against women and girls

Rosemary DiCarlo reiterated the view of the Secretary-General, in reminding that Russia’s invasion of 24 February, was a violation of the UN Charter and international law. “It has created a humanitarian and human rights catastrophe, traumatized a generation of children, and accelerated the global food and energy crises”, she told ambassadors. “And yet, this grave… Continue reading Ukraine: ‘Humanitarian and human rights catastrophe’ continues, Security Council hears

“From the smallest village to the global stage, the rule of law (ROL) is all that stands between peace and stability, and a brutal struggle for power and resources”, he said, arguing that it protects the vulnerable; prevents discrimination; bolsters trust in institutions; supports inclusive economies and societies; and is the first line of defence… Continue reading Rule of law stands between peace and ‘brutal struggle for power’ – Guterres

12 January 2023Climate and Environment The UN weather agency, WMO, said on Thursday that 2022 was the fifth or sixth warmest year on record, adding to deep concerns that the likelihood of breaching the 1.5 degree Celsius limit of the Paris Agreement “is increasing with time”. In an alert, the agency also explained that 2022… Continue reading 2022 confirmed as one of warmest years on record: WMO

Carlos Ruiz Massieu welcomed recent Government actions on rural reform and greater equality, in line with the 2016 Peace Agreement between the Government and the FARC EP militia group that ended five decades of civil war.  “The Council’s decision today to authorize the expansion of the Mission’s mandate to include the Agreement’s comprehensive rural reform… Continue reading Colombia: UN mission to verify rural reform and indigenous representation in peace process

In her briefing, Giovanie Biha, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Officer-in-Charge of the UN Office for the region, UNOWAS, urged ambassadors to continue to support a strategy centred on building resilience, promoting good governance, and strengthening peace and security.  Ms. Biha presented the latest UNOWAS report covering trends and developments over the past… Continue reading ‘Unprecedented’ insecurity in West Africa and the Sahel, Security Council hears

9 January 2023Peace and Security UN Secretary-General António Guterres has welcomed the launch of the final phase in the political process towards restoring a civilian-led transition in Sudan, more than one year after the military coup, his Spokesperson said on Monday.  Military and civilian leaders began meeting in the capital Khartoum, on Sunday, for four… Continue reading Sudan: Start of final phase towards civilian rule an ‘important step’

In comments to journalists on Monday, Mr. Guterres said that he had been shocked by reports that a mob had entered and ransacked government buildings on Sunday in Brasilia. But he said that he remained “absolutely convinced that Brazil can deal with this situation” and ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.… Continue reading Brazil: UN chief ‘totally confident’ in country’s democratic strength

The Summit will bring together mayors and city leaders to discuss strategies to combat the global burden arising from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and the increasing toll on urban health systems caused by injuries. NCDs, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and injuries arising from varied causes such as street violence, car crashes and falls,… Continue reading Mayors from around the world to meet for first ever ‘healthy cities’ summit

Ambassadors unanimously adopted a resolution authorizing the renewal of the cross-border mechanism, a day before it was set to expire.  UN Secretary-General António Guterres has taken note of the development, his Spokesperson said in a statement, which described the humanitarian operation as an “indispensable lifeline” for some 4.1 million people in the region.  Expand humanitarian… Continue reading Security Council unanimously agrees to extend Syria cross-border aid lifeline

But the group also warned of the unintended impacts on the ozone layer of new technologies such as geoengineering. In a report published every four years on the progress of the Montreal Protocol, the panel confirmed the phase-out of nearly 99 per cent of banned ozone-depleting substances. The Montreal Protocol was signed in September 1987 and is a landmark multilateral… Continue reading Ozone layer recovery is on track, due to success of Montreal Protocol

“If there is any doubt about loss and damage, go to Pakistan,” he told delegates at the International Conference on climate resilient Pakistan. “There is loss. There is damage. The devastation of climate change is real. From floods and droughts to cyclones and torrential rains. And as always, those countries least responsible, are the first… Continue reading Guterres urges radical global finance shake-up to help Pakistan after deadly floods

8 January 2023Climate and Environment Rising sea levels are threatening the very existence of Monkey River, a coastal village in south-east Belize. With the support of the UN, the community is trying to stem the tide, and protect what is left. “My grandma and my grandfather are now washed out in the sea,” says Mario… Continue reading ‘I don’t want to see more graves go to the sea’: Saving a Belize village from man-made erosion

7 January 2023Peace and Security The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has called on the transitional authorities in Burkina Faso to ensure that their investigation into the killing of at least 28 people at the end of December will hold those responsible to account, regardless of their position or rank. In a… Continue reading Investigation into 28 killed in Burkina Faso must be transparent: UN rights chief

“We estimate that up to around nine million people – additional people – could be pushed into poverty due to the flood impact” said Knut Ostby, UNDP Resident Representative in Pakistan. Climate risk knows no borders Although the Pakistan flooding was “unprecedented”, it could happen to other countries affected by climate change, Mr. Ostby warned.… Continue reading Pakistan floods: 9 million more risk being pushed into poverty, warns UNDP

Ambassadors were briefed by Khalid Khiari, a UN Assistant Secretary-General, who expressed concern over the developments and the broader ongoing tensions and violence in the occupied West Bank. On Monday, Israel’s new National Security Minister, far-right party leader Itamar Ben-Gvir, visited the hilltop compound in Jerusalem’s old city that is sacred to both Jews and… Continue reading UN working to reduce tensions following Israel minister’s holy site visit

5 January 2023Peace and Security Any use of chemical weapons anywhere is simply “unacceptable”, the deputy head of the UN Disarmament Affairs office (UNODA) told the Security Council on Thursday, briefing on efforts to eliminate the scourge from the battlefields and towns of Syria.  Speaking on behalf of High Representative Izumi Nakamitsu, her deputy, Adedeji… Continue reading Syria: Chemical weapons pose unacceptable threat, and are a ‘danger to us all’ 

And as a growing number of European ski resorts at lower altitudes struggle to provide adequate snow cover for their early-season visitors, the WMO pointed to widely accepted peer-reviewed scientific data from the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) indicating that the frequency of cold spells and frost days “will decrease”. “Strong declines in… Continue reading Europe: Warm start to 2023 breaks records, and skiers’ hearts says WMO

4 January 2023Peace and Security In Ukraine, the country’s farmers and smallholders urgently need more support to avoid a food crisis, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said on Wednesday, as it announced a $15.5 million initiative to help them. With funding from the European Union, the project will help sustain agricultural production in Ukraine, after… Continue reading Ukraine: FAO and EU in $15.5 million bid to avert food crisis threat

3 January 2023Peace and Security The New Year holiday period witnessed a fresh surge of deadly attacks by Russian forces in Ukraine, Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq told journalists on Tuesday.  Citing UN humanitarian colleagues, he informed the media at the regular daily press briefing that intensified violence in different regions of the war-torn country caused… Continue reading Ukraine: ‘Multiple civilian causalities’ as new year dawns 

31 December 2022Peace and Security The UN chief paid tribute to Pope Emeritus Benedict on Saturday, who has died, aged 95, after standing down as head of the Catholic Church nearly a decade ago, due to ill health. Secretary-General António Guterres said he had learned of his passing, “with great sadness”, describing him as a “humble man of… Continue reading ‘Tireless’ in pursuit of peace: Guterres pays tribute to former Pope Benedict

February saw a furious round of diplomacy at the UN, as it became increasingly clear that Russia was intent on invading Ukraine, a crisis which UN Secretary-General António Guterres said was testing the “entire international system”. “We need restraint and reason. We need de-escalation now,” spelled out the UN chief, urging all sides to “refrain… Continue reading 2022 Year In Review: As conflicts rage, international dialogue remains ‘the only hope’ for peace

28 December 2022Peace and Security After a year of brutal warfare from Afghanistan to Ukraine, forcing record numbers to flee their homes, the world needs peace in 2023 “more than ever”, said the UN Secretary-General, in his New Year message. “Every New Year is a moment of rebirth”, said António Guterres. We sweep out the ashes of… Continue reading Peace needed now, ‘more than ever’: Guterres

28 December 2022Peace and Security The UN mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) together with international partners, have called for the immediate end to mounting violence in the Greater Pibor area by armed youth from Jonglei state. News reports say at least 57 have died since early on Sunday, with more than a dozen injured. UNMISS, the African… Continue reading South Sudan: UN and partners make plea for urgent intervention to end ‘escalating violence’

At the end of 2021, when the UN climate conference (COP26) wrapped up in Glasgow, none of those present could have suspected that a war in Ukraine would throw the global economy into turmoil, convincing many nations to suspend their commitments to a low carbon economy, as they scrambled to reduce their dependence on Russian… Continue reading 2022 Year in Review: Amid global turmoil, UN doggedly pursues international climate agreements

27 December 2022Humanitarian Aid As temperatures across Ukraine have plummeted below zero and are expected to drop even more, the UN migration agency is stepping up efforts to help displaced and war-affected people cope with the cold weather. Humanitarian funding from the European Union (EU), is enabling the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to support over… Continue reading UN migration agency to support 700,000 Ukrainians through ‘most challenging’ winter

26 December 2022Humanitarian Aid The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has expressed his confidence in Barbara Manzi, the most senior UN official in Burkina Faso, who was ordered to leave the country by the government on Friday. In a statement released on Saturday, Mr. Guterres announced that he had full confidence in the UN system in… Continue reading Burkina Faso authorities had no authority to expel senior UN official: Guterres

The clear need to do much more to cut greenhouse gas emissions was again underscored throughout events in 2022, said the UN weather agency, advocating for strengthened climate change adaptation, including universal access to early warnings. “This year we have faced several dramatic weather disasters which claimed far too many lives and livelihoods and undermined… Continue reading WMO releases ‘tell-tale signs’ of extreme weather conditions around the world

Crab cakes made with fonio, an ancient West African grain, or Ratatouille prepared with ‘imperfect’ produce to reduce food waste, are only a couple of the over 70 recipes included in the recently launched Cookbook in Support of the United Nations: For People and Planet.  The book – created in collaboration with the UN Food and… Continue reading Climate action, one recipe at a time

Addressing the Security Council, Ms. Mohammed underlined the UN Secretary-General’s call for support to the Haitian National Police, as set out in a letter to ambassadors in October.    “I urge every country with the capacity to do so to give urgent consideration to the Haitian Government’s request for an international specialized armed force to… Continue reading UN calls for support for international force for Haiti

Ambassadors were briefed by the UN Special Envoy Geir Pedersen and UN Humanitarian Affairs Coordinator, Martin Griffiths, who stressed the need to give Syrians hope.  Some 14.6 million people require support – a 1.2 million increase over 2021 – and the number is expected to reach 15.3 million next year.    “Syrians are facing an… Continue reading Syria: Needs rise amid deepening humanitarian and economic crisis

Briefing ambassadors, the new UN Special Representative in Afghanistan and UNAMA chief, Roza Otunbayeva, highlighted ongoing political and human rights concerns – as well as several positive developments – since the Taliban’s seizure of power in August 2021. “We do not see eye to eye with the Taliban on a number of issues, but the… Continue reading Afghanistan: UN envoy highlights need to continue dialogue with Taliban

“Like many countries, Iran has environmental issues. The sanctions not only prevent the Iranian Government from addressing them effectively; they contribute to making the challenges worse,” the group of Special Rapporteurs and the Independent Expert on international solidarity, said in a statement. Tehran pollution, ‘no surprise’ Air pollution is a particular concern and reportedly causing… Continue reading Iran: US sanctions violating human rights of all living there, say UN experts

The allocation is from the Elsie Initiative Fund (EIF), which supports women’s meaningful participation in UN peacekeeping overall.    The funding comes at a time when three countries that contribute police officers to UN field operations – Nigeria, Senegal and Togo – have committed to increasing and sustaining the deployment of women in Formed Police… Continue reading Grant to UN Mission in Mali boosts inclusivity for women in peacekeeping

19 December 2022Peace and Security No progress has been made on the implementation of a high profile 2015 Security Council resolution (Resolution 2231), aimed at ensuring that Iran’s nuclear facilities be used only for peaceful purposes, in return for the lifting of sanctions, Rosemary Di Carlo, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, briefed… Continue reading Iran enriching ‘worrying quantities’ of uranium, in further blow for nuclear deal: UN political chief

He reiterated deep concern over the high levels of violence in the past several months, characterized by clashes, protests, attacks, Israeli security operations and other incidents.  “I am gravely concerned by the sharp increase in violence against civilians on both sides, which exacerbates mistrust and undermines a peaceful resolution to the conflict,” he said.  Young… Continue reading UN envoy reports ‘sharp increase’ in violence this year in Israel-Palestine conflict

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework also aims to cut food waste in half.   COP15 was originally set to be held in Kunming, China, in October 2020 but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  ‘Strengthen the web of life’  The Framework, and its associated package of targets, goals and financing “represents but a first… Continue reading UN conference concludes with ‘historic’ deal to protect a third of the world’s biodiversity

“We owe it to people to find solutions, to fight back, and to act”, said Secretary-General António Guterres. “At times, discreetly but always with determination, we will fight back.” Building on his general call to action, Mr. Guterres announced that he would convene a Climate Ambition Summit next September, and called on every leader to… Continue reading Guterres announces ‘no nonsense’ climate action summit; calls for practical solutions

The UN biodiversity conference, COP15, is due to wrap up on 19 December. This weekend, we are looking at some of the ways that humanity is reliant on biodiversity for a healthy and thriving global ecosystem. When a species goes extinct, it takes with it all of the physical, chemical, biological, and behavioural attributes that… Continue reading As biodiversity degrades, nature’s solutions are lost for ever

In a statement issued on Friday, Stéphane Dujarric said that in addition to the deaths of the male and female peacekeepers in Timbuktu town earlier in the day, four other blue helmets from the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) were injured. Possible war crime Attacks targeting UN peacekeepers “may constitute war crimes”… Continue reading Mali: UN chief ‘strongly condemns’ deaths of two peacekeepers in ‘heinous attack’

The UN biodiversity conference, COP15, is due to wrap up on 19 December. This weekend, we are looking at some of the ways that humanity is reliant on a healthy and thriving global ecosystem. One million species are now said to be at risk of extinction, and if species losses continue to mount, ecosystem functions… Continue reading Why biodiversity is good for our health

Since his briefing last month, Mr. Bathily has continued working to advance the political process and revive the electoral track.  In Türkiye, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Tunisia, he told ambassadors he had been seeking coordinated support for the UN Mission, UNSMIL, to help political leaders overcome their differences, and resolve the legitimacy crisis… Continue reading Libya: Help make 2023 the year of ‘free and fair elections’, Security Council urged 

Since 1948, malicious acts have taken the lives of 1,056 personnel serving in UN peacekeeping operations and led to 3,080 more suffering injuries, he said.   At the launch, he recognized colleagues from several troop and police-contributing countries whose personnel were killed or injured serving under the UN flag, saying, “their sacrifice will not be forgotten”. … Continue reading UN launches ‘key’ initiative to support accountability for crimes against peacekeepers 

India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, who chaired the meeting, invited participants to stand and observe a minute of silence for victims worldwide.  They include an Irish peacekeeper serving at the UN’s mission in Lebanon, UNIFIL, shot and killed in an attack the previous night. Three other blue helmets were also injured; one critically. … Continue reading Security Council examines rising terrorism threat globally

15 December 2022Peace and Security A UN peacekeeper from Ireland serving with the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has been shot and killed, reportedly while on patrol, and three other ‘blue helmets’ have been injured during the incident, the mission said in a statement on Thursday. UNIFIL said the incident took place in Al-Aqbieh, “just outside”… Continue reading Lebanon: Irish peacekeeper killed, three others injured

The Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill was introduced in Parliament in May and passed a second reading in the House of Lords last month.   Further review is set to take place in January.  Little access to remedy  The UN experts are concerned that the Bill bans, and in some cases unduly restricts,… Continue reading Rights experts urge UK to redraft controversial Northern Ireland bill

The findings revealed that one in every four of the 5,200 respondents had reduced or stopped agricultural production because of the conflict.   “The report indicates that 25 per cent of the Ukrainian rural population involved in agriculture stopped their activities or reduced their output due to the war”, said Pierre Vauthier, head of FAO’s Ukraine… Continue reading Ukraine: Winter’s downward spiral documented by UN agencies  

Pointing to the Our Common Agenda report – a blueprint for global cooperation and reinvigorated multilateralism – he attested that strengthening multilateralism has been his “highest priority”.  “During the darkest periods of the Cold War, collective decision-making and continuous dialogue in the Security Council maintained a functioning, if imperfect, system of collective security” that has… Continue reading ‘Dramatically’ evolving conflict highlights importance of multilateralism, Security Council hears 

Ambassadors were briefed by Nicholas Haysom, head of the UN Mission in the country, UNMISS, who updated them on the latest political, humanitarian and human rights developments. South Sudan’s warring sides signed the Revitalized Peace Agreement in 2018, establishing a transitional unity government.  The roadmap, announced this past August, aims to complete key remaining tasks… Continue reading South Sudan: Security Council urged to support implementation of roadmap to transition

António Guterres was addressing a one-day international summit in Paris, with leaders from around 50 nations reportedly in attendance, where agreement was reached to deliver some €1 billion in new financing to help repair the energy grid, water systems and health facilities, damaged by Russian missile attacks. The Secretary-General said that around 10 million consumers… Continue reading Ukraine: Countries must support resilient recovery to prevent ‘cascade’ of poverty, hunger

These groundbreaking efforts were on Tuesday declared World Restoration Flagships at the UN Biodiversity Conference, COP15, in Montréal, Canada, and a virtual gala ceremony.  Spanning 23 countries from Central America to East Asia, they are preserving a combined area bigger than Myanmar, France or Somalia, and seek to create nearly 15 million sustainable jobs.  Countering… Continue reading UN honours pioneering initiatives to restore ecosystems worldwide

Agency chief Catherine Russell, who has completed a visit to the country, called for urgent renewal of the truce between the Government and Houthi rebels. The landmark agreement was initially announced in April and led to a significant reduction in the intensity of the conflict. However, a further 62 children have been killed or injured… Continue reading More than 11,000 children killed or injured in Yemen conflict: UNICEF

10 December 2022Peace and Security UN Secretary-General António Guterres has welcomed the decision by the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to investigate recent deadly attacks allegedly committed by the M23 armed group. Mr. Guterres has strongly condemned the attacks, which occurred on 29 and 30 November in the villages of Kishishe and… Continue reading Guterres condemns recent deadly armed group attacks in eastern DR Congo

Professor Lise Howard The evidence, collected in 16 peer-reviewed studies, shows that peacekeepers – or ‘blue helmets’ as the moniker goes – significantly reduce civilian casualties, shorten conflicts, and help make peace agreements stick. In fact, the majority of UN Peacekeeping missions succeed in their primary goal, ultimately stabilizing societies and ending war. “If we… Continue reading Does UN Peacekeeping work? Here’s what the data says

Briefing reportedly at the request of Russia on “supplies of lethal weapons to Ukraine and their consequences”, Izumi Nakamitsu reminded ambassadors that she had already addressed the issue in September. Risk of diversion The UN Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) chief repeated what she had said then, that a large-scale influx of weapons into any battle-zone, “raises many… Continue reading Ukraine war: Attacks against civilians and infrastructure must stop, disarmament chief tells Security Council

Mr. Guterres made the appeal in his message to mark the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime, observed on Friday.  “States have the primary obligation for preventing genocide, but religious and community leaders, civil society, the private sector and the… Continue reading Genocide threat still real, UN chief says, commemorating victims worldwide

“Over the past weeks, the security situation in eastern DRC has deteriorated dramatically”, said Special Representative Bintou Keita, noting that since October, the M23 rebel group had resumed hostilities and extended its control in North Kivu province.   Bolstering support  In response, MONUSCO has continued to provide operational, logistical, and tactical support both to the… Continue reading Security ‘one of the most significant challenges’ in DR Congo, Security Council hears

9 December 2022Economic Development Some 20 million jobs could be created by investing in policies that support nature and address climate change, disaster risk, food insecurity, and other major challenges, according to a UN report published on Friday.  Launched by the International Labour Organization (ILO), UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and International Union for Conservation of… Continue reading ‘Just Transition’ policies needed to create 20 million green jobs: UN report  

8 December 2022Climate and Environment A UN-led push for greater cross-border cooperation over increasingly finite water resources, made significant progress on Thursday, after it was announced that more than 30 governments and organizations have decided to work together on the issue. “This year’s terrible floods and droughts in almost all corners of the planet illustrate… Continue reading UN taps potential for trust-building on shared water resources

“The ocean is life. The ocean is livelihoods. The ocean binds humanity together across history and cultures”, said the Secretary-General, at a major General Assembly meeting marking the 40th anniversary of the adoption of the Convention. He highlighted the breadth of the accord, spanning from “the air we breathe, to the atmosphere that sustains all life, to the… Continue reading With ocean in ‘dire straits’, Law of the Sea more relevant than ever: Guterres

7 December 2022Climate and Environment Governments and the private sector must move to effectively protect the natural environment, Secretary-General António Guterres told journalists covering the UN biodiversity conference, COP15, in Montréal, Canada, on Wednesday.  “Ecosystems have become playthings of profit. Human activities are laying waste to once-thriving forests, jungles, farmland, oceans, rivers, seas and lakes,”… Continue reading UN chief urges governments and business to step up action to protect nature

Special Representative Volker Perthes commended military and civilian leaders, saying they have come a long way since then.  “The framework agreement now offers a path to realize the aspirations of Sudan’s youth, women and men,” he said, speaking from the capital, Khartoum.  Path to democracy  The document is supposed to lay the groundwork towards a… Continue reading New political deal ‘offers a path’ to realizing Sudanese aspirations

South Sudan: ‘Raw violence’ displaces thousands during ‘ruthless conflict’, UNHCR says  Throughout South Sudan’s Greater Upper Nile Region, “desperation is rising” as escalating armed conflict has forced some to flee for their lives four times over, and displaced at least 20,000 people since August, the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, said on Wednesday.   “And more people are fleeing… Continue reading South Sudan: ‘Raw violence’ displaces thousands during ‘ruthless conflict’, UNHCR says

“Beyond biodiversity, beyond climate, there is a central question in the world today and that is justice. We live in a system in which both the economic rules and the financial architecture are morally bankrupt,” the UN chief told a side event organized by the Global Youth Biodiversity Network and other youth groups, ahead of… Continue reading Young people’s leadership, drive for justice, the best signals of hope that biodiversity loss can be halted

The conference is being billed as a major biodiversity COP, because it is expected to lead to the adoption of a new Global Biodiversity Framework, guiding actions worldwide through 2030, to preserve and protect our natural resources. The delegates and organizers will be hoping that this framework will have a more lasting impact than the… Continue reading ‘Without nature, we have nothing’: UN chief sounds alarm at key UN biodiversity event

Amidst ongoing humanitarian operations, Martin Griffiths told ambassadors he had come to brief them in New York on “the widespread death, destruction, displacement, and suffering” taking place since the invasion of 24 February, and the challenges that the continuing violence and winter weather were exacerbating.  “Over 14 million people remain forcibly displaced from their homes… Continue reading Ukraine: ‘Senseless war’ has triggered ‘colossal torment’: Griffiths to Security Council 

5 December 2022Humanitarian Aid A UN Spokesperson said on Monday that another wave of missile strikes in Ukraine has further damaged the country’s energy system, leaving millions of people without electricity and water as temperatures dip below freezing.  At the regular press briefing in New York, Associate Spokesperson Stéphanie Tremblay told journalists that according to… Continue reading Ukraine: Missile strikes threaten millions facing cold and hungry winter 

Highlighting the progress made by Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Da’esh/ISIL (UNITAD), he said evidence collected and analysed, substantiated preliminary findings from his previous report.  He cited crimes committed against Christians such as enslavement and forced conversion; “notable progress” on the development and use of chemical and biological weapons; and inspections… Continue reading Iraq: Investigative team reaches ‘next level’ in bid to bring ISIL terrorists to justice 

Signed in the capital Khartoum after months of negotiations following last year’s military coup which derailed the transition, the agreement aims to establish a new constitution. UN Secretary-General António Guterres, said he hoped the signing would “pave the way for the return to a civilian-led transition in the country”, and called on all Sudanese “to work without… Continue reading Sudan: UN welcomes ‘courageous’ military-civilian pact towards democratic future

2 December 2022SDGs Amidst multiple conflicts that have disrupted supply chains, fuelled food insecurity, and contributed to the rising risk of famine and forced displacement throughout numerous countries, the UN convened a high-level meeting on Friday to discuss solutions surrounding building and sustaining peace and stepping up development.   Convened by the Economic and Social Council… Continue reading Conflicts and insecurity remain ‘major bottlenecks’ to achieving UN global goals

2 December 2022Peace and Security A top UN Human Rights Council-appointed probe into potential rights abuses linked to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, outlined on Friday the “devastating” impact of the war on the country’s children. After its latest official visit to the country, the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine expressed deep concern that threats to the rights… Continue reading Ukraine rights probe condemns ‘multiplying’ impact of war on children

The size of the appeal – 25 per cent higher than this year’s – reflects the fact that the total number in need is 65 million more than in 2022, the UN and partner organizations noted. ‘Shockingly high’ Needs are “shockingly high”, the UN’s top emergency relief official, Martin Griffiths, said, warning that it was very… Continue reading UN appeals for record $51.5 billion to help 230 million on the brink in 2023

Mr. Pedersen feared the ramp-up in military operations has the potential to unravel a strategic stalemate in the war that has brought relative calm for almost three years.  ‘Escalatory dynamics’  “In repeated briefings, I have warned of the dangers of military escalation in Syria. I am here in person today to tell you that escalatory… Continue reading UN envoy warns against ‘worrying and dangerous’ military escalation in Syria

According to the agency’s first report on global water resources, areas that were unusually dry included South America’s Rio de la Plata area, where a persistent drought has affected the region since 2019. In Africa, major rivers such as the Niger, Volta, Nile and Congo had below-average water flow in 2021. The same trend was observed in… Continue reading Large parts of world drier than normal in 2021: WMO

29 November 2022Peace and Security The first shipment of fertilizer donated by Russian producers to countries hit hard by rising global food insecurity, has left the Netherlands bound for Malawi, the UN Spokesperson said in a statement on Tuesday. Stéphane Dujarric reiterated that the UN welcomed the donation of 260,000 metric tonnes of fertilizer which has been… Continue reading ‘Intense diplomatic efforts’ continue to ensure food and fertilizers reach those in need

Special Coordinator Tor Wennesland called for stronger international commitment towards the two-State solution and outlined potential ways to move forward.   He reported that high levels of violence in the occupied West Bank and Israel in recent months has resulted in grave suffering.  This included attacks against civilians from both sides, increased use of arms,… Continue reading Israeli-Palestinian conflict nearing ‘boiling point’, UN envoy warns

28 November 2022Peace and Security The international community should push ahead with stalled plans to prevent biological weapons from being developed in the wake of COVID-19, the UN’s top disarmament official insisted on Monday.  In a speech to the Biological Weapons Convention, Izumi Nakamitsu explained that the issue of verifying whether biological toxins are being… Continue reading ‘Critical opportunity’ to protect against biological warfare, countries hear

In a statement, the UN integrated stabilization mission in CAR, MINUSCA, said the attack at the Obo airfield near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan, had taken place on Thursday morning, and that the mission had “immediately opened an investigation into the exact circumstances” surrounding the incident. Likely war… Continue reading Central African Republic: UN chief strongly condemns airfield attack which left one peacekeeper dead

Ms. DiCarlo referred to the latest wave of Russian missile and drone strikes in Ukraine which, she said, terrorized the citizens of several cities (Kyiv, Odesa, Lviv, Mykolaiv, Kharkiv, and Zaporizhzhia). With winter approaching, the attacks, she said, “renew fears that this winter will be catastrophic for millions of Ukrainians, who face the prospect of… Continue reading ‘Catastophic’ winter in store for Ukraine, warns UN peacebuilding chief, following Russian strikes on critical infrastructure

In providing an overview of the situation after the 2 October truce expiration, Hans Grundberg said that in recent weeks, Houthi forces, known as Ansar Allah, attacked oil terminals and ports in Hadramawt and Shabwa governorates, depriving the Government of its main source of revenue from exporting oil.   “These attacks…have significant economic repercussions”, he said.… Continue reading Yemen: Humanitarian and economic issues must be addressed, Security Council hears 

A conservationist, a sustainable waste management enterprise, an economist, a women’s rights activist, and a wildlife biologist were selected from nearly 2,200 nominations – a new submission record.  UNEP’s annual Champions of the Earth award is the UN’s highest environmental honour, which recognizes individuals and organizations from a number of fields, including civil society, academia and the… Continue reading UNEP honours five protectors of Mother Earth

22 November 2022Human Rights More than 40 people have been killed in Iran during the past week, including two teenagers, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said on Tuesday.  The development came amid ongoing nationwide protests sparked by the death in custody of Jina Mahsa Amini.  The 22-year-old from Iran’s Kurdistan region was arrested by… Continue reading Iran: 40 people killed in protests over past week – OHCHR

Miguel Ángel Moratinos, High Representative for the UN Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), was speaking ahead of the start of its 9th Global Forum, which opens in Fez, Morocco, on Tuesday.  The theme this time around is Towards An Alliance of Peace: Living Together as One Humanity.  The Global Forum is the UNAOC’s highest-profile event, and this… Continue reading Peaceful coexistence is not ‘utopia’ but reality, says UN official fostering intercultural dialogue

Citing the DPRK’s official news agency and various government sources, Rosemary DiCarlo told ambassadors that at around 10:15 am local time, the so-called Hwasong-17 missile flew a distance of 1,000 km at an altitude of approximately 6,100 km.    “It is reportedly the first successful test of the DPRK’s largest and most powerful missile, capable of… Continue reading DPRK missile launch ‘latest in a series of alarming activities’ – UN political chief  

20 November 2022Peace and Security Powerful explosions shook the area of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), “abruptly ending a period of relative calm” at the facility, the head of the UN nuclear watchdog agency said on Sunday. In a statement issued by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said… Continue reading Overnight blasts near Ukraine nuclear plant are ‘playing with fire!’ – UN nuclear chief

“This COP has taken an important step towards justice. I welcome the decision to establish a loss and damage fund and to operationalize it in the coming period,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in a video message issued from the conference venue in Egypt, underscoring that the voices of those on frontlines of the climate… Continue reading COP27 closes with deal on loss and damage: ‘A step towards justice’, says UN chief

18 November 2022Peace and Security The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) has reiterated its call for a ban on forced returns to eastern provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), including asylum seekers who have had their claims rejected. Elizabeth Tan, UNHCR’s Director of International Protection, said on Friday at the regular Geneva press… Continue reading UNHCR calls for ban on forced returns of asylum seekers to eastern DR Congo

Climate activists and civil society have been subjected to intimidation, harassment and surveillance during the two-week gathering, held in the resort town of Sharm El-Sheikh, they reported.  End harassment, ensure safety  “We are deeply concerned by reported acts of harassment and intimidation by Egyptian officials, infringing the rights of Egyptian and non-Egyptian human rights and… Continue reading Rights experts decry harassment of activists attending COP27

18 November 2022Peace and Security Children across the Middle East and North Africa Region (MENA) are again confronting a surge in violence, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said on Friday, describing the “unacceptable reality” that on average, over 10 children have been killed every week since the beginning of the year. “Children in the region… Continue reading Middle East: Terrifying surge in violence affecting children ‘must stop’ – UNICEF

The MV Brave Commander berthed in Hodeidah port in Yemen carrying Ukrainian wheat flour milled in Turkiye. (Oct 2022) 18 November 2022Peace and Security A “breakthrough” has been made on the potential distribution of hundreds of thousands of tonnes of Russian-made fertiliser blocked in European ports and which are vital to avoid a global food… Continue reading Amid looming global food insecurity crisis, ‘breakthrough’ on fertilisers hailed

“I remain concerned at the number of outstanding issues, including on finance mitigation, adaptation, loss and damage and their inter linkages,” COP27 President, Sameh Shoukry, told delegates reunited at the plenary of the Sharm el-Sheik International Convention Centre. Mr. Shoukry called on parties to “urgently” work together to resolve the outstanding issues as swiftly as… Continue reading As COP27 deadline slips, UN chief urges negotiators to aim for ‘maximum ambition’ on loss and damage

17 November 2022UN Affairs The entire credibility and relevance of the United Nations will be called into question unless the General Assembly finally takes a lead on reforming the Organisation’s most powerful body responsible for peace and security issues, the Security Council. That’s according to the President of the General Assembly Csaba Kőrösi, who told a… Continue reading ‘Credibility and relevance’ of UN on the line over Security Council reform, warns Assembly President

“There is clearly a breakdown in trust between North and South, and between developed and emerging economies. This is no time for finger-pointing. The blame game is a recipe for mutually assured destruction,” António Guterres told journalists at the Sharm El Sheikh International Conference Centre. The UN chief urged countries to deliver the kind of… Continue reading ‘Stand and deliver’, UN chief urges COP27 negotiators as deadline nears to finalize outcome text

17 November 2022Peace and Security UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Thursday welcomed the renewal of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which had been due to expire on Saturday. More than 11.1 million tonnes of essential foodstuffs have been shipped as part of the agreement involving Türkiye, Ukraine, Russia and the United Nations, since it was… Continue reading UN chief welcomes renewal of Black Sea Grain Initiative

Russian missiles and drones have rained down on several cities, including the capital, Kyiv, she reported, destroying or damaging homes and severely disrupting critical services.  “I must say it again: attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure are prohibited under international humanitarian law,” she stressed.  ‘No end in sight’  Meanwhile, military dynamics on the ground continue… Continue reading Ukraine war: Risks of spillover ‘remain all too real’, Security Council hears 

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk told journalists at a press conference in Khartoum that the military takeover of October 2021, which put an end to civilian power-sharing following the ouster of former dictator Omar Al-Bashir, had left Sudan “at a decisive fork in the road”.   “As political negotiations continue towards a framework… Continue reading Sudan: Human rights must ‘be at the core’ of democratic transition, urges Türk   

16 November 2022Climate and Environment Without urgent investment in climate mitigation and adaptation, countries in the Sahel risk decades of armed conflict and displacement, exacerbated by rising temperatures, scarcity of resources and food insecurity, the UN has warned in a report published on Wednesday. Moving from Reaction to Action: Anticipating Vulnerability Hotspots in the Sahel, says that,… Continue reading Invest more in Africa’s Sahel, or risk decades of armed conflict and displacement

“The two need to be looked at as being on the same wavelength, and not one higher than the other,” Elizabeth Mrema, Executive Secretary of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the international legal instrument to protect biodiversity ratified by 196 nations, told UN News. ‘Biodiversity Day’ at COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh comes just… Continue reading COP27: Protecting biodiversity is protecting the Paris Agreement

“This insecurity is exacerbating an already disastrous humanitarian situation”, said Martha Pobee, Assistant Secretary-General for Africa in the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, pointing out that women and children are the primary victims of violence and growing inequality.  Regionally led force  Meanwhile the Joint Force of the Group of Five (G5) – created… Continue reading UN official calls on Security Council to support a ‘secure, peaceful and prosperous Sahel’

“We know more climate disasters are in the making. We just do not know where or when they will hit”, said Karin Hulshof, UNICEF Deputy Executive Director for Partnerships.” The Today and Tomorrow initiative, for the first time, combines funding for immediate resilience and risk prevention programmes for children today, with risk transfer finance provided by… Continue reading UNICEF launches new child-focused climate initiative to head off disasters

15 November 2022Human Rights Prisoners of war on both sides of the conflict in Ukraine have told UN human rights investigators that they have been subjected to torture and ill-treatment while held captive.  Matilda Bogner, Head of the UN’s human rights monitoring mission in Ukraine, said that, over the past few months, her team had… Continue reading Ukrainian and Russian POWs tortured and ill-treated: OHCHR

UN Special Representative Abdoulaye Bathily briefed ambassadors on the ongoing impasse and other obstacles to the vote, which was postponed last December.  Libya has been divided between two rival administrations in the aftermath of the overthrow and killing of former President, Muammar Gaddafi, over a decade ago.  Mr. Bathily last addressed the Council in October,… Continue reading Libya: Some leaders ‘actively hindering progress towards elections’, Security Council hears

The world is on its way to “a raging food catastrophe”, Secretary-General António Guterres warned leaders gathered in Bali, alerting them that “people in five separate places are facing famine”. “Simultaneously, we are witnessing a crunch in the global fertilizer market”, he continued, highlighting once again the Black Sea Grain Initiative to export vital food… Continue reading Act together now, to prevent ‘raging food catastrophe’ next year: Guterres

The energy sector, responsible for more than two-thirds of global greenhouse emissions, is mainly powered by fossil fuels. While this brings electricity and transport to most of the world, it is accompanied by deep pain and loss to vulnerable communities and ecosystems. According to the International Renewable Agency (IRENA), only 29 per cent of global… Continue reading Keep the 1.5°C goal alive, experts and civil society urge on ‘Energy Day’ at COP27

15 November 2022Human Rights The UN human rights office, OHCHR, called on Tuesday for the immediate release of thousands of Iranian citizens who have been detained after peacefully demonstrating against the Government following the death of Mahsa Amini for breaking strict hijab rules two months ago. OHCHR Spokesperson Jeremy Laurence, briefed reporters in Geneva, reporting that on… Continue reading Iran: Thousands held for peacefully protesting must be released

Nearly 50 nations co-sponsored the resolution on establishing an international mechanism for compensation for damage, loss and injury, as well as a register to document evidence and claims.  The General Assembly is the UN’s most representative body, comprising all 193 Member States.  Ninety-four countries voted in favour of the resolution, and 14 against, while 73… Continue reading General Assembly adopts resolution on Russian reparations for Ukraine

14 November 2022Humanitarian Aid Essential supplies have been delivered to thousands of people in the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson for the first time since Russia’s invasion of 24 February, UN humanitarians announced on Monday. Aid workers brought food, water, hygiene kits, shelter materials and critical household items, such as bedding, thermal blankets and solar… Continue reading Ukraine: UN convoy delivers vital aid to residents of Kherson

14 November 2022Peace and Security From peacekeeping to peacebuilding, Under-Secretary-General Jean-Pierre Lacroix reaffirmed to the Security Council on Monday, the vital role that UN police officers play across the conflict prevention spectrum.  He outlined some of the greatest challenges to global peace, security and development, which include expanding conflicts in high population areas, expansion of… Continue reading UNPOL ready to tackle global peace, security and development challenges 

Speaking on the eve of the G20 Summit there, the UN chief appealed for the bloc to support his initiatives to address climate change, sustainable development, the worldwide food and energy crises, and digital transformation.  The Summit is taking place at “the most pivotal, precarious moment in generations”, he told journalists.    ‘Ground zero’ for… Continue reading UN chief highlights crucial role of G20 in resolving global crises

“Nothing about us, without us,” UNICEF advocate told UN News on Monday while she was painting one of the collaborative colourful artworks displayed throughout the conference’s dedicated youth pavilion depicting the role of women in climate action. For the young climate activist, women and young girls in all their diversity have been leading the climate… Continue reading COP27: Week two opens with focus on water, women and more negotiations on loss and damage

14 November 2022Human Rights A steep rise in civilian casualties across Somalia, largely at the hands of Al-Shabaab militants, has exacerbated an already grim human rights and humanitarian situation there, said the UN human rights chief on Monday. According to latest UN figures, at least 613 civilians have been killed and 948 injured so far… Continue reading Somalia: Human rights chief decries steep rise in civilian casualties

These systems are critical to maintaining the quality, nutritional value and safety of food, especially as an estimated 14 per cent of all food produced for human consumption is lost before it even reaches consumers. The increased investment is also required if the world is to meet the challenge of feeding an additional two billion… Continue reading Sustainable food cold chains reduce waste, fight climate change: UN report

Mr. Guterres was speaking to journalists a day after addressing regional leaders attending the 12th Summit between the UN and the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Avoid at all costs “As I told yesterday’s summit meeting, we must avoid at all costs the division of the global economy into two parts, led by… Continue reading Secretary-General upholds the importance of a single global economy

This sentiment echoed through dozens of pavilions and conference rooms in Sharm el-Sheikh on Saturday as COP27 turned its attention to the vital issues of adaptation, agriculture and food systems in the context of climate change. “We need to help rural populations build their resilience to extreme weather events and adapt to a changing climate.… Continue reading Adapt or starve: COP27 spotlights agricultural challenges and solutions in the face of climate change

Speaking at the 12th ASEAN-UN Summit, Secretary-General António Guterres painted a picture of many in the Global South, “battered” by COVID and the climate crisis – restricting access to food, energy, and finance – and global insecurity triggering new conflicts while making it increasingly difficult to end old ones. He also drew attention to a… Continue reading ASEAN States ‘well-placed’ to advance human rights, freedoms and a strong global economy 

11 November 2022Human Rights A UN Human Rights Council-appointed probe into alleged rights violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT), including East Jerusalem, and Israel, wrapped up a week of public hearings in Geneva on Friday that included testimony on the killing of veteran US-Palestinian journalist Shireen Abu Akleh.   The session – mandated by the Human… Continue reading UN Human Rights Council inquiry hears testimonies on Shireen Abu Akleh killing 

To meet the goals of the Paris Agreement and prevent the worst impacts of the climate crisis, the world must abandon fossil fuels as quickly as possible, Selwin Hart, Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on Climate Action told UN News today. “There is no argument around the science at all. But of course, developing countries,… Continue reading ‘Fossil fuels are a dead end’, says top UN climate adviser on ‘Decarbonization Day’ at COP27

“There are climate catastrophes and destruction, and my country ends up borrowing money from the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank to deal with the repercussions… our countries cannot develop because of the costs of the climate crisis,” a young African activist said during one of the many protests that took place today at… Continue reading ‘Our futures are being stolen!’ Youth activists tell COP27 negotiators it’s past time to tackle ‘loss and damage’

The world is faced with risks of nuclear proliferation and nuclear catastrophe not seen in decades, he noted, adding that “IAEA strives to meet the demands of this moment with expert resolve.” Mr. Kőrösi thanked the agency’s chief, Rafael Mariano Grossi, for his leadership, as well as its experts “who have risked their lives to… Continue reading IAEA ensures nuclear safety and stability amid global crises: General Assembly President

The results were published on Wednesday at the COP27 climate conference taking place in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt.  Some 243,512 young people from 163 countries participated in the UNICEF U-Report poll, over July and August of this year.    Gauging the temperature  U-Report is a UNICEF digital platform that supports youth engagement on programme priorities, emergency… Continue reading Young people reconsidering parenthood due to climate change, UNICEF poll reveals

9 November 2022Climate and Environment The global building and construction boom has pushed the sector’s CO2 emissions to an all-time high of 10 gigatonnes, meaning that it is now “off track” to meet decarbonization pledges by 2050, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) said on Wednesday. “Years of warnings about the impacts of climate change have become a reality,”… Continue reading ‘10 gigatonne’ emissions boom leaves construction ‘off track’ for decarbonization by 2050

Over 50 activists from all ages and backgrounds took over the so-called ‘Blue Zone’ – the main area of the conference centre in Sharm el-Shaik overseen by the UN – to chant “Stop funding fossil fuels, stop funding death”. Susan Huang, representing the NGO Oil Change International was among the participants aiming to shed a… Continue reading Dirty fossil fuel investments and a new AI inventory of global emissions in the spotlight during ‘Finance Day’ at COP27

During a high-level event, the COP27 Presidency launched the Sharm el-Sheikh Adaptation Agenda to rally global action around 30 outcomes that are needed to address what the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) has described as the climate ‘adaptation gap’. The agenda would enhance resilience for four billion people living in the most climate vulnerable communities by… Continue reading Developing countries at COP27 call for ‘climate justice’ in the form of adaptation and loss and damage funds

8 November 2022Climate and Environment Overwhelming flooding has affected at least 27.7 million children across 27 countries worldwide, with the number of children affected by flooding in Chad, Gambia, Pakistan and northeast Bangladesh, being the highest in over 30 years. The UN Children’s Fund, UNICEF, said in its alert on Tuesday as the COP27 Climate… Continue reading Over 27 million children at risk from devastating record-setting floods

As young people continue to flee fighting between Congolese armed forces and the resurgent non-State armed group M23, new IDPs arrive daily, escalating the extent of the humanitarian crisis. “Internally Displaced camps are fraught with danger”, said UNICEF Emergency Manager Dounia Dekhili. “In addition to the cholera threat, children and young people are at risk… Continue reading Mass displacements in eastern DR Congo threaten young lives

7 November 2022Climate and Environment Global action to fight illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing has intensified, the Food and Agriculture Organization said on Monday, noting that 100 States have now signed on to an international agreement battling the scourge. The Agreement on Port State Measures (PSMA) is the first internationally binding instrument specifically designed to prevent,… Continue reading New milestone in battle against illegal, unregulated fishing

“Humanity has a choice: cooperate or perish. It is either a Climate Solidarity Pact – or a Collective Suicide Pact,” the UN Secretary-General told over 100 world leaders reunited for the first official plenary of the UN Climate Change Conference. The proposed Pact would see all countries taking extra efforts to reduce emissions, wealthier nations… Continue reading ‘Cooperate or perish’: At COP27 UN chief calls for Climate Solidarity Pact, urges tax on oil companies to finance loss and damage

7 November 2022Peace and Security The top UN disarmament official told the Security Council on Monday that “gaps, inconsistencies and discrepancies” identified in Syria’s declaration over its use of chemical weapons, in accordance with the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). “cannot be considered accurate and complete”.   Updating ambassadors on the elimination of Syria’s chemical weapons… Continue reading ‘Gaps, inconsistencies and discrepancies’ continue over Syria’s chemical weapons stance, Security Council hears

“Today a new era begins – and we begin to do things differently. Paris gave us the agreement. Katowice and Glasgow gave us the plan. Sharm el-Sheik shifts us to implementation. No one can be a mere passenger on this journey. This is the signal that times have changed,” Mr. Stiell told delegates gathered in… Continue reading COP27 begins a ‘new era to do things differently’, UN climate change chief declares as pivotal conference gets underway

6 November 2022Climate and Environment The latest report from the UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO), released on Sunday, shows that the last eight years have been the warmest on record, fuelled by ever-rising greenhouse gas concentrations. The provisional 2022 State of the Global Climate study outlines the increasingly dramatic signs of the climate emergency, which… Continue reading New UN weather report ‘a chronicle of chaos’: UN chief

And yet, despite having conducted missile tests on Wednesday and Thursday, Mohamed Khiari informed the ambassadors that DPRK, more commonly known commonly as North Korea, “has yet to publicly provide details” on the launches.  He pointed out that yesterday’s missile launch was “assessed to be an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM)”, which reportedly covered a range… Continue reading DPR Korea launches ‘unprecedented number’ of missiles, Security Council hears

The study gives the example of Dhaka, Bangladesh, where under a scenario of very high emissions by 2100, additional deaths due to climate change could rise to nearly twice the country’s current annual death rate from all cancers, and 10 times its annual road traffic fatalities. “Because of human action, the concentration of carbon dioxide… Continue reading Climate change much deadlier than cancer in some places, UNDP data shows

3 November 2022Peace and Security The UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide expressed grave concern on Thursday over a reported resurgence of ethnic clashes in the Blue Nile region of Sudan.   According to the UN, inter-communal clashes that have flared up several times since July have caused at least 359 fatalities, injured… Continue reading Resurgence of ethnic clashes in Sudan’s Blue Nile region triggers death and destruction

The High Commissioner said the Haitian Government also needed to provide a firm commitment to accountability, and the rule of law, after decades of “systematic corruption and rampant impunity”, which have led up to the country’s current paralysis. He warned Haiti has descended into the worst human rights and humanitarian situation in decades. Urgent solutions… Continue reading Haiti ‘on the verge of an abyss’, warns UN rights chief

“They help protect civilians and prevent violence…[and] enable the work of peacebuilding, development, humanitarian, and human rights actors”, he detailed.   However, “local and global contexts in which they operate are becoming more challenging by the day”.  The UN chief reminded the Security Council that peacekeeping plays a “critical role” in supporting UN operations in building… Continue reading UN chief urges Security Council, speak ‘with one voice’ to secure peace

As misleading articles or deceptive memes continue to pop up up in timelines and newsfeeds, the course helps users to sort through and separate what is real from what is not – helping everyone to stem the increasingly concerning churn of viral propaganda.  Fighting misinformation  Since 2020, the UN’s Verified initiative to improve access to… Continue reading New UN course helps cut through the noise to bolster online safety

3 November 2022Climate and Environment Some of the world’s most iconic glaciers are set to disappear by 2050, according to a new study by UNESCO, which highlights the accelerated melting of glaciers in World Heritage sites. Glaciers in a third of sites are under threat, regardless of efforts to limit temperature increases. However, the study… Continue reading Iconic World Heritage glaciers to disappear by 2050, warns UNESCO

3 November 2022Climate and Environment Russia’s decision to rejoin the Black Sea Grain Initiative and the Ethiopian agreement to end the war in Tigray demonstrate the power of multilateralism in action, said the UN chief on Thursday, in a call for countries to also rebuild trust between the North and South at the UN’s COP27… Continue reading Ukraine grain deal, Ethiopia agreement, show ‘power of multilateralism in action’: Guterres

The Adaptation Gap Report 2022 has been released ahead of the COP27 UN climate conference, which opens this weekend in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt.  It calls for increased funding and implementation of actions aimed at helping vulnerable nations and communities adapt to the climate emergency in the face of mounting risks.  Estimated annual adaptation needs are… Continue reading More funding needed for climate adaptation, as risks mount

Women and children wait at a food distribution site in Adimehamedey in Tigray, Ethiopia. 2 November 2022Peace and Security A peace deal between the Ethiopian Government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) signed on Wednesday in South Africa, represents “a critical first step” towards ending the brutal two year war, said the UN chief.… Continue reading Ethiopia: Peace agreement between Government and Tigray ‘a critical first step’: Guterres

2 November 2022Peace and Security Despite severe constraints on access, UN and other humanitarian workers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have begun helping thousands displaced by renewed fighting between the Congolese army and the M23 armed group around the eastern region of North Kivu, close to the border with Rwanda and Uganda.… Continue reading Humanitarians aid thousands in need across DR Congo; UN peacekeepers attacked by hostile crowd

Mr. Grandi expressed hope that these dimensions “will be in clearer focus” at the COP27 UN climate change conference, opening this weekend in Egypt, and at its successor conference in a year’s time.   The climate emergency is ravaging resources and creating tensions, including between communities, particularly in already fragile contexts where authorities do not… Continue reading UN refugee chief calls for greater focus on climate and conflict factors

The State of the Climate in Europe report, produced jointly with the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service, focused on 2021. It provides information on rising temperatures, land and marine heatwaves, extreme weather, changing precipitation patterns, and retreating ice and snow. Glacier melt The report says that between 1991 and 2021, temperatures in Europe warmed… Continue reading Europe hotting up more than twice global average: WMO

2 November 2022Climate and Environment Humanity’s basic right to life is being threatened by insufficient action in the face of the climate emergency, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk warned on Wednesday. The top rights official has written an open letter calling for human rights to be at the heart of efforts to tackle climate… Continue reading Human rights belong at the heart of climate change debate, urges Türk

The UN-brokered deal which is implemented through a Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) in Istanbul involving Russia, Ukraine, and Türkiye, was signed in July, to allow grain, oil and other foodstuffs to leave the war-torn country for markets overseas – many of which are in desperate need of food from Europe’s “breadbasket” to stave off the… Continue reading UN chief warmly welcomes Russia decision to end suspension from Ukraine grain deal

1 November 2022Peace and Security UN officials stationed at the Joint Coordination Centre (JCC) for the UN-brokered Black Sea Grain Initiative have said there will be no movement of vessels on Wednesday, in the light of Russia’s decision to suspend its involvement in the deal. In the regular daily briefing to reporters in New York… Continue reading Black Sea grain deal shipments on hold Wednesday, following Russia suspension

The League is among the regional organizations which have a vital role to play in advancing peace, sustainable development, and human rights, he added.  Mr. Guterres also appealed for unity across the Arab world, which he said has never been more essential.  “Division opens the door to foreign interference, terrorism, manipulation, and sectarian strife.  But… Continue reading In speech to Arab League, UN chief appeals for greater regional unity

Russia requested the meeting following its decision to suspend participation in the UN-brokered Black Sea Grain Initiative “for an unspecified period of time”, announced this past weekend, in response to alleged Ukrainian attacks against its ships.  The UN’s Emergency Relief Coordinator, Martin Griffiths, and the head of its trade and development agency, UNCTAD, Rebeca Grynspan,… Continue reading Security Council debates Russian withdrawal from crucial Ukraine grain deal

Slashing emissions of methane is the single fastest way to tackle climate change in the short term, says UNEP, as the greenhouse gas remains in the atmosphere for far fewer years than carbon dioxide. The report, compiled by the International Methane Emissions Observatory, an independent entity launched in 2021 to integrate data and track progress… Continue reading Progress on methane emissions by energy companies, but numbers still don’t add up: UNEP

31 October 2022Peace and Security The UN Secretary-General has expressed deep concern over the uptick in fighting between Government troops in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and M23 rebels in the east, which in the past ten days have seen multiple civilians killed, “massive displacement” and four peacekeepers from the UN Stabilization Mission (MONUSCO) injured.… Continue reading DR Congo: Guterres ‘deeply concerned’ by resurgence of fighting between Government troops and M23

Operating an excavator, a bulldozer or a wheel loader did not come naturally to Chief Private Ryan Herdhika, an avid motorcyclist and soldier in the Indonesian Army’s 3rd Combat Engineering Battalion. But he has just passed his heavy engineering equipment test and will next month be deployed to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission… Continue reading Peacekeepers turn ground-breakers in the Central African Republic

29 October 2022Peace and Security A two-day meeting of the UN Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee in India has ended with the adoption of a document committing Member States to prevent and combat digital forms of terror, notably using drones, social media, and online terrorist financing. The non-binding document, known as The Delhi Declaration on countering… Continue reading UN Security Council boosts commitment to fight digital terror

29 October 2022Peace and Security UN Secretary-General António Guterres has reaffirmed his “unwavering commitment” to agreements aimed at ensuring that grain and fertilizers from Ukraine and the Russian Federation reach global markets at the speed and price needed to avert a global food crisis and ensure food security. The Black Sea Grain Initiative, an agreement… Continue reading UN chief reaffirms support for deals to ensure export food and fertilizer from Ukraine and Russia

The protracted fighting has taken countless lives, displaced millions in and outside the country and left much of the country’s infrastructure in tatters. The failure of international efforts to make much progress has been ascribed to the lack of understanding amongst formal mediators of the situation on the ground in local communities. This is where… Continue reading The vital role of Syrian women in resolving bitter conflicts

The alert comes amid the worst floods in a decade, which have swept across Nigeria, Chad, Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali and Cameroon. UNHCR spokesperson Olga Sarrado said that hundreds of people had died in Nigeria, where floodwaters in the northeast swept through sites for internally displaced people and host communities in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe… Continue reading Millions face flooding threat across west and central Africa

The event kicked off in Mumbai, at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, where a series of coordinated terrorist attacks left 31 dead and many injured, in November 2008. Among the survivors is Karambir Kang, who also gave testimony to the meeting, ensuring that the views and needs of victims themselves, were heard loud and clear.… Continue reading UN counter-terrorism committee pays tribute to victims of worldwide attacks

Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland, was briefing the Security Council in the wake of escalating confrontations between Israeli security forces (ISF) and militants, culminating in a large ISF raid in Nablus early this week, which saw five Palestinians killed and 21 wounded. Calling on both leaderships “to recognize what is… Continue reading Israel and Palestine must take steps to ‘restore calm’ in occupied West Bank

The Secretary-General has said COP27 must deliver a “down-payment” on climate solutions that match the scale of the problem, so, will leaders deliver? UN News will keep you informed during the two weeks of the conference officially kicking off on Nov 6th, but before our multimedia team heads for the shore of the Red Sea,… Continue reading COP27: What you need to know about this year’s big UN Climate Conference

This marked the third time since the 24 February invasion that the Council has formally met at Russia’s request to address its ongoing allegations.  The UN’s High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Izumu Nakamitsu, had previously informed ambassadors – first in March, and then again in May – that the UN had seen no evidence of… Continue reading UN still sees no sign of biological weapons in Ukraine

27 October 2022Human Rights Israel’s occupation is illegal and indistinguishable from a “settler-colonial” situation, which must end, as a pre-condition for Palestinians to exercise their right to self-determination, the UN’s independent expert on the occupied Palestinian territory said on Thursday. “For over 55 years, the Israeli military occupation has prevented the realisation of the right to… Continue reading Israel’s illegal occupation of Palestinian territory, tantamount to ‘settler-colonialism’: UN expert

27 October 2022Climate and Environment National pledges to reduce harmful emissions offer little hope of avoiding climate disaster, UN climate experts said on Thursday, in an urgent appeal for a radical transformation of the energy sector, before it’s too late. There’s “no credible pathway to 1.5C in place” today, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) insisted in a new report,… Continue reading Climate change: No ‘credible pathway’ to 1.5C limit, UNEP warns

Ahead of the two-day meeting, the Committee Chair, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj of India, spoke to UN News about how terrorists are exploiting social media, mobile payment systems, 3D printing, and other technological developments.  Highlighting the impact on society, she said their “easy accessibility, affordability and almost universal outreach, have unlocked an immense opportunity for mankind,… Continue reading UN counter-terrorism body backs innovations to fight digital terror

Myanmar’s military seized power in February 2021, overthrowing the elected government led by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi.  Since then, the country has been in the grip of a political, human rights and humanitarian crisis. The High Commissioner’s appeal comes after Malaysia deported more than 100 Myanmar nationals on 6 October. Among them were… Continue reading UN rights chief appeals for a halt in forced returns to Myanmar

The two-day meeting in India marks the first time since 2015, that the Committee has convened outside UN Headquarters in New York. The discussion will focus on three areas: Internet and social media; financing for global terror networks; and the proliferation of unmanned aerial systems, such as drones. These emerging technologies are fast-developing and being… Continue reading Security Council counter-terrorism body to review growing threat posed by new technologies

The agency’s yearly Greenhouse Gas Bulletin warns of the biggest year-on-year jump in methane concentrations in 2021 since systematic measurements began nearly 40 years ago. While the reason for the unprecedented increase is still unclear, it seems to be a result of both biological and human-induced processes according to the report. The increase in carbon… Continue reading Climate change: CO2 and methane in our atmosphere reach record levels

The current combined National Determined Contributions (NDCs)—meaning the countries’ national efforts to tackle emissions and mitigate climate change—are leading our planet to at least 2.5 degrees warming, a level deemed catastrophic by scientists at the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Increasing instead of decreasing In 2019, the IPCC indicated that to curb global warming,… Continue reading Countries’ climate promises still not enough to avoid catastrophic global warming: UN Report

UN News Global perspective Human stories

The country is facing its worst economic crisis since the war began, as well as a deadly cholera outbreak that is rapidly spreading.  Mr. Pedersen reported on his recent “busy period of diplomatic engagement” with key Syrian and international stakeholders, including in connection with the stalled Constitutional Committee meetings in Geneva.  Long way to go … Continue reading Political solution still the only path to peace in Syria: UN Special Envoy

Today, at least half a billion youngsters are already exposed to a high number of heatwaves, placing them on the front lines of climate change, the UN agency noted. By the middle of this century, moreover, it estimates that more than two billion children will be exposed to “more frequent, longer lasting, and more severe”… Continue reading Heatwaves to impact almost every child on earth by 2050: UNICEF report

The results emerging from roundtables on governance, capacity development, data and information, innovation and financing, will be shared with national representatives on Tuesday, at a preparatory meeting for the UN 2023 Water Conference, taking place in March. Noting that the world stands at a watershed moment, the President of the General Assembly, Csaba Kőrösi, whose… Continue reading ‘Game changer’ ideas on water and sustainability, centre-stage ahead of major water conference

Special Representative Abdoulaye Bathily arrived in the country this month and has been prioritizing consultations with political, institutional, security and civil society representatives, in a bid to address these challenges.  “The situation in Libya calls for a consensus State re-legitimation process. Legitimate institutions capable of providing for the basic needs of the people must be… Continue reading Libya: ‘Political deadlock persists with no clear end in sight’- UN envoy

24 October 2022Health Governments must invest more in building safe drinking water systems, both to ensure greater access to this resource and to mitigate the effects of climate change, according to a report published on Monday by the World Health Organization (WHO), UN children’s agency, UNICEF, and the World Bank.  Providing water and sanitation for… Continue reading Step up investment to deliver safe drinking water to all

Mr. Guterres was in the country to take part in a ceremony to commemorate the 45th anniversary of its membership in the UN. He held meetings with the President, Nguyen Xuan Phuc; Prime Minister, Pham Minh Chinh, and other senior officials, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bui Thanh Son, and Environment Minister, Tran Hong… Continue reading In visit to Viet Nam, UN chief stresses critical need for solidarity to overcome climate crisis

Gadvi Kailashben, a 42-year-old widow, lives in Modhera, home to the centuries-old Sun Temple and now the first village in India that runs on solar energy. She earns a meagre income from agriculture which she uses to take care of her family. The Government has installed solar panels on her house which has given her… Continue reading India's first solar-powered village promotes green energy, sustainability and self-reliance

21 October 2022Peace and Security Russia’s military escalation in Ukraine will lead to more suffering worldwide and must be reversed, said the UN’s political affairs chief on Friday, adding that further talk of possible nuclear weapons use could lead to a “dangerous spiral”. Rosemary DiCarlo was briefing the Security Council alongside the Resident and Humanitarian… Continue reading Ukraine war: Path of further escalation ‘must be reversed’, Security Council hears

Infrastructure and farmland have also been damaged, said the statement issued on behalf of Secretary-General António Guterres, worsening the cost of living across the country.   He extended his deepest condolences to the Government of Nigeria and to the affected families, reiterating the UN’s continuing “commitment to supporting the Government of Nigeria in this challenging time.” More than… Continue reading Millions at risk in flood-hit Nigeria; relief chief highlights hunger in Burkina Faso

Criminal gangs have been blocking access to the main fuel terminal in the capital Port-au-Prince, bringing critical services to a standstill, as Haiti grapples with a widening cholera epidemic, amid political and economic meltdown. ‘Catastrophic’ hunger “Catastrophic” levels of hunger have been recorded this month for the first time, in the gang controlled Cite Soleil… Continue reading Security Council approves sanctions package for Haiti to quell gang violence

Ian Fry, Australian National University Professor and Tuvalu’s former ambassador for Climate Change for over 21 years, was appointed in May by the UN Human Rights Council, as the first Special Rapporteur on climate, following the overwhelming vote to recognize the Right to a Healthy Environment, in 2021. “Human-induced climate change is the largest, most… Continue reading INTERVIEW: Connection between human rights and climate change ‘must not be denied’

Ambassadors met to discuss how to strengthen women’s resilience and leadership as a pathway to peace in regions plagued by armed groups.  The debate was held under the Council’s continued focus on women, peace and security, in line with a landmark resolution adopted 22 years ago, and centred around the latest UN report.  Slow progress … Continue reading Slow progress for women helping forge peace, Security Council warned

The three-member Commission is pushing for the issue to be referred to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the UN’s highest court.  They stressed that under international humanitarian law, the occupation of territory in wartime is a temporary situation and does not deprive the occupied power of its statehood or sovereignty.  A core UN principle … Continue reading Israeli occupation of Palestinian territory illegal: UN rights commission

19 October 2022Peace and Security Support from UN peacekeepers serving with the mission in the Central African Republic, MINUSCA, has proven decisive in protecting civilians alongside Government efforts and amid widespread continuing insecurity, said the UN Special Representative for the country on Wednesday, briefing the Security Council. Valentine Rugwabiza, who also heads up the UN… Continue reading MINUSCA support ‘decisive’ in security operations to protect civilians

The Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) urged the international community and the media on Wednesday to give the crisis in Ethiopia “the attention it deserves”. Highlighting that there is no other situation globally in which six million had been kept under siege for almost two years, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, warned that there is… Continue reading Tigray conflict is a health crisis for 6 million people, and ‘the world is not paying attention’: Tedros

El-Ghassim Wane, head of the UN mission in Mali, MINUSMA, presented the latest UN Secretary-General’s report on the peacekeeping operation. He briefed ambassadors on progress in the transition and peace process, while also addressing ongoing insecurity and rising humanitarian needs.  Mr. Wane was speaking a day after a MINUSMA vehicle hit an improvised explosive device… Continue reading Mali: Progress on transition, peace process, amid ongoing insecurity

Set up by the Human Rights Council in March, it presented its initial findings in Geneva at the end of last month. “Given the gravity of the identified violations, there is an undeniable need for accountability”, the Commission told the General Assembly. Devastation and loss “The impact of these violations on the civilian population in… Continue reading ‘Undeniable need for accountability’ in Ukraine as violations mount

“Without greater action and investment, we are facing the death of children on a scale not seen in half a century,” Spokesperson James Elder told journalists in Geneva.  A child is admitted to a health facility for treatment of severe acute malnutrition “every single minute of every single day”, he said.  A looming tragedy  Latest… Continue reading Somalia: UNICEF warns of unprecedented child deaths

18 October 2022Human Rights Parties to the conflict in the Tigray region of Ethiopia must cease all hostilities immediately and work towards a peaceful and lasting solution, the newly appointed UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, appealed on Tuesday.  He warned that the latest alarming airstrikes risk seriously worsening the already devastating impact… Continue reading Impact of Tigray airstrikes on civilians ‘utterly staggering’: UN rights chief

Ms. Helen La Lime urged ambassadors to act decisively and help address the persistent scourges of insecurity and corruption, that along with a health crisis are “accelerating Haiti’s downward spiral”. Earlier on Monday, the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres told journalists that the current blockade of vital humanitarian and civilian supplies in the capital of Port-au-Prince… Continue reading Political solution ‘no longer sufficient’ to address current crisis in Haiti

17 October 2022Human Rights As the number of children reportedly killed by Iranian security forces in relation to ongoing protests rises to at least 23, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child issued a statement on Monday condemning the killings, noting that hundreds more have been injured, detained and tortured during the Government… Continue reading Killings and detentions of children in Iran must end, UN child rights committee urges

That’s according to the UN Secretary-General António Guterres who briefed correspondents on Monday morning outside the Security Council, stating that the violence and destruction “have reached alarming levels.” It was the second intervention from the UN chief in as many days, as reports emerged of heavy bombing of Shire and other Tigrayan cities, and food… Continue reading Tigray: Fighting must end, urges Guterres, amid ‘staggering’ level of need

Plastics are used extensively in agriculture, from plastic-coated seeds to protective wraps used to modify soil temperature and prevent weed growth over crops. These synthetic materials also added intentionally to biosolid fertilizer, which is spread on fields, and are used in irrigation tubes, sacks and bottles. Plastic covered seedlings. Biodiversity, health impacts While all these… Continue reading Plastics are piling up in soil across the world warns UN environment agency

The latest surge in violence began in August, after a fragile five-month humanitarian truce, which has halted aid deliveries into the northern Ethiopian region, where around five million civilians are in need of aid. Aid distribution continues to be hampered by a lack of fuel, and a communications shutdown across Tigray, while Tigrayan commanders have… Continue reading Ethiopia: UN chief ‘gravely concerned’ by escalation in fighting across Tigray

All nations need to make major cuts to fossil fuel emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy, if we are to have any chance of achieving the aim of reducing global temperatures to 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels. This continues to be the message from the UN but, with so many countries suffering as a… Continue reading Adapt and survive: 5 ways to help countries cope with the climate crisis

Hunger has reached a catastrophic level – the highest level 5, on the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification index, or IPC) – in the capital’s Cité Soleil neighbourhood. According to the latest IPC analysis, a record 4.7 million people are currently facing acute hunger (IPC 3 and above), including 1.8 million people in Emergency phase (IPC 4)… Continue reading ‘Catastrophic’ hunger recorded in Haiti recorded for first time, UN warns

In a call for urgent action to address the root causes of rising hunger, ahead of World Food Day, the agency said the current crisis was down to a “confluence of competing crises”, caused by climate shocks, conflict and economic instability. The number of hungry people around the world has shot up from 282 million… Continue reading World Food Day: Another year of global record hunger looms amid food and climate crisis

He told ambassadors that since the truce began, six and a half months ago, it had started to alleviate the suffering of Yemenis, after more than seven years of civil war, and offered “a truly historic opportunity” to work towards a lasting settlement. But the period of relative peace between internationally recognized Government forces and… Continue reading Yemen: End of nationwide truce heralds ‘heightened risk of war’, Security Council hears

Coinciding with the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction , the numbers in the report are even worse for developing countries on the front lines of climate change, the report states. Less than half of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and only one-third of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), have a multi-hazard early warning system.… Continue reading Disaster risk reduction: Only half the world equipped with adequate early warning systems

12 October 2022Peace and Security The head of the UN Verification Mission in Colombia told the Security Council on Wednesday that with the recent election of President Gustavo Petro, expectations were running high for progress towards the full and final implementation of a lasting peace deal, after decades of civil conflict. UN Special Representative and… Continue reading New expectations of progress towards final end of Colombia conflict, Security Council hears

12 October 2022Peace and Security The UN General Assembly passed a resolution by a large majority on Wednesday, calling on countries not to recognise the four regions of Ukraine which Russia has claimed, following so-called referendums held late last month, and demanding that Moscow reverse course on its “attempted illegal annexation”. The results were 143… Continue reading Ukraine: UN General Assembly demands Russia reverse course on ‘attempted illegal annexation’

During a debate on strengthening the response to the impacts of climate change on peace and security in Africa, Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, said that “our response today does not match the magnitude of the challenge we are facing”. Threat to peace The climate emergency is “a danger to peace”, she… Continue reading Africa: Response to climate crisis doesn’t match ‘magnitude of the challenge’

In its new report the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said that in order to limit the global temperature rise which is undermining energy security, electricity tapped from clean energy sources must double over the next eight years. With the energy sector responsible for around 75 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, WMO chief Petteri… Continue reading Climate change: WMO report urges faster action on transition to clean energy

Without action, poverty will rise and desperately needed investments in climate adaptation and mitigation simply will not happen, the agency warned.  The paper – Avoiding ‘Too Little Too Late’ on International Debt Relief – highlights the ripple effects of government responses to the recent economic crisis, and the potential impacts.  ‘Small pill’ to swallow  It… Continue reading UN Development Programme calls for debt relief now for 54 countries

Csaba Kőrösi was speaking at the latest meeting of the Emergency Special Session of the world’s most representative body, on the war in Ukraine, triggered by Russia’s invasion of 24 February, which was taking place in light of Russia’s use of the veto in the Security Council on 30 September. ‘We must find a political solution’… Continue reading Ukraine: Any threat to use nuclear weapons ‘should be universally condemned’

10 October 2022Climate and Environment Heatwaves already kill thousands of people every year and they risk overwhelming the world’s aid response, unless action is taken to mitigate climate change, the UN’s emergency relief chief said on Monday. Without immediate financial help for the most vulnerable communities, the world faces a future of “ever larger and deadlier… Continue reading UN relief chief appeals for concerted action to tackle deadly heatwave threat

10 October 2022Peace and Security The UN chief António Guterres said that large-scale strikes by the Russian military on the Ukrainian capital Kyiv and other locations on Monday, were deeply shocking and represented “another unacceptable escalation” of the war. The strikes which have reportedly caused widespread damage to civilian areas and led to dozens of… Continue reading Ukraine: Russian large-scale strikes are ‘unacceptable escalation’, says Guterres

Record high temperatures this year – which are fueling catastrophes in countries such as Pakistan and Somalia – foreshadow a future with deadlier, more frequent, and more intense heat-related humanitarian emergencies, they warned.  Vulnerable hardest hit The world’s lowest-income countries are already experiencing disproportionate increases in extreme heat. Although they are the least to blame… Continue reading Climate crisis intensifying heatwaves, UN-backed report warns ahead of COP27

9 October 2022Peace and Security Amid a deteriorating security situation in Haiti, UN Security-General António Guterres called on Sunday for the Security Council to consider deploying armed forces to help the country address immense humanitarian concerns. In a statement, Mr. Guterres announced that he has submitted a letter to the Council, containing options for enhanced… Continue reading UN chief calls for ‘enhanced security support’ for Haiti, as crisis worsens

9 October 2022Climate and Environment State members of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) adopted a long-term goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, following two weeks of intensive diplomacy at the UN agency’s 41st Assembly, on Friday. The goal for decarbonized air transport, which follows similar commitments from industry groups, will “contribute to the… Continue reading Historic net-zero international flight goal agreed at UN conference

The image of the typical, laid-back surfer does not sit easily with the stereotype of earnest environmental campaigners. But elite bodyboarder Chris Kirkman is proof that surfers have a part to play in fighting the climate emergency. He has competed everywhere from Portugal and Chile to Tahiti and Brazil, and it was through surfing that… Continue reading Australian surfers ride climate action wave

There are many positive aspects to tourism. Around two billion people travel each year for tourism purposes. Travel and tourism connect people and bring the world closer through shared experiences, cultural awareness and community building. It provides jobs, spurs regional development, and is a key driver for socio-economic progress. However, there is often a downside;… Continue reading Is it possible to be a ‘sustainable tourist’? 12 ways to make a positive impact on your travels

7 October 2022Humanitarian Aid Urgently needed aid relief has reached areas of northeast Ukraine recently reclaimed from Russian control amid ongoing fighting, UN humanitarians said on Friday. More than 73,000 people in Kharkiv oblast have now received food assistance, which is nearly half of the population in the retaken areas. Villages and settlements across the… Continue reading Aid relief reaches Ukraine towns and cities reclaimed from Russian control

During a full session of the UN’s most representative body on the country’s devastating floods, he recalled last month’s visit where he saw “a level of climate carnage beyond imagination”. He described flood waters covering a landmass three times the total area of his own country, Portugal, saying that many lost their homes, livestock, crops… Continue reading Pakistan’s ‘climate carnage beyond imagination’, UN chief tells General Assembly

7 October 2022Human Rights The UN human rights office, OHCHR, has called for investigations into deaths and injuries resulting from last week’s coup in Burkina Faso, Spokesperson Seif Magango said on Friday. Staff are closely following the human rights situation in the West African country since soldiers ousted Paul-Henri Damiba, who had also seized power… Continue reading Burkina Faso: UN rights office calls for probe into coup-related deaths and injuries

A new UN report presented on Wednesday to the Organization’s highest pan-European environmental policy body, covering 54 countries, is calling for greater action to tackle the triple environmental crisis roiling the planet.

Battling what the top UN aid official in Pakistan has warned is a “second wave of death and destruction”, following catastrophic flooding since June that left a third of the country submerged, UN humanitarians on Tuesday raised their funding request from $160 million to $816 million.

In an era of “nuclear blackmail”, UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Monday urged countries to step back from the threat of potential global catastrophe and recommit to peace. 

As government representatives begin to finalize the agenda for the COP27 climate change conference in Egypt next month, the UN chief told journalists in New York that the work ahead is “as immense as the climate impacts we are seeing around the world”.

As the war in Ukraine stokes a crisis for countries who are struggling just to access the food their populations want and need, the international community needs to ensure that doesn’t spill over into a “food availability crisis”, the head of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said on Wednesday.

Hurricane Ian caused devastation across western Cuba and increased its strength and size as it made landfall mid-afternoon local time on Wednesday, in the United States; meanwhile Typhoon Noru underwent an “explosive” intensification before it hit the Philippines, the UN Meteorological agency, WMO, has said.

Action is needed over emissions, waste, pollution and biodiversity loss, it says, adding that solutions can be found, through a focus on a “circular economy” and sustainable infrastructure. The call came during the ninth Environment for Europe Ministerial Conference, which runs until Friday, in the report authored by the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)… Continue reading New UN report urges Europe to step-up action over triple environmental crisis

Presenting a report to the General Assembly on its causes and consequences, Reem Alsalem, UN Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls described climate change as “the most consequential threat multiplier for women and girls, with far-reaching impacts on new and existing forms of gendered inequities”. She maintained that the “cumulative and gendered consequences”… Continue reading Climate change heightens threats of violence against women and girls

As the conflict in Cabo Delgado province has not subsided, UNHCR is appealing for both an end to the bloodshed and greater international support for the displaced and local communities hosting them.  The situation has had a devastating impact on the population, Spokesperson Matthew Saltmarsh told journalists in Geneva.  Beheadings, rapes and burnings  “People have… Continue reading Five years of violence in northern Mozambique has forced nearly a million to flee

4 October 2022Peace and Security The UN Secretary-General on Tuesday strongly condemned the launch of a ballistic missile by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), more commonly known as North Korea, which reportedly travelled over Japan. The missile launch was the first to violate Japan’s air space since 2017, and the intermediate-range ballistic missile… Continue reading UN chief condemns DPR Korea missile launch over Japan as ‘reckless act’

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Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, UN Special Representative in Iraq, briefed the Security Council in New York, warning that “public disillusion is running sky-high”, as too many citizens have lost all faith in politicians.  Their protracted inaction has sparked protests and counter-protests, culminating in deadly clashes this past August.  Dire consequences, ongoing volatility  “These tragic developments are indisputably… Continue reading UN envoy urges dialogue to end political impasse in Iraq

4 October 2022Humanitarian Aid Battling what the top UN aid official in Pakistan has warned is a “second wave of death and destruction”, following catastrophic flooding since June that left a third of the country submerged, UN humanitarians on Tuesday raised their funding request from $160 million to $816 million. Julien Harneis, Humanitarian Coordinator for… Continue reading Pakistan: To avert ‘second wave of death’, UN raises funding appeal to $816 million

According to the IPCC, this “shaping” power can usefully build public support to accelerate climate mitigation – the efforts to reduce or prevent the emission of the greenhouse gases that are heating our planet – but it can also be used to do exactly the opposite. This places a huge responsibility on media companies and… Continue reading Five ways media and journalists can support climate action while tackling misinformation

“A third of Pakistan flooded. Europe’s hottest summer in 500 years. The Philippines hammered. The whole of Cuba in black-out. And here, in the United States, Hurricane Ian has delivered a brutal reminder that no country and no economy is immune from the climate crisis,” he highlighted. And while “climate chaos gallops ahead, climate action… Continue reading UN chief: Countries bound for COP27 must make climate action ‘the top global priority’

Secretary-General António Guterres declared that “from climate chaos and conflicts to COVID-19”, the most vulnerable were being hit the hardest. Amplifying this year’s theme, Mind the Gap. Leave No One and No Place Behind, spotlighting widening inequalities in living conditions across the world, he said that rapid and unplanned development of towns and cities, was making conditions… Continue reading More action and investment needed in cities to end ‘cascade of challenges’

1 October 2022Peace and Security The UN Secretary-General expressed on Saturday his deep concern regarding the unfolding developments in Burkina Faso, where according to media reports, a group of military officers overthrew the man who had seized power in a coup only nine months earlier. Allegedly, Capt. Ibrahim Traore appeared on Friday on national television… Continue reading Burkina Faso: UN chief condemns any attempt to seize power by the force of arms

Secretary-General António Guterres briefs reporters on the decision of the Russian Federation on annexation of the Ukrainian territory. 29 September 2022Peace and Security Russia’s plan to annex four occupied regions in Ukraine would be an illegal move, a violation of international law, and should be condemned, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Thursday, warning of… Continue reading Ukraine: UN Secretary-General condemns Russia annexation plan

Described as a “beacon of hope” by UN Secretary-General António Guterres at the signing ceremony for the plan on 27 July in Istanbul, with representatives from Russian and Ukraine, the agreement has made it possible for almost 240 vessels to leave Ukrainian ports with some 5.4 million metric tons of grain and other foodstuffs, since 1… Continue reading Black Sea exports ramp up, bringing confidence to global commerce and food to most vulnerable

Opening statements in the case against Félicien Kabuga are set for Thursday and Friday at the UN’s International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT), located in The Hague.  According to his indictment, Mr. Kabuga was a founder of the radio station Radio Télévision Libre des Mille Collines, whose broadcasts furthered hatred and violence against the… Continue reading UN Special Adviser welcomes start of trial against top Rwanda genocide suspect

The two tropical cyclones came quick on the heels of Hurricane Fiona, which caused deadly flooding in the Caribbean and was the strongest storm on record to hit Canada. Typhoon Nanmadol, prompted the evacuation of nine million people in Japan. Fingerprints of climate change The World Meteorological Organization has reminded that climate change is expected… Continue reading Climate Change: Hurricanes and cyclones bring misery to millions, as Ian makes landfall in the US

The UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process told the Security Council on Wednesday, that since the adoption in December 2016 of resolution 2334, which demands Israel stop building new settlements on Palestinian land, there’s been “little progress” implementing it. Tor Wennesland updated ambassadors on a litany of violations, including “mounting pressure” on… Continue reading Israel-Palestine: ‘Meaningful initiatives’ needed soon, to reverse to reverse current course

As the war in Ukraine stokes a crisis for countries who are struggling just to access the food their populations want and need, the international community needs to ensure that doesn’t spill over into a “food availability crisis”, the head of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said on Wednesday. FAO Director-General QU Dongyu… Continue reading Join forces to prevent ‘food availability crisis’ urges FAO chief

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also briefed ambassadors, blasting the “sham referenda”, though Russia objected to his participation via videoconference.  Russian Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya said the President should participate in person, in line with the rules.  “The Council should not turn into a forum for political shows or cinema,” he added. Door-to-door voting  The referenda were… Continue reading Referenda in Russian-controlled Ukraine ‘cannot be regarded as legal’: UN political affairs chief

“Patience is running out” for many in the international community when it comes to effectively engaging with Afghanistan’s de facto rulers, the Taliban, senior UN envoy for the country, Markus Potzel, told the Security Council on Tuesday. Despite some positive developments over the past few months, the Deputy Special Representative for Afghanistan said they have… Continue reading World ‘must engage’ or risk Afghanistan’s collapse, Security Council hears

Ongoing armed attacks by Russia against Ukraine have led to devastating human rights abuses there, according to a new report released on Tuesday by the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission for the war-torn country (HRMMU). Highlighting a wide range of violations of international human rights and humanitarian law, the report notes multiple cases of “willful… Continue reading ‘Dire’ and deteriorating pattern of rights abuse continues in Ukraine

Meanwhile, political stakeholders are still struggling to find common ground and define a path to elections against this backdrop, she added.  Haitian-led solution critical  “An economic crisis, a gang crisis, and a political crisis have converged into a humanitarian catastrophe. We must not lose hope, but rather combine our efforts to find a pathway to… Continue reading Security Council urged to act in face of ‘humanitarian catastrophe’ in Haiti

The UN and its humanitarian partners are stepping up efforts to assist more than 150,000 people who have been impacted by fighting across the Kharkiv region of Ukraine, where Government forces recently announced they had regained full control after months of Russian occupation. The UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Ukraine, Denise Brown, was in Kharkiv on… Continue reading Ukraine: UN and partners ramp up assistance to over 150,000 in Kharkiv region

The UN chief on Monday issued a statement expressing deep sadness at the death of 15 people, including 11 children, at a school in the Russian city of Izhevsk, following an attack by a lone gunman who killed himself at the scene. Two dozen people were wounded. According to news reports, the gunman who was… Continue reading Russia school shooting: Guterres ‘deeply saddened’ by attack which left 15 dead

The UN chief was speaking at an event to commemorate the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, held as the annual debate in the General Assembly Hall draws to a close.  Nuclear disarmament is not a utopian dream. I urge all countries to ease tensions, reduce risk & forge a new consensus… Continue reading UN chief calls for an end to ‘nuclear blackmail’ and risk of ‘humanitarian Armageddon’

Colombia’s 2016 Peace Agreement has led to an unexpected outcome: the discovery of a new species of dinosaur. Researchers now know that, around 175 million years ago, a 12-metre long sauropod, roamed around an area of northern Colombia. The scientific world is attributing the discovery of this new species of herbivorous dinosaur to the improved… Continue reading Colombia’s ‘dinosaur of peace’

The bodies of 71 migrants have reportedly been recovered following another shipwreck in the Mediterranean, off the coast of Syria, which heads of UN agencies described as a “simply tragic” development that demanded an international response to improve conditions for those forced to flee their homes. In a joint news release issued late on Thursday, the International… Continue reading At least 70 dead in latest ‘tragic’ shipwreck, off Syria coast: UN agencies

The UN Human Rights Committee found on Friday that Australia’s failure to adequately protect indigenous Torres Islanders against climate change impacts, has violated their rights to enjoy their culture, free from “arbitrary interference” with their private life, family and home. The Committee issued its ground-breaking decision after examining a joint complaint filed by eight Australian nationals and six of… Continue reading Australia: Groundbreaking decision creates pathway for climate justice on Torres Strait Islands

After lashing parts of Puerto Rico and other Caribbean islands with 140 kilometres-per-hour winds, Hurricane Fiona is expected to make landfall in Canada late Friday and Saturday, the UN said. “Fiona is expected to affect portions of Atlantic Canada as a powerful hurricane-force cyclone…significant impacts from high winds, storm surge and heavy rainfall are likely,”… Continue reading Canada braces for Hurricane Fiona after a week of lashing wind and rain in Caribbean

Refugees from Ukraine are eager to work in their host countries but need additional support to do so, and to ensure their inclusion in the communities where they are staying, according to a new survey published on Friday by UN refugee agency, UNHCR.  Lives on Hold: Intentions and Perspectives of Refugees from Ukraine, is based… Continue reading Ukraine refugees: Eager to work but need greater support

“Even before the pandemic, many least developed countries were off-track in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and had limited capacity to tackle complex challenges such as climate change or food insecurity,” Csaba Kőrösi said. “However, this year’s Ministerial Meeting assumes unique significance as it takes place amid a whole range of interlinked crises rippling… Continue reading Least developed countries impacted by ‘range of interlinked crises’ – Assembly President

Rising insecurity, including the proliferation of terrorist and other non-State armed groups, coupled with political instability, is creating a crisis in the Sahel that poses a “global threat”, the UN chief warned Thursday’s high level meeting on the vast African region, which took place behind closed doors at UN Headquarters in New York. “If nothing… Continue reading Sahel security crisis ‘poses a global threat’, Guterres warns

The conflict, now in its seventh month, has also sparked a global food, energy and finance crisis that is pushing more people into extreme poverty and hunger, and growing fears of potential nuclear disaster.  “As I have said from the start, this senseless war has unlimited potential to do terrible harm – in Ukraine, and… Continue reading Redouble efforts to end ‘senseless’ Ukraine war, UN chief tells Foreign Ministers

Renewable Energy and Jobs: Annual Review 2022, identifies domestic market size as a major factor influencing job growth in renewables, along with labour and other costs. Solar growing fastest Solar energy was found to be the fastest-growing sector. In 2021 it provided 4.3 million jobs, more than a third of the current global workforce in… Continue reading Renewable energy jobs rise by 700,000 in a year, to nearly 13 million

During a private meeting of Heads of State and Government, held on Wednesday at UN Headquarters in New York, UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for more action and leadership to tackle the climate crisis, warning that efforts to keep the rise in global temperatures to 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels is “on life support”. Speaking… Continue reading 1.5 degree climate pledge ‘on life support’, Guterres tells leaders during frank exchanges

Since the Myanmar military launched its “disastrous” coup last year, UN-appointed independent human rights expert Tom Andrews said on Wednesday that conditions have worsened, “by any measure”. “With each report I have warned that unless UN Member States change course in the way they collectively respond to this crisis, the people of Myanmar will suffer even… Continue reading Myanmar spiralling ‘from bad to worse, to horrific’, Human Rights Council hears

The salvage of the ageing supertanker FSO Safer, off the Yemeni coast, can now begin, the UN said on Wednesday, after it announced that more than $75 million has been pledged to carry out the vital operation. David Gressly, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Yemen, briefed journalists at UN Headquarters in New York, following… Continue reading Yemen: Marking ‘significant milestone’, UN says stricken tanker salvage operation can begin

The number of people facing life-threatening levels of hunger worldwide without immediate humanitarian aid, is expected to rise steeply in coming weeks, the UN said on Wednesday, in a new alert about looming famine in the Horn of Africa and beyond. In Somalia, “hundreds of thousands are already facing starvation today with staggering levels of… Continue reading Famine looms in Somalia, but many ‘hunger hotspots’ are in deep trouble

The UN chief on Tuesday strongly condemned attacks by Government troops in Myanmar on a northern rebel stronghold which targeted a school, leaving at least 13 dead, including 11 children. According to news reports, helicopter gunships together with troops under the command of the ruling Junta, opened fire last Friday on the temple school in Let… Continue reading Myanmar: Guterres strongly condemns army attacks which left 11 children dead

Global perspective Human stories

During his first speech at the General Assembly as the President of Colombia, Gustavo Petro said that the world’s addiction to money, oil and carbon is destroying the rainforest and its people under the excuse of a “hypocritical” war against drugs. Mr. Petro described his country as one of the most beautiful and nature-rich in… Continue reading Irrational war on drugs, destruction of the Amazon, expose humanity’s failures, Colombia’s Petro tells UN

Millions of people in Pakistan are still deeply affected by catastrophic flooding which “is not going anywhere”, UN relief agencies said on Tuesday. Close to eight million people have been displaced by the disaster and the UN along with the authorities and partners have continued to race to reach affected populations with desperately needed relief… Continue reading Pakistan floods: Six month wait for water to recede, warn relief agencies

Climate disasters and skyrocketing fuel prices have made the need to “end our global addiction to fossil fuels” crystal clear, he said, underscoring the importance of investing in renewables, building resilience, and scaling up adaptation. “Had we invested massively in renewable energy in the past, we would not be in the middle of a climate… Continue reading Guterres: ‘Global addiction to fossil fuels’ must end and a ‘renewables revolution’ be jumpstarted

The UN Peacebuilding Fund, (PBF), which emphasizes the role of women and youth in peacebuilding efforts through their meaningful participation, began work in Haiti in 2019 in response to needs identified by the government.  Ahead of the International Day of Peace marked annually on 21 September, here are five things you need to know about… Continue reading Building peace, preventing violence, and supporting community resilience in Haiti

UN Special Representative Nicholas Haysom said that although key provisions of the Agreement are set to end by February, the parties agreed in August on a Roadmap that extends the current transitional period by 24 months.  While a welcome development, he reminded that “there is no alternative to the implementation of the peace agreement”.  “Let me… Continue reading South Sudan: Extended roadmap for lasting peace deal, a ‘way point, not an end point’ 

An escalation in what the UN is calling “violent civil unrest” in Haiti, and the subsequent blockading of roads across the country, is making it “very challenging for humanitarian partners to provide assistance” according to the UN Spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric. Nationwide protests sparked initially by the almost doubling of petrol prices has brought the Caribbean… Continue reading ‘Violent civil unrest’ in Haiti hampers aid delivery

As the Montreal Protocol to Protect the Ozone Layer turns 35 on Friday, World Ozone Day, the United Nations has said that continuing the level of cooperation that led to the treaty’s adoption and success is just what is needed to protect life on Earth, end the climate crisis and ensure a brighter future for… Continue reading Global cooperation to protect the ozone layer can ensure a better future for us all

While thanking those in attendance for “joining us to sound the call for peace”, Secretary-General António Guterres reminded that “today, peace is under assault”.   “The poison of war is infecting our world,” by jeopardizing millions of lives, “turning people against each other, pitting nation against nation, eroding security and wellbeing, [and] reversing development”. “It… Continue reading Beware the ‘poison of war’ says Guterres, championing a ‘call for peace’

Humanitarian Affairs chief Martin Griffiths recalled previous warnings over the impact of conflict in Ethiopia, Somalia He spoke about his recent trip to Somalia, where more than 200,000 people are currently at risk of famine – a figure expected to reach 300,000 by November – “with millions more” on the verge of starvation. Recent humanitarian… Continue reading ‘Tsunami of hunger’ could trigger multiple famines, Security Council warned

A senior official from the UN Political and Peacebuilding Affairs department has called on Armenia and Azerbaijan “to take immediate and concrete steps to deescalate tensions” following several days of fighting this week which reportedly left dozens dead on both sides. Miroslav Jenča, the UN Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and Americas, briefed an emergency… Continue reading UN remains deeply concerned over ‘dangerous escalation’ following fighting across Armenia-Azerbaijan border

Najat Rochdi said she had already seen the potential for bridging divides between Syrians during civil society dialogues, and the divergent views represented through the Women’s Advisory Board, which “demonstrates to all of us that, despite many differences among them, common ground can be found.” She added that “Syrians can come together to rescue their… Continue reading Syrians ‘can come together to rescue their country’ from war, Security Council hears

UNITAMS chief and UN Special Representatives, Volker Perthes, warned that amid “continuing deterioration” on a socio-economic level, the overall situation in Sudan, “will continue to worsen unless a political situation is found to restore a credible, fully functioning civilian-led government”. He said following last October’s military takeover – which ended the power-sharing administration between civilian… Continue reading Humanitarian needs ‘growing exponentially’ across Sudan, mission chief warns Security Council

“Climate science is clear: we are heading in the wrong direction”, declares a major, multi-agency UN climate science report released on Tuesday, with a focus on increasing fossil fuel emissions and rising greenhouse gases, now at a record high, which risk thwarting plans to reduce global temperatures and avoid climate catastrophe. The researchers behind “Uniting… Continue reading Climate change impacts ‘heading into uncharted territory’, warns UN chief

Council members highlighted the tangible benefits of the agreement between the Government and Houthi rebels, now in its sixth month. They include a 60 per cent reduction in casualties.   Additionally, fuel coming through critical Huydadah port has quadrupled, while commercial flights from the capital, Sana’a, have allowed 21,000 people to receive medical treatment and… Continue reading Security Council calls for intensifying efforts to expand Yemen truce

The UN chief landed in Sindh province before flying over some of the worst-affected areas on his way to Balochistan, where he met with local residents, some of whom were directly impacted by the floods. Many had lost their loved ones, homes and everything they owned, amid the near continuous monsoon rainfall, flash flooding, and… Continue reading UN chief sees ‘great heights’ of human endurance and heroism amid ‘climate carnage’ in Pakistan

China has a dizzying range of rich natural resources. The country is home to 10 per cent of all known plant species, and 14 per cent of all known fauna. The UN, with the Chinese authorities, is working to ensure that the benefits from these resources are shared in a fair and equitable way. Chinese… Continue reading From the Field: Black pigs, green tea, and pink orchids – preserving China’s natural resources

Shelling in the Ukrainian city of Enerhodar is putting the embattled Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) at risk, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) warned in a statement on Friday.  The shelling has destroyed the power infrastructure feeding the city, where staff operating the plant live, causing a complete blackout that also… Continue reading Ukraine: Shelling in nearby city putting Zaporizhzhya nuclear plant at risk

A large-scale influx of weapons to conflict-affected zones raises many concerns, including the potential for diversion, the UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Izumi Nakamitsu, warned the Security Council on Thursday. “These concerns should be taken with due regard, and the international community does have some instruments, such as UN Register of Conventional Arms, to… Continue reading Large scale influx of weapons to conflict-affected zones raises ‘many concerns’: UN disarmament chief

A new report has revealed how projects supported by a UN trust fund for victims of sexual exploitation and abuse by UN personnel are helping victims to regain their dignity, learn new skills, and improve their livelihoods while avoiding stigmatization. Details of the projects, and the ways in which they are having a positive impact on the… Continue reading Trust Fund seeks sustained support as it empowers victims of sexual abuse and exploitation by UN personnel

Advancing the rights and needs of people whose lives have been upended by terrorism is the goal of a two-day meeting that opened at United Nations Headquarters in New York on Thursday. The first UN Global Congress of Victims of Terrorism will address key issues that include protection, remembrance and recognition, and access to justice,… Continue reading UN meeting upholds need to remember and support victims of terrorism

Water stress and hazards like withering droughts and devastating floods are hitting African communities, economies and ecosystems hard, according to a new report launched on Thursday by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).  The State of the Climate in Africa 2021 reveals that rainfall patterns are disrupted, glaciers are disappearing and key lakes are shrinking. And rising… Continue reading WMO: Climate change in Africa can destabilize ‘countries and entire regions’

“These are only verified figures and the actual numbers are likely significantly higher,” explained Rosemary DiCarlo. Displacement All wars are tragic, but none more than wars of choice. The disturbing allegations of forced displacement and abuse in “filtration” camps in #Ukraine must be investigated. We need peace in Ukraine, peace based on the @UN Charter… Continue reading Security Council hears top concerns of displacement, global security and civilians in Ukraine

The political climate in Somalia is now more conducive to addressing key national priorities following the end of the “contentious” electoral process in May, UN Special Representative James Swan told the Security Council on Wednesday. “To capitalise on this opportunity, federal and state authorities must collaborate closely to achieve progress on the new government’s goals,… Continue reading Somalia: UN envoy calls for collaboration to achieve new administration’s goals

“As the globe warms, wildfires and associated air pollution are expected to increase, even under a low emissions scenario,” said WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas. “In addition to human health impacts, this will also affect ecosystems as air pollutants settle from the atmosphere to Earth’s surface”. ‘Foretaste of the future’ The annual WMO Air Quality and… Continue reading Pollution and climate change upsurge the risk of ‘climate penalty’

International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, marked on 7 September, takes place in a world where almost all the air we breathe is polluted, and some seven million people die from air pollution every year. Ahead of the Day, UN News spoke to two experts about the scale of the problem, and the… Continue reading ‘The air that keeps us alive is making us sick’, warn UN experts on Clean Air Day

Guterres gravely concerned  Europe’s largest nuclear plant has come under repeated shelling in recent weeks, sparking fears of a potential nuclear disaster.    Highlighting his continued grave concern over the situation, the UN chief again warned that any damage to Zaporizhzhia, or to any other nuclear facility in Ukraine, could result in a wide-reaching catastrophe.  … Continue reading Ukraine: Guterres calls for ‘safety’ and ‘security’ of Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant 

As fighting continues in South Sudan, a new UN report released on Tuesday documents 173 civilian deaths over a four-month period along with widespread human rights violations committed without repercussion. Published jointly by the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the document reports… Continue reading South Sudan: Human rights violations in Unity state committed with ‘impunity’

Regional authorities in Egypt, the host country of the 2022 UN climate conference (COP27), are ramping up initiatives designed to improve the country’s environmental credentials, and speed up its transition to a low carbon economy. The event will begin on 4 November, in the Egyptian resort city of Sharm El-Sheikh. Several COP27-related initiatives are underway… Continue reading Egypt prepares for flagship UN climate conference, in a year of unprecedented global weather shocks

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported an increase in the levels of mental disorders amongst the population of the Gaza Strip, especially among children, many of whom were already in need of mental health services and psychosocial support. Over three violent days in early August, until a ceasefire was… Continue reading One third of Gaza Strip population in need of psychological and social support

Known as ‘the island in the Sea of the Seven Colors’, San Andres is the biggest island in the Seaflower, containing part of one of the richest coral reefs in the world San Andres itself is a coral island, meaning it was geologically built by organic material derived from skeletons of corals and numerous other… Continue reading Women lead marine restoration efforts in the UNESCO Seaflower Biosphere Reserve

Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi was speaking on Thursday after he and IAEA experts visited Europe’s largest nuclear plant, which has seen repeated shelling in recent weeks, sparking fears of a catastrophe.  “It’s obvious that the plant, and the physical integrity of the plant has been violated, several times. [Whether] by chance [or deliberately], we… Continue reading Ukraine: ‘Physical integrity’ of Zaporizhzhya nuclear plant ‘has been violated several times’

Police officers from more than 90 countries who serve at UN operations around the world represent “multilateralism in action”, Secretary-General António Guterres said in New York on Thursday.  Mr. Guterres was delivering remarks to the third UN Chiefs of Police Summit (UNCOPS), which brought together ministers, police chiefs, and senior representatives of regional and professional… Continue reading Police in the field embody ‘promise, hope and optimism’ of whole UN: Guterres

Sub-Saharan Africa remains the region with the most children out of school, 98 million, and it is also the only region where this number is increasing.  The Central and Southern Asia region has the second highest out-of-school population, with 85 million.  Education goals at risk  “No one can accept this situation,” said Audrey Azoulay, the… Continue reading UNESCO chief calls for transforming education, with 244 million still out of school

Experts from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) arrived in the Ukrainian city of Zaporizhzhia on Wednesday, the latest stage in their efforts to inspect conditions at the embattled nuclear power plant there.  Speaking to reporters, agency chief Rafael Mariano Grossi expressed confidence that they will be able to safely conduct their technical mission, which… Continue reading Ukraine: IAEA experts arrive in Zaporizhzhia ahead of mission to nuclear plant

From record-breaking heatwaves in British Columbia, to wildfires in the Mediterranean, floods in Nigeria, and droughts in Taiwan; the period between 2021 and 2022 saw record-breaking catastrophic disasters in all corners of the world. Some 10,000 people lost their lives, and an estimated $280 million was incurred in damages worldwide. The latest Interconnected Disaster Risks… Continue reading Wildfire, floods don’t need to turn into disasters: UN risk report

The Secretary-General has paid warm tribute to the last leader of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev, whose death aged 91 was announced on Tuesday, describing him as the person who “more than any other” brought about the peaceful end of the Cold War, which had dominated international relations since the 1940s. António Guterres said he was deeply… Continue reading Mikhail Gorbachev: UN chief hails ‘one of a kind statesman who changed the course of history’

The North African country became divided between two rival administrations in the years after the overthrow of former leader Muammar Gaddafi a decade ago.  The Government of National Accord (GNA) is based in the capital, Tripoli, located in the west, while the Libyan National Army (LNA) is in the east.   Elections remain the only… Continue reading Libya: Political stalemate and lack of progress on elections

UN Humanitarian Coordinator Martin Griffiths, who briefed ambassadors, reported on the ongoing hardships and uncertainty facing Afghans, nearly half of whom – 24 million people – require aid relief to survive.  #Afghanistan is more than a humanitarian crisis. But it is not a hopeless crisis. Preserving basic service delivery alongside humanitarian assistance remains the only… Continue reading UN relief chief stresses need to stay and deliver for all Afghans

The UN chief on Monday issued a call for “calm and restraint” in the Iraqi capital Baghdad following a day of reportedly violent protests in and around the national parliament building, in the wake of the announcement from political leader and cleric Muqtada al-Sadr that he was leaving politics. In a statement issued via his… Continue reading ‘Very survival’ of Iraqi State at risk, UN mission warns, as UN chief calls for calm and restraint

“Lack of funding comes with severe consequences”, Joyce Msuya told ambassadors, “including more drop-outs from school, higher malnutrition rates, and less protection interventions. If we do not act now, a generation of Syrian children might be lost. “It is critical that this Council shares responsibility for humanitarians’ life-saving work in Syria”, she said. The senior OCHA official and deputy… Continue reading Whole generation of Syrian children ‘might be lost’, senior humanitarian warns Security Council

Chief Warrant Officer Alizeta Kabore Kinda is the recipient of the 2022 United Nations Woman Police Officer of the Year Award, announced on Monday.  The Award was established in 2011 to recognize the exceptional contributions of women police officers to UN peace operations and to promote women’s empowerment.  Gender and protection advocate  Chief Warrant Officer… Continue reading Burkinabé peacekeeper in Mali is UN Woman Police Officer of the Year

The World Food Programme (WFP) is supporting Pakistan as the country takes stock of floods which have reportedly killed more than 1,000 people and displaced some 33 million, the UN agency said on Monday. Through its National Disaster Management Authority, the Pakistani Government – which has declared a national emergency – is leading the response… Continue reading Pakistan: WFP working to expand food aid as deadly flooding continues

A team of UN atomic energy experts set out on Monday for Zaporizhzya nuclear power station in Ukraine, after months of rising tensions between Ukrainian and Russian forces, who have accused each other of shelling the plant.  A team of UN atomic energy experts set out on Monday for Zaporizhzya nuclear power station in Ukraine,… Continue reading Ukraine: UN atomic energy experts head to stricken nuclear power station

Myanmar is believed to be experiencing one of the highest rates of mangrove loss in the world. When a company bought land containing a mangrove forest in the  country’s Tanintharyi region, with plans to convert it into prawn farms, the local community fought back. Mangroves in Bon Taung village, Myanmar, by Green Network Tanitharyi Region… Continue reading From The Field: Restoring Myanmar’s Mangroves

Rafael Mariano Grossi said Ukrainian authorities had informed the nuclear watchdog of renewed shelling at the site over the past three days, but they stated that all safety systems remained operational and there had been no increase in radiation levels. “The latest shelling once again underlined the risk of a potential nuclear accident at the… Continue reading Ukraine: Renewed shelling at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant underlines accident risk

Exports of Ukrainian grain and other foodstuffs under a landmark UN-brokered agreement have surpassed one million metric tonnes, the Coordinator for the Black Sea Grain Initiative, Amir Abdulla, reported on Saturday.  This “remarkable achievement” was made possible through the collective efforts and hard work of the Joint Coordination Centre (JCC), he said, referring to the… Continue reading Ukraine: More than one million tonnes of grain and food items exported under Black Sea deal

Following four weeks of intense discussions at UN Headquarters in New York, the Tenth Review Conference of the Parties to the NPT ended late on Friday without an outcome document because Russia objected to text about its control over Ukrainian nuclear facilities. The Secretary-General expressed disappointment that countries were unable to reach consensus on a… Continue reading UN chief disappointed nuclear treaty conference ends without consensus

Torrential rainfall has triggered unprecedented flooding in Chad, affecting more than 340,000 people living in 55,000 households – surpassing last year’s figure of more than 250,000 impacted, according to a report released on Friday by the UN humanitarian coordination office, OCHA. Swollen rivers have destroyed nearly 2,700 hectares of crops and farming land as well as hundreds of homes,… Continue reading Chad: Unprecedented flooding affects more than 340,000 people

The forecast for October to December, issued at the Greater Horn of Africa Seasonal Climate Outlook Forum, shows high chances of drier than average conditions across most parts of the region, which will further worsen the crisis for millions of people.  “It pains me to be the bearer of bad news,” said Guleid Artan, Director of… Continue reading WMO: Greater Horn of Africa drought forecast to continue for fifth year 

Speaking from Kharkiv in northeast Ukraine, where shelling has intensified in the last week, the UN’s top aid official in the country issued an urgent appeal on Friday for guarantees from Russia and affiliated forces, to allow humanitarians to deliver “absolutely necessary” relief items across the contact line.  “Winter is coming,…[and] all we want to… Continue reading Ukraine: Top UN aid official appeals for access across contact line

“Such a strategy will require significant steps from all sides,” said Tor Wennesland.  It must involve strengthening the ability of the Palestinian Authority to engage with Israel on political, economic and security issues, as well as working towards the return of the legitimate Palestinian Government to the Gaza Strip, he affirmed. He called for reducing… Continue reading Security Council: Managing Israel-Palestine conflict ‘no substitute’ for meaningful political process

On Thursday, the UN-partnered Cluster Munition Monitor civil society group, released their 2022 Cluster Munition Monitor report, on the risk these weapons pose to civilians.   Cluster bombs are weapons designed to be scattered over large areas, containing several hundred “mini-bombs” called sub-munitions. As they make no distinction between civilians, civilian property and military targets, cluster… Continue reading Ukraine: Cluster munitions pose long-term risk to civilian safety

Groundwater, which sustains drinking water supplies, sanitation systems, farms, industries and ecosystems, is being overused, polluted and neglected, speakers warned at a World Water Week event on Thursday. “It is our duty to ensure groundwater has its rightful place in all of our action plans,” said Gilbert Houngbo, Chair of UN-Water, in his video message to… Continue reading UN spotlights ‘invisible’ value of groundwater during World Water Week

The robbery of over half a million tonnes of fuel from the World Food Programme (WFP) in Ethiopia’s Tigray region will make it impossible to continue operations that support millions of hungry people, the UN agency said on Thursday. Armed men entered the WFP compound in the regional capital, Mekelle, on Wednesday and seized 12… Continue reading Ethiopia: Massive fuel theft puts WFP operations in Tigray at risk

Some one million refugees remain in the vast camps of Cox’s Bazar, without any immediate prospect of being able to return home, which more than 150,000 mostly-Muslim Rohingya are still “confined in camps” in their native Rakhine state, said a statement issued on behalf of UN Secretary-General António Guterres. Today marks five years since the… Continue reading ‘Comprehensive’ solution needed to end mass displacement of Rohingya

Amidst deteriorating levels of malnutrition and Ethiopia’s worst drought in 40 years, 17 million people are being targeted for humanitarian assistance, the UN spokesperson said on Wednesday.  “Ethiopia is facing a very difficult humanitarian situation to say the least,” Stéphane Dujarric told journalists at UN Headquarters in New York at a regular press briefing.    Over… Continue reading Drought, hunger and fighting leave Ethiopia in ‘very difficult humanitarian situation’ 

The “sad and tragic milestone” coincided with Ukraine’s 31st anniversary of independence, and Mr. Guterres congratulated the country’s people. Today marks a sad and tragic milestone – six months since Russia’s 24 February invasion of Ukraine. Thousands of civilians have been killed. Millions have been displaced. The people of Ukraine and beyond need peace and… Continue reading Guterres underlines need for peace as Ukraine marks six months of ‘senseless war’

Recent weeks have seen an escalation in shelling in and around Europe’s largest nuclear facility.  The Council meeting was requested by Russia, whose forces have occupied Zaporizhzhia since March, or shortly after the start of the war, while Ukrainian personnel continue to carry out their on-site operations.  ‘Suicidal’ threat  Ms. DiCarlo reiterated the UN’s ongoing… Continue reading Ukraine: Urgent agreement needed to end fighting around Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant

Briefing from Khartoum, ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan updated the ambassadors on a landmark moment for both justice in the restive region and the ICC-UN Security Council relationship. “We must collectively ensure it is the beginning of true accountability and not a false dawn,” he said on the proceedings, which commenced on 5 April and cover… Continue reading Darfur: Trial of Janjaweed leader must not be ‘a false dawn’ for justice, Security Council hears

OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said the trials by the Russian-backed authorities could begin in the occupied city, possibly within days – and warned that such a process could amount to a war crime. “We are very concerned about the manner in which this is being done. There are pictures in the media of cages being… Continue reading Ukraine prisoner of war trials in Mariupol could be a war crime: OHCHR

Path to peace ‘forged by dialogue and cooperation’ Guterres tells Security Council  Recommit to “dialogue, diplomacy and mutual trust”, Secretary-General António Guterres urged ambassadors in the UN Security Council on Monday, describing them as “the eternal tools of peace”.  “The path to peace is forged by dialogue and cooperation,” and shaped by “a common understanding… Continue reading Path to peace ‘forged by dialogue and cooperation’ Guterres tells Security Council 

Nearly 1,000 boys and girls have been killed or injured in the war in Ukraine, the head of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reported on Monday, underscoring the urgent need for peace.  “Once again, as in all wars, the reckless decisions of adults are putting children at extreme risk. There are no armed operations of… Continue reading Nearly 1,000 children killed or injured in Ukraine but real number likely higher: UNICEF

On Sunday, UN Secretary-General António paid tribute to victims of terrorism, marking the international day established to ensure that “victims and survivors are always heard and never forgotten.” Each year, acts of terrorism harm and kill thousands of innocent people. Despite international attention, those affected often struggle gaining access to key physical, psychological, social, and… Continue reading ‘Make sure that victims of terrorism are never forgotten’: UN chief

As extreme weather events grow in intensity and frequency, nowhere is guaranteed to be safe from danger, as New Yorkers discovered on 1 September 2021, when Hurricane Ida struck, causing floods that led to some 29 deaths, and shutting down much of the subway system. Amrita Bhagwandin was at her home in the New York… Continue reading First person: Surviving a deadly hurricane in New York

Ships carrying grain have been leaving there under a recent UN-brokered agreement, and Mr. Guterres said Odesa was a symbol of what countries can achieve when they work together for the common good.  Speaking to journalists, the UN chief revealed that it was a moving experience to be at the port, where he witnessed wheat… Continue reading UN chief to rich nations: ‘Open wallets’ and ‘hearts’ for developing countries to purchase Ukrainian grain

On the eve of World Humanitarian Day, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in South Sudan, called on Thursday for joint action to address the aid crisis in the country and end attacks against civilians and humanitarian workers. “It takes a village to raise a child. In the same way, it takes an array of partners to… Continue reading South Sudan: ‘Urgent collective efforts’ needed in most dangerous humanitarian situation

The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) condemned on Thursday, a fatal attack on a Mosque in the capital, Kabul. “We deplore yesterday’s attack in a Kabul Mosque, the latest in a disturbing series of bombings which have killed & injured more than 250 people in recent weeks, the highest monthly number of civilian casualties… Continue reading UN deplores deadly attack in Afghanistan, killing scores and injuring many others

The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria, Imran Riza, on Wednesday concluded a four-day mission to the northeast, where he visited camps hosting thousands of displaced persons.  The region is in the grip of a severe water crisis in all aspects – from drinking water, to irrigation, food production, and power generation – which… Continue reading Humanitarian Coordinator for Syria completes mission to northeast

The first vessel transporting Ukrainian wheat grain to support humanitarian operations run by the World Food Programme (WFP) has left the port of Yuzhny, also known as Pivdennyi, the UN agency reported on Tuesday.  The MV Brave Commander departed with 23,000 metric tonnes of wheat grain for WFP’s response in the Horn of Africa, where… Continue reading WFP: First Ukrainian humanitarian grain shipment leaves for Horn of Africa

Although $4.4 billion is required to fund humanitarian operations in Afghanistan, $1.8 billion has been received so far, or roughly 40 per cent, a senior UN official told journalists in New York on Monday, warning of the dire consequences as winter approaches.  “The situation can be best described as a pure catastrophe,” said Dr. Ramiz… Continue reading Humanitarian funding still needed for ‘pure catastrophe’ situation in Afghanistan

Amidst calls for flexibility, openness and the spirit of compromise that prevailed in 1982, when the landmark “constitution for the oceans” was adopted, the new treaty aims to codify international law around territorial waters, sea lanes and marine resources. The session, which runs until 26 August, was convened following a decision taken by the General… Continue reading Conference opens to draft first-ever treaty on ocean’s biological diversity

UN troop rotations in the peacekeeping mission in Mali (MINUSMA) resumed on Monday with a new approval mechanism one month after they were suspended by the ruling junta, which accused 49 Ivorian soldiers of entering the country without permission.  The soldiers, who were described by the Government of Mali as “mercenaries,” were part of logistical support… Continue reading Mali: Security situation deteriorates, human rights concerns rise

While continuing to count on international support to implement, extend, and expand the current truce, Hans Grundberg underscored the “need to end the conflict, not merely manage it”. ‘Build a lasting peace’ The UN envoy lauded the parties for extending the truce until 2 October, continuing “the longest pause in fighting since the war began”… Continue reading Yemen: UN envoy underscores need to ‘end the conflict, not merely manage it’

A UN-chartered vessel should soon arrive at the Ukrainian port of Yuzhny, also known as Pivdennyi, to collect wheat that will help feed millions of hungry people in the Horn of Africa, the World Food Programme (WFP) reported on Friday. This will be the first shipment of humanitarian food assistance under the Black Sea Grain Initiative… Continue reading Vessel to collect first humanitarian wheat shipment under Ukraine grain deal

The mountainous Colombian island of Providencia – which lies midway in the extension of the Caribbean Sea that separates Costa Rica and Jamaica – is home to stunning colours of the sea, lush underwater landscapes, extensive mangrove forests, and even tropical dry forests. The diversity of marine ecosystems and surrounding natural wonders, including the yearly… Continue reading After the storm: what an environmental tragedy can teach us about climate resilience and ecosystem restoration

“These military actions near such a large nuclear facility could lead to very serious consequences,” Mr. Grossi said at the meeting requested by Russia, which was marked by resounding calls to allow the Agency’s technical experts to visit the area amid mounting safety concerns. IAEA has been in frequent contact with both Ukraine and Russia… Continue reading ‘Very alarming’ conditions at Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant,  IAEA chief warns

Despite an unprecedented scale-up in assistance in Afghanistan over the past year, immense needs still exist and the future looks bleak, the UN humanitarian affairs office, OCHA, said on Thursday.   Following the Taliban takeover last August, UN agencies and their partners remained in Afghanistan, providing aid to nearly 23 million people, or nearly 94… Continue reading Afghanistan: Humanitarian assistance has saved lives, but immense needs remain

A new UN-backed humanitarian logistics hub and training centre in Barbados aims to strengthen emergency preparedness and response across the Caribbean, the World Food Programme (WFP) said in announcing the news on Thursday.  The facility is a partnership between the UN agency, the Barbadian Government, and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), and will… Continue reading Barbados: New UN disaster preparedness hub built on ‘frontlines of climate change’

A devastating drought in Somalia has reached unprecedented levels, leaving one million people within the country currently registered as displaced, the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, said on Thursday. More than 755,000 people have been internally displaced in Somalia because of the severe dry spell this year, bringing the total figure to one million since January… Continue reading ‘Catastrophic’ drought displaces one million in Somalia, world asked to ‘step up’ support

Military activities around the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant in Ukraine must stop immediately, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Thursday, warning of the potential danger to the area and beyond amid ongoing shelling.  Europe’s largest nuclear plant has been occupied by Russian forces since March, and last week the external power supply system was damaged in… Continue reading Ukraine: UN chief appeals for end to military activities at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant

UN experts on Wednesday denounced the decision by Belarus to withdraw from an international agreement that upholds people’s right to access information, as well as justice, in environmental matters.  The Aarhus Convention, adopted in 1998, also requires that individuals exercising these rights are not persecuted, penalized or harassed for doing so.  Belarus’s President Aleksandr Lukashenko… Continue reading Belarus: Rights experts denounce withdrawal from key environmental agreement

In a visit to Mongolia on Tuesday, Secretary-General António Guterres underscored the UN’s full solidarity for the country, which he described as “a symbol of peace in a troubled world”.  Mr. Guterres was speaking to journalists at a press conference in the capital, Ulaanbaatar, following a meeting with the Foreign Minister, Battsetseg Batmunkh.  My gratitude… Continue reading Nuclear-free Mongolia a ‘symbol of peace in a troubled world’: Guterres

The evidence gathered to date by the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), which is outlined in its Annual Report, indicates that sexual and gender-based crimes, including rape and other forms of sexual violence, and crimes against children have been perpetrated by members of the security forces and armed groups. “Crimes against women and children… Continue reading Myanmar: Crimes against humanity committed systematically, says UN report

“Da’esh and its affiliates continue to exploit conflict dynamics, governance fragilities and inequality to incite, plan and organize terrorist attacks,” said UN counter-terrorism chief Vladimir Voronkov, presenting the Secretary-General’s fifteenth report.  They also exploit pandemic restrictions, misuse digital spaces to recruit sympathizers and have “significantly” increased the use of unmanned aerial systems, as reported in… Continue reading Da’esh, affiliates remain ‘global and evolving’ threat, Security Council hears

Amidst extreme heat, drought and wildfires, many parts of the world had just experienced one of three warmest Julys on record, the UN weather agency said on Tuesday. According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), temperatures were close to 0.4℃ above the 1991-2020 average across much of Europe, with southwestern and western Europe being the… Continue reading Heat, drought and wildfires during one of the warmest Julys on record– WMO

After three days of deadly fighting, the Security Council held an emergency meeting on Monday to assess a fragile truce between Israel and Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants in Gaza. Tor Wennesland, Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, called on all sides to abide by the agreement while delegates denounced the deliberate targeting of… Continue reading Fresh Israel-Palestinian Islamic Jihad truce prevents ‘full-scale war’

Cristina Duarte, the Secretary-General’s Special Adviser on Africa, briefed ambassadors during a debate to examine capacity building for sustaining peace on the continent, and to explore the way forward.  She highlighted how African countries’ efforts to both prevent and address violence are being undermined by external factors such as competition over natural resources, which fuels… Continue reading Security Council examines capacity building for sustaining peace in Africa

“Any attack to nuclear plants is…suicidal,” the UN chief said, adding that he hoped that the UN International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) would be able to access the plant for inspection. Both Moscow and Kyiv have denied responsibility for the strike on the Zaporizhzhia plant over the weekend.  While Europe’s largest nuclear power site has… Continue reading Attacking a nuclear plant ‘suicidal,’ UN chief tells journalists in Japan

In July, a UN human rights officer embarked on an outreach visit to the Horn of Africa’s Sool and Sanaag regions, a seven-day round-trip of more than 1,600 kilometres by road. UNSOM Human Rights Officer, Sia Mawalla (left), and leader of a visiting UN team, poses for a photo with a civil society representative in… Continue reading From the Field: Outreach across the Horn of Africa

Around one million species are facing extinction, according to a report from IPBES, an independent intergovernmental science and policy body supported by the UN. It may be surprising to learn that even giraffes, parrots, and oak trees are included in the list of threatened species, as well as cacti and seaweed. It may be surprising… Continue reading Giraffes, parrots, and oak trees, among many species facing extinction

The ongoing and serious escalation of violence in and around Gaza between Palestinian militants and Israel has claimed the lives of 13 Palestinians by Israeli airstrikes, including a 5-year-old child and one woman, informed Lynn Hastings, UN Humanitarian Coordinator in the territory. In a statement published on Saturday, Ms. Hastings expressed her grave concern for… Continue reading UN Humanitarian Coordinator ‘gravely concerned’ by escalation of violence in Gaza

It is totally unacceptable for states in possession of nuclear weapons to admit the possibility of a nuclear war, António Guterres underscored early on Saturday in Japan at a ceremony marking the 77th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. “Nuclear weapons are nonsense. Three-quarters of a century later, we must ask what we’ve learned from… Continue reading From Hiroshima, UN chief calls for global nuclear disarmament

Nuclear weapons will continue to pose a risk to humanity unless countries fully adhere to the treaty that prohibits their testing, a senior UN official said at a press conference in New York on Friday.  Journalists were briefed by Robert Floyd, Executive Secretary of the body that oversees the Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), which… Continue reading Nuclear-free world is possible, test-ban treaty chief says

“I vehemently condemn the obstinacy of the Coalition of Patriots for Change and other armed groups who continue to spread terror, insecurity and suffering among the civilian population and victims of violations and abuses,” said Yao Agbetse, who monitors rights abuses in CAR. Armed groups in the Central African Republic (CAR) must lay down their arms and… Continue reading Central African Republic: Militias spreading ‘terror, insecurity’, must lay down arms

As the North Atlantic hurricane season enters its traditional peak period, the US National  Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration (NOAA) has adjusted its forecast to monitor the conditions which impact cyclonic activity, according to the UN weather agency, WMO, on Friday.   The conditions do still point towards an “above-normal” 2022 Atlantic hurricane season, according to NOAA’s annual… Continue reading WMO reports decrease in likelihood of severe Atlantic hurricane season ahead 

One of the most devastating insect pests infesting fruits and vegetables in Mexico has been eradicated in the state of Colima, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). In cooperation with IAEA and the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), scientists there was able to use a UN-developed nuclear-based sterile insect technique (SIT) to eradicate the… Continue reading Nuclear technology helps Mexico eradicate invasive insect pest

Rising acute food insecurity in Somalia has caused more than 900,000 people to flee their homes in search of humanitarian assistance since January last year, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has warned. Due to drought and lack of livelihood support, people living in eight areas of the country could be experiencing famine by September.… Continue reading Somalia: ‘We cannot wait for famine to be declared; we must act now’

Activists who raise concerns about business projects in Colombia are under serious threat for speaking out, and UN human rights experts are urging the government to do much more to protect them.  “Serious threats, including death threats, are commonplace in Colombia for defenders who raise concerns about corporate activity, in particular in land-intensive industries,” said… Continue reading Step up protection for activists who challenge big business in Colombia

Three more ships have been given the green light to leave Ukraine’s Black Sea ports on Friday, carrying just over 58,000 tons of corn, in a move that will raise hopes further for the success of a UN initiative aimed at lowering prices of essential foods and easing the global crisis. The Joint Coordination Centre… Continue reading More lifesaving grain shipments authorized to leave Ukraine

The United Nations continues to engage with authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in the wake of the deadly shooting this past weekend involving peacekeepers from its Mission there, MONUSCO.  On Thursday, the head of UN Peacekeeping, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, briefed a closed-door session of the Security Council to discuss the situation in… Continue reading DR Congo: UN regrets Government move to expel Mission spokesperson

A powerful new sculpture unveiled at UN Headquarters on Wednesday honours the memory and mission of two human rights experts who were murdered in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) five years ago.  Speaking at the ceremony, UN Secretary-General António Guterres again expressed deepest condolences to the families of Zaida Catalán and Michael Sharp,… Continue reading New sculpture at UN honours rights experts killed in DR Congo

Secretary-General António Guterres said it was “immoral” that major oil and gas companies are reporting “record profits”, while prices soar. “The combined profits of the largest energy companies in the first quarter of this year are close to $100 billion,” he said, urging governments to “tax these excessive profits, and use the funds raised to… Continue reading UN chief slams ‘immoral’ profiteering amid global energy crisis

ISIL, also known by the Arabic moniker, Daesh, conducted a genocidal campaign against the Yazidis, whose historic homeland is the northern town of Sinjar.   The atrocities they committed included sexual violence, mass executions, forced conversions, and other crimes.    Trauma and perseverance  “As we commemorate this traumatic page of Iraqi history, we renew our… Continue reading UN renews commitment to Yazidi community eight years after ISIL onslaught

The first, eagerly-awaited commercial shipment of grain to leave the Ukrainian port of Odesa since Russia’s invasion more than five months ago, was cleared to proceed to Lebanon on Wednesday, after a scheduled inspection stopover in Istanbul. In line with the UN-partnered Black Sea Grain Initiative that was facilitated by the Secretary-General on 22 July, the crew… Continue reading Ukraine: Black Sea grain shipment success raises hopes more will follow

The landmark truce in Yemen, which has been holding since April, has been renewed for an additional two months through 2 October, UN Special Envoy for the country, Hans Grundberg, announced on Tuesday.  The extension includes a commitment by the Government and Houthi rebels to intensify negotiations to reach an expanded agreement as soon as… Continue reading Yemen truce renewed for another two months

More than 37 million people are facing acute hunger, with approximately seven million children under the age of five acutely malnourished in the region.   While finding food and safe water is the absolute priority, WHO said that ensuring a strong health emergency response is needed to avert preventable disease and deaths.   The UN… Continue reading Horn of Africa faces most ‘catastrophic’ food insecurity in decades, warns WHO

Two of the largest reservoirs in the United States are at dangerously low levels due to the climate crisis and overconsumption of water, which could affect water and electricity supply for millions in six western states and Mexico, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) warned on Tuesday.  Lake Mead and Lake Powell are currently at their… Continue reading American west faces water and power shortages due to climate crisis: UN environment agency

The UN chief was speaking at the opening of the Tenth Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which runs through 26 August.  Mr. Guterres highlighted some of the current challenges to global peace and security, with the world under greater stress due to the climate crisis, stark… Continue reading Humanity’s just one misunderstanding away from ‘nuclear annihilation’ warns UN chief

The UN chief on Monday welcomed the departure of the first ship from the Ukrainian port of Odesa to leave carrying grain under the landmark deal signed by Ukraine, Russia and Türkiye, overseen by the UN. The Razoni, carrying a cargo of 26,527 tonnes of corn, is the first cargo ship to leave a Ukrainian… Continue reading Ukraine: Guterres welcomes departure of first grain ship, to help ease food crisis

Secretary-General António Guterres is “outraged” over a “serious incident” that took place on Sunday morning on the border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda, according to his deputy spokesperson.  In Kasindi, North Kivu province, military personnel of the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) opened fire while… Continue reading DR Congo: Guterres ‘outraged’ over peacekeepers’ aggression, calls for accountability

Secretary-General António Guterres is “following with concern” ongoing protests in Iraq that have injured many people, according to his deputy spokesperson, Farhan Haq. In a statement issued late Saturday night, the UN chief appealed to all relevant actors “to take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation, avoid any further violence, and ensure the protection of… Continue reading Iraq protests: UN chief urges to ‘de-escalate’ and rise above differences

Ambassadors were briefed by UN political affairs chief Rosemary DiCarlo, who pointed to the recent agreement on the safe resumption of grain exports via the Black Sea as a bright light in the conflict, though acknowledging the dim prospects for peace.  “The grain agreement is a sign that dialogue between the parties is possible in… Continue reading Ukraine: Prospects for end to war look bleak, despite ‘encouraging’ grain deal

The Malayan tiger is a critically endangered species, at a real risk of extinction, mainly as a result of illegal poaching and wildlife trafficking: according to the Malaysian authorities, fewer than 200 are left. Setting up a camera trap to monitor wildlife and encroachment in Malaysia., by UNDP But a fight to save the tigers… Continue reading From The Field: Protecting the last Malayan tigers

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has welcomed the official start of the operation based in the Turkish capital, Istanbul, that will help implement the UN-brokered deal to resume exports of Ukrainian grain via the Black Sea, amid the ongoing conflict and rising food prices worldwide.  The Joint Coordination Centre (JCC), inaugurated on Wednesday, brings together senior… Continue reading UN welcomes new centre to put Ukraine grain exports deal into motion

The resolution, based on a similar text adopted last year by the Human Rights Council, calls upon States, international organisations, and business enterprises to scale up efforts to ensure a healthy environment for all.  The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, welcomed the ‘historic’ decision and said the landmark development demonstrates that Member States can come together in… Continue reading UN General Assembly declares access to clean and healthy environment a universal human right

A full 90 per cent of the Earth’s precious topsoil is likely to be at risk by 2050, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, FAO.  In a bid to protect soil globally and help farmers, the FAO warned on Wednesday that the equivalent of one soccer pitch of earth erodes, every five seconds. … Continue reading FAO warns 90 per cent of Earth’s topsoil at risk by 2050 

The UN Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) aims to adopt a more “ambitious and forward-looking agenda” in 2022, the body’s Chair told the Security Council on Wednesday. In his capacity as Chair, Md Monwar Hossain, Bangladesh’s Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, shared some highlights of PBC’s 2022 programme of work, describing six months of progress – beginning… Continue reading ‘Good strides’ being made towards inclusive peacebuilding, Security Council hears

The UN Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly condemned an attack on peacekeepers serving in the Stablization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) which took place during violent demonstrations at the mission’s base on Tuesday. Two Indian police officers and a Moroccan ‘blue helmet’ were killed, and an Egyptian police officer injured. According to news… Continue reading Guterres strongly condemns attack on peacekeepers in DR Congo which left 3 dead, amid protests

The deadly shelling of a mountain resort in northern Iraq last week represented a shocking disregard for civilian life and international obligations on civilian protection, the UN Special Representative for the country, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, told the Security Council on Tuesday.  Ambassadors convened late in the afternoon New York time, to discuss the 20 July attack… Continue reading Iraq resort shelling a ‘shocking disregard for civilian life’, UN envoy says

The UN Children’s Fund UNICEF, delivered supplies on Tuesday to help an estimated 50,000 children in the war-ravaged districts of Odesa, the crucial Black Sea port which Russia bombed on Saturday, just hours after signing a landmark deal to allow Ukrainian grain to reach millions of food insecure people across the world. Using a total of 27 cargo trucks,… Continue reading Ukraine: UNICEF delivers life-saving supplies for over 50,000 children in Odesa

Mounting tensions in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and continued settlement activity and settler-related violence continue. “Immediate steps to reverse negative trends and support the Palestinian people are essential,” said Lynn Hastings, UNSCO’s deputy chief, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, speaking on behalf of Special Coordinator Tor Wennesland.… Continue reading Israel-Palestine: Reversing ‘negative trends’ essential, Security Council hears

The violence is having a devastating impact, particularly on women and children, indigenous peoples, Afro-descendants, community leaders and human rights defenders.  Colombia’s new government takes office next month, and the report outlines a series of recommendations that should be implemented urgently to protect lives and uphold the rights of those affected.  Prevent further violence  The… Continue reading Colombia: New government urged to combat rising violence in rural areas

Time is running out to protect the world’s mangroves which are not only home to many species but also an important hedge against climate impacts, the head of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) said on Tuesday.  Audrey Azoulay, the UNESCO Director-General, called for greater global awareness about these critical coastal areas in… Continue reading Global awareness critical to protect world’s mangroves: UN science chief

Despite some progress, a constitutional and political stalemate continues, prolonging tensions and fuelling insecurity, while clashes in and around Tripoli surge, she added. “The economic situation remains dire,” she continued. “We have witnessed demonstrations by frustrated Libyans over the lack of progress on elections and poor State services. In addition, the human rights situation in… Continue reading Libya: Human rights abuses, political stalemates, electoral delays mar progress

A young man whose community has been at the epicentre of the violence that has been raging between rival gangs in the troubled neighbourhood of Cité Soleil in the Haitian capital, Port-au-Prince, says that he goes to sleep and wakes in the morning to the sound of gunfire. Edwin*, is a youth leader in his… Continue reading First Person: I go to sleep and wake up to the sound of gunfire

The UN Secretary-General ‘unequivocally’ condemned the reported strikes this Saturday in the port of Odesa. The attack took place less than 24 hours after the signing of the Black Sea agreements on the export of grain from Ukrainian ports. “Yesterday, all parties made clear commitments on the global stage to ensure the safe movement of… Continue reading Guterres condemns missile strikes in Ukranian Black Sea port of Odesa

The killing of protestors by security services during large-scale demonstrations in Sudan’s capital Khartoum in June underscores the ongoing political tensions in the country. Against this backdrop, the UN is committed to sustain and build peace in Sudan, say UN Resident Coordinator Khardiata Lo Ndiaye, and Elizabeth Spehar, Assistant Secretary-General for Peacebuilding Support. “The military… Continue reading Strengthening Sudan’s fragile peace: A Resident Coordinator Blog

Costa Rica, the Maldives, Morocco, Slovenia and Switzerland presented the draft text to the 193-member Assembly, the UN’s most representative body, last June, following the landmark resolution adoption of a similar text adopted in October 2021 by the UN Human Rights Council. The resolution recognizes the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment as… Continue reading Why the UN General Assembly must back the right to a healthy environment

An “unprecedented agreement” on the resumption of Ukrainian grain exports via the Black Sea amid the ongoing war is “a beacon of hope” in a world that desperately needs it, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said at the signing ceremony in Istanbul, Türkiye, on Friday.  The UN plan, which also paves the way for Russian grain… Continue reading Black Sea grain exports deal ‘a beacon of hope’ amid Ukraine war – Guterres

From the Amazon to the Andes and the snowy depths of Patagonia, extreme weather and climate change are causing mega-drought, extreme rainfall, deforestation and glacier melt across the Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) region, according to a UN report published on Friday. In its State of the Climate in Latin America and the Caribbean… Continue reading Mega-drought, glacier melt, and deforestation plague Latin America and the Caribbean

As conflict grows in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the rising death toll and suffering of displaced civilians through brutal attacks, is cause for serious concern said the UN refugee agency UNHCR on Friday, which appealed for fresh funds to meet “soaring needs” across the country. “This month, simultaneous attacks by armed… Continue reading UNHCR alarmed by growing death toll among displaced in eastern DR Congo

Animal health is important to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but greater investment is needed to evaluate the impact, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and partners said in a report published on Thursday. Diseases affecting animals – as well as how long they live and how productive they are – have a significant impact… Continue reading Climate change: New approach needed to gauge animal health impact on emissions

Success hinges on the ability and willingness of political leaders to “urgently initiate sustainable solutions” to end deadlock and economic paralysis said Joanna Wronecka, stressing that State institutions must be reformed to meet people’s needs. One year ago, UNICEF warned that the water system was at a breaking point. While a total collapse of public… Continue reading Lebanon: At ‘a crossroad between rebound or collapse’

The historic UN-brokered truce in Yemen has largely held for nearly four months, and Special Envoy Hans Grundberg on Thursday urged the Government and Houthi rebels to work towards renewing the “transformational” agreement, which expires on 2 August.  Mr. Grundberg has intensified his engagement towards full implementation of the truce, and is urging all parties… Continue reading UN envoy calls for extension and expansion of ‘transformational’ truce in Yemen

Independent UN human rights experts on Thursday called on authorities and political candidates standing in next month’s general election to foster an enabling civic space to ensure the vote goes ahead peacefully, and prevent violence. “Civic space, public participation, fundamental freedoms and a violence-free environment are critical to foster inclusive engagement in the electoral process, and the… Continue reading Respect for fundamental rights key to peaceful elections in Kenya: UN experts

The UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), has strongly condemned the shelling of a mountain resort in the Kurdistan region of Dohuk Governorate on Wednesday, which reportedly killed eight tourists and wounded more than 20 others. The deadly attack in the Zakho district, took place close to the border with Türkiye. According to news reports,… Continue reading UN mission in Iraq condemns attack in Duhok which left 8 dead

A new report from the UN Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) released on Wednesday, confirms the erosion of basic human rights across the country since the Taliban takeover in August last year, pointing out they bear responsibility for extrajudicial killings, torture, arbitrary arrests and detentions, and violations of fundamental freedoms. The UNAMA findings, confirm many of… Continue reading Afghanistan: Report highlights multiple human rights violations and abuses under Taliban

The day-long event is being held to assess recent decisions on the global environment agenda and to present solutions to common bottlenecks, such as the gaps between commitments and actions, as well as the need for wider mobilization.  “We know that we have backed ourselves into a corner with our recklessness. We know that this… Continue reading ‘Moment for Nature’ essential to beat back threats, spur climate action

Extreme heat in western Europe is causing devastating wildfires in France and Spain, unprecedented drought in Italy and Portugal, and the United Kingdom recorded its highest-ever temperature of just over 40 degrees Celsius during Tuesday, at London’s Heathrow airport. With temperatures expected to remain above normal until the middle of next week, the World Metrological… Continue reading WMO warns of frequent heatwaves in decades ahead

In her formal presentation of the Secretary-General’s report, Virginia Gamba, highlighted current trends, patterns of grave violations, and existing and emerging challenges facing children put in harms way.   Prolific abuses From South Sudan to Afghanistan and elsewhere, last year the UN verified 23,982 grave violations – over 19,165 of which were “grievous” abuses against children,… Continue reading Best way to protect children caught in conflict is to ‘champion peace’: Gamba

The UN’s top official advocating for children caught up in armed conflict issued new guidance on Monday designed to help expert staff on the ground protect children who are abducted, or who suffer other grave violations. Special Representative Virginia Gamba, said the guidelines would aid monitoring and reporting on the abduction of children in armed… Continue reading UN publishes new guidance on curbing child abduction and other ‘grave violations’ in war

The chances of seeing unprecedented temperatures of 40 degree Celsius (40°C) or more in the UK could be up to 10 times more likely in the current climate than under a “natural climate unaffected by human influence,” the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) declared on Monday. In a statement, the WMO noted that the UK’s Met… Continue reading Record 40°C UK temperatures linked to climate change: WMO

A small, quiet village in Kenya has found a new purpose in the fishing industry through a successful marine coral conservation project, the first of its kind in the Marine Protected Areas of the western side of the Indian Ocean. Kenya’s Kuruwitu Beach is tranquil. Sparkling sand beaches complement the clear blue water, and the… Continue reading Kenya’s Kuruwitu corals are back, thanks to local conservation drive

The head of the UN Country Team in Sri Lanka has urged senior politicians to ensure a peaceful transfer of power in line with the national Constitution, following weeks of protests that finally saw the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Thursday. In a statement issued on Friday on behalf of the UN in Sri Lanka, Resident Coordinator… Continue reading Ensure peaceful and constitutional transfer of power in Sri Lanka, urges UN Resident Coordinator

The UN Secretary-General is appalled by the deadly missile attack on Thursday against the city of Vinnytsia in central Ukraine, that reportedly killed at least 22 people, far from the frontline of the main fighting in the east, including three children and wounded more than 100 others, his Spokesperson said in a statement.  Cruise missiles… Continue reading Ukraine: Guterres condemns deadly missile attack on Vinnytsia; more than 20 killed

Over 500,000 conflict-affected people in northeast Nigeria will be tossed “a lifeline,” thanks to a new UN humanitarian and development package, launched on Thursday. The Resilience and Social Cohesion project, launched by the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and World Food Programme (WFP), will enhance peace, increase livelihood opportunities, and provide education, health, nutrition, child protection,… Continue reading Nigeria: New UN resilience project paves ‘pathway to peace and sustainable development’

Carlos Ruiz Massieu, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative and Head of the UN Verification Mission in Colombia, reported on recent political developments, including the election last month of President Gustavo Petro and Vice-President Francia Márquez, the first Afro-Colombian woman to hold the position.  Mr. Massieu has met with both officials, who will be sworn in on… Continue reading New administration in Colombia provides ‘tremendous opportunity’ to further peace

The UN chief on Wednesday described progress between Russia and Ukraine on allowing the resumption of grain exports during UN-brokered talks in Türkiye, as a “ray of hope to ease human suffering and alleviate hunger around the world.” Secretary-General António Guterres said that a “critical step forward” had been taken to allow the “safe and… Continue reading Guterres hails ‘critical step forward’ on resuming Ukraine grain exports

Ireland and Norway put forward the resolution, which renews humanitarian deliveries through the Bab-al Hawa border crossing through January and calls for an additional six-month extension which will require another separate resolution.  Twelve countries voted in favour, while France, the United Kingdom, and the United States voted against. There were no abstentions.  Record-level needs  Humanitarian… Continue reading Syria: Security Council extends cross-border aid delivery for six months

“Communications is not a side issue or an afterthought,” he said during the first-ever High-Level Debate dedicated to the importance of strategic communications, calling it “central to the success of all our work”. He recalled his 2016 pledge when sworn in as Secretary-General, to “communicate better about what we do, in ways that everybody understands”. … Continue reading Reliable information ‘a matter of life and death’ UN chief tells Security Council

“My parents managed – with many sacrifices on their part – to put me through high school during a time of great turmoil in my country, following which I started doing a number of jobs to help out financially.” Elfreda braided hair and tutored younger children in her community, often returning home late at night,… Continue reading From ‘saga of horrors’ to serving the world: Liberia peacekeepers honoured in South Sudan

The values that we ascribe to nature are vital parts of our cultures, identities, economies, and ways of life, all of which should be reflected in policy decisions surrounding our natural world, according to a new UN-backed report released on Monday. However, the new Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services’ (IPBES) assessment report… Continue reading UN report: Value of nature must not be overridden by pursuit of short-term profit

Ambassadors were briefed by Hans Grundberg, the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Yemen, and Joyce Msuya, the UN deputy relief chief.  UN Envoy for #Yemen, Hans Grundberg, briefed the #UNSC today on progress & obstacles in the implementation of the truce, the way forward on extending and expanding the truce and on moving toward a political… Continue reading Yemen: UN envoy outlines achievements and challenges in truce implementation