Sept 21, 2015 International Day of Peace Celebration at Lyceum University Cavite, Philippines

Sept 21, 2015 International Day of Peace Celebration at Lyceum University Cavite, Philippines
Ambassador Zara Bayla Juan, Sailing for Peace #PeaceDay

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Monday, May 14, 2018

UN Headlines May 1-31, 2018 from UN News Center





LATEST NEWS: May 1-31, 2018

End the ‘harmful narrative’; migration is a net-gain for Africa, finds UN report

The large-scale migration of people within Africa tends to boost growth and lifts the continent’s whole economy, a new United Nations report has said, urging the world to dispel misconceptions and “harmful narratives” targeting migration.

Countries back ‘ambitious and comprehensive’ reform of UN development system

The United Nations General Assembly on Thursday gave the green light to a bold new plan to make sustainable development a reality, described by UN chief António Guterres as “the most ambitious and comprehensive transformation of the UN development system in decades.”

UN agencies join forces against environmental risks that cause 12.6 million deaths a year

Two United Nations agencies are combining their expertise to counter the growing threat of extreme weather, climate change and air pollution, which cause more than 12.6 million deaths a year, it was announced on Thursday.

Gaza is ‘on the brink’ warns UN envoy, urging more international intervention

Rocket fire this week across the border between Gaza and Israel shows how close the region is “to the brink of war” a senior United Nations official warned on Wednesday, urging the international community to do more to help Israelis and Palestinians return to the negotiating table.

After democratic elections, Iraqi leaders must form ‘truly national’ government, urges UN envoy

The low voter turnout for Iraq’s recent national elections was a “strong signal” to the country’s ruling political elites that they must work harder to ease sectarian divides and promote democratic accountability over nepotism and patronage, the United Nations envoy to the country said on Wednesday.

World No Tobacco Day targets habit that ‘breaks hearts’ – WHO

Spreading the message that tobacco causes deadly illnesses such as heart disease and stroke helps prevent “needless” loss of life, United Nations health experts said on Thursday.

World needs generation of self-empowered ‘superheroes’, UN youth forum told

The United Nations needs to spend more time talking directly to young people across the world, beyond simply talking about their concerns, said the President of the General Assembly on Wednesday, opening a major Youth Dialogue event at UN Headquarters in New York.

Tonga’s flamboyant Olympic flag-bearer brings inspiring message of self-belief to youth at UN Headquarters

He is best known for his bare-chested appearances at the Rio and Pyeongchang Olympic Games, but Pita Taufatofua now wants to use his social media muscle to empower youth, and get them to share their stories. 

UN rights chief urges action in Mexico to end ‘outrageous’ wave of disappearances

Authorities in Mexico are being urged to act to end what the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has described as “a wave of enforced disappearances” in the city of Nuevo Laredo, amid “strong indications” that federal security forces may be involved.

Mali: In Mopti, UN chief finds ‘a determination to fight for peace’

On the second day of his visit to Mali, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres travelled some 460 kilometers outside the capital, Bamako, to Mopti, where he highlighted how insecurity in the region is threatening the country’s fragile peace process.

LATEST NEWS


UN rights experts urge Kenya to protect activists testifying in lead pollution case

Four United Nations human rights experts are calling for greater protection for Kenyan activists who have testified against a local lead-smelting plant accused of environmental pollution.

UN chief condemns killing of police officers and civilian in Belgium’s Liège

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned Tuesday’s attacks by a gunman in the Belgian city of Liège, which left two police officers and a civilian dead.

New political agreement for Libya a ‘welcome step’ says UN chief

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has welcomed a new Political Declaration for Libya adopted by leading politicians and military leaders on Tuesday, pledging to “work constructively” with the world body to hold fresh elections this year.

UN calls for ‘new political energy’ to end the conflict in eastern Ukraine

The United Nations top political affairs official on Tuesday stressed the need to breathe life back into ongoing efforts to end the conflict in eastern Ukraine, now in its fifth year, which has killed and injured thousands of civilians, plunging the country into a humanitarian crisis.

Promoting biodiversity across all agricultural sectors ‘fundamental’ — FAO chief

Changing how countries across the world produce food is “fundamental” to protecting the future of the Earth’s ecosystem, said the head of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on Tuesday.

‘Positive’ community building helps combat hate online: UN counter-terrorism chair

In an increasingly interconnected world, the glorification of terrorism online impacts everyone, the chair of a United Nations counter-terrorism body said on Tuesday, calling for a renewed effort to combat hateful propaganda and promote community solidarity.

In Mali, Guterres honours dedication and sacrifice of UN peacekeepers

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres arrived in Mali on Tuesday, to honour the service and sacrifice of peacekeepers around the world, and mark the official International Day of UN Peacekeepers.

UN releases $2.7 million to help cyclone-hit 'Somaliland'; urges focus on longterm rebuilding

Following a visit to a cyclone-hit community in ‘Somaliland’, the United Nations has released close to $3 million to help people affected by an unprecedented storm which delivered a full year's worth of rain in just a few days, compounding damage caused by recent severe flooding.

UN aid chief highlights 2 million Syrians in greatest need

Less than 20 per cent of the “desperate” civilians living in Syria’s hard-to-reach areas have got the humanitarian aid they need so far this year, a senior United Nations official warned on Tuesday, calling for the Security Council to help ease their plight.

Spirit of compromise needed to combat workplace ‘brutalism’ – UN labour agency

The head of the United Nations labour agency has called for a new spirit of cooperation and consensus between workers, employers and Governments, to end what he called the “new brutalism” of sexual harassment and violence in the workplace.

LATEST NEWS


UN chief in Mali to mark dedication, service and sacrifice of peacekeepers

On the eve of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers this Tuesday, in the dimly lit streets of Bamako, the Malian police set out to conduct a night patrol with the support of UN police officers.

Central African Republic crisis ‘breaks my heart’ says senior UN aid official

The already serious humanitarian situation in Central African Republic (CAR) has worsened amid a spike in violence which threatens to overtake almost every area of the country, a top UN aid official said on Monday.

UN chief notes ‘with concern’ report holding Russia liable for downing airliner

Following the conclusion of an investigation that holds Russia responsible for the downing of a Malaysia Airlines passenger plane in 2014, the United Nations chief said on Friday that he “has taken note with concern of the latest report”.

France: New terrorism laws may undercut human rights and freedoms, says UN expert

While commending efforts by the French government to combat terrorism, a United Nations rights expert has raised concerns about the effect recent counter-terrorism laws are having on fundamental human rights there, including freedom of movement, religion and association.

‘What is good for Africa is good for the world’ says UN chief on International Day

Praising efforts by African countries to alleviate poverty and build more stable societies, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres pledged his on-going support for ending conflict and building peace across the continent.

Death of Ebola patients who fled DRC hospital highlights dangers: WHO

The escape of three patients infected with the Ebola virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) from the hospital where they were being treated is “not unexpected”, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday, underlining the need to step up efforts to explain the dangers of the deadly disease to affected communities.

AU-UN mission in Darfur extra-vigilant in wake of attacks on civilian camps

Following a series of armed attacks on camps hosting displaced Sudanese in central Darfur, the joint African Union-United Nations peacekeeping mission there has urged all parties to respect designated humanitarian areas, which it says should be free of weapons, threats, and violence.

UN Security Council condemns starvation of civilians as a war tactic

Denouncing the starvation of civilians as a method of warfare and the unlawful denial of humanitarian access to those need, the United Nations Security Council underscored that all parties to armed conflict must uphold their obligations under international law and protect civilians from harm.

Yemen: Human suffering at risk of further deterioration, warns UN aid chief

An escalation in fighting, increasing obstacles to aid delivery and lack of food and fuel, is compounding Yemen’s dire humanitarian crisis, the United Nations top relief official warned on Thursday, calling on all parties to the conflict to end the violence.

New health board aims to break ‘cycle of panic and neglect’ on pandemics

A group of international experts has been tasked with helping the planet to better prepare for outbreaks, pandemics and other emergencies that have an impact on health.

LATEST NEWS


UN envoy urges ‘inclusive’ talks to resolve crisis in Burundi

Inclusive talks remain the only way to find a lasting solution to the political, socio-economic and humanitarian crisis that has engulfed Burundi since 2015, the United Nations envoy for the African Great Lakes country said on Thursday.

‘Gravely concerned’ over northern Somalia clashes, UN and partners call for ceasefire

The United Nations and its partners on Thursday expressed grave concern over armed clashes which have broken out in northern Somalia, urging all parties to immediately halt the violence.

Not so fast on fracking, UN agency tells developing countries

The hydraulic extraction of natural gas, commonly known as fracking, produces cleaner energy than oil and coal, but it is not necessarily in the best interests of the world’s poorest countries, UN development experts said on Thursday.

UN development official urges greater international support for Zimbabwe

With a new administration in place and plans to hold free and fair general elections later this year, authorities in Zimbabwe are hoping to see greater international investment in their country, according to the top United Nations official there.

UN chief ‘deeply concerned’ over cancellation of US-North Korea summit

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said on Thursday that he was “deeply concerned” by the cancellation of the planned meeting between the leaders of the United States and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), commonly-known as North Korea.

HIV/AIDS still impacting work and costing billions in lost earnings – new UN agency report

Outlining the economic and social toll HIV and AIDS continues to take on workers around the world, the International Labour Organization (ILO) called on Thursday for an “urgent effort” to improve treatment, step up testing and ensure healthier and more productive workplaces.

UN chief launches new disarmament agenda ‘to secure our world and our future’

The United Nations chief announced a bold new vision for global disarmament on Thursday, to help eliminate nuclear arsenals and other deadly weapons from a world that is just “one mechanical, electronic and human error away” from destruction.

Peace and security challenges in Africa’s Sahel region require ‘holistic approach’, says UN official

A “holistic approach” is needed to the address peace and security challenges in Africa’s vast Sahel region, a senior United Nations peacekeeping official told the Security Council on Wednesday, calling for more investment in better government, social services and youth opportunities.

Transforming the world requires input from all society: UN deputy chief

International efforts to create a world where no one is left behind will only become a reality if all sectors in society participate, the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General told ambassadors in New York on Wednesday.

Urgent action needed to avoid war, alleviate suffering in Gaza – UN envoy tells Security Council

Gaza is on the verge of collapse and its people becoming increasingly desperate, a United Nations envoy told the Security Council on Wednesday, urging international action to avoid another war, alleviate suffering and empower more responsible government within the enclave.

LATEST NEWS


Tackling corruption ‘from the top down’ essential, declares UN chief, marking key global treaty

Corruption and complicity know no geographical boundaries, and it is society’s most vulnerable who get hurt the most, senior United Nations officials said on Wednesday, calling on Government leaders to fight the scourge, “from the top down”.

Ebola outbreak puts DR Congo on an ‘epidemiological knife-edge’

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) remains on an “epidemiological knife-edge” regarding the spread of deadly Ebola disease, despite the quick response by authorities and international partners to the threat, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday.

South Korea leads developed nations in household debt, UN expert warns

Despite being the world’s 11th largest economy, a significant number of South Koreans are living in “substandard” housing, faced with rising rents they can no longer afford, a United Nations rights expert said on Wednesday, noting that the country now leads developed nations in levels of household debt.

UN pays tribute to the Organization’s founding mothers

Women have played a pivotal role in the United Nations since its inception in 1945, including in the first international agreement proclaiming gender equality as a fundamental human right: the UN Charter.

Poverty compounding health challenges for Palestine refugees – UN agency

Non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer and smoking-related ailments, account for the majority of the chronic health problems confronting Palestine refugees across the Middle East, a new report by the United Nations agency which supports them, has found.

New project safeguards Rohingya refugees; boosts local farming – UN migration agency

A major canal dredging project underway in Southern Bangladesh to protect Rohingya refugees from monsoon floods, will have the added benefit of boosting local agriculture, the United Nations migration agency said Tuesday.

UN calls on Algeria to stop expelling thousands of sub-Saharan African migrants

The United Nations human rights office (OHCHR) has called on the Algerian Government to stop collectively expelling thousands of migrants, particularly from sub-Saharan Africa, saying it violates international human rights law.

UN chief urges governments to shield more civilians from violence in conflict

With more than 128 million people worldwide requiring immediate humanitarian aid, mostly due to war and violence, the United Nations Secretary-General has urged the international community to do more to protect civilians caught in conflict.

Armed gangs force 'growing number' to flee north and south, in Central America

The number of people fleeing violence and persecution from States in Central America, including Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras, has risen by nearly 60 per cent in the space of just a year, the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) has warned.

Human rights under attack, ‘no longer a priority; a pariah’ – UN rights chief

The world is sliding back on human rights and its principles are under attack in all corners of the globe, the top United Nations rights official warned on Tuesday, urging people everywhere to show “fierce and passionate commitment” in defending them.

LATEST NEWS


Rich variety of life on earth essential says UN chief Guterres, marking biological diversity day

The welfare and prosperity of people now and in the future, depends on a “rich variety of life on earth” said United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres in his message for the International Day for Biological Diversity, marked on Tuesday. 

Record-high opium production in Afghanistan creates multiple challenges for region and beyond, UN warns

Opium poppy cultivation in Afghanistan reached a record-high last year, leading to unprecedented levels of potential heroin on the world market, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said in a new report released on Monday.

‘Done right,’ expanded partnerships can deliver more sustainable results – deputy UN chief

Cooperation over development is critical in delivering the ambitious 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the UN deputy chief said on Monday, calling for strengthened “multi-stakeholder” partnerships, and better policy coordination.

Realistic solutions must form basis of Global Compact for migration – UN conference

Reflecting the reality of life on the ground for millions of migrants fleeing their homes must form the basis of the upcoming United Nations-backed Global Compact for migration, a hearing on the key issue was told on Monday.

National conversation reveals Libyans’ desire for ‘united and sovereign nation’: UN representative

Conversations taking place across Libya indicate that citizens are “yearning for a united and sovereign nation,” the top United Nations official in the country told the Security Council in New York on Monday.

At global health forum, UN officials call for strong, people-focused health systems

Everyone, everywhere must have equal access to quality health care, said top United Nations officials on Monday, urging greater focus on comprehensive health and well-being.

‘Alarming levels’ of methamphetamine trafficking in Asia’s Mekong, UN warns

Organized crime groups in Asia’s Mekong region have intensified the production and trafficking of highly-addictive methamphetamine, extending the illegal trade into countries such as Australia, Japan and New Zealand, senior drug policy leaders warned on Monday at a United Nations-backed regional conference. 

UN, Somali Government seek $80 million in immediate relief for flood-affected populations

The United Nations and the Somali Government on Sunday launched a joint appeal for $80 million to provide immediate help for the people affected by recent flooding in the country’s centre and south.

UN chief welcomes start of Church-mediated national dialogue in Nicaragua

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has welcomed the start of a national dialogue in Nicaragua between civic groups and the government, following deadly clashes between security forces and people protesting the country’s planned social security reforms.

Afghanistan: UN condemns blasts that leave 8 dead at cricket stadium

The United Nations has condemned Friday's attack in eastern Afghanistan that killed at least eight people and injured at least 55 at a cricket stadium. 

LATEST NEWS

In Washington D.C., Guterres signs pact with World Bank, meets US President Trump

The United Nations and the World Bank Group on Friday signed an agreement to work closer together to help countries implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and achieve measurable results to transform their economies and societies.

Central Africa Republic: Violence drives thousands of refugees into neighbouring DR Congo, says UN agency

The United Nations refugee agency is calling for urgent support for thousands of people arriving in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) after fleeing conflict in south-eastern Central African Republic (CAR).

Teenage girl’s death sentence spotlights Sudan’s failure to tackle forced marriage, gender-based violence – UN rights office

The case of Noura Hussein Hammad Daoud, a Sudanese teenager convicted of fatally stabbing the man she was forced to marry, after he had allegedly raped her, highlights the country’s failure to tackle the tragedy of early and forced marriage, marital rape and other discrimination and violence against women and girls, the United Nations human rights office said on Friday.

DR Congo Ebola outbreak not yet a global ‘health emergency’, but strong response to disease vital – UN health experts

An emergency meeting of United Nations health experts said on Friday that the Ebola outbreak in north-west Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) – where cases of the deadly disease have been confirmed in an urban area ­– does not yet meet the criteria to be deemed a “public health emergency of international concern.”   

Force used against protestors in Gaza ‘wholly disproportionate’ says UN human rights chief

A special session of the UN Human Rights Council has ended with a resolution by Member States to investigate weeks of violence on the Israeli border with Gaza, which has claimed the lives of more than 100 people in the enclave and left thousands wounded.

UN warns of ‘deteriorating climate’ for human rights defenders in Guatemala

It’s becoming increasingly dangerous to defend the rights of indigenous people in Guatemala, the United Nations human rights office warned on Friday, following the murder of three activists over the past 10 days.

Syria: Civilians bear brunt of unilateral sanctions, exacerbating ‘unparalleled suffering, destruction,’ says UN expert

Syrian civilians are frequently being denied live-saving humanitarian support – an unintended consequence of unilateral sanctions, that are exacerbating an already dire situation, according to a United Nations rights expert.

Judges urge Security Council to serve interests of all UN Member States

The Security Council should act on behalf of the entire United Nations membership rather than prioritizing their own national interests, or those of close allies, international court judges said on Thursday, as the 15-member body debated how to effectively counter numerous threats to world peace.

Economic growth ‘exceeds expectations’ but trade tensions are rising: UN report

Global economic growth is exceeding expectations this year but heightened geopolitical tension and uncertainty over international trade could thwart progress, according to a new United Nations report.

UN chief condemns attack against ‘blue helmets’ in Central African Republic

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, on Thursday condemned an attack against UN peacekeeping troops in southeastern Central African Republic (CAR) that claimed the life of one peacekeeper, and wounded eight others – all from Mauritania.

LATEST NEWS



End ‘cycle of violence’ in Gaza, UN deputy chief tells forum on Palestine

The “cycle of violence” in Gaza serves no one and it must end, the United Nations deputy chief said on Thursday, calling on everyone with a stake in Middle East peace, to exercise utmost restraint to avoid further deaths, especially the lives of children.

Celebrate love, strengthen partnerships to end AIDS epidemic by 2030 says UN agency

Marking the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, the United Nations is calling for strengthened partnerships to support lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people and their families.

Emergency meeting called as Ebola spreads to Congolese city – UN health agency

The World Health Organization (WHO) is convening an emergency meeting on Friday to “consider the international risks” of the latest outbreak of the deadly disease Ebola, which has now moved to an urban area of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Obese people more likely to smoke, says new gene research: WHO

New research indicates that people who are genetically prone to being overweight have a higher risk of taking up smoking - and they are likely to smoke more than average — UN scientists said on Wednesday.

Leading Palestinian legislator calls for ‘new international engagement’ in two-state solution

Describing a viable two-state solution to end the Palestine-Israel conflict as “very much in doubt”, a leading Palestinian legislator called on Wednesday for “new international engagement” to move the process forward.

UN envoy ‘encouraged’ by latest talks on avoiding ‘worst-case scenario’ in Syria’s Idlib

The United Nations Special Envoy for Syria on Wednesday detailed his most recent efforts to revive stalled peace talks which could end the brutal conflict that has been raging there for more than seven years.

Europe should make voice ‘more heard’ in today’s ‘dangerous world,’ says UN chief

In an increasingly dangerous world, the European Union (EU) needs to make its voice “more and more heard” as a “central pillar” of multilateralism, said the United Nations Secretary-General on Wednesday.

UNICEF delivers medical supplies to Gaza in wake of deadly protests

Two truckloads of urgently needed medical supplies have been delivered to Gaza, where scores of Palestinians were injured during demonstrations along the border fence with Israel earlier this week.

Syria: UN-backed watchdog says chemical weapon ‘likely used’ in February attack

Deadly chlorine gas was likely used in an attack that took place in a Syrian town in rebel-held Idlib last February, said the United Nations-backed chemical weapons watchdog on Wednesday.

Around 2.5 billion more people will be living in cities by 2050, projects new UN report

By 2050, two out of every three people are likely to be living in cities or other urban centres, according to a new United Nations report, highlighting the need for more sustainable urban planning and public services.

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Security Council extends support for African Union force in Somalia

The Security Council on Tuesday gave its backing to the African Union force in Somalia, AMISOM, extending its deployment until at least the end of July.

UN health agency launches new diagnostic tool to ensure effective treatment

Although correctly identifying disease is essential for successful treatment, many have no way of accessing an accurate diagnosis, the United Nation health agency said on Tuesday, launching new tool to close this critical gap.

UN rights office urges restraint over intensifying violence in northern Myanmar

The United Nations human rights arm has voiced deep concern over escalating conflict between the military and armed groups in Myanmar’s Kachin and Shan provinces that has displaced over 100,000 civilians and trapped many in the midst of active fighting.

Security Council calls for calm following deadly Gaza clashes; diplomats debate US embassy move

The United Nations Security Council, in an emergency meeting on Tuesday, called for calm along the border of the Gaza Strip following Monday’s deadly clashes, in which dozens of Palestinians were killed, protesting United States recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and the official opening of its embassy there.

Climate change: An 'existential threat' to humanity, UN chief warns global summit

None of the world’s challenges loom as large as climate change, the United Nations chief told a major climate action summit on Tuesday, reiterating his belief that global warming poses an “existential threat” to humanity.

Gaza medics ‘struggling to cope with influx of wounded’: UN agencies

Medical teams inside Gaza are running out of supplies to cope with the wounded, following the deadliest day of protests against occupation along the border with Israel so far this year, UN aid agencies warned on Tuesday.

‘Enough is enough; stop attacks on children’ underscores UNICEF

With defenceless children increasingly targeted in conflicts , the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called on all warring parties around the globe to comply with international law and keep them safe from harm.

Key UN forum in Asia-Pacific sets its sights on combatting inequality

With concern growing that the divide between rich and poor is continuing to widen – especially in the Asia-Pacific region – top United Nations officials are calling for greater emphasis on growth that leads to fairer societies and a healthier planet.

Step up humanitarian support to 7.1 million people and invest in Sudan’s development: UN relief chief

The United Nations humanitarian chief urged the international community to step up life-saving humanitarian support to 7.1 million vulnerable Sudanese on Monday, and invest more in the country’s social-economic development.

‘Much work to do and no time to waste’ in cybercrime fight, says UN chief

The UN body focussing on crime prevention and criminal justice, opened its annual session in Vienna on Monday, calling for a more integrated global response to continuing and emerging challenges, including cybercrime.

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UN health agency aims to save millions of lives by ‘elimination’ of trans-fatty acids from global food chain

Industrially-produced trans-fats may give food a longer shelf life, but each year they also lead to the death of more than 500,000 people from cardiovascular and heart disease, according to the United Nations health agency.

New EU focus on Kosovo provides Pristina and Belgrade with historic opportunity – UN official

Efforts to calm tensions between Belgrade and Pristina that came to a head with the arrest, “theatrical” parade and expulsion of a lead negotiator from Kosovo, must be redoubled if “real progress” is to be made on the ground, a senior United Nations official said on Monday.

Avoid further bloodshed, UN chief urges, as Gaza violence leaves dozens dead

Following reports that dozens of Palestinians have been killed, demonstrating along the border of the Gaza Strip on Monday, United Nations  Secretary-General António Guterres urged both sides of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to show restraint. 

‘Problems can be solved’ by cooperation says UN chief, welcoming North Korean pledge to close nuclear test site

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has welcomed the commitment by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to dismantle its nuclear test site at Punggye-ri as an important “confidence-building measure” that that will support efforts towards sustainable peace and verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.

Jobs in the green economy will ‘more than offset’ losses in traditional industry by 2030 – UN labour agency

Action to combat climate change could create millions of new job opportunities and “more than” offset losses in traditional industries, the UN labour agency said on Monday.

‘Never forget children,’ UNICEF warns of escalating violence in Central African Republic

At least 350,000 children in the Central African Republic (CAR) are out of school and lack access to health and other basic services, including nearly 29,000 who have fled escalating violence this year, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has warned, urging warring parties to stop the fighting. 

Preventive action could save billions of dollars in food assistance costs – UN agency

As chronic hunger increases and food crises intensify worldwide, preventative action and extra investment could results in billions of dollars of savings each year, a new United Nations report has found.

Iraqis vote in first election since ISIL defeat; UN chief hails polls as progress on path to stronger democracy

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has congratulated the people of Iraq on the holding yesterday of the first national parliamentary elections since the country declared victory over Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Dae'sh) terrorists late last year.

UN chief condemns ‘appalling’ terrorist attacks on churches in Indonesian port city

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the wave of suicide attacks earlier today on worshipers at three churches in Surabaya, Indonesia, the country’s second largest city.

Save our planet by protecting migratory birds and their ‘epic journeys,’ urges UN chief

As they make their global journeys, migratory birds not only set birdwatchers’ binoculars agog, they also help the planet maintain its essential ecological balance.

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Ensure independent investigations into Nicaragua protest deaths – UN rights office

The United Nations human rights arm has called for investigations into all acts of violence in Nicaragua, where scores of people – the majority of them students – have been killed in protests that began in mid-April.

UN expert warns of 'stark increase' in hate crimes across UK, post-Brexit vote

Sounding an alarm over a “stark increase” in hate crimes across the United Kingdom as well as “widespread discrimination” faced by ethnic minorities, a United Nations independent rights expert has called on the country to “comprehensively” combat racism and bias.

New $10 billion funding plan, targets 260 million missing out on school

Three youth activists from India, Kenya and Sierra Leone on Friday delivered a petition signed by 1.5 million of their peers to the United Nations Secretary-General that calls for more investment in education.

Afghanistan: End attacks on civilians, prosecute perpetrators, says senior UN rights official

A top United Nations rights official has welcomed the Afghan Government’s “undeniable commitment” to improving an often “dire” human rights record, while also voicing concern over continued attacks on civilians ahead of key elections later in the year.

Mothers, children, lacking basic nutrition in North Korea: UN food aid chief

The head of the United Nations food relief agency said on Friday that many mothers and young children in North Korea are still relying on humanitarian assistance to meet their nutritional needs.

Service born of sacrifice: Rwanda’s commitment to UN peacekeeping

Over the years, African governments have led the way in contributing troops and police to United Nations operations to help save lives and keep the peace around the world. Today, one of the continent’s smallest countries is also one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping.

Nigeria: ‘Largest-ever’ outbreak of Lassa fever contained but monitoring still needed, says UN health agency

With the largest-ever outbreak of the deadly Lassa fever in Nigeria having been contained, continued vigilance is vital to deal with any flare-ups, the United Nations health agency warned on Friday.

DR Congo: UN prepared for ‘all scenarios’ despite low risk of Ebola spreading

The chances of the latest Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) spreading across borders are low, said the United Nations health agency on Friday, although nine neighbouring countries remain on alert.

For Rohingya refugees, imminent surge in births is traumatic legacy of sexual violence - special report

Late last year, as violent repression in Myanmar sent Rohingyas fleeing to safety in Bangladesh, women from the mainly Muslim minority were subjected to what a United Nations official called “a frenzy of sexual violence”.

Children ‘are dying’ now in DRC’s Kasai from malnutrition, warns UNICEF

400,000 children in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) “are at risk of death” in the Kasais region from food shortages caused by conflict and displacement, according to a senior UN official who has just returned from the area, expressing shock at what he had witnessed.

LATEST NEWS



‘Durable solutions’ needed for durable peace in Darfur, UN envoy tells Security Council

The overall security situation in Sudan’s Darfur region “remains calm”, despite continuing low-level skirmishes, a top United Nations envoy said on Thursday; updating the Security Council on the UN mission’s work on the ground.

Avoid ‘new conflagration’ urges UN chief, in wake of military escalation in Golan

The United Nations chief has called for an immediate halt to all hostile acts and provocative actions to “avoid a new conflagration” in the Middle East, following reported exchanges of artillery fire over the Golan Heights.

UN rights expert welcomes return of detainees from DPRK, urges release of others

The release of three United States nationals by North Korea is “another important building block” towards peace, said a United Nations human rights expert on Thursday, while urging the release of six South Korean nationals who are still being held.

UN chief applauds Malaysians for ‘strong commitment’ to democracy

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres congratulated the people of Malaysia on Thursday, following the peaceful holding of national and provincial elections, and praised voters for their “strong commitment” to the democratic process.

Afghanistan: Violence at voter registration sites ‘assault on democracy,’ UN envoy warns

Afghanistan has suffered “a disturbing pattern” of attacks on voter registration facilities since the process began last month, which add up to an “assault on democracy”, the United Nations mission there said Thursday.

UNICEF urges wealthy countries to encourage more breastfeeding

Babies in wealthy countries are five times more likely to miss out on breastfeeding than those in the under-developed, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said on Thursday, explaining that this gap could be addressed by better support for working mothers, and regulating sales of infant formula.

New UN agency guidelines aim to sustain forest benefits for future generations

New guidelines designed to give poor and isolated communities more of a say in how tropical forests are used and preserved around the world were published on Thursday, by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Complex and deadly new threats mean UN missions must adapt, argue Force Commanders

Evolving and increasingly deadly threats, together with deepening humanitarian crises mean that United Nations peacekeeping missions around the world need more support for ‘blue helmets’ on the ground, Force Commanders told the Security Council on Wednesday.

Honouring Second World War victims, UN chief calls neo-Nazism ‘a spreading cancer’

Paying tribute to all victims of the Second World War – on whose ashes the United Nations was founded – Secretary-General António Guterres described this year’s commemoration as more meaningful than any that has gone before.

'Uphold international humanitarian law' UN chief tells parties to Yemen conflict

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern on Wednesday over the “recent and sharp escalation” in the Yemen conflict, calling on all parties to make civilian protection a priority.

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Libyans deserve justice, as war crime suspects remain at large: Prosecutor

Despite an International Criminal Court arrest warrant, a Libyan war crimes suspect remains at large and could have committed further murders, the ICC Prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda, told the Security Council on Wednesday.

Iran deal represents ‘significant verification gain’ – UN atomic energy chief

Speaking the day after the United States withdrew from an international agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme, the head of the United Nations atomic watchdog agency made it clear that Iran has consistently stuck to its commitments.

‘Gender-sensitive’ trade policies help empower East African women

Trade and employment laws which give women greater access to the economy across East Africa, can pave the way for more inclusive development and prosperity, according to a new report from the United Nations trade body.

State of emergency must be lifted for ‘credible elections’ in Turkey, says UN rights chief

Long-term restrictions on “freedoms of expression, assembly and association” are incompatible with the holding of “credible elections” in Turkey, said the United Nations human rights chief on Wednesday, calling on the Government to lift its extended state of emergency.

Lebanon elections ‘vital step’ in democracy-building: UN chief

Congratulating Lebanon on holding parliamentary elections on Sunday , United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on the country’s political leaders to work in "a spirit of unity".

Rival South Sudan leaders still ‘bent on armed confrontation’ – UN peacekeeping chief

The peace process in South Sudan is at a critical juncture while opposing sides allow themselves to get bogged down in arguments over ministerial quotas, the United Nations peacekeeping chief said on Tuesday, as the country prepares for a third round of regionally-backed peace talks.

‘Fabric of society’ at risk in Bosnia and Herzegovina, UN Security Council told

With elections looming, tensions across Bosnia and Herzegovina are rising alongside inflammatory rhetoric against the country’s long-standing peace agreement, a senior figure monitoring its implementation has warned.

UN chief ‘deeply concerned’ by US decision to exit Iran nuclear deal

Following a decision on Tuesday by the United States to withdraw from the 2015 nuclear agreement with Iran, the United Nations chief said he was “deeply concerned” by the move, and called on all parties to preserve the deal.

Prevent terrorists profiting from cross-border crime, urges UN Security Council

The United Nations Security-Council on Tuesday called on all countries as well as international organizations to do more to stop terrorists enriching themselves through cross-border organized crime.

New Ebola outbreak confirmed in DR Congo: UN health agency scales up response

Two new cases of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) have been confirmed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) by Government scientists there, prompting the UN health agency to immediately scale up its response.

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In Cuba, UN chief stresses Latin America’s courageous ‘development vision’

The United Nations chief on Tuesday highlighted the central role he hopes Latin America and the Caribbean region will play in ensuring “fair globalization” that leaves no one behind.

Smugglers see thousands of migrants in Yemen as ‘a commodity’, UN agency warns

With an estimated 7,000 migrants entering Yemen each month, most of them seeking to reach Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries, the United Nations migration agency on Tuesday called for greater efforts to protect them from smugglers and other criminals.

Dangers persist for nearly a million Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh: WHO

Renewed efforts are underway in Bangladesh to protect nearly one million Myanmar refugees from cholera, amid a warning from the UN health agency on Tuesday that “we’re not out of the woods yet”.

‘Robust’ economic growth in Asia-Pacific last year and ‘promising’ prospects ahead – UN report

Economies in the Asia-Pacific region registered robust growth in 2017 and prospects for this year look promising, the United Nations development arm in the region said, urging countries to take advantage of positive conditions and address underlying vulnerabilities.

UN chief denounces attack on village in north-west Nigeria

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly condemned an attack this weekend on a village in the Nigerian province of Kaduna and underscored the need to hold the perpetrators to account.

‘Silence the guns’ urges UN disarmament chief as global week of action begins

The international community must present a united front against gun violence which kills nearly 250,000 each year and injures many more, said a senior United Nations official on Monday, marking the start of a Global Week of Action Against the scourge.

UN forum to coordinate global efforts to address worsening water shortages

With extreme weather costing hundreds of billions a year and fears that by 2050, one in four people will be living in a country affected by severe water shortages, a global conference got underway on Monday convened by the United Nations meteorological agency to manage the precious resource more sustainably.

Largest-ever global response to cholera targets 2 million people in Africa

The largest cholera vaccination drive in history targeting two million people across Africa is underway, the United Nations announced on Monday, in response to a series of recent deadly outbreaks of the water-borne disease. 

UN experts urges Poland to ensure unrestricted ‘civic space’ during climate talks

Poland’s new law designed to address safety concerns during the United Nations climate change conference to be held there later this year could infringe on the privacy of environmentalists and curtail their rights to protest peacefully, UN human rights experts said Monday.   

UN chief condemns deadly attack on voter registration centre in eastern Afghanistan

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly condemned an attack on a mosque being used as a voter registration centre in Afghanistan’s Khost province and underscored his support to the country as it prepares for elections later this year.

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Hottest April day ever recorded - maybe: UN weather watchdog

Deadly storms in India and record temperatures in Pakistan are an indication that more extreme weather events are happening globally owing to climate change, United Nations weather experts said on Friday.

UN leaders vow to stamp out workplace sexual harassment

Leaders from across the UN system on Friday pledged to increase efforts to stamp out sexual harassment within their ranks; ensuring a zero-tolerance approach where abusers are held accountable, and staff feel safe to report incidents.

Midwives ‘lead the way with quality care’, as world marks International Day

Midwives are vital to driving sustainable development and key to helping mothers, and expectant-mothers, make informed, healthy choices, said the United Nations health agency’s chief nurse on Friday.

Ukraine: 200,000 children forced to learn in bullet-riddled classrooms

Some 200,000 girls and boys in eastern Ukraine are commuting to schools whose classroom walls are often riddled with bullets, and playgrounds scattered with metal remnants of war.

‘Bad’ fats targeted in new global health guidelines

People everywhere need to cut down on their consumption of artery-clogging fatty foods, the World Health Organization (WHO) is urging, in a new report released on Friday.

Children bear the brunt as violence escalates in Gaza – UNICEF

Highlighting the devastating impact of the humanitarian crisis and increasing violence on Gaza's children, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called on all parties with influence on the ground to prioritize their protection.

UN chief ‘optimistic’ over peace efforts to denuclearize Korean Peninsula

The UN chief expressed optimism on Thursday that the full denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula could become a reality, following last week’s historic joint declaration from the leaders of the north and south, which eased months of rising tension over North Korea’s nuclear programme.

‘Standing up for our right to truth,’ UN celebrates press freedom

With journalism under increasing attack worldwide, top United Nations officials on Thursday joined a growing chorus of calls for the better protection of media workers.

UN agencies urge global action as drought looms over Africa’s Sahel region

United Nations agencies have urged greater international support to stave off severe food insecurity in Africa’s western Sahel; a region reeling from the effects of conflict and now threatened by drought and rising hunger.

UN chief denounces terror attack on electoral commission HQ in Libyan capital

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned Wednesday’s attack on the electoral commission headquarters in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, and reiterated the world body’s commitment to support the country.

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‘Marathon of suffering’ in Syria conflict, far from over: UN humanitarian adviser

The fighting in Syria “is not over” and neither is the “marathon of suffering” for millions of people in the war-torn country, a senior aid official at the UN said on Thursday.

Mental health ‘neglected issue’ but key to achieving Global Goals, say UN chiefs

Mental health remains one of the most neglected global health issues, even though it is critical to the achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by world leaders, top United Nations officials have said at an event in London.

UN chief condemns violence in Central African Republic capital Bangui

Voicing concern over inflammatory rhetoric in the wake of widespread violence in Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic (CAR), United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on all actors to remain calm and to work together to bring peace to the country.

Women journalists in Afghanistan defiant in the face of violence

The dangers of working as a journalist in Afghanistan have been dramatically underlined by an attack in the capital Kabul on Monday in which nine Afghan photographers and reporters were killed. They had gone to report on a suicide attack, and were targeted by a second suicide bomber when they arrived on the scene.

South Sudan: UN Mission chief urges warring parties to abide by truce agreement

The surge of violence in South Sudan’s Unity region "looks set" to continue despite the ceasefire accord signed last year by warring parties, the top United Nations official in the African country said on  Wednesday.

Vitamin A deficiency puts 140 million children at risk of illness and death – UNICEF

More than 140 million children are at greater risk of illness, hearing loss, blindness and even death globally if urgent action is not taken to provide them with life-saving vitamin A supplements, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has warned.

Leaders obliged to confront anti-Semitism ‘everywhere and always’, stresses UN envoy

The United Nations’ top official for the Middle East Peace Process has said that spreading “deeply disturbing” conspiracy theories which fuel anti-Semitism are unacceptable, and serve neither the interests of Palestinians themselves, or the pursuit of peace in the region.

Central African Republic: UN urges calm in wake of violence in capital Bangui

The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic (CAR) has appealed for calm following fresh violence in the capital Bangui which claimed the lives of several civilians, including a religious leader.

UN ready to discuss ‘possible forms of support’ to further inter-Korean peace efforts

Secretary-General António Guterres has said that the United Nations stands ready to discuss “possible forms of support” to further inter-Korean talks over denuclearizing the Peninsula, and working towards a lasting peace.

90 per cent of the planet is breathing in polluted air – World Health Organization

Air pollution claims seven million lives a year, UN health experts said on Wednesday, amid new data showing that the problem affects nine out of ten people worldwide.

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Amid a ‘crisis of solidarity,’ seek inspiration from the Buddha’s message of empathy, urges UN chief

At an event commemorating the Day of Vesak, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urged the global community to draw inspiration from the Buddha’s teachings and message of tolerance, empathy and humanism.

Can science and technology really help solve global problems? A UN forum debates vital question

Science and technology offer part of the solution to climate change, inequality and other global issues, a United Nations official said on Tuesday, spotlighting the enormous potential these fields hold for achieving humanity’s common goal, of a poverty and hunger-free world by 2030.

Combating ‘scourge’ of sexual abuse allegations remains ‘key’ UN priority, as 54 new allegations emerge

More than 50 allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse involving personnel serving with the United Nations and its partners in the field were received in the first three months of this year, the global organization said on Tuesday.

Security Council urges conditions that allow safe return of Rohingya refugees

After seeing for themselves the conditions facing Rohingya refugees in the camps of southern Bangladesh as well as homes they fled in Myanmar, Security Council members called on Tuesday for them to be allowed a safe return.

Afghanistan: UN expert condemns killing of journalists as ‘attack on right to know’

A United Nations human rights expert on Tuesday strongly condemned the killing of nine journalists in Afghanistan who were among the victims of Monday’s terrorist attack in the country’s capital.

‘Sharp escalation’ in fighting across Myanmar’s Kachin state, warns rights expert

Raising alarm over a “sharp” escalation in hostilities in Myanmar’s Kachin province, a United Nations human rights expert has called on all parties to ensure greater protection for civilians.

Iraqi political candidates have ‘real appetite’ to work together – UN official

Politicians in Iraq are working constructively with each other ahead of this month’s parliamentary elections, a senior United Nations official said.

Almost 500,000 affected as devastating floods inundate central Somalia – UN mission

United Nations agencies in Somalia have stepped up their response in the wake of devastating flash floods across large parts of the country that have impacted nearly 500,000 people and displaced close to 175,000 from their homes.