The H1N1 flu epidemic continues to evolve: WHO
There's no evidence to suggest that the World Health Organization -WHO should move to phase 6 alert on the outbreak of H1N1 flu.
Home » 30 Apr 2009
Entries posted on “April 2009”
Africa science forum urges innovation on the continent
Scientists and government officials attending a meeting on science and technology in Africa in Addis Ababa are urging support for the development of new technologies as a way to spur sustainable development on the continent.
FAO experts to prove flu outbreak is not related to swine
An international team of animal health experts is headed to Mexico to help confirm that the emergence of a new flu virus that has led to a global pandemic alert, is not related to pigs.
Daily Noon Briefing by the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
Daily noon briefing by Marie Okabe, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.
Security Council stresses commitment to address impact of armed conflict on children
The UN Security Council has reaffirmed its commitment to address the widespread impact of armed conflict on children.
Hundreds of thousands in south Kivu at risk of further displacement: Holmes
There's a warning that hundreds of thousands of people in South Kivu province in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are at risk of further displacement and abuse because of renewed conflict.
MINUSTAH urges Haitian National Police to learn from security challenges of April poll
The UN mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) has hailed the publication of election results for Haiti's Senate although poor turn out meant that none of the candidates picked up sufficient votes to win a seat outright.
World Health Organization raises swine flu alert to Level Five
The World Health Organization has raised the warning on the outbreak of swine flu from phase four to phase five.
Civilian casualties in northern Sri Lanka horrific: Holmes
The UN humanitarian chief has expressed concern over the ongoing situation of tens of thousands of civilians trapped in the combat zone in northern Sri Lanka. John Holmes who’s just back from a two-day visit to Sri Lanka says the UN believes there are some 50,000 civilians trapped in the zone. And he warns they [...]
Civilian casualties in northern Sri Lanka horrific: Holmes
The UN humanitarian chief has expressed concern over the ongoing situation of tens of thousands of civilians trapped in the combat zone in northern Sri Lanka.
UN Daily News 29 April 2009
News and features from United Nations Radio.
UNAMID launches cooperation agreement with UN Development Fund for Women
The African Union-United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) on Wednesday announced the launch of a cooperation agreement between the UN Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) and UNAMID police.
FAO dairy project benefits Afghan families
A dairy project started by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has become a cash cow for families in four provinces in Afghanistan.
Security Council asked to expand protection for children in war
The UN Security Council held an open debate on Wednesday on children and armed conflict.
Daily Noon Briefing by the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
Daily noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Associate Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.
WHO says it's moving closer to Phase 5 warning on swine flu
The World Health Organization –WHO warns that it is moving closer to a phase 5 warning on the outbreak of swine flu.
Ban calls for global coordination and support to combat swine flu
The spreading Swine flu epidemic has become a global challenge which requires global coordination and support. That according to UN Secretary-general Ban Ki-moon. He told the UN Security Council Wednesday that United Nations agencies have mobilized their resources under the leadership of the Word Health Organization Director-general Dr. Margaret Chan. And he assures them of [...]
Ban calls for global coordination and support to combat swine flu
The spreading Swine flu epidemic has become a global challenge which requires global coordination and support.
Ban urges action against recruitment of children for use in armed conflict
There's a call for the UN Security Council to consider action to strike a blow against the recruitment of children for use in armed conflict, and stop those violators from continuing to victimize children.
Overall human rights situation in Iraq remains a matter of concern: UN
The overall human rights situation in Iraq remains a matter of concern although there were improvements in the security situation during the second half of 2008.
ILO says no workplace is immune to hazards
April 28th is World Day for Safety and Health at Work. It's meant to focus attention on the need to protect workers at the work place.
Humanitarian emergency in Sri Lanka's diplaced people's camps
More than a hundred thousand people have escaped from a conflict zone in northern Sri Lanka, where they were trapped for months by fighting between the Tamil Tiger rebels, known as the LTTE, and government forces.
World Food Programme welcomes donation from Qatar for Gaza
The World Food Programme (WFP) has welcomed a US$10 million donation from the Qatar Charity for WFP’s emergency operation in Gaza.
Situation of children in Gaza precarious: UNICEF
More than 100 days after the end of hostilities in Gaza, children continue to suffer both physically and psychologically.
UN humanitarian chief in Sri Lanka reminds government of its responsibilities to civilians
In Sri Lanka, tens of thousands of people are still trapped in a small sliver of land in the north of the country.
WHO recommends no closure of borders
The World Health Organization says border closures and travel restrictions won’t stop the spread of the swine flu. WHO says experience from the 2003 SARS outbreak showed that travel restrictions resulted in more economic disruption than health gains. Patrick maigua sent us this report from Geneva.
WHO heightens alert on swine flu
The World Health Organization has raised the alert for a global influenza pandemic from 3 to 4, on a scale of 6.
Emergency supplies from UNICEF/UNHCR arrive in Sri Lanka
UNICEF- the UN children's agency says 50 metric tonnes of emergency relief supplies arrived in Sri Lanka Monday.
UN humanitarian chief stresses need for humanitarian pause I Sri Lanka conflict
Urgent humanitarian concerns including the situation inside the conflict zone in northern Sri Lanka, problems with the delivery of food and medical supplies into the conflict zone, conditions of Internally Displaced Persons accommodated in the IDP camps, and continuing protection concerns on the displaced at the screening points in transit were the focus of meetings between UN humanitarian chief John Holmes and the UN Country Team, non-governmental organizations-NGO's and donors in Colombo Sunday.
Swine flu situation a public health emergency of international concern: WHO
The current swine flu situation constitutes a public health emergency of international concern.
WHO monitors spread of Swine flu
The World Health Organization is holding a meeting of an emergency committee to consider raising the alert about a possible global pandemic caused by the swine flu virus first detected in Mexico last week.
UN agencies launch information project on Chernobyl
Sunday marked 23 years since the accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine, part of the Soviet Union at the time.
UN Daily News 27 April 2009
News and features from United Nations Radio.
UN chief concerned swine flu virus can cause a new influenza pandemic
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has expressed concern that the swine flu virus could cause a new influenza pandemic.
UN envoy urges follow-up to Brussels donors' meeting on Somalia
The top UN envoy for Somalia has called for a follow-up meeting to last week's Brussels donor meeting for Somalia security and the African Union Mission in Somalia.
UN establishing a system-wide mechanism to monitor vulnerability: Ban
The United Nations is in the process of establishing a system-wide mechanism for monitoring vulnerability, and sounding the alert when necessary.
Ban urges a remedy of 'the appalling situation' of 1 billion hungry people
There's been a call to remedy the appalling situation where some 1 billion people suffered from hunger at the end of 2008.
Developing countries face serious consequences from the global financial and economic crisis: Carstens
The current global financial crisis is turning into a human and development calamity.
Non-Aligned Movement a key partner in coordinated responses to global crises: Ban
The Non-Aligned Movement will be a key partner in closely coordinated responses to the current global crises.
Continued fighting in Sri Lanka creates special difficulties for women
Women: a weekly 14-minute news magazine that looks at issues affecting women around the world.
UN humanitarian chief headed to Sri Lanka to press access to humanitarian mission
The UN humanitarian chief travels to Sri Lanka Saturday for a three-day mission.
Under Secretary-general John Holmes will discuss issues of pressing importance with the Government of Sri Lanka, including the need for the Government to actively facilitate humanitarian missions to the conflict area, access to those displaced persons at screening centers, the release of UN staff members detained in camps, and the humanitarian response to the situation in the camps for Internally Displaced Persons.
UN chief condemns Baghdad bombings
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has condemned the appalling suicide bombings since Thursday in Baghdad and Diyala, which reportedly killed at least 140 people including a large number of visiting Iranian pilgrims.
A Bolivian NGO comments on progress since 2001 racism conference
A conference to review progress on the 2001 Durban Declaration and Programme of Action on racism and related intolerance, wrapped up on Friday in Geneva.
Global partners step up efforts to Roll Back Malaria
In these times of global financial turmoil, there is one investment with a guaranteed return: combating malaria.
UN Daily News 24 April 2009
News and features from United Nations Radio.
UN agencies mark Chernobyl anniversary with launch of US$2.5-million project
Four United Nations agencies marked the 23rd anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear accident Friday by launching a $2.5 million programme designed to meet the priority information needs of affected communities in Belarus, the Russian Federation, and Ukraine. Funded by the UN Trust Fund for Human Security, this three-year initiative aims to translate the latest scientific information on the consequences of the accident into sound practical advice for residents of the affected territories.
Durban Review Conference a success: Pillay
The Durban review Conference ended Friday with UN High commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay, telling the closing session that the conference was a success, despite the very difficult negotiation process and a culture of misinformation that preceded it.
UNICEF scales up distribution of mosquito-treated nets in Somalia
UNICEF is scaling up distribution of Long Lasting Insecticide-treated mosquito nets in Somalia.
World Bank-IMF report warns of risks to MDG’s
The global financial crisis is imperiling attainment of the 2015 Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and creating an emergency for development.
UN envoy condemns Baghdad bombings
The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq Staffan de Mistura has strongly condemned the horrific back to back bombings in Baghdad on Thursday, 23 April and Friday, 24 April.
UN Secretary-general Ban Ki-moon urges the Fifth Summit for the Americas to come up with effective solutions for a more sustainable future for Latin America and the Caribbean
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called for effective, efficient, enduring solutions for a more sustainable, inclusive and prosperous future.
Donors ledge more than $200 million for Somalia
International donors on Thursday pledged $213 million to help Somalia stabilize its country.
Durban Review Conference wraps general debate
The Durban Review Conference concluded its general debate Thursday after hearing statements on new forms of racism and the subsequent importance of fully implementing the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action.
UN chief sends mission to Sri Lanka
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says he is sending a humanitarian mission to Sri Lanka to first of all monitor the situation, support the humanitarian assistance and try to do whatever it can to protect the civilian population who are caught in a war zone.
UN Daily News 23 April 2009
News and features from United Nations Radio.
UNAIDS welcomes release of men imprisoned in Senegal for their sexual orientation
In January of this year, nine members of a Senegalese AIDS awareness organization were sentenced by Senegalese courts for 'acts against nature and the creation of an association of criminals'.
Increased concern about civilians fleeing fighting in Sri Lanka
Up to a hundred thousand Sri Lankan civilians have escaped from a combat zone in the northeast of the country over the past three days, but tens of thousands more are believed to still be trapped there.
UN calls for greater cooperation among Asia/Pacific countries amid current crises
There is a greater need for regional cooperation in the Asia/Pacific region in dealing with the challenges of an economic crisis, continued food-fuel insecurity and climate change.
UN chief hails release of special envoy to Niger Robert Fowler
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is pleased to learn of the release of four people who had been abducted in recent months in West Africa, including his Special Envoy for Niger, Robert Fowler, and Mr. Fowler's aide, Louis Guay, both from Canada.
Malaria deaths plunger more than 60% in Zambia
Zambia joins several other African countries to have achieved a major reduction in malaria mortality through accelerated malaria control activities.
Food prices remain high in developing countries: FAO
High food prices persist in developing countries despite an improved global cereal supply situation and a sharp decline in international food prices.
Ban encourages EU to keep contributing to building a strong Somalia
The European Union has been encouraged to keep contributing both financially, politically and otherwise to the building of a strong Somali Government and also to continue to assist AMISOM – the African Union peacekeeping Mission in Somalia.
Ban urges support for Somalia warning 'piracy is not a water-borne disease
An international donors' conference on Somalia opened in Brussels Thursday with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon telling delegates their support is designed first and foremost to enhance the security of Somalia.
Ban proposes three-phase approach to possible peacekeeping mission in Somalia
A new report on a possible peacekeeping mission in Somalia proposes an approach consisting of three major phases.
Ban welcomes Burundi's FNL renunciation of armed conflict
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the accreditation of the Forces Nationales de Libération (FNL) as a political party on 21 April 2009 following the separation and formal disarmament of its armed wing, including the separation of children associated with the movement.
Situation in northern Sri Lanka highly chaotic: OCHA
The situation in the conflict area in northern Sri Lanka remains highly chaotic, and it's complicating attempts to obtain accurate information.
UN Daily News 22 April 2009
News and features from United Nations Radio.
A black American discusses racial discrimination in the United States at the Conference against Racism
Robert Wilkens, a lawyer from the United States, says he's been a victim of racial discrimination.
Forum discusses how to preserve forests
With an eye on the UN's Climate Change conference – scheduled for December in Copenhagen – the Forum of Forests, this week and next, is discussing how to slow the loss of the world's forests.
UN Security Council expresses willingness to explore ways to further promote use of mediation
The UN Security Council has cited the use of mediation in the peaceful settlement of disputes.
UN designates 22 April as International Mother Earth Day
The UN General Assembly has decided to designate 22 April as International Mother Earth Day.
Restrictive policies reduce the ability of asylum seekers to find protection: UNHCR
In the seven and a half years since the Durban conference, it has likely become more rather than less difficult for those seeking protection from persecution to access territories where it may be available.
Children to be released from armed forces and groups in eastern DRC: Coomaraswamy
Dramatic recent political developments have opened new opportunities for the release of child soldiers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo-DRC.
UNMIS deeply concerned about the renewed tribal clashes in Jonglei State
The United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) on Wednesday voiced deep concern about the renewed tribal clashes in Jonglei State, where dozens of people were reportedly killed over the weekend, with many more injured or displaced.
Secretary-General welcomes adoption of racism conference document
United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon has warmly welcomed the adoption of the outcome document of the world conference on racism in Geneva.
UN Political chief says UN is strengthening mediation capacity
The head of the UN Department of Political Affairs, Lynn Pascoe, says the United Nations is strengthening its mediation capacity to prevent conflicts from becoming full-blown crises.
UNEP Chief says Gaza is facing environmental challenges
In Gaza on Tuesday, the head of the UN Environment Programme looked into the serious environmental challenges the territory is facing as a result of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
UN Daily News 21 April 2009
News and features from United Nations Radio.
New UNESCO website showcases global cultural heritage
Treasures of the world's cultural heritage are now available online at the World Digital Library, launched on Tuesday by the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and its partners.
Being albino: Tanzanian member of Parliament speaks out
Since 2006, some 46 albinos have been murdered in Tanzania because of their disability.
UN conference on racism agrees on a declaration
Countries attending the UN conference on racism in Geneva have adopted a document on ways to end racial discrimination and other forms of intolerance.
Rwandan Hutu bandits displace people eastern DR Congo
The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) says that Rwandan Hutu bandits continue to attack people in the North Kivu province of the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
UNESCO launches digital library
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, and 32 partner institutions, on Tuesday launched the World Digital Library.
UN food agency sends food to displaced people in Sri Lanka
Aid agencies are gearing up to help tens of thousands of people escaping fighting between Government forces and Tamil Tiger rebels in northern Sri Lanka.
We still have much more to do in the fight against racism: Ban
One of the primary roles of the United Nations is to mobilize action against the pervasive violations of human rights that take place in every part of our world.
UN Daily News 20 April 2009
News and features from United Nations Radio.
UN chief welcomes escape of tens of thousands of civilians from Sri Lanka's conflict zone
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the escape by tens of thousands of civilians from the conflict zone in Northeastern Sri Lanka over the last three days.
Durban Review Conference opens in Geneva
Cancellations and controversy have marked the opening day of a conference to review progress on anti-racism efforts since the 2001 World Conference on Racism.
Civilians escape from conflict in Sri Lanka
The conflict in Sri Lanka is intensifying as the Sri Lankan military reports that at least 25 thousand civilians have escaped from a Tamil Tiger held part of the country.
UNICEF fears the worst is yet to come in fighting in Sri Lanka
UNICEF – the UN Children's Fund is expressing grave fears for those children who remain trapped in the escalating fighting in Sri Lanka's conflict zone.
Global economic crisis a threat to the fight against AIDS, TB and malaria
There's a warning that the global financial crisis could wipe out years of progress in fighting the spread of HIV/AIDS and treating patients.
UN chief deplores use of anti-racism platform to accuse, divide and incite
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has deplored the use of the platform of the anti-racism conference by the Iranian president to accuse, divide and even incite.
Anti-racism conference an opportunity for step forward in fight against racism: Pillay
A warning to delegates at the anti-racism conference in Geneva that they have the opportunity to take a significant step forward in the fight against racism, a fight that serves the interest of justice, dignity and equality everywhere.
Israeli settlement activity continues in West Bank and East Jerusalem: Pascoe
A top UN official reported Monday that Israeli settlement activity continues in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Durban Review Conference
The United Nations Durban Review Conference on Racism got underway in Geneva Monday with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon, expressing regret that some countries had opted to stay away from the conference despite ample evidence that racism still persists worldwide. Patrick Maigua reports from Geneva.
UNESCO chief calls for halt of a law in Afghanistan
The Director-General of UNESCO, Koïchiro Matsuura, on Friday called on President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan to prevent the entry into force of a draft law that he says will have a negative impact on the education of children in Afghanistan.
UN condemns assassination of female legislator in Afghanistan
The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, also known by its acronym UNAMA, has strongly condemned the assassination of a female legislator. Setara Achakzai [A-ki-zai], a member of the provincial council of Kandahar, was shot dead by two motorcyclists in Southern Afghanistan, a former Taliban stronghold. IFAD helps adapt technology to the needs of poor farmers [...]
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urges short-term financial assistance to Haiti to meet its outstanding humanitarian needs
Donors and international financial institutions renewed their commitment to Haiti Tuesday, pledging more than $320 million toward the country’s economic recovery over the next two years. The money will go towards building roads, fighting drug traffickers and generating as many as 150,000 jobs in the country. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told donors at a day-long [...]
UN Mission in Liberia Supports Education and Empowerment of Women and Girls
There’s a saying that if you educate a woman, you educate a nation. For this reason, the UN country team in Liberia is working to keep girls in school as well as encouraging women in small-scale business ventures. Ellen Margarethe Løj who heads UNMIL, the UN peacekeeping mission Liberia, sees a lot of hope for [...]
The Fifth Summit of the Americas opens Friday in Trinidad and Tobago
The Fifth Summit of the Americas opens in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago Friday afternoon to consider the most important issues facing the region and to advance collective solutions in pursuit of a higher quality of life for all citizens.
Time running out to reach MDG's: Deputy Secretary-General
Time is running out to reach the Millennium Development Goals (MDG's).
Art exhibition highlights SC Resolution 1325
Today we hear about an art exhibition that has been shown in Belgium and the United States about UN Security Council Resolution 1325. Passed in 2000, it is the first resolution passed by the UN’s Security Council that comprehensively addresses the impact of war and conflict on women, as well as women’s contributions to conflict [...]
Task Force concerned about growing hunger crisis
As we heard in the news, the UN Task Force on Global Food Security is sounding the alarm over a new food crisis. Task Force coordinator Dr. David Nabarro reports that in the wake of turmoil in the housing, financial and labour sectors, millions of people could be joining the ranks of the world’s hungry. [...]
Fighting intensifies in Sri Lanka's No-Fire Zone: OCHA
With the end of the temporary ceasefire in northern Sri Lanka, fighting in the vicinity of the No Fire Zone is reportedly intense, and small arms fire, mortar fire and aerial attacks have resumed.
WFP concerned for people in Somalia going hungry
The World Food Programme (WFP) is concerned that people in Somalia will go hungry if the Sea Horse vessel is not quickly released or replaced by another vessel.
UN commission assesses growing threat of organized crime to security
The top UN official in the fight against drugs and crime has warned that "crime has gone global" and "poses a security threat to cities, nations and entire regions".
Economic crisis could create 100 million new hungry: Nabarro
A warning that the global economic crisis could create up to 100 million "new hungry" people as it wipes out jobs.
No democracy without the rule of law: Special envoy Khare
An independent and efficient judiciary which provides access to justice for all is a key element of the rule of law and an important contribution to peace and stability.
Economic crisis meets food crisis
The United Nations Task Force on the Global Food Security Crisis, says the world faces a new hunger crisis as a result of the global economic crisis.
UN humanitarian chief calls for protection of civilians in Sri Lanka
The UN Emergency Relief Coordinator has reiterated a call for the protection of civilians in the conflict-torn area or northeastern Sri Lanka.
UN Daily News 15 April 2009
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Rwandan children born of rape
In 1994, an estimated 800,000 Rwandans were killed in the span of 100 days. During the genocide and post genocide period, Tutsi women were systematically raped, sexually abused and intentionally infected with HIV/AIDS. An estimated 20000 children were born from rape committed during the genocide period. We’ll hear more in this report by UN Radio’s [...]
Pirates could affect food delivery to Somalia – WFP
Pirate attacks could affect food aid delivery to Somalia, according to the World Food Programme (WFP). Navy vessels have escorted WFP ships since late 2007. But the agency is worried about increased attacks as pirates move further out into the Indian Ocean. On Monday, a ship called the Sea Horse was hijacked on its way [...]
FAO and Belgium link to help African farmers
Poor farmers in Africa are expected to benefit from a Belgium-financed programme of $6.6 million for the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to provide emergency assistance as part of an ongoing partnership that has totalled more than $80 million over the past 12 years.
Business leaders to meet in Paris to discuss green solutions
More than 700 leaders from business, civil society, international organizations and government are set to meet at the Business for the Environment Global Summit in Paris a week from Wednesday to discuss ways of powering green growth around the globe.
UNICEF gets $6 million from Japan to help Ethiopian children
UNICEF in Ethiopia has received a $6 million donation from Japan to help reduce the vulnerability of children to the impact of rising food prices.
UN rights chief concerned by sacking of judiciary in Fiji
High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay expressed deep concern Wednesday about the sacking of the judiciary and heavy restrictions on the media, following the abrogation of Fiji's 1997 Constitution and imposition of a state of emergency on 10 April 2009.
UN pledges to help economic recovery in Zimbabwe
The UN Development Programme (UNDP) has pledged to work with Zimbabwe to attain the country's economic recovery.
Haiti is at a turning point: Ban
Donors and international financial institutions renewed their commitment to Haiti Tuesday, pledging more than $320 million toward the country's economic recovery over the next two years.
Pillay urges states to find common ground in fight against racism and intolerance
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi pillay has made a final plea to UN member states to overcome what she says are narrow political interests and partisanship in order to find a common ground in the fight against racism and intolerance.
UN refugee chief calls for comprehensive approach to movements in Asia-Pacific region
The top UN official tasked with protecting refugees has called for a comprehensive approach to respond effectively to irregular and mixed movements affecting the Asia-Pacific region.
Security Council condemns North Korea's rocket launch
The Security Council on Monday condemned the launch by North Korea of its long range rocket last week.
Haiti donors' conference the beginning of a process: Ban
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon met Monday with Haiti's Prime Minister Michèle Duvivier Pierre-Louis.
Clowns without Borders: bringing joy amid conflict
Children who live in areas of crisis, such as conflict zones, refugee camps and in territories struck by natural disasters, rarely get to laugh. Bringing them some fun and joy is the mission of an aid organization that calls itself Clowns without Borders. Last month, for example, the organization’s volunteers visited UN-run schools in Lebanon, [...]
UN condemns assassination of female legislator
The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, also known by its acronym UNAMA, has strongly condemned the assassination of a female legislator. Setara Achakzai, a member of the provincial council of Kandahar, was shot dead on Sunday by two motorcyclists in Southern Afghanistan, a former Taliban stronghold. For more on this incident, UN Radio’s Gerry Adams [...]
UN chief optimistic Laos will meet Millennium Development Goals
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says he is optimistic that the Lao PDR will meet its national development goals – to achieve the Millennium Development Goals and graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status by its target date of 2020.
UN condemns assassination of female Afghan legislator
The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has strongly condemned the assassination of a female member of the provincial council of Kandahar, Setara Achakzai, calling it "a coward terrorist act".
Ban recommends strengthening UN mediation capacity
The ability of the United Nations to carry out mediation has been severely hampered by the lack of adequate, dedicated human and financial resources.
Secretary-General hails pause in military operations in northern Sri Lanka
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the declaration of a two-day ceasefire by the government of Sri Lanka to allow emergency humanitarian aid to reach thousands of civilians trapped in the conflict zone with the Tamil Tigers.
Ban dismayed by abrogation of Fiji's Constitution, dismissal of judiciary
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has learned with deep dismay of the abrogation of the Constitution of Fiji, dismissal of the judiciary, declaration of public emergency and a clear attempt to prolong rule by an unelected executive by setting a new-time frame of five years (by 2014) for parliamentary elections.
UN Daily News 10 April 2009
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Surviving the Rwanda genocide
This week the UN marked the 15th anniversary of the Rwanda genocide with a solemn ceremony in memory of the more than 800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus, who were killed in the span of a hundred days in April 1994. Jacqueline Murekatete is one of the survivors of the genocide, who shared her testimony. [...]
UN concert commemorates slave trade victims
PRESENTER: The General Assembly hall resonated with music, poetry and the reading of historical documents when the UN held a gala concert in March in commemoration of the victims of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. We invite you to listen to excerpts from the concert, in this piece compiled by UN Radio’s Beng Poblete-Enriquez. MUSIC: UP [...]
UN Security and Stabilization Support Strategy gaining momentum in Ituri region: Doss
The implementation of the UN Security and Stabilization Support Strategy in the Ituri region of the Democratic Republic of Congo is now gaining momentum.
UN chief appeals for calm in Fiji
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has appealed for calm in Fiji and urges full respect for human rights, the rule of law and the judicial process.
Ban stresses urgent need to protect civilians trapped in Sri Lanka's conflict zone
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon spoke again Thursday with President Rajapaksa about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Vanni region and their shared concerns about the civilians still trapped in the area.
UN Daily News 09 April 2009
News and features from United Nations Radio.
UN envoy updates Security Council on DR Congo
The global economic crisis has affected all regions of the world, especially Africa. According to Alan Doss, Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the crisis has hit the country hard and suddenly.
Battlestar Galactica comes to the UN
It was a mixture of Hollywood and humanitarianism when crew members of the Battlestar Galactica touched down at UN headquarters in March.
Sri Lanka civilians caught in conflict lack access to safe drinking water: UN
In Sri Lanka, conflict continues in the No Fire Zone, and unconfirmed reports suggest significantly increased casualties, including hundreds of injuries Wednesday and Thursday alone.
Latest acts of piracy are renewed provocations: special envoy
UN special envoy for Somalia has called for a clear and firm condemnation in words and action in response to "the recent rash of piracy off the coast of Somalia".
Progress at Bonn climate change talks signals start of serious negotiation
The latest round of UN Climate Change Talks in Bonn, Germany concluded Wednesday, capturing the essential elements of strengthened international climate change action to be reflected in first negotiating texts for the next round of talks in June.
UNICEF applauds launch of first Act protecting children of Southern Sudan
The first ever Child Act for Southern Sudan will be launched Friday by the Government of Southern Sudan.
Polio outbreak in 14 African countries prompt emergency appeal
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has launched an emergency appeal for US$ 2.1 million, to support Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies from 14 countries in Africa to respond to wild poliovirus outbreaks across the continent.
Int'l Maritime Organization fights piracy off Somalia
Somali pirates on Wednesday hijacked a container ship with an American crew, after what maritime officials described as a sustained night-time attack.
UN Daily News 08 April 2009
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Food crisis needs long-term solutions
A year on since the food crisis caused riots around the world, the UN General Assembly met this week to assess how the problem of high food prices has been tackled.
Security Council demands an end to violence in Central African Republic
The UN Security Council has demanded an end to violence by all armed groups which have not yet done so in the northern Central African Republic.
UN envoy warns of waning patience among people of Guinea-Bissau
The UN special envoy in Guinea-Bissau has warned that the endless cyclical crises in the country are frustrating the population.
General Assembly decides to convene high-level conference on world financial crisis
The General Assembly has agreed to convene a high-level conference on the impact of the world financial and economic crisis on development, from 1 to 3 June at UN headquarters in New York.
Study shows bioenergy benefits for rural poor
A new report out on Wednesday says that bioenergy, when produced on a small-scale in local communities, can play a significant role in rural development.
Ban hopes Sudan reverses its decision to expel international NGOs'
UN Chief Ban Ki-moon expressed the hope that the Sudanese authorities will reverse their decision to expel humanitarian workers for international non-governmental organizations.
UN concerned by post-election violence in Moldova
Secretary-general Ban Ki-moon on Tuesday expressed concern about the violent protests in Moldova in the aftermath of Sunday's Parliamentary elections.
UN calls for quick, inclusive elections in Madagascar
The United Nations has called for quick and inclusive elections in Madagascar.
Assistant Secretary-General Haile Menkerios told reporters after briefing the Security Council that members expressed serious concern about the unconstitutional means of taking power by the former mayor.
UN agencies launch $35 million appeal for Madagascar
Six United Nations agencies and three Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Madagascar on Tuesday launched a Flash Appeal seeking $35.7 million in a bid to prevent a deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the country, which has this year been hit by multiple crises, including drought, cyclones and a period of political unrest.
Widows of the Rwanda genocide help each other
April 7th is the 15th anniversary of the start of the Rwanda genocide. For 100 days in 1994, in the central African country, Hutus killed Tutsis and moderate Hutus.
World Health Day 2009 focuses attention on hospitals in emergencies
In 2008, over 300 natural disasters killed more than 235 thousand people – the highest death toll in seven years.
UN Daily News 07 April 2009
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Up to 30 Somali refugees drown crossing the Gulf of Aden to Yemen
Eight people drowned and another 22 are missing and presumed dead in the Gulf of Aden as a result of two different smuggling incidents over the week end off the coast of Yemen.
New clashes spark displacement in eastern DRC
Renewed fighting between two rival militia groups in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has driven more than 30,000 Congolese from their homes.
Italy death toll rises from quake
In Italy, the death toll from the powerful earthquake that hit the Italian city of L'Aquila and central Italy, has risen to at least 207, with 1,500 injured and some 17,000 rendered homeless.
Developed nations also need to make hospitals safe: WHO
The earthquake, in Italy, highlights the theme of this year's World Health day, which is Save Lives Make Hospitals Safe in Emergencies.
UN expert appeals for safety of persons trapped by Sri Lankan conflict
A UN rights expert has expressed deep concern for the safety of more than 100,000 civilians trapped in Sri Lanka's no-fire zone.
Health care workers must be trained to work safely in emergencies: UN chief
We must protect public health by designing and building health care facilities that are safe from natural disasters.
Preventing genocide a collective responsibility: Ban
Preventing genocide is a collective responsibility and only by meeting this challenge can we match the resolve of the survivors and truly honour the memory of those who died in Rwanda 15 years ago.
Ban urges sustainable social and economic development for Haiti
Ahead of the major donors conference on Haiti, which takes place in Washington D.C. on Tuesday next week, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has written to donor countries and institutions, as well as other key stake-holders, calling on them to make a special effort to support Haiti through renewed technical and financial engagement.
Consultations ongoing on response to DPRK launch: Japan
Members of the UN Security Council have briefed their capitals on the ongoing consultations in the Council for the most appropriate response to Saturday’s rocket launch by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea -DPRK.
UN chief strongly condemns series of bomb blasts in Baghdad
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has strongly condemned the string of bombings that struck a marketplace and other locations in Baghdad Monday, killing a large number of civilians and injuring many others.
Addressing the world water crisis
According to reports from the Joint Monitoring Program for Water Supply and Sanitation by the World Heath Organization and the United Nations Children's Fund, in 2002, one out of six people lacks access to safe drinking water, that is about 1.1 billion people, and more than two out of six lacks adequate sanitation, that is 2.6 billion people
The Meaning of World Health Day in Afghanistan
World Health Day is observed every year on April 7th. Peter Graaf, the World Health Organization Representative in Afghanistan, says the World Health Day theme this year, "Save lives. Make hospitals safe in emergencies," is particularly relevant to Afghanistan for two reasons:
UN Daily News 06 April 2009
News and features from United Nations Radio.
World is boiling with grave, unresolved challenges: Ban
The explosive nature of our world is not only a product of communal tensions.
Haiti has a real chance today of consolidating stability: Annabi
There's a prevailing view that Haiti is at a turning point and that this is the first time in many years when the country truly appears to be poised to make a break from a past of suffering, poverty and violence toward a path of sustainable social and economic development.
Alliance of Civilizations can stamp out sparks before they break out into fires: Ban
All too often, the United Nations must deal with fires after they break out.
UN agencies still grappling with impact of expulsion of NGO's: OCHA
A humanitarian assessment mission to the so-called Three Areas of Sudan has been sent to assess the impact of the decision by the Government of Sudan in March to revoke the permits of 13 international non-governmental organizations and ban three national NGOs.
Ban welcomes US-Russian agreement on nuclear arms reduction talks
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the Joint Statement by leaders of the Russian Federation and the United States to hold talks to further cut their nuclear arsenals to replace a major arms control agreement that expires later this year.
Ban welcomes announcement of Sudan's elections in 2010
The UN chief has welcomed the announcement by Sudan's National Elections Commission (NEC) on 2 April that elections will take place in February 2010.
UN chief deeply distressed by situation of civilians in Sri Lanka's Vanni region
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is deeply distressed by continuing reports from the Vanni region of Sri Lanka that civilians are at extreme risk, with heavy casualties, and that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) are keeping civilians in a very small area of active conflict against their will.
UN supports Afghan de-mining efforts
The United Nations in Afghanistan is highlighting the importance of de-mining as part of the global activities for the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, which is observed each year on April 4th. UN Mine Action chief, Maxwell Kerley recently visited projects in Afghanistan supported by the United Nations. Dianne Penn [...]
A team is appointed to investigate Gaza violations
PRESENTER: As we heard in the news, the UN Human Rights Council has announced it is sending a fact-finding mission to investigate allegations of human rights violations related to the recent conflict in the Gaza Strip. Uhomoibhi: We wanted to make sure that the team we are putting in place was credible, of high caliber [...]
Commission on Population and Development concludes its General Debate
Caribbean News Round-Up: a weekly 15-minute news magazine on developments at the United Nations concerning the Caribbean.
Ban hopes for a world free of threats from landmines
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has expressed the hope that the world will one day be free from the threats caused by landmines and explosive remnants of war.
Database on violence against women is launched
Women: a weekly 14-minute news magazine that looks at issues affecting women around the world.
Australia supports declaration on rights of indigenous peoples
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay has welcomed Australia's decision to support the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Landmines pose enormous threat to children: UNICEF
Landmines and explosive remnants of war continue to pose enormous threat to children worldwide.
Human Rights Council on GAZA Mission
The United Nations Human Rights Council has appointed a four-member fact finding mission to investigate alleged human rights abuses during Israel's military offensive in Gaza three months ago.
UNICEF assisting children fleeing Central African Republic
UNICEF – the UN Children's Fund is assisting thousands of children who are fleeing the conflict in the Central African Republic (CAR).
UNHCR is concerned about forcible return of Somalis from Kenya
The UN refugee agency has expressed concern about the increasing trend by Kenyan authorities to forcibly return Somali asylum seekers to their country.
UN and family appeal for release of UNHCR official abducted in Pakistan
UN Calling Asia – a weekly magazine programme, in English, that keeps you in touch with UN developments covering Asia and the Pacific.
Ban hails decision of G20 leaders to commit to a $1.1 trillion package
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has hailed the decision of G20 leaders to commit themselves to a $1.1 trillion package.
World Autism Awareness Day – 2 April
Thursday April 2, is World Autism Awareness Day. The day was mandated by the UN General Assembly to raise public awareness about the disorder, which affects individuals at their early developmental age. UN Radio’s Donn Bobb takes a look at the questions and answers that many parents of autistic children face. Quinn 1: It was [...]
Lower fertility linked to poverty reduction
The links between slowing population growth and poverty reduction are the focus of a meeting this week of the UN Commission on Population and Development in New York. Hania Zlotnik, Director of the UN’s Population Division says an increasing number of governments are recognizing the importance of guaranteeing the right of women and men to [...]
WFP launches first food voucher operation in Middle East
The UN food agency (WFP) has launched a food voucher operation, the first of its kind in the Middle East, to assist some 30,000 people in the occupied Palestinian territories.
Anti-landmines organization calls for ban of the weapon in Asia
Landmines continue to claim casualties in a number of Asia-and Pacific countries, according to the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL).
Afghan law restricting women's rights a step in the wrong direction: Pillay
The Afghan Government is being urged to rescind a new law, reportedly signed by President Karzai earlier this month.
Health ministers agree to efforts to counter the global threat of drug-resistant TB
Health ministers from countries with the greatest burdens of drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) have agreed to a series of actions to accelerate efforts to halt and reverse the global epidemic of the disease.
Climate change talks should include farmers: FAO
Policy makers are being urged to include agriculture in negotiations for a new climate change treaty to replace the 1997 Kyoto Protocol.
Ban to warn G-20 of looming catastrophe in human development
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is in London where on Thursday he will speak to the world leaders gathered for the Group of 20 meeting.
UN chief appalled by suicide attacks in Afghanistan
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is appalled and deeply saddened by Wednesday's suicide attacks at the Kandahar Provincial Office near the United Nations Office in Kandahar City in Afghanistan.
Ban looks forward to working with Israel on peace and security issues in the Mideast region
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the formation of a new government in Israel and looks forward to working with Prime Minister Netanyahu on a full range of peace and security issues in the region.
African migrants face racial attacks in Ukraine
Many African migrants risk their lives to get to Europe. Some of them don’t make it when smugglers’ boats capsize as they try to cross the Mediterranean Sea. Those who are fortunate enough to reach Europe are not welcomed there. UN Radio’s Patrick Maigua in Geneva discusses the plight of Africans in Ukraine with Charles Asante Yeboa [...]
WHO issues call to action on multi-drug resistant TB
PRESENTER: A record number of new cases of multi-drug resistant tuberculosis have been recorded by the World Health Organization (WHO) over the past two years. The UN health agency is holding a 3-day ministerial meeting for affected countries to urgently address this alarming threat to public health. Dr. Mario Raviglione, Director of WHO’s Stop TB [...]
Managing drug-resistant TB a global health imperative warns WHO chief
Preventing and managing drug-resistant Tuberculosis is a global health imperative.
UN reconstruction projects have real, meaningful impact on Iraq: report
An independent report shows that UN reconstruction projects in Iraq have made a real and meaningful impact on the country's recovery.
UNDP urges G-20 leaders to curb a full-fledged human development crisis
The current global economic crisis, now risks triggering a human development catastrophe in the world's poorest countries.
Ban hails US announcement to seek seat on rights council
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the announcement by the United States that it will seek a seat on the Human Rights Council.
Rights council encouraged by US decision to seek a seat
News of the decision of the United States to run for a seat on the UN Human Rights Council has also been welcomed by the President of the Council Martin Uhomoibhi.
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