UN News/Daniel Johnson
UN rights chief calls for dialogue to prevent conflict, ease social unrest in Ecuador
29 November 2019
Human Rights
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, on Friday denounced the “high human cost”, of the recent unrest in Ecuador and urged all actors in the South American country to engage in dialogue to prevent new conflicts and forge an inclusive society “with full respect for its multicultural nature”.
WHO/Lindsay Mackenzie
Friday’s Daily Brief: violence in DR Congo, protester deaths in Iraq, human rights in Colombia, climate change conference, ‘high human cost’ of Ecuador unrest
29 November 2019
Humanitarian Aid
A recap of Friday’s stories in brief: attacks on communities in an Ebola outbreak hotspot in eastern DRC sparks a humanitarian crisis; Guterres expresses concerns at continued protester deaths in Iraq; UN-appointed panel raises concerns about violence against indigenous rights defenders in Colombia; 5 things you need to know about COP25; UN rights chief urges dialogue to ease Ecuador unrest.
Audio - 3'56" Playlist
UNAMI
Iraq: UN ‘deeply concerned’ at continued protester deaths
29 November 2019
Peace and Security
UN chief António Guterres has expressed deep concern over reports of the continued use of live ammunition against demonstrators in Iraq.
Audio - 8'25" Playlist
World Bank
Is the world ready to end the coal era and embrace clean energy?
29 November 2019
Climate Change
Access to electricity has transformed the world, helping countries to develop their economies, and lifting millions out of poverty. However, this success has come at a great cost: the energy sector, heavily reliant on fossil fuels, is responsible for some 40 per cent of global carbon dioxide emissions – one of the so-called greenhouse gases, which trap heat in the atmosphere and warm the Earth – and almost two-thirds of these emissions come from coal.
© UNHCR/Natalia Micevic
Violence in DR Congo Ebola hotspot leaves people ‘caught in crossfire’
29 November 2019
Humanitarian Aid
Attacks on communities in an Ebola outbreak hotspot in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have sparked a humanitarian crisis and threatened aid distribution, the UN said on Friday, amid reports of serious civil unrest.
MONUSCO
Armed groups kill Ebola health workers in eastern DR Congo
28 November 2019
Peace and Security
Deadly night-time attacks by armed groups have once again claimed the lives of frontline healthworkers helping to confront the deadly Ebola virus in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Thursday.
WFP/Tatenda Macheka
Zimbabwe facing man-made starvation, says UN expert
28 November 2019
Health
Man-made starvation is “slowly making its way into Zimbabwe” and most households in the country are unable to obtain enough food to meet their basic needs, Hilal Elver, Special Rapporteur on the right to food, declared on Thursday.
IFRC/Albanian Red Cross
WHO working to save lives following powerful earthquake in Albania
27 November 2019
Health
Staff from the World Health Organization (WHO) are assisting authorities in Albania following an earthquake which killed at least 25 people and left more than 650 injured.
UNAMA/Ebrahim Papal
Wednesday’s Daily Brief: Afghan child abuse, DR Congo measles deaths, Palestinian solidarity
27 November 2019
Peace and Security
A recap of Wednesday’s stories in brief: UN Afghan Mission calls for probe into school paedophile ring; thousands of children dying from measles in DRC; UN reaffirms solidarity with Palestinians; migrants send billions back home; trust and security “essential” in digital space; and FAO recommends switch to traditional diets.
Audio - 2'26" Playlist
UN photo/Tobias Hofsass
Internet Forum: Prioritize technologies most needed for sustainable development
27 November 2019
SDGs
It is “critical” to prioritize technologies that are most needed for sustainable development, a high-level UN official told the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) on Wednesday in Berlin.
Audio - 11'58" Playlist
© UNICEF/Santiago Arcos
270 million people are migrants, who send home a staggering $689 billion
27 November 2019
Migrants and Refugees
The number of international migrants in 2019 is now estimated at 270 million and the top destination remains the United States, at nearly 51 million, the UN migration agency said on Wednesday.
Audio - 3'33" Playlist
UN Photo
UN commemorates International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People
27 November 2019
Peace and Security
The United Nations has underlined its unwavering commitment to the Palestinian people in their ongoing struggle to achieve self-determination, independence and sovereignty.
Audio - 7'46" Playlist
© UNICEF/Thomas Nybo
Measles claims more than twice as many lives than Ebola in DR Congo
27 November 2019
Health
Since the beginning of 2019, measles has taken more than 5,000 lives in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a top UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) official said on Wednesday, pointing out that over 90 per cent of the deaths were children under-five.
Audio - 5'57" Playlist
MONUSCO
UN working to prevent attacks on civilians in eastern DR Congo
26 November 2019
Peace and Security
Peacekeepers from the UN Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) were conducting extensive patrols in the east of the country on Tuesday, one day after demonstrators set fire to buildings to protest lack of civilian protection in the face of attacks by armed groups.
ESCAP Photo/Christian Dohrmann
Tuesday’s Daily Brief: call for emission cuts, AIDS in decline, cyber-conflict warning
26 November 2019
Climate Change
A recap of Tuesday’s stories in brief: UNEP calls for emissions to be cut by more than half, AIDS down but thousands of children still missing out on treatment, UN chief warns of “digital divide”
Giles Clarke/Getty Images Reportage
Courage of terrorism survivors underlines ‘urgency’ of UN Investigative Team’s work in Iraq
26 November 2019
Peace and Security
The leader of the special UN Investigation Team probing crimes committed by ISIL terrorists in Iraq, said on Tuesday that the courage being demonstrated by survivors coming forward “serves to underline the urgency” they need to carry on with their work.
Audio - 5'32" Playlist
UN Photo/Tobias Hofsaess
Guterres underscores UN role in achieving a free, secure Internet
26 November 2019
Peace and Security
Unless countries work together to address gaps in digital access, as well as related social and political divisions, this generation will be remembered as the one that “ruined the early promise of the Internet”, the UN Secretary-General has warned.
© UNICEF/Frank Dejong
Empowering people living with HIV ‘will end the epidemic’, says AIDS agency chief
26 November 2019
Health
When people living with HIV actively participate in their own care, new infections decline and more affected people access treatment, according to a new report launched on Tuesday by UNAIDS, the United Nations agency leading the fight against the disease.
Audio - 9’10” Playlist
UN Bolivia/Patricia Cusicanqui
UN chief hails ‘positive developments’ towards ending political crisis in Bolivia
26 November 2019
Peace and Security
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has welcomed recent steps towards a peaceful resolution to the political turmoil in Bolivia.
UN Photo/Kibae Park
UN emissions report: World on course for more than 3 degree spike, even if climate commitments are met
26 November 2019
Climate Change
Even if countries meet commitments made under the 2015 Paris Agreement, the world is heading for a 3.2 degrees Celsius global temperature rise over pre-industrial levels, leading to even wider-ranging and more destructive climate impacts, warns a report from the UN Environment Programme, released on Tuesday.
Audio - 7'1" Playlist
UNFICYP/Katarina Zahorska
Guterres holds ‘focused and frank’ informal discussions over future of Cyprus
25 November 2019
Peace and Security
The UN Secretary-General held “focused and frank” informal talks with the leaders of the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities on Monday in order to “take stock of efforts” to finally reach a settlement over the divided Mediterranean island.
Audio - 10'44" Playlist
UNIC Bogota/José Ríos
Monday’s Daily Brief: Colombia marches, major mine action summit, violence against women a barrier to peace, South Sudan update
25 November 2019
Peace and Security
A recap of Monday’s stories in brief: Guterres holds “focused and frank” informal talks over Cyprus, responds to Colombia protests; Violence targeting women impedes peace; UN Mission, community condemn South Sudan violence; UN weather watchdog sounds climate alarm; Norway hosts anti-landmine summit.
UN Photo/Sylvain Liechti
UN mission in DR Congo appeals for calm as violent protests continue
25 November 2019
Peace and Security
The head of the UN peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has met with national authorities in the wake of an attack against its headquarters in Beni on Monday, which left the building badly damaged.
UN Women/Arachika Kapoor
Violence against women a barrier to peaceful future for all
25 November 2019
Women
Senior officials from across the United Nations on Monday stood in solidarity with survivors of violence against women and activists working to end the all-too common human rights violation.
UNMISS\Nektarios Markogiannis
UN Mission, community leaders, condemn South Sudan violence which left two dead at camp
25 November 2019
Peace and Security
Community leaders issued an apology on Monday after rioting on 21 November by “drunken youth” within a UN Protection of Civilians site run by UNMISS in South Sudan, left two dead and eight UN personnel injured, including five police officers.
WMO/Monika Nováková
Climate change: Another year of record gas emissions, warns UN meteorological agency
25 November 2019
Climate Change
Levels of the three main heat-trapping gases emitted into the atmosphere – carbon dioxide (CO2), methane, and nitrous oxide – have reached yet another high, the UN meteorological agency, WMO, said on Monday.
UNAMA/Fardin Waezi
UN condemns deadly attack on one of its vehicles in Afghan capital
24 November 2019
Peace and Security
A UN worker was killed and two people were injured when their vehicle was attacked in the Afghan capital, Kabul, on Sunday.
UN Women
A staggering one-in-three women, experience physical, sexual abuse
24 November 2019
Human Rights
Violence against women and girls is among the most widespread, and devastating human rights violations in the world, but much of it is often unreported due to impunity, shame and gender inequality, the UN highlighted ahead of Monday’s World Day to stamp out abuse of women and girls.
UN Photo/Tobin Jones
UN agencies ramp up Somalia measles and polio campaign
24 November 2019
Health
A campaign to vaccinate some 1.7 million children in Somalia was launched on Sunday by the country’s government, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
UNIFEED
Syrian Constitutional Committee a ‘sign of hope’: UN envoy tells Security Council
22 November 2019
Peace and Security
The launch of the Syrian Constitutional Committee could be a “door-opener” to finally providing a solution to the country’s brutal conflict, UN Special Envoy Geir Pedersen said on Friday in a briefing to the Security Council.
UN Photo/Martine Perret
Friday’s Daily Brief: DRC Ebola concerns, Yemen peace hopes, more migrant boats leave Libya
22 November 2019
Health
A recap of Friday’s stories in brief: WHO raises fresh Ebola concerns, UN envoy raises hopes of Yemen political settlement, WFP makes urgent Venezuela appeal, hundreds of migrants discovered in boats off Libya coast.
DGC Visitor Center
Legendary Harlem Globetrotters slam-dunk at the UN, with message that brings families, nations together
22 November 2019
SDGs
You don’t have to be from New York or even the United States to be a Harlem Globetrotter. Yet in the team's 93-year history, less than two dozen players have been born overseas, UN News learned, during an impromptu visit by the legendary basketball role models to UN Headquarters this week.
© UN Children's Fund (UNICEF)
‘Signs of hope’ toward a political settlement in Yemen, UN special envoy tells Security Council
22 November 2019
Peace and Security
The momentum to reach a political settlement in Yemen “has been building”, the United Nations Special Envoy to the country told the Security Council on Friday, attributing the positive development to compromises on “a range of issues”.
UN Photo/Milton Grant
Independent rights experts sound alarm at Iran protest crackdown, internet blackout
22 November 2019
Human Rights
Reports of killed and maimed demonstrators, and a continuing nationwide internet shutdown in Iran’s now week-long protests are of “grave concern”, and the Government and authorities must ensure rights of expression and opinion are protected, a UN group of independent experts said on Friday.
UN Photo/Martine Perret
Ebola in DR Congo: New transmission chain risks reversing major gains
22 November 2019
Health
Amid multiple deadly attacks on civilians by armed groups in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), an Ebola death “unlinked to any chain of transmission” risks reversing major gains against the epidemic, which is now down to just a handful of cases, a top UN medic said on Friday.
Audio - 4'16" Playlist
Unsplash/Paul Proshin
Four in five adolescents failing to exercise for even 60 minutes a day, UN health agency warns
22 November 2019
Health
An alarming lack of exercise among adolescents across the world risks seriously compromising their health into adulthood, the UN said on Thursday.
Audio - 7'55" Playlist
UN Photo/Martine Perret
Deadly life at sea: UN partners spotlight depths of danger in fishing industry
21 November 2019
SDGs
There is a clear link between the seedy underbelly of the seafood industry, and fishers’ safety, now ranked as the second deadliest profession in the world; and more must be done to ensure people dependent on this type of labour are working in safe conditions, UN partners urged on Thursday.
Seychelles Tourism Board/Ennio Maffei
Thursday’s Daily Brief: Deadly Syria violence, risks of working at sea, poor health in jail, concern over ISIL suspect, and her child
21 November 2019
Peace and Security
A recap of Thursday’s stories in brief: Syria’s violence continues to strike children; governments must do more for human rights in business; poor health in Europe’s prisons; rights experts’ concern over Irish ISIL bride and her child in Turkey; Fishing workers face huge risks at sea.
UNEP/Lisa Murray
‘Maximize the positive’ from new technologies, for our digital future, Guterres urges
21 November 2019
Economic Development
Both positive and negative technological developments are jolting the world at “unprecedented speed”, the UN chief said on Thursday, underscoring the need to “maximize the benefits…whilst mitigating harms”.
Audio - 11'58" Playlist
UN Photo/Rick Bajornas
Political consensus critical ahead of Somalia election: UN mission chief
21 November 2019
Peace and Security
With Somalia scheduled to hold “one-person, one-vote” elections next year, leaders must act now to break the “stalemate” between the central government and federal member states, the top UN official in the country told the Security Council on Thursday.
Audio - 11'37" Playlist
©UNICEF/Delil Souleiman
UN experts urge Turkey to repatriate Irish woman associated with terror group
21 November 2019
Peace and Security
Turkey must ensure that an Irish woman and her infant daughter who are being held in custody there are repatriated, independent UN experts said in a statement released on Thursday. The woman, Lisa Smith, has been described in press reports as a supporter of the ISIL terror group, and former member of the Irish military.
Audio - 7'45" Playlist
UN Women/Eunjin Jeong
FROM THE FIELD: Gaza men advocate for an end to early marriage
21 November 2019
Human Rights
A group of thirty men in Gaza have succeeded in preventing the early marriage of girls under the age of 18, from 50 different families, thanks to a training programme supported by the UN gender agency, UN Women.
IRIN/Jodi Hilton
Missile strike kills at least 12 civilians, including children, in Syria’s Idlib: UN humanitarians
21 November 2019
Peace and Security
Violence in Syria continues to kill and maim civilians with reports that missiles fired into settlements for people fleeing conflict in the country’s northwest on Wednesday night, killed at least 12 people and wounded dozens more, including children, UN humanitarians said on Thursday.
Audio - 7'33" Playlist
OCHA/Giles Clarke
Serious concerns over Sahel, require ‘urgent action’: Senior UN Africa official
20 November 2019
Peace and Security
The situation in Africa’s Sahel region continues to be “of serious concern and urgent action is needed”, a high-level United Nations official told the Security Council on Wednesday, attributing a rising number of attacks to terrorist armed groups.
Unsplash/Gustavo Ferreira
World Television Day celebrates an integral part of modern life
20 November 2019
Culture and Education
Seven decades of United Nations’ work in developing new standards and systems for broadcasting are being celebrated on Thursday, World Television Day, an annual observance that recognizes the medium’s role as a major source of information, education and entertainment.
UN Photo/Manuel Elias
Wednesday’s Daily Brief: Israeli settlements, World Children’s Day, fossil fuel overuse
20 November 2019
Human Rights
A recap of Wednesday’s stories: UN envoy reiterates position on illegality of Israeli settlements, World Children’s Day marked with calls for rights of children to be upheld, new report highlights major gap between use of fossil fuels and commitments to limit global warming.
Audio - 3'11" Playlist
© UNICEF/Frank Dejong
Young activists do the talking as UN marks World Children’s Day
20 November 2019
Human Rights
Children were both seen and heard in the UN General Assembly on Wednesday, World Children’s Day, during a celebration to commemorate 30 years since the adoption of a milestone treaty that protects their rights.
IRIN/Erica Silverman
Israeli settlements remain ‘flagrant violation’ of international law, UN envoy tells Security Council
20 November 2019
Peace and Security
Regardless of any national policy declarations, Israeli settlement activities are “a flagrant violation under international law”, the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process spelled out to the Security Council on Wednesday.
Audio - 12'6" Playlist
UNDP/Louis Fourmentin
UN chief calls for ‘green and clean’ development in message for Africa Industrialization Day
20 November 2019
Economic Development
As African countries gear up to implement an historic free trade agreement, the UN Secretary-General is urging leaders to pursue economic growth that benefits both people and the planet.
Audio - 5'31" Playlist
UN Photo/Rick Bajornas
UN strengthens ties with Eurasia regional body to tackle terrorism and crime
19 November 2019
Peace and Security
Improving understanding of the nexus between terrorism, transnational organized crime and drug trafficking is essential, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Tuesday in his address to a high-level meeting involving the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), a leading player in diplomacy in Eurasia.
UN Photo
US pardons for accused war criminals, contrary to international law: UN rights office
19 November 2019
Human Rights
A presidential pardon for two United States soldiers accused of war crimes, and a sentence reduction for a third, “run against the letter and the spirit of international law which requires accountability for such violations”, the United Nations human rights wing said on Tuesday.
MINUSMA/Gema Cortes
Tuesday’s Daily Brief: Israeli settlements, Sahel crisis, Iran protests, reconciliation for peace, World Toilet Day
19 November 2019
Human Rights
A recap of Tuesday’s stories in brief: UN ‘regret’ over US settlements reversal; Almost daily attacks plunge Sahel into ‘three-country crisis’; live ammunition reportedly used against Iranian protesters; reconciliation helps ‘repair fractures’, promote peace; call for poorest countries to take leading role in their own development agendas; and World Toilet Day.
Audio - 9'10" Playlist
UNMISS/Isaac Billy
UN updates guidelines to ensure successful return to civilian life for former combatants
19 November 2019
Peace and Security
Increasing hurdles which prevent former combatants from returning to a peaceful civilian life have prompted the UN to update its standard practices, in an effort to ensure they remain “fit-for-purpose for years to come”.
UN News/Reem Abaza
UN ‘regrets’ new US position on legality of Israeli settlements
19 November 2019
Peace and Security
The longstanding position of the UN regarding Israeli settlements in Occupied Palestinian Territory – that they are in breach of international law – is unchanged, Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said during a press briefing on Tuesday in New York, reacting to the policy reversal announced by the United States.
MINUSMA
Reconciliation helps ‘repair fractures’, enable lasting peace, Security Council hears
19 November 2019
Peace and Security
The UN Security Council this Tuesday has been debating what one activist labeled “the toughest and arguably most important part of the peace-building cycle”: reconciliation.
WFP/Marwa Awad
‘Three-country crisis’ across central Sahel puts whole generation at risk, warns UN food agency
19 November 2019
Humanitarian Aid
Violent attacks by extremists “almost every day” in the Sahel nations of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso have displaced nearly one million people and caused emergency levels of malnutrition, UN humanitarians have said.
Audio - 9'10" Playlist
Credit: UN Information Centre Tehran
Iran protests: Live ammunition reportedly used, says UN human rights office
19 November 2019
Human Rights
Reports indicating that dozens of people have been killed in continuing protests across Iran – some by live ammunition - are of deep concern, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), said on Tuesday.
© UNICEF Patrick Brown
UNICEF reports uneven progress in 30 years of child rights treaty
19 November 2019
Human Rights
Although the world has made historic gains over the past three decades in improving children’s lives, urgent action is required if the poorest children are to feel the impact, a new UN report published on Monday warns.
Seychelles Tourism Board/Ennio Maffei
Sustainable fishing staying afloat in developed world, sinking in poorer regions
18 November 2019
Climate Change
More people than ever rely on fisheries and aquaculture for food, and income, but the seafood industry is facing a “dangerous” sustainability divide when comparing trends in the developed world versus those in poorer regions, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) revealed on Monday.
UNICEF/Almahbashi
Monday’s Daily Brief: Progress and pitfalls in child rights, millions of Afghans acutely food insecure, Middle East nuclear-free zone, social media and child detention
18 November 2019
Human Rights
A recap of Monday’s stories in brief: Uneven child rights progress; over 10 million Afghans severely food insecure; Middle East nuclear weapons conference gets underway; Social media posts increasing child detention cases; UN and partners commit to universal health.
UN Photo/Rick Bajornas
Libya ‘in race against time’, but dissolving conflict ‘a realistic prospect’, Security Council hears
18 November 2019
Peace and Security
A recent resurgence of violence in Tripoli, means Libya is “ever more in a race against time” to reach peace, however, agreeing the way forward to ending the conflict “is a realistic prospect”, the top UN official in the country told the Security Council on Monday.
UN Photo/Manuel Elias
At UN, Middle East countries discuss steps towards regional nuclear-free zone
18 November 2019
Peace and Security
Representatives from across the Middle East are meeting at UN Headquarters this week in efforts to negotiate a legally binding treaty establishing a regional zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction.
Audio Playlist
UNAMA/Eric Kanalstein
One-third of Afghans need urgent humanitarian aid, millions suffer ‘acute food insecurity’
18 November 2019
Humanitarian Aid
Over the last three months (August to October 2019), around one-third of the Afghan population required urgent humanitarian action, according to the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) Alert, released on Monday, which declares that some 10.23 million people are living in a state of “severe acute food insecurity”.
© UNICEF/UN052682/Romenzi
Anti-terror measures against youngsters’ online posts ‘linked to spike in child detention globally’
18 November 2019
Human Rights
Around 7.2 million children are detained around the world, 5.4 million of them in institutions, rights experts said on Monday, highlighting “aggressive” State counterterrorism measures for the spike in youngsters held for alleged links with armed conflict or national security concerns based on their social media posts.
© UNICEF/Gonzalez Far
UN, African Union make significant joint commitment to global health
18 November 2019
Health
In the drive towards universal health coverage, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the African Union (AU) Commission cemented their mutual commitment to global health by signing on Monday an historic agreement.
© WSSCC/Jason Florio
‘Transformational benefits’ of ending outdoor defecation: Why toilets matter
18 November 2019
Health
Ending the practice of defecating in the open, rather than in a toilet, will have “transformational benefits” for some of the world’s most vulnerable people, says the UN’s partner sanitation body, the WSSCC (Water Supply and Sanitation Collaborative Council).
WHO
WHO supports measles campaign targeting millions of children in northern Nigeria
17 November 2019
Health
More than 28 million children in northern Nigeria will be protected against measles and meningitis through an immunization campaign carried out by the authorities alongside international partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO).
© Eric Ganz
UN calls for action to tackle ‘ubiquitous but invisible’ global road safety crisis
17 November 2019
SDGs
Saving lives by improving road safety is “one of the many objectives of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”, the United Nations chief said in his message for the global day set aside for remembering the victims of traffic accidents.
Audio - 7'27" Playlist
UN Photo/Laura Jarriel
Repression, use of force risk worsening Bolivia crisis: UN human rights chief
16 November 2019
Human Rights
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights is urging authorities in Bolivia to ensure security forces comply with international standards on the use of force following the deaths of at least five protestors on Friday.
UNAOC
UN film festival encourages young people to promote peace, dialogue and empathy
16 November 2019
Migrants and Refugees
Demonstrating empathy, humour and intelligence, a group of young film-makers have been recognized for their short videos, which tackle the weighty issues of discrimination, intolerance and misogyny in a creative and entertaining way, at a ceremony held at UN Headquarters.
IOM/Olivia Headon
Over 1 million health consultations provided in Yemen in 2019: UN migration agency
15 November 2019
Health
Since the beginning of the year, the UN Migration Agency has carried out over one million health consultations for displaced and conflict-affected Yemenis and migrants struggling to reach the help they need, the organization announced on Friday.
MINUSCA/Hervé Serefio
Friday's Daily Brief: Security Council resolutions on CAR and Somalia, ICC to probe crimes against Rohingya, Tolerance Day, Americas migrant deaths, Ebola
15 November 2019
Peace and Security
A recap of Friday’s main stories: The Security Council adopts resolutions on Central African Republic and Somalia: ICC to investigate crimes against Rohingya; UNESCO marks International Day for Tolerance; rise in migrant deaths in the Americas, and encouraging news on Ebola in the DRC.
UNDP Ukraine/Oleksandr Ratushnyak
‘Diversity is a form of wealth, not a factor of division,’ UNESCO chief says ahead of International Day for Tolerance
15 November 2019
Human Rights
At a time when extremism and fanaticism are too often unleashed, when “the venom of hatred” continues to poison a part of humanity, “tolerance has never been more vital a virtue”, the United Nations cultural agency’s chief has said in her message on the International Day for Tolerance.
Audio - 6'6" Playlist
UNICEF/UN0213967/Sokol
ICC green-lights probe into violent crimes against Rohingya
15 November 2019
Human Rights
Judges of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Thursday authorized an investigation into alleged crimes against humanity, namely deportation, which have forced between 600,000 and one million Rohingya refugees out of Myanmar, into neighboring Bangladesh since 2016.
WFP/Alan Ali
Renewal of cross-border aid operation critical to northern Syria: UN relief chief
14 November 2019
Peace and Security
The top UN humanitarian official was in the Security Council on Wednesday to appeal for the renewal of an operation that delivers life-saving food and other aid relief to some four million civilians in northern Syria.
UNDP India
Thursday’s Daily Brief: Envoy heads for Bolivia, ICC on Myanmar, dignity for sanitation workers, sterilizing mosquitoes
14 November 2019
Health
A recap of Thursday’s main stories: UN chief on Bolivian crisis; International Criminal Court to hear Myanmar genocide case; health risks for sanitation workers; farmers’ guidelines to conserve crops; and sterilizing mosquitoes to battle diseases.
© FAO/Xavier Bouan
UN agency sounds alarm: Dwindling agrobiodiversity ‘severe threat’ to food security
14 November 2019
Climate Change
To help ensure the most-consumed foods don’t disappear in the face of the climate crisis, farmers must cultivate crops able to resist environmental shocks and other stresses, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) highlighted in a new set of conservation guidelines published on Thursday.
UN Bolivia/Hasan Lopez
Bolivia crisis: UN chief sends envoy to support peace, amidst renewed clashes
14 November 2019
Peace and Security
UN chief António Guterres announced on Thursday that he had appointed a Personal Envoy who would be travelling to Bolivia later in the day, to offer support to national leaders, following the departure of former president, Evo Morales.
Unsplash
Human rights experts call for ‘paradigm shift’ on arbitrary detention in Qatar
14 November 2019
Human Rights
A group of independent UN human rights experts is calling for a “paradigm shift” in Qatar to protect people in the Gulf State from arbitrary detention.
IAEA
UN mosquito sterilization technology set for global testing, in battle against malaria, dengue
14 November 2019
Health
With more than half the world now at risk from mosquito-transmitted dengue fever, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), the UN has taken the lead on a global effort to eradicate the disease – and many others – by measuring the impact of releasing millions of sterilized pests across several continents, it announced on Thursday.
Audio - 4'34" Playlist
WaterAid/Basile Ouedraogo
Revealed: danger and squalor for cleaners who remove human waste by hand
14 November 2019
Health
The plight of sanitation workers in the developing world should be addressed urgently, the UN said on Thursday, warning that their rights, health and dignity are at risk.
Audio - 5'35" Playlist
UN Photo/ Logan Abassi
Zero new confirmed cholera cases in Haiti for nine months: UN envoy
13 November 2019
Health
Although Haiti is in the “homestretch” of defeating a cholera outbreak first declared nine years ago, the battle is far from over before the country is free of the deadly disease.
WHO/PAHO/Sebastián Oliel
Wednesday's Daily Brief: UN bid to aid diabetics, Israel-Gaza attacks, climate change in Nepal, Iraq envoy appeal to MPs
13 November 2019
Health
A recap of Wednesday’s stories in brief: UN leads plan for insulin supply boosts; ‘No justification’ for Gaza border violence; Iraqis paying ‘unthinkable price’ in protests; $1.35 billion needed for Venezuela crisis; Record flooding affects 100,000 Nigerians.
UNAMI
Iraqis paying an ‘unthinkable price’ to be heard, UN envoy tells politicians in Baghdad
13 November 2019
Peace and Security
Noting that the people of Iraq were at “a critical juncture”, the top UN Envoy in the country told parliamentarians there on Thursday that over the past six weeks, hundreds of thousands have been peacefully voicing their “genuine, legitimate, demands, loud and clear”.
UN Women/Narendra Shrestha
Over $39 million earmarked by UN-backed fund to combat effects of climate change in Nepal
13 November 2019
Climate Change
More than $39 million in funding was approved on Wednesday for a project that will build resilience and mitigate the effects of climate change, benefitting nearly one million Nepalis, according to the Board of the UN-backed Green Climate Fund (GCF).
© UNHCR/Jaime Giménez Sánchez
‘Harmonized’ plan launched to support millions of Venezuelan refugees and migrants
13 November 2019
Migrants and Refugees
A $1.35 billion appeal has been launched to meet the increasing humanitarian needs of Venezuelan refugees and migrants in Latin America and the Caribbean and to support the communities hosting them.
WHO/A. Loke
UN leads bid for cheaper insulin, expanding access for diabetics worldwide
13 November 2019
Health
Overly expensive insulin could be a thing of the past – and life-changing news – for millions of diabetics under a plan launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday to diversify production globally, just ahead of World Diabetes Day.
Audio - 4'23" Playlist
Mohamed Mahmoud Awad
‘No justification’ for attacks against civilians, UN envoy says on mounting cross-border violence in Gaza
13 November 2019
Peace and Security
Following Israel's targeted killing of a Palestinian Islamic Jihad leader inside Gaza on Tuesday, the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process has expressed his growing concern over increasing rocket fire across the border between Israel and the Gaza Strip.
GAVI Alliance/Evelyn Hockstein
Tuesday's Daily Brief: ‘Forgotten’ pneumonia epidemic, experts urge vigilance over Australia wildfires, Ebola vaccine breakthrough
12 November 2019
Health
A recap of Tuesday’s top stories: Pneumonia number one killer of children; Australia’s wildfires rage on; Ebola vaccine gets green light; new child labour and trafficking study; Malnutrition soars in Latin America and Caribbean; Intellectual Property chief encourages innovation.
UN News / Abdelmonem Makki
In Bahrain, Global Forum for Entrepreneurs and Investment examines empowerment of women, youth through innovation
12 November 2019
Economic Development
Spotlighting the role of targeted investment and innovation towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with special focus on ‘Harnessing the Potential of the Fourth Industrial Revolution in the Digital Economy,’ the World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum kicked off on Tuesday in the Bahraini capital, Manama.
FAO/Ubirajara Machado
UN spotlights ‘explosive’ obesity rates, hunger in Latin America and Caribbean
12 November 2019
Health
Since 1975, adult obesity in Latin America and the Caribbean region has tripled, while one in four are going hungry, according to figures published by the UN on Tuesday.
Audio - 9'58" Playlist
@ UNFPA
Nairobi summit: Women’s empowerment a ‘game changer’ for sustainable development
12 November 2019
Women
The global goal of a sustainable future for all cannot be achieved until women, girls and young people gain control over their own bodies and lives, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed told world leaders meeting in Nairobi on Tuesday.
© UNESCO/Christelle Alix
Quality education an ‘essential pillar’ of a better future, says UN chief
12 November 2019
Culture and Education
Education is an “essential pillar” to achieving the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, UN chief António Guterres told an audience on Tuesday at the Paris headquarters of UNESCO, the UN Educational, Scientific and Culture Organization, ahead of the agency’s General Conference.
© UNICEF/Jannatul Mawa
‘Forgotten’ pneumonia epidemic kills more children than any other disease
12 November 2019
Health
Pneumonia, an entirely preventable disease, kills more children than any other illness in the world, one child every 39 seconds. But although that statistic is well known, funding to improve survival rates continues to come up short, the UN and partners warned on Tuesday, World Pneumonia Day.
UNMISS/Nektarios Markogiannis
UN chief welcomes decision to delay formation of South Sudan unity government
12 November 2019
Peace and Security
The UN Secretary-General has welcomed the decision to push back the deadline for the formation of a unity Government in South Sudan.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services
Australia wildfires: communities must stay vigilant, urges UN weather agency
12 November 2019
Climate Change
As Australia’s “catastrophic” and deadly wildfire emergency continues, UN weather experts on Tuesday echoed Government warnings for people to remain vigilant in the face of the fast-moving threat and tinderbox conditions.
UN Women/Ryan Brown
Monday’s Daily Brief: Guterres on Bolivia and multilateralism, Syria and Iraq’s displaced, forest initiative, the healing arts
11 November 2019
Human Rights
A recap of Monday’s stories in brief: UN chief spotlights multilateralism at peace forum; Bolivian authorities must uphold safety of citizens; new programme to feed Kenya’s children; experts concerned for detained in Syria and Iraq; UN forest management project fights climate crisis; and, from Warhol to the Wiggles – the role of art in keeping you healthy.
UNEP/Georgina Jane Smith
25 years on from landmark conference, millions of women and girls still in danger: UN deputy chief
11 November 2019
Women
The UN Deputy Secretary-General has called for gender equality, women’s empowerment and women’s rights to be integrated at the heart of global efforts to achieve a sustainable future for all.
UNESCO/Christelle Alix
Multilateralism must weather ‘challenges of today and tomorrow’ Guterres tells Paris Peace Forum
11 November 2019
Peace and Security
In a speech to the Paris Peace Forum in Paris on Monday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that to thrive, multilateralism had to adapt, mindful that “conflicts persist, creating suffering and displacement: our world is unsettled”. He was speaking as commemorations took place in countries across the world, marking the official end of the First World War, in 1918.
Audio - 4'10" Playlist
UN Photo/JC McIlwaine
From Prince to Picasso, the arts can be just the tonic, new UN health agency study shows
11 November 2019
Health
From before birth, to the end of life, taking to the dance floor or sketching a still life, can positively affect our health and even prove more cost-effective than conventional medical treatment, the World Health Organisation (WHO) found in a new study published on Monday.
Ryan Hawk/Woodland Park Zoo
New UN forestry project bids to help countries meet climate change commitments
11 November 2019
Climate Change
More than two dozen countries across Asia, Africa and Latin America are set to benefit from a UN project to help tackle climate change through better forestry management.
Audio - 6'48" Playlist
UN Bolivia/Patricia Cusicanqui
UN chief calls for Bolivians to ensure credible elections as Morales resigns; protection for diplomatic missions
10 November 2019
Peace and Security
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has urged all concerned parties in Bolivia to “refrain from violence, reduce tension and exercise maximum restraint” in the wake of the resignation of President Evo Morales earlier on Sunday.
© UNICEF/Delil Souleiman
Friday’s Daily Brief: Syria war update as talks continue, ‘credible evidence’ Morsi death due to prison conditions, force condemned in Chile protests
8 November 2019
Peace and Security
A recap of Friday’s stories in brief: Ongoing upheaval threatens civilians in Syria; ‘Brutal’ prison conditions may have prompted Morsi’s death; Rights experts condemn use of force in Chile protests; ICJ will hear claims by Ukraine; 60,000 youth refugees who travelled alone, in need across Italy.
ICJ/Bastiaan van Musscher
Top UN court will consider Ukraine allegations against Russia of treaty violations
8 November 2019
Peace and Security
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has agreed to hear claims by Ukraine related to the conflict in the east of the country, where Government forces have been fighting mostly pro-Russian separatists, for more than five years.
UN News/Diana Leal
Violence can ‘never be the answer’: UN rights experts condemn excessive force during Chile protests
8 November 2019
Human Rights
United Nations human rights experts on Friday condemned the excessive use of force during Chile’s ongoing street protests, and in a statement underscored that violence “can never be the answer to people's social and political demands”.
© UNICEF/Omar Haj Kadour
Hundreds of thousands of civilians at risk in Syria amid ongoing violence in northeast and northwest
8 November 2019
Humanitarian Aid
Almost daily violence targeting built-up areas and health facilities in Syria continues to threaten the lives of civilians there, UN rights experts and humanitarians said on Friday.
UN Photo/Elma Okic
UN human rights expert alarmed at rise in Cambodia arrests
8 November 2019
Human Rights
A UN human rights expert is calling on the Cambodian Government to respect its citizens’ rights of freedom of opinion, expression and assembly, amid concerns over escalating tensions and a political crackdown across the country.
© UNICEF/Stefano De Luigi
60,000 young refugees and migrants who arrived in Italy alone lack support
8 November 2019
Migrants and Refugees
United Nations agencies on Friday highlighted the dire needs of thousands of unaccompanied and separated children who have arrived in Italy as refugees, lacking the proper support to transition through to adulthood.
UN Photo/Marco Castro
Egypt: ‘Credible evidence’ that ‘brutal’ prison conditions prompted Morsi’s death, thousands more at risk
8 November 2019
Human Rights
A group of independent UN human rights experts said on Friday that there was “credible evidence” that inadequate prison conditions in which former Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi was held may have led “directly” to his death in June, and thousands of other detainees may be at “severe risk”.
UN News
Speaking truth to power: the UN experts fighting for global human rights
8 November 2019
Human Rights
Fearless. Plain-speaking. Critical. Courageous. Unflinching. Unfair. Biased. Manipulative. These are some of the adjectives used to describe the Human Rights Council experts who fan out across the world to research, hold consultations and gather information on a vast range of human rights violations.
Audio - 14'42" Playlist
UN Photo/Evan Schneider
Antisemitism, intolerance, can be unlearned, Guterres tells New York commemoration
7 November 2019
Culture and Education
Since nobody is born to hate, intolerance can be prevented and unlearned, the UN Secretary-General said on Thursday, in a speech underlining his continued fight to stamp out antisemitism, racism and other forms of hatred.
Audio - 9'12" Playlist
ICC
Thursday’s Daily Brief: DR Congo warlord sentenced, Iraq protest latest, UN food outlook report, Syrian humanitarian update, tech and the food chain
7 November 2019
Law and Crime Prevention
A recap of Thursday’s UN News stories: ‘Terminator’ warlord handed 30-year sentence; UN chief calls for ‘meaningful dialogue’ in Iraq; Disease slashes global meat output; Hostilities in northeast Syria a grave concern; and how the Montreal Protocol is impacting the food chain.
OCHA/Otto Bakano
Guterres says justice must be done following deadly Burkina Faso convoy attack
7 November 2019
Peace and Security
Authorities in Burkina Faso must “do everything in their power” to bring to justice the perpetrators of an attack on a mining company convoy in the West African nation on Wednesday, which killed dozens and left scores more injured, the UN chief said on Thursday.
UN Photo/Evan Schneider
Cuba: UN Members overwhelmingly support end of US embargo, as Brazil backs Washington
7 November 2019
Economic Development
For the 28th consecutive year, the UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution calling for an end to the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba.
MINUSMA/Marco Dormino
UN peacekeepers warn of increasing global challenges
7 November 2019
Peace and Security
Organized crime, breakdowns in law and order, and attacks by extremists, are examples of the challenges faced by UN peacekeepers, the Security Council was told on Wednesday, during a briefing by senior UN Police Commissioners, and UN Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix.
FAO/Sue Price
Disease slashing global meat output, cereals boom, bananas under watch: FAO
7 November 2019
Health
A rapid spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) is wiping out pig herds in China, the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said on Thursday, and the killer disease has led to a drop in world meat production for the first time in more than 20 years, with other global staples also facing new threats.
ICC
‘Terminator’ warlord Bosco Ntaganda sentenced to 30 years in prison for DR Congo atrocities
7 November 2019
Law and Crime Prevention
The International Criminal Court (ICC) on Thursday handed down a maximum 30-year prison sentence for mass murder and numerous other atrocities, to Bosco Ntaganda, the heaviest sanction yet imposed by judges at The Hague, in the Netherlands.
Audio - 22'58" Playlist
UN Photo/Manuel Elias
Progress toward sustainable development is seriously off-track
6 November 2019
SDGs
The UN Secretary-General is calling on business leaders to use their “enormous influence” to push for inclusive growth and opportunities that benefit all people and the planet.
WFP/Haiti
Wednesday’s Daily Brief: Call for end to Haiti violence, Palestine refugee agency chief resigns, ICC on Libya, Mahira Khan new UNHCR ambassador
6 November 2019
Peace and Security
A recap of stories this Wednesday: Statement by UN advisory group on Haiti’s crisis; Palestine refugee agency head steps down; Libya remains ensnared by violence; Cholera campaign to guard Sudan’s Khartoum; Pakistan’s Mahira Khan named UN Goodwill Ambassador.
OCHA/Gema Cortes
‘Everyone needs to do more’ to help suffering Venezuelans, says UN Emergency Relief Coordinator
6 November 2019
Humanitarian Aid
“Ordinary women, men and children face overwhelming challenges” just to survive in Venezuela today, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Mark Lowcock said on Wednesday in the capital, Caracas.
Audio - 4'54" Playlist
UNRWA: Photo by Khalil Adwan
Palestine refugee agency chief resigns amidst mismanagement probe
6 November 2019
UN Affairs
The Commissioner-General for the UN relief and works agency serving Palestine refugees, UNRWA, resigned on Wednesday, hours after the UN announced preliminary findings of an investigation into misconduct allegations.
OCHA/Giles Clarke
‘Violence, atrocities and impunity’ reign throughout Libya, ICC prosecutor tells UN Security Council
6 November 2019
Peace and Security
Libya remains entangled in a “cycle of violence, atrocities and impunity”, International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda told the UN Security Council on Wednesday, nearly a decade since the Court began its work in the country.
UNICEF/Mackenzie
Step up action to protect the planet during wartime: UN environment chief
6 November 2019
Peace and Security
Greater action is needed to protect the environment during wartime if the world is to realize the goal of a more sustainable future for all people and the planet, the head of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) warned on Wednesday.
WHO Sudan
Cholera prevention efforts underway to protect millions in Sudan’s Khartoum state
6 November 2019
Health
A campaign has got underway to prevent the spread of a deadly cholera outbreak to Sudan’s populous Khartoum state, home to more than eight million people, UN medics said on Wednesday.
© UNICEF/Tanya Bindra
Tuesday’s Daily Brief: Cameroon crisis deepens, Tsunami Awareness Day, online gender gap, Somalia floods leave children vulnerable
5 November 2019
Climate Change
A recap of Tuesday’s top stories: Humanitarian needs in Cameroon up 15-fold from 2017; UN risk reduction chief calls for more resilient cities; Somalia’s floods put 200,000 children at risk; Internet use study reveals growing gender gap; UN partners spotlight youth mental health.
UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe
Yemen agreement to end southern power struggle 'important step' towards peace: UN Special Envoy
5 November 2019
Peace and Security
The top UN official in Yemen has welcomed an agreement to end infighting between the Government and separatist allies in the south of the country, known as the Southern Transitional Council, signed on Tuesday in Saudi Arabia.
UN Photo/Loey Felipe (file)
International community urged to deliver on promise for better future for Bosnia and Herzegovina
5 November 2019
Peace and Security
Current trends and public pronouncements by some political leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina indicate an effort to roll back reforms implemented since the end of the Balkan wars two decades ago, the UN Security Council heard on Tuesday.
UN Photo/Douglas Coffman
UN policewoman recognized for ‘speaking up and speaking out’ on behalf of the vulnerable
5 November 2019
Peace and Security
At the core of peacekeeping lies the notion of shared responsibility, the UN peacekeeping chief said on Tuesday, presenting this year’s award for Female Police Officer of the Year, to a woman who “has made a career of speaking up and speaking out on behalf of all vulnerable populations”.
Audio - 12'21" Playlist
IMO
US-China trade war is a ‘lose-lose’ situation for them and the world, warn UN economists
5 November 2019
Economic Development
The trade tariff spat between China and the United States has been a “lose-lose” situation for both countries and the wider world and it is likely to deteriorate unless a deal is reached, UN economists said on Tuesday.
© UNICEF/Arimacs Wilander
Natural hazards don’t always spell disaster: UN risk reduction chief
5 November 2019
Climate Change
Tsunamis are rare, but when they strike, they are the deadliest and most costly of natural hazards. With half of the world’s population expected to live in coastal areas more prone to tsunamis by 2030, investing in early warning systems and resilient infrastructure, will be vital to saving lives and economies, said the top UN official on disaster risks on Tuesday.
© UNICEF/Tanya Bindra
Nearly two million Cameroonians face humanitarian emergency: UNICEF
5 November 2019
Humanitarian Aid
Ongoing violence in Cameroon’s northwest and southwest has created a fast-growing humanitarian emergency now affecting some 1.9 million people, a “15-fold increase since 2017”, UN humanitarians said on Tuesday.
Audio - 22'36" Playlist
© UNICEF/Masoud Hasan
Monday’s Daily Brief: US formally announces climate accord withdrawal, young foreigners stranded in Syria, India toxic smog crisis, Ebola worker death shows frontline risks
4 November 2019
Peace and Security
A recap of stories this Monday: UN reaction to US Paris Agreement withdrawal; UNICEF urges repatriation of children stranded in Syria; Public health emergency in India’s New Delhi; Ebola health worker death in DR Congo shows deadly risks; Guinea Bissau crisis, Security Council update; UNEP campaign targets ocean microplastics.
UNSOM/John Arigi
Unity, regional cooperation and international support needed for Horn of Africa to develop sustainably
4 November 2019
Peace and Security
The road ahead “will not be easy” for the Horn of Africa, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed said on Monday, briefing the Security Council on her Joint Solidarity Mission with the African Union (AU) at the end of October.
© UNICEF/Delil Souleimain
UNICEF urges governments to repatriate thousands of foreign children stranded in northeast Syria
4 November 2019
Peace and Security
The head of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is appealing for countries to repatriate scores of foreign children who are stranded in northeast Syria in the wake of the Turkish-launched offensive which began last month.
UN Photo/Martine Perret
Ebola emergency chief decries new attacks on frontline staff, after DR Congo worker death
4 November 2019
Health
Security measures for staff helping to fight health emergencies need to be stepped up urgently, a UN health agency top official said on Monday, after a frontline Ebola epidemic community worker was reportedly stabbed to death at his home in northeast Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
UNEP/Shawn Heinrichs
Microplastics, microbeads and single-use plastics poisoning sea life and affecting humans
4 November 2019
SDGs
Each year, an estimated eight million tonnes of plastic end up in the ocean – equivalent to a full garbage truck dumped into the sea every minute - the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has said.
Audio - 8'17" Playlist
ESCAP
Far more needed to ‘confront the world’s climate emergency’, Guterres tells ASEAN-UN Summit
3 November 2019
Climate Change
Four of the 10 countries most affected by climate change are members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said on Sunday, urging the ASEAN-UN Summit in Bangkok to “confront the world’s climate emergency”.
Coal addiction ‘must be overcome’ to ease climate change, UN chief says in Bangkok
2 November 2019
Climate Change
In Thailand for the ASEAN Summit, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres visited a climate mitigation project in Bangkok's new Centenary Park on Saturday where he told journalists that “coal addiction must be overcome”.
UN Photo/Violaine Martin
Top UN Syria envoy hails ‘impressive’ start to historic talks in Geneva
1 November 2019
Peace and Security
UN-brokered face-to-face talks between the Syrian Government and opposition – the first to take place in nearly nine years of fighting – to draft a new constitution for the country, will continue into next week, the UN’s Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, said on Friday.
UNAMA/Fardin Waezi
Friday's Daily Brief: When journalists are targets, landslides in Cameroon, UN Female Police Officer of the Year award
1 November 2019
Human Rights
A recap of stories in brief this Friday: Societies 'pay a price' when journalists are killed; Guterres saddened by Cameroon landslide deaths; Senegalese woman officer receives top UN award; IOM urges release of volunteers held captive in South Sudan; 'All actors' must support Haiti amidst crisis; UN expert warning over health of Julian Assange.
UN Photo/Albert González Farran
New UN Female Police Officer of the Year prioritizes ‘preventing sexual exploitation and abuse’
1 November 2019
Peace and Security
“An inspiration to all of us” is how top Police Adviser Luis Carrilho, described this year’s winner of the UN Female Police Officer of the Year Award, which was announced on Friday.
Presidential Press Service
Guterres in Turkey: UN to study ‘new settlement areas’ plan for Syrian refugees
1 November 2019
Peace and Security
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday presented UN Secretary-General António Guterres with a plan for resettling hundreds-of-thousands of Syrian refugees, in the wake of the country’s offensive into northeastern Syria last month to remove Kurdish forces, aimed at creating a so-called “safe zone” along the border for returnees.
UNAMA/Ebrahim Papal
Education and inclusion should be human rights priorities, UN Assembly hears
1 November 2019
Human Rights
UN Member States agreed seven decades ago to a set of inalienable rights to ensure the dignity of everyone. On Friday, the newly-installed General Assembly President recalled their collective responsibility through the Human Rights Council to “actualize that shared vision for a better world.”
IOM South Sudan
UN migration agency appeals to South Sudan group to free volunteer worker and child
1 November 2019
Health
The UN migration agency appealed on Friday for the immediate liberation of a volunteer and child who’ve been missing since a gun battle in South Sudan at the weekend that claimed the lives of three agency workers.
© UNESCO
‘When journalists are targeted, societies as a whole, pay a price’: UN chief
1 November 2019
Human Rights
“Without journalists able to do their jobs in safety, we face the prospect of a world of confusion and disinformation”, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned in a statement released ahead of the International Day to End Impunity Against Journalists, which falls on 2 November.
Audio - 19'10" Playlist
MINUSTAH/Logan Abassi
‘All actors’ must lend support as humanitarian crisis continues in Haiti, UN rights chief urges
1 November 2019
Peace and Security
Expressing deep concern for the impact on human rights of ongoing political unrest in Haiti, the UN rights chief on Friday called on all actors to acknowledge the grievances of Haitians, many of whom have been demanding the president step down amidst violent demonstrations which ignited a sprawling emergency in recent weeks.
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