Ban kicks off official visit to China at Shanghai World Expo
The United Nations Secretary-General has started a 5-day official visit to China by visiting the UN Pavilion at the World Expo in Shanghai.
Home » 30 Oct 2010
Entries posted on “October 2010”
World governments agree to 10-year plan to save biodiversity
Governments across the world have agreed a ten-year plan aimed at preserving the world’s bio-diversity at a United Nations backed meeting in Nagoya in Japan. The agreement details a series of targets for protecting natural environments as well as slowing down the overall loss of bio-diversity. Climate change has been one of the central themes [...]
Indigenous group voices concern at biodiversity summit
A United Nations-backed conference on biodiversity has finished with a historic 10-year plan to save the world’s natural resources. The week-long meeting in Nagoya in Japan has focused on how to curb the loss of animal and plant life on Earth. The Convention on Biodiversity or CBD conference has given the opportunity for many interest [...]
Indonesian migrants generate $6 billion a year but remain vulnerable
Indonesian migrants, who send approximately $6 billion a year back home in remittances, remain vulnerable to abuse, according to a report released by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
U.S. faces challenges in protection of child victims of prostitution
The United States needs to do more to combat the trafficking, prostitution and use in pornography of children.
UN biodiversity conference reaches agreement on climate change in Nagoya
Delegates from more than 190 countries have reached an agreement at a key U.N. conference on preserving biodiversity. The week-long meeting in Nagoya in Japan has focused on how to curb the loss of animal and plant life on Earth. The Convention on Biodiversity is an important step towards finalizing an international agreement on climate [...]
Update on Indonesian earthquake/tsunami
UN Calling Asia – a weekly magazine programme, in English, that keeps you in touch with UN developments covering Asia and the Pacific.
Commemorating 10 years of Security Council Resolution
This month, women activists are commemorating 10 years since the adoption of a landmark United Nations Security Council resolution on women, peace and security. Resolution 1325 highlighted the impact of conflict on women and girls, but also called for their full participation in the peace process. So far, 20 countries have adopted national plans to [...]
The UN General Assembly pays tribute to the late prime minster of Barbados
The United Nations on Thursday held a solemn meeting to pay tribute to the late Prime Minister of Barbados David Thompson who died on Saturday 23rd October. After observing a minute of silence, Ambassadors representing the various regional groupings in the General Assembly remembered the departed prime minister. Ambassador Brian Bowler of Malawi spoke on [...]
No evidence UN peacekeepers are source of cholera in Haiti
There is no evidence that military facilities of United Nations peacekeepers in Haiti are a source of the cholera outbreak which has killed over 300 people, according to the United Nations health agency.
The UN General Assembly votes overwhelmingly to condemn nearly a half a century of US sanctions against Cuba;
The UN General Assembly overwhelmingly voted Tuesday for a resolution condemning almost a half-century of U.S. sanctions against Cuba, demanding an end to what member states say is a cruel Cold War anachronism that only hurts ordinary people. It was the 19th straight annual condemnation of the embargo was supported by 187 countries, with only [...]
Forty-seven thousand Congolese refugees return home from Zambia
Nearly 47,000 refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo who have been living in Zambia have returned home.
Jamaica says women have become effective participants at the peace table;
The UN Security Council this week endorsed a set of indicators to measure progress in filling urgent gaps in the protection and empowerment of women. The move comes as the council marked the tenth anniversary of its landmark resolution on women and peace and security. In an open meeting that heard from more than 90 [...]
UN debates hate speech as a trigger for genocide
Inflammatory speech, language which incites hatred or violence, can often precede mass atrocities, acts of genocide committed by one human on another. It’s thought that this hate speech is part of the social process that makes genocide possible. This is the case made by the Office of the Special Advisor on the Prevention of Genocide [...]
Haitian border protection
As Haiti continues to recover from the devastating earthquake which struck the Caribbean island in January this year, it’s having to deal with a different type of fall-out from the disaster – the trafficking of children. It’s thought the opportunity for the exploitation of children has increased as a result of the upheaval and chaos in [...]
Secretary-General condemns attack on Lebanon tribunal
An attack on investigators from the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, in Beirut on Wednesday, has been condemned by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
Over 7,000 Somalis flee across Somalia-Kenya border
More than 7,000 Somalis have fled to Kenya as fighting continues in the border town of Beled Hawo between the militant group, Al-Shabaab, and a militia allied to the Somali government.
UNICEF launches home treatment pack to reduce HIV transmission to babies
An estimated 22,000 newborn babies are infected each year with the HIV virus by their mothers in Kenya, according to the United Nations Children's Fund or UNICEF.
Seven million without adequate shelter three months after Pakistan floods
Three months after floods hit Pakistan, at least seven million people remain without adequate shelter and with little prospect of rebuilding their homes according to the International Organisation for Migration.
Release political prisoners to promote national reconciliation in Myanmar: Ban Ki-moon
The United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called on the government in Myanmar to release political prisoners saying it's not too late to take steps to promote national reconciliation.
United States accuses Syria and Iran of undermining Lebanon
The United States ambassador to the United Nations has accused Syria and Iran of undermining Lebanon's independence and jeopardizing stability in the region
UN envoy for Lebanon warns of dangers in the Middle East
The top United Nations envoy for Lebanon Terje Roed-Larsen has warned of a dangerous situation in Lebanon and the Middle East as a result of what he called 'reckless rhetoric'.
Young people push for biodiversity
Young people are being given a role in the bid to save the world’s different habitats and ecosystems. A group of young people from a range of different countries have been attending a biodiversity meeting being held in Nagoya in Japan. They all work or live in a natural World Heritage site and so have [...]
Polio vaccination campaign targets 72 million children in Africa
UN and Africa – a weekly 15-minute radio programme on political, social, economic and other developments related to Africa.
Agriculture needs to be "climate smart" in developing countries: FAO
Agriculture in developing countries needs to be what the Food and Agriculture Organization or FAO has described as 'climate smart' in order to cope with the challenge of feeding more people.
Fallen United Nations workers in Afghanistan are remembered
Ceremonies to mark the first anniversary of an attack on a guest house in Kabul, in which United Nations staff died have been taking place in Afghanistan.
UN climate chief pushes for action in Cancun
Climate change remains a major issue for world governments and work is continuing on trying to find an agreement that all countries can agree to. In December, the next climate change conference is taking place in Cancun, in Mexico this week ministers have been meeting Nagoya in Japan to discuss biodiversity issues. The loss of [...]
General Assembly focuses on World Court’s vital work in settling disputes
An increasing number of countries are using the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to settle disputes. That's the assessment of the Court's President, Judge Hisashi Owada.
Indonesian volcano erupts for second time during week
Twenty-nine people have been killed in Indonesia following a second eruption of a volcano.
African football superstar calls for fair elections
Football superstar and Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme, Didier Drogba, has launched a campaign to encourage people around the world to participate in elections.
Children in Kyrgyzstan face new threat: diarrhoea
Earlier this year in southern Kyrgyzstan violence between ethnic Uzbeks and Kygyz led to the displacement of thousands of families. Children in the central Asian country who’ve been forced from their homes due to the fighting, are now under another threat: diarrhoea. Gail Walker reports. SFX – Baby crying Narrator: Babies are one of the [...]
Voting material arrives in Sudan ahead of the referenda
Voting materials and training kits for the Southern Sudan referendum are arriving in the country ahead of next year’s plebiscite. On Janaury 9, the people of South Sudan will vote on whether to secede from the rest of the country, while the residents of the central area of Abyei will vote on whether to be [...]
There is no 'one magic bullet' to solve climate change: UN climate chief
There is no "one magic bullet" to solve climate change, the United Nations climate change chief, Cristiana Figueres has warned at a meeting on biodiversity .
Least developed countries need capacity to trade: UNCTAD
Least developed countries, known as the LDCs need assistance to produce goods that meet the standards required in export markets.
Over 150 people die in earthquake, tsunami and volcano in Indonesia
More than 150 people have died and over 500 are missing after two major disasters struck Indonesia, the Red Cross and Red Crescent reported on Wednesday.
Secretary-General pays tribute to former President of Argentina
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has paid tribute to the late former President of Argentina Néstor Kirchner whom he called a national and international leader who believed in multi-lateralism.
Two former IDPs now advocate for displaced children
There are more than 26 million internally displaced people (IDPs) world-wide, according to the UN refugee agency. Like refugees, IDPs have fled conflict or insecurity. The difference is that they have not crossed borders to seek but remain in their own countries. Dianne Penn recently met up with “Alima” and “Joseph,” two young people who [...]
Trade crucial for development of Least Developed Countries
Trade is crucial to help the least developed countries or LDCs out of poverty, according to the United Nations senior LDC representative.
UN human rights chief calls for probe into human rights violations in Iraq
Iraqi authorities have been urged to investigate allegations of human rights violations of detainees and to allow United Nations human rights teams to monitor detention facilities.
UN-backed Cambodia court key to fighting impunity for crimes against humanity – Ban
The Khmer Rouge trials and other human rights issues have been pinpointed as key concerns during a meeting between the United Nations Secretary-General and the Cambodian Prime Minister.
Indonesian earthquake/tsunami update
On October 25th a powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit West Sumatra off of Indonesia triggering a tsunami alert. Indonesian authorities report that more than 270 people have been killed. Rescue workers say more than 400 people are still missing. UN Radio’s Patrick Maigua spoke to Phillip Charlesworth, head of the International Federation of Red Cross [...]
Businesses have a role in preservation of biodiversity: World Bank
Businesses have a role in the efforts to preserve biological diversity. That's the message from the head of the World Bank Robert Zoellick.
FAO distributes seeds in Pakistan to half a million farming families
A large-scale distribution of wheat seeds that will benefit well over half a million farming families or nearly five million people has got underway in Pakistan.
Sex crimes in Haiti camps are on the rise
Sex crimes have increased amidst the harsh living conditions in the camps following Haiti’s earthquake, the UN Children’s Fund reports. To teach Haitian women and girls about their rights on gender-based violence – a term that encompasses domestic violence, forced prostitution, sexual assault and rape, UNICEF is working together with American Refugee Committee (ARC). UN [...]
Fighting the extinction of tigers
Environmentalists are urging governments to help double the number of wild tigers from 3000 to 6000 by 2022 to save them from extinction. A century ago, tigers in Asia were estimated at 100,000. But since the economic boom in Asia, their natural habitat is being taken over by humans. Poaching is also cause for their [...]
Rapid changes in Arctic threaten biodiversity: UNEP
Rapid changes in the Artic environment are threatening biological diversity and the animals that depend on it.
Health services unprepared for cholera outbreak in Haiti
Haiti's public health services were unprepared to deal with a cholera outbreak that is sweeping across the Caribbean island, according to the World Health Organization or WHO.
Health remains concern with over two million malaria cases in Niger: UN
The health of people in Niger remains a major concern with the spread of a cholera epidemic and over two million cases of malaria reported since the beginning of the year, according to the United Nations humanitarian chief.
Most countries practice torture: UN expert
Torture is practiced in most countries of the world, according to the United Nations independent expert on torture, Manfred Nowak.
United States is urged to lift embargo on Cuba
An overwhelming number of Member States of the United Nations have called on the United States to end its long-lasting economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba.
Commemorating 10 years of Resolution on Women, Peace and Security
It has been 10 years since the UN Security Council adopted a landmark resolution on women and peace and security. Resolution 1325 highlighted the impact of conflict on women and girls, but also called for their full participation in the peace process. At a meeting in New York, Christiana Harmon spoke about her experiences as [...]
Africa to launch polio vaccination campaign to reach 72 million children
A mass immunization campaign has been launched in Africa to prevent the spread of polio. Fifteen countries across the continent will participate in the campaign which is designed to reach 72 million children who are at highest risk of polio transmission. Melissa Corkum works with the UN children’s agency (UNICEF) in east and southern Africa. [...]
Women playing increasingly important role in peacemaking
Women are playing an increasingly important role in peacemaking efforts, according to Michelle Bachelet, the head of the newly established entity UN Women.
Grenades in Burundi go for the price of a beer
Burundi may be one of the poorest countries in the world, but there is one thing that remains affordable to almost everyone: the grenade. In this post-conflict country in East Africa, barely a week goes by without a grenade attack. The availability of weapons in Burundi is captured in a documentary called Bang for a [...]
Secretary-General urges Thailand to send female police officers to Darfur
Speaking during his visit to Thailand, the Secretary-General commended the south-east Asian country for its leadership role in providing peacekeepers.
Myanmar leadership is urged to depart from "business as usual"
The leadership of Myanmar has been urged by the United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to demonstrate in concrete actions that the democratization process in the country is credible.
Polio immunization campaign targets 72 million children in Africa
A campaign to vaccinate 72 million children under five years of age in 15 African countries is set to take place this week.
Sixty thousand people flee homes in Somalia as fighting intensifies
An estimated 60,000 Somali people have been forced to flee their homes over the past week following fierce fighting in the north-western town of Beled Hawo, according to the United Nations refugee agency UNHCR.
Fears of cholera spreading to Haiti's capital
There are fears that the cholera outbreak in Haiti could spread to the country's densely-populated capital Port au Prince, according to the World Health Organisation or WHO.
INDONESIAN #40: FOKUS FOKUS KITA
Included in this week’s programme, an interview with Country Director UNDP for Indonesia It focuses on UNDP efforts to help reduce poverty in Papua. (duration: 7’03″)
General Assembly elects members of ECOSOC
The General Assembly on Monday elected new 18 members of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for a three-year term starting in 2011.
Probe on attack on UN mission in DR Congo underway
Congolese and United Nations authorities are investigating the identity and motives of assailants who attacked a base of the UN mission, MONUSCO, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Coming months are critical for Sudan's future, UN peacekeeping chief tells Security Council
A senior UN official has said time is running out for two key referenda in Sudan.
Sub-Saharan African countries revive faster than expected after global economic slump: IMF
The International Monetary Fund says its optimistic about the economic prospects for Sub-Saharan Africa, with expectations of growth across many different sectors. In its most recent forecast of the region’s economy, the IMF says Africa is likely to see strong domestic demand coupled with surging exports which could bring Sub-Saharan Africa back close to the [...]
Cote d'Ivoire is ready to hold presidential election: UN envoy
The West Africa country of Cote d'Ivoire is set to hold long-awaited presidential elections on 31 October, according to the top United Nations envoy for the country.
IMF "optimistic" about economic prospects for Sub-Saharan Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa is expected to enjoy economic growth across many different sectors according to the International Monetary Fund.
Biodiversity convention to cost 30 billion a year
A strategic plan to save biodiversity across the world could cost $30 billion a year. The plan is part of the Convention on Biodiversity which is aimed at helping to curb the loss of animal and plant life on earth.This week in Nagoya in Japan, the governing body of the convention is meeting and governments [...]
Health agency watches Haiti cholera outbreak
More than 250 people have died in a cholera outbreak in Haiti. Cholera is spread through contaminated water and causes severe diarrhoea and dehydration. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reports there are more than 3,000 cases in Haiti and it is watching the growing epidemic which has hit areas outside the capital, Port-au-Prince. For [...]
PAHO steps in as 254 people die of cholera in Haiti
An international effort is continuing to fight a cholera epidemic which has claimed the lives of more than 250 people in Haiti.
Secretary-General pays tribute to late Prime Minister of Barbados
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has paid tribute to the Prime Minister of Barbados, David Thompson, who died on Saturday.
Biodiversity convention to cost $30 billion a year
A $30 billion annual price tag has been placed on implementing a strategic plan for the Convention on Biodiversity.
Maternal mortality on the rise in Zimbabwe
In Zimbabwe, mothers are dying at an alarming rate. Eight mothers die giving birth every day. The country’s health system has been weakened after years of economic upheaval. Expectant mothers are now being charged for health related expenses and many can’t afford the basic life-saving services they need. Gail Walker reports. Narrator: At the Kuwadzana [...]
Secretary-General condemns attack on UN compound in Afghanistan
A suicide attack against the United Nations compound in Herat in Afghanistan has been strongly condemned by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
No fatalities were reported among the United Nations staff but security guards were wounded.
Daniel Dickinson reports.
Security forces in Guinea used “excessive force”
Security forces in the West African country, Guinea have been accused of using excessive force to quell demonstrations that recently took place in the capital Conakry.
Palestinians under “great psychological and physical stress”: UN expert
The Israeli blockade of Gaza continues to put Palestinians under “great psychological and physical stress”, the United Nations independent expert on human rights in the Palestinian territories said on Friday.
Darfur parties are urged to negotiate in good faith to end crisis
Parties to the conflict in the troubled Darfur region of Sudan are been urged by the United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to negotiate in good faith in order to reach an agreement.
Marking 65th anniversary, UN resolves 'to do more’ for peace, development, human rights
To mark the 65th anniversary of the entry into force of its founding Charter, the United Nations has resolved to do more to work for peace, development and human rights.
An exhibition in New York honours women’s role as peacemakers
The role of women as peacemakers is being celebrated at an exhibition which opened this week at UN headquarters in New York. It’s part of the commemoration of the tenth anniversary of a UN Security Council resolution calling for the full participation of women in the peacemaking process and post-conflict rebuilding. Jocelyne Sambira attended the [...]
UN Chief pushes for resources for AU peacekeeping operations
Africa is being commended for its efforts in maintaining peace on the continent through its participation in several UN peacekeeping missions. Countries like Rwanda have contributed troops in Sudan and particularly in the troubled region of Darfur. Burundi and Uganda are in Somalia protecting the fragile government and trying to keep a semblance of peace. [...]
European footballers kick off against world hunger
Professional footballers across sixteen European football leagues are expected to be wearing T-shirts this weekend to raise awareness about global hunger. The leagues have teamed up with the Food and Agricultural Organization or FAO, as part of its bid to fight world hunger and poverty. UN Radio’s Patrick Maigua asked the European Professional Football Leagues’s [...]
UN Daily News 22 October 2010
News and features from United Nations Radio.
UN moves to reduce exposure to sludge in Hungary
Work is underway in Hungary to remove sludge from villages in the west of the country which were inundated following a spill at a metals plant. The spill caused nine deaths and over 150 injuries, mostly due to drowning and chemical burns from the corrosive effect of the red sludge. Over three hundred houses were [...]
UN refugee agency steps in to help as floods affect 680,000 people in Benin
Preparations are being made by the United Nations refugee agency or UNHCR to airlift emergency relief items to Benin after the number of people affected by floods reached around 680,000.
European football leagues raise awareness of hunger
Sixteen European professional football leagues are teaming up with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization or FAO to raise awareness about the problem of global hunger.
Jamaica tells ITU that it is committed to the use of information, communication and technology to drive development, increase knowledge and meet the challenges of our time
The International Telecommunications Union -ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2010 (PP-10) wrapped up its 3-week conference Friday in the city of Guadalajara (Mexico). The Plenipotentiary Conference is the key event at which ITU member States decide on the future role of the organization, thereby determining the organization’s ability to influence and affect the development of Information and [...]
UN Secretary-General pushes for resources for AU peacekeeping operations
The United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has stressed the need to provide African Union peacekeeping operations the same resources that are given to United Nations peacekeepers.
Regional stakeholders agree on strategies for accelerating the work towards preventing and eliminating all forms of violence against women;
The United Nations Secretary-General’s UNiTE to End Violence Against Women Campaign was launched in the Caribbean on 11th-12th October 2010 in Barbados. The Conference had as its theme: “Strengthening Accountability and Changing Culture to End Violence against Women in the Caribbean” and was attended by Attorneys General, members of the judiciary, senior representatives of regional [...]
CARICOM warns that prospects for sustainable social and economic growth has been significantly undermined;
With developing countries having unfairly borne the brunt of the global economic and financial crisis while experiencing an effective worsening of their vulnerabilities, the international community must consider establishing a mechanism to help them overcome debt distress and achieve debt sustainability. That view was stressed by several representatives when the General Assembly’s Economic and Financial [...]
Inland fisheries provide 13 million tonnes of fish: UNEP
The worldwide inland fishery business provides 13 million tonnes of fish annually and generates 60 million full and part-time jobs.
150 die from suspected cholera in Haiti
A suspected outbreak of cholera in Haiti has claimed 150 lives in the past few days, according to the World Health Organisation or WHO.
Yemenis remain displaced despite peace accord: UNHCR
More than 300,000 people remain displaced in northern Yemen's Sa'ada province despite a peace agreement signed in June between the government and Al Houti forces.
Nigeria reports 1555 cholera deaths since January
Cholera has killed over 1,500 people in Nigeria since the beginning of the epidemic in January, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
UN Human Rights Experts says, electoral process in Myanmar is “deeply flawed”
The UN independent expert on human rights in Myanmar Tomas Ojea Quintana has said that the electoral process for the forthcoming poll in Myanmar is “deeply flawed”.
UN at advanced stage of re-establishing presence inside Somalia
Preparations for re-establishing the United Nations presence in Somalia, including Mogadishu, are at an advanced stage, according to the top United Nations envoy for the country, Ambassador Augustine Mahiga.
UN Women: a panel discussion
Last month, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon introduced a new entity – UN Women – headed by former Chilean president Michelle Bachelet, to oversee all programs aimed at promoting equality for women. UN Women, which will merge the UN Development Fund for Women, the Division for the Advancement of Women, the Office of the Special Adviser on [...]
UN Daily News 21 October 2010
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Secretary-General calls for “bold decision” on Somalia
Somalia was on the agenda of the UN Security Council on Thursday. The country continues to face insecurity and a dire humanitarian situation. Dianne Penn reports. Duration: 2’13″ The UN Secretary-General said the situation in Somalia remains fragile but there are glimmers of hope, including the recent appointment of a new Prime Minister. However, Ban [...]
TB vaccine brings hope to South Africa
South Africa’s Western Cape is home to one of highest rates of tuberculosis or TB in the world. TB is an infectious disease which affects the lungs and if not treated can lead to death. In fact, ten million people die from it each year in the developing world. But now scientists in the Western [...]
ICC decides to go ahead with trial of Jean Pierre Bemba
UN and Africa – a weekly 15-minute radio programme on political, social, economic and other developments related to Africa.
Actor Nicholas Cage presses international community to fight transnational crime
Cybercrime and trafficking in persons and drugs are just some of the forms of organized crime that involve much of the world. Governments across the world face a seemingly never-ending task in tackling these global threats. In Vienna this week, progress on the adoption of the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, was being reviewed. [...]
UN deminers remove 25,000 landmines in Cyprus
Twenty-five thousand landmines have been cleared and destroyed by the United Nations in Cyprus, according to a UN spokesperson.
West Africa makes efforts to involve women in peacemaking
The rape of women at a peaceful rally in Conakry in Guinea in September last year has demonstrated the vulnerability of women in West Africa, according to the top United Nations envoy in the region.
Dust from sludge threatens people’s health in Hungary
The dust from the sludge that is being removed in the town of Ajka in Hungary is posing a threat to the workers and residents, according to an expert from the World Health Organization or WHO.
UN experts criticize treatment of migrants after death of Angolan
The death of an Angolan man who was being deported from the United Kingdom has been condemned by United Nations experts.
Somalia: Security Council told of steep challenges, 'glimmers of hope' in fragile country
The United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called on UN member states to take “bold and courageous decisions” on funding the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).
Hollywood star calls for trauma support to children victims of crime
Children forced to participate in criminal activities need support to get over psychological trauma according to Oscar-winning actor Nicolas Cage, a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
Early attention to minority rights is crucial to preventing conflicts: UN expert
Evidence demonstrates that minority rights violations are often among the root causes of conflicts, according to the United Nations independent expert on minority issues, Gay McDougall.
UN Daily News 20 October 2010
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Over half a million people are in need of relief aid in eastern Chad
Over half a million people are in need of humanitarian assistance in eastern Chad, according to the head of the UN Mission in the Central African Republic and Chad or MINURCAT.
New UN report calls for greater women’s participation in post-conflict peace building
Too often women and girls suffer discrimination in times of war and natural disasters, but are forgotten in the reconstruction phase or when it comes to peace building. That’s the conclusion of the 2010 State of the World report just released by the UN Population Fund or UNFPA. Gail Walker reports. Narr: Sexual violence, an [...]
Child labour in Syria perpetuates cycle of poverty.
Child labour is on the rise in the Middle-Eastern country Syria as many of the poorest people increasingly rely on the money earned by children. Sweat shops, the unflattering name given to garment factories, are major employers of young Syrian children. They provide poor families with much needed income but deny many children the opportunity [...]
"Considerable fraud" in parliamentary elections in Afghanistan: UN envoy
There was considerable fraud and electoral irregularities during recent parliamentary elections in Afghanistan, according to the top United Nations envoy in the country.
Hungarian folk vocalist Márta Sebestyén named UNESCO Artist for Peace
The Hungarian folk vocalist, Márta Sebestyén has been named Artist for Peace by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
European football leagues dedicate matches to fight hunger
Sixteen European football leagues are dedicating their matches this weekend to the fight against hunger and poverty.
First World Statistics Day focuses on data and development
Many countries are striving to reach the Millennium Development Goals by the 2015 deadline. And if a government wants to halve the number of its citizens living in extreme poverty, or provide primary education for all school-age children-to focus on two of the MDGs-it will need accurate statistics to first understand the scope of the [...]
Statistics an “essential public service” UN Secretary-General
Statistics are a vital tool for economic and social development and will help countries meet the Millennium Development Goals according to the United Nations Secretary-General.
Key role of women in rebuilding post-crisis societies focus of new UN report
Discrimination against women and the perpetuation of crimes such as rape is a major hindrance to peace, security and development in countries emerging from conflict, according to The 2010 State of the World Population report.
Vital resources being diverted by war against insurgency
The war against insurgency in Afghanistan is diverting vital resources away from economic activities, according to the UN Economic Commission on Europe or UNECE.
Floods continue to cause havoc in Benin
Flooding is continuing in the West African country, Benin where at least 42 communes out of 77 in the country have been affected, according to the United Nations Humanitarian agency or OCHA.
UN envoy survives bomb attack in Iraq
The United Nations is checking with the Iraqi authorities about a roadside bomb that hit a convoy carrying the top United Nations envoy in Iraq, Ad Melkert on Tuesday.
Côte d’Ivoire: UN envoy reports peaceful start to election campaign
The campaign for Côte d’Ivoire’s much-delayed presidential elections has started calmly according to the UN’s top envoy to the troubled West African state.
UN body calls for stronger oversight of US private security contractors in Afghanistan
There is a need for stronger oversight of United States private security contractors in Afghanistan, according to the United Nations Working Group on the use of mercenaries.
UN Daily News 19 October 2010
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Teachers’ strike affects 60,000 children in the West Bank
Some 60,000 Palestinian children in the West Bank have been out of school for nearly a week because their teachers are on strike. The pay strike by employees of the UN agency assisting the Palestinians, known as UNRWA, is also affecting provision of health care and other services. The work stoppage is supported by the [...]
Uncertified police officers in Timor-Leste cause concern for UN
The high number of not fully qualified police officers in Timor-Leste is a cause for concern, the top United Nations envoy for the country Ameerah Haq has told the Security Council.
African regional economic bodies meet at the UN to discuss challenges
Regional integration in Africa has been slow and difficult. Some regional communities have made progress in liberalizing trade, others like the East African Community or EAC have made great strides regarding the free movement of labour and people, changes which it is hoped will improve the lives of people in countries suffering high levels of [...]
ICC decides to go ahead with trial of Jean-Pierre Bemba
The trial of a former warlord from the Democratic Republic of the Congo who’s facing war crimes charges will go ahead following a judgement by International Criminal Court or ICC in The Hague.
Repatriation of Mauritanian refugees from Senegal resumes
The first group of Mauritanian refugees have returned to their home country from Senegal following a ten month break.
Malnutrition among children major concern in post-flood Pakistan
Child malnutrition in on the rise in Pakistan. Almost three months since monsoon rains devastated the country, malnutrition, especially among children, continues to be a major concern. Humanitarian agencies say more than 125,000 children are suffering from acute malnutrition and nearly half a million children under the age of five are moderately malnourished. The UN [...]
Polio cases increase among children in Pakistan
Close to 80 cases of the paralyzing polio virus have been reported in Pakistan, according to the United Nations children’s agency UNICEF.
Mobile phone users to reach 5.3 billion by the end of 2010
The number of mobile phone users across the world is expected to reach 5.3 billion by the end of 2010, according to the International Telecommunications Union or ITU.
In Europe, Ban stresses value of rights for all, warns against 'politics of polarization’
The United Nations Secretary-General has warned Europe against a “new politics of polarization” discrimination and intolerance over immigration, targeting in particular Muslim immigrants.
Iraq’s refugees reluctant to be home
The majority of Iraqis who have returned to Baghdad from neighbouring countries are reluctant returnees and are keen to seek fresh asylum according to the UN’s refugee agency.
Greek and Cypriot leaders discuss issue of property in Cyprus
Greek and Cypriot leaders met in Nicosia on Monday to discuss the issue of property seized decades ago when the island became divided between Turkish and Greek communities.
Mexico needs strong and independent judicial system: UN expert
Mexico needs a strong and independent judicial system in order to strengthen the rule of law and fight effectively against violence, according to a United Nations independent expert on the independence of judges and lawyers.
UN biodiversity summit aims to shape global strategy to save world’s ecosystems
A new strategy to stop the accelerating loss of various plant and animal species around the world is being discussed at a conference which has opened in the Japanese city of Nagoya.
UN assesses Sudan’s needs at critical phase of peace process: UN envoy
The United Nations is assessing the needs of Sudan which is at a critical phase of the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, according to the top United Nations envoy for Sudan, Haile Menkerios.
INDONESIAN #39: FOKUS FOKUS KITA
In this week’s programme, we take a look at the contribution of civil society in the process of nation building as Community involvement has become an important element in development of Indonesia. Interviews with Ahmad Bahr, Civil Society Dialogue Facilitator A4DES (Aid for Development Effectiveness Secretariat) and Dian Kartika of the Indonesian Women’s Coalition. (duration: [...]
UN Daily News 18 October 2010
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Somalia’s displaced flee to packed temporary camps
Somalia is one of the most insecure places in the world, according to the UN refugee agency (UNHCR). The country has experienced decades of conflict and has no functioning central government, in addition to being hit by natural disasters. UNHCR is concerned about the humanitarian crisis in Somalia, where thousands of people have fled fighting [...]
Peace talks in the Middle East are at a standstill
The UN is calling for peace talks between Israel and Palestine to resume after coming to a stand still early last month. Six weeks after direct Israeli-Palestinian negotiations began in Washington, DC the talks are at an impasse. Meanwhile, the Security Council is holding an open debate on the Middle East. Jocelyne Sambira has more. [...]
New UN study links maternal mortality to the discrimination of women
Each year, hundreds of thousands of women and girls die and millions more become disabled as a result of complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Many of these preventable deaths and injuries are due to the discrimination that many women around the world face according to the United Nations Human Rights office (OHCHR). Gail Walker reports. [...]
Time is of the essence to break impasse on Middle East talks: UN official
Immediate progress is needed in the Israeli-Palestinian talks, according to the deputy head of the United Nations Department of Political Affairs.
Economic development is needed to stabilize Afghanistan: UN official
Economic development in Afghanistan can help to fight poverty and create stability in Central Asia, according to the UN Economic Commission for Europe or UNECE.
States urged to use convention to stop billions of dollars from crime
The heroin trade between South America and the rest of the world has a street value of over $70 billion a year according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime or UNODC.
UN chief calls for greater work opportunities to build prosperous societies
One and a half billion of the world’s people lack reliable employment and social security according to the United Nations Secretary-General.
Root causes of food crisis in Sahel need to be addressed: UN official
The root causes of the cyclical food crises in Africa's Sahel region need to be addressed according to the top United Nations humanitarian official.
Valerie Amos made the comments as she ended a three-day visit to the West Africa state Niger, a country where half of the population is in need of food assistance.
Gail Walker reports:
UN Daily News 15 October 2010
News and features from United Nations Radio.
The General Assembly explores the benefits of micro financing
A range of financial services for the poor, from loans and savings accounts to payment and transfer systems, have played a significant role in the fight against poverty, and more efforts are needed to ensure that these kinds of services reach the poorest who often live the farthest from banks and markets. General Assembly delegates [...]
A UN committee on women's equality is concerned about the rise in violence against women
More than 30 years after the adoption of an international anti-discrimination treaty, women still continue to encounter barriers to equality. The treaty covers several areas from access to health care to employment. One area of concern is violence against women. Across the world, there has actually been a rise in violence against women, particularly sexual [...]
St. Vincent and the Grenadines says if the concept of global governance is to have relevance and meaning, there must be some measure of consistency
To Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the United Nations must be the center of global governance because it is the country’s only option for global governance. That’s what its representative Ambassador Camillo Gonsalves told the 65th General Assembly session during debate on global issues. He said the UN’s centrality in global governance, for his country, [...]
Prime Minister Bruce Golding says the move to establish the Caribbean Court of Justice as Jamaica’s final court will have to be determined by the people of Jamaica;
The future of CARICOM- the Caribbean Community has come up for much discussion in recent months. In this the second part of an interview with jamaica’s Prime Minister Bruce Golding, I asked him what is Jamaica’s position concerning the Caribbean Court of Justice, and how he sees CARICOM moving forward, bringing itself into the 21st [...]
Jamaica warns that the scourges of the illicit trade in narcotics and small arms and light weapons constitute a major threat to development in the Caribbean;
The struggle against organized crime, corruption and trafficking in illicit drugs and human beings is too big for any one country to tackle alone. The view was expressed as the General Assembly’s Committee that deals with Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Committee began general discussion on crime prevention, and criminal justice and international drug control. Jamaica, [...]
Over 200 million people to join in Global Handwashing Day
More than 200 million schoolchildren, parents, teachers, celebrities and government officials are expected to wash their hands with soap to mark Global Handwashing Day on 15 October.
UN Daily News 14 October 2010
News and features from United Nations Radio.
South Africa is elected to Security Council
UN and Africa – a weekly 15-minute radio programme on political, social, economic and other developments related to Africa.
UN Daily News 13 October 2010
News and features from United Nations Radio.
TB to be eliminated by 2015…if support is scaled up: WHO
The world could be on its way to eliminating tuberculosis or TB over the next five years, if governments and donors scale up their support for the prevention and treatment of the disease….that’s according to the World Health Organization or WHO.
Steps are needed to shield children from disasters: UNICEF
Children in disasters should be protected more from disasters around the world, according to UNICEF.
Portrait of former Secretary-General is unveiled
The portrait of former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan has been unveiled at United Nations headquarters in New York.
Relief aid pours into northern Yemen despite volatile situation
Relief assistance to people displaced by conflict in northern Yemen is being expanded despite an increasingly volatile security situation, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
UN Daily News 12 October 2010
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Africans gather in Addis Ababa to discuss climate change
Climate change is the subject of the Seventh African Development Forum which opened in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Tuesday.
INDONESIAN #38: FOKUS FOKUS KITA
In this week’s programme, we look at global efforts against cancer and the International Labor Organization -ILO programe to reduce violence against Indonesian domestic workers. (duration: 8’27″)
Panel on Sudan referenda visits Sudan
The panel set up the United Nations Secretary-General to help with the referenda on Southern Sudan and Abyei region has started its visit to Sudan.
UN criminal court welcomes arrest of Rwandan suspect in France
The arrest in France of a Rwandan suspected of committing war crimes in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been welcomed by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Caribbean States: Attaining and surpassing the MDGs
Attaining and surpassing the Millennium Development Goals -MDGs figure prominently in The Bahamas national policy considerations. Ambassador Paulette Bethel told a high-level plenary meeting on the MDG’s that while The Bahamas has undertaken an array of activities in an effort to achieve the goals, and it is projected that the State will indeed achieve many [...]
UN war crimes tribunals appeal to General Assembly for resources, staffing support
The United Nations tribunals trying people alleged to have committed atrocities in the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda have appealed to the General Assembly for resources to complete their work.
Myanmar activists calling for a UN inquiry into crimes
UN Calling Asia – a weekly magazine programme, in English, that keeps you in touch with UN developments covering Asia and the Pacific.
UNICEF and EU rehabilitate medical facilities in Cote d’Ivoire
UNICEF and the European Union have been working together in Cote d’Ivoire for nearly five years to rehabilitate the country’s medical infrastructure and train personnel. Some facilities, such as maternity wards and pharmacies, received new roofs and windows, while basic items were distributed and new equipment installed. Gail Walker reports Duration: 2’45″ Sf clinic child [...]
World Bank initiative supports adolescent girls
Across the world, girls are prevented from learning due to poverty, social norms, or even because of long travel times between home and school. But, it makes sense and helps a country to develop…that was the message brought recently to a World Bank meeting in Washington in the US. Charles Appel reports Duration: 2’48″ It’s [...]
African forum looks at climate change and sustainable development
Africa contributes less than four per cent of total global greenhouse gas emissions, the emissions responsible for climate change. Yet the continent is especially vulnerable to the threats and challenges climate change presents. That’s the message from the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), co-sponsors of the Seventh African Development Forum which opens on Sunday [...]
Caribbean States address UN Summit
Caribbean heads of State and government were in New York late September for important meetings, including the Millennium Development Summit at the United Nations. Among them Grenada’s Prime Minister Tillman Thomas. I spoke with Prime Minister Thomas and first sought to find out what all he’s been doing in New York. We also had the [...]
UN welcomes announcement of Nobel Peace Prize for Chinese dissident
The announcement of the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize to a jailed Chinese dissident has been welcomed by UN Secretary-General.
Security Council mission arrives in Khartoum
A United Nations Security Council mission to Sudan has arrived in the Sudanese capital, Khartoum after visiting El Fasher in the troubled Darfur region.
Man accused of using child soldiers will remain in custody
The trial of a man, accused of using child soldiers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, will resume following a ruling by the Appeals Chamber of the International Criminal Court or ICC in The Hague
St. Lucia: Debate on social development
Caricom represents a set of communities with a unique and dramatic geography comprising island states and mainland masses and this creates distinctive challenges where social integration is concerned. That’s what St. Lucia told the General Assembly’s Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Committee as it opened its 65th session this week with a debate on social development. [...]
385,000 displaced people return home in Kyrgyzstan
Around 385,000 people who were displaced following ethnic fighting in the central Asian country, Kyrgyzstan, have returned home according to the UN refugee agency, UNHCR.
Myanmar activists call for UN inquiry into crimes.
On November 7, Myanmar will hold its first multi-party elections in twenty years. The UN Chief has urged its leaders to hold inclusive elections, as well as release all political prisoners. Meanwhile, Myanmar activists are in New York calling for a UN inquiry to look into alleged human rights crimes. Jocelyne Sambira has more. “When [...]
Burundian refugees return home after many years in the DRC
UN and Africa – a weekly 15-minute radio programme on political, social, economic and other developments related to Africa.
Global business leaders commit to low carbon future
Heads of major global corporations have committed to cut their carbon emission in the areas of energy, communications and construction.
UN calls for refocus of assistance to countries in protracted crises
The United Nations has identified twenty-two countries facing what it calls “protracted crises” due to a combination of natural disasters, conflict and weak institutions. These findings are contained in a report entitled “State of Food Insecurity in the World 2010 by the Food and Agriculture Organization together with the World Food Programme or WFP. Chronic [...]
Aid Agencies Express Concern for Displaced in Haiti
Around 26,000 people who lost their homes following the devastating earthquake which hit Haiti in January this year face the real possibility of being evicted from their temporary home. Accra camp located outside the capital, Port-Au-Prince, has been home to these people, which include 8000 children, for the past nine months, but it now seems [...]
Peacekeepers prepare for the upcoming referenda in Southern Sudan
Diplomatic efforts are continuing to ensure that two key referenda due to take place in Sudan remain on track. This week a United Nations Security Council delegation is visiting the country amidst reassurances from the Sudanese government that the referenda will take place. Meanwhile, on the ground the UN Mission to Sudan has been rehearsing [...]
Secretary-General encouraged by arrest of alleged leader of DRC mass rape
The UN Secretary-General is welcoming the arrest of the man allegedly behind the armed group responsible for recent mass rape in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the DRC. Ban Ki-moon was speaking to the press in New York on Wednesday, a day after the apprehension of Lt Col Mayele, who is wanted in connection [...]
22 Countries and 166 million people identified as facing chronic hunger
Twenty-two countries and 166 million people are facing chronic hunger as a result of natural disasters, conflict and weak institutions according to a report published by two United Nations agencies.
Israel is urged to restore restraint on Jewish settlements in West Bank
The United Nations Secretary-General has urged Israel to restore the freeze on building Jewish settlement in the occupied Palestinian territory in the West Bank.
Human rights in Timor-Leste improving but challenges remain
Progress has been made in key human rights areas in Timor-Leste according to a new report launched by the UN Mission in Timor-Leste or UNMIT.
Group to advise on role of women in peace making is launched in Asia
A group set up to advise governments on the role of women in peacemaking was launched by the UN Commission for Asia and Pacific (ESCAP) in Bangkok, Thailand on Wednesday.
Twelve million stateless people need help: UNHCR
Countries around the world are being urged to make efforts to help the estimated 12 million stateless people globally who have limited access to basic human rights.
UN welcomes arrest of leader of mass rapists in DR Congo
The arrest of a leader of the armed group accused of mass rapes in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been welcomed by the top United Nations official dealing with sexual violence and armed conflict.
Global financial outlook remains uncertain despite improvement in stability: IMF
Progress towards global financial stability has suffered a setback in advanced economies according to a report issued by the Washington-based International Monetary Fund or IMF.
Donors pledge $11.7 billion to fight AIDS, TB and malaria
Close to $12 billion donors has been pledged to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria for the period 2011 to 2013 following a donors meeting in New York on Tuesday.
Shortage of space affects education in Pakistan: UNICEF
The shortage of space is affecting schooling for children in the flood affected areas of Sindh province in Pakistan, according to the UN Children’s Fund, UNICEF.
Downsizing of relief agencies and weather affect health aid in Haiti
The reduction in the number of relief workers and bad weather are affecting the provision of health assistance to people displaced by the January earthquake in Haiti, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Burundians return home from DR Congo
A convoy carrying 240 Burundian refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo crossed the border back to Burundi on Tuesday.
Donors pledge billions to help UN-backed fund combat AIDS, TB and malaria
Donors have pledged billions to the help the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.
Burundian refugees return home after years in the DRC
Two hundred-and-forty Burundian refugees, some of whom have been away from their country for decades, returned home on Tuesday morning. They were repatriated from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the DRC, by the UN refugee agency (UNHCR). UN Radio’s Dianne Penn spoke on the line to Celine Schmitt, UNHCR’s External Relations Officer in the [...]
European Union Pledges 10% Increase to Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria
Members of the international community have been very busy in New York City today making pledges for to the UN’s Global Fund to fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. The European Commission has pledged a ten percent increase to the Fund – totalling $452 million for the 2011 to 2013 period. Gail Walker spoke to Andris [...]
Shortage of schools puts severe strain on Gaza education
Teachers in the developing world play a vital role in ensuring that children get a good education. Their contribution is being acknowledged today on World Teachers’ Day. In Gaza city, in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, teachers working for the United Nations Relief Agency, UNRWA are struggling with overcrowded classrooms to educate their students. Jocelyne Sambira [...]
INDONESIAN #37: FOKUS FOKUS KITA
This week’s programme looks at the family planning program in Indonesia supported by the UN Population Fund -UNFPA. (duration: 2’16″)
Sudan offers reassurances over Southern Sudan referendum
Sudan has offered reassurances that a referendum on whether the south of the country becomes independent will happen on time.
Teachers do more than imparting knowledge to children: UNESCO
The vital role of teachers in society is being highlighted on World Teachers Day, observed on 5 October each year.
Security Council is on mission to bolster peace efforts in Sudan
A Security Council delegation, jointly led by the United Kingdom, the United States and Uganda is starting a one week mission to Uganda and Sudan on Monday.
UN envoy is shocked by burning of a mosque in West Bank
The burning of a mosque in West Bank on Monday has been condemned by the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East, Robert Serry.
Morocco Strives to Create Environmentally Safe Waste Plants
Improving the quality of life in cities across the globe – especially for the estimated one billion living in slums is a major goal of UN Habitat, the UN agency that aims to provide sustainable development and adequate shelter for all. Duration: 3’20″ Inga Bjork-Klevby, the Officer in Charge at UN Habitat says cities are [...]
UN climate change chief issues call for common ground at China meeting
The head of the UN climate change secretariat, Christiana Figueres, has called on governments to accelerate their search for common ground to achieve strong action on climate change. Dianne Penn reports. Duration: 2’54″ FIGUERES 1: The bottom line is that it is no-one’s interest to delay action. Quite to the contrary, it is in everyone’s [...]
Forest biodiversity at risk: FAO
Deforestation is threatening the livelihoods of 1.5 billion people and the diversity of life in the shrinking forests, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) warned on Monday.
Security Council visits Sudan ahead of referendum
A delegation of the Security Council is expected to travel to Sudan on Monday. The mission comes ahead of the referendum on independence for South Sudan. The vote will be held in a little over 3 months from now. Daniel Dickinson reports Duration: 2’40″ NARR: In Sudan, the diplomats are expected to first visit the [...]
Key UN climate talks open in China
A final round of United Nation’s-backed climate talks has got underway in China, amidst warnings that it is in no-one’s interest to delay action.
Protracted conflicts create new refugee populations: UNHCR
A rise in drawn-out conflicts is creating semi-permanent global refugee crises, according to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Antonio Guterres.
Calling for 'Better Cities, Better Life,' UN aims to reduce urban poverty
Only a smart city can provide citizens better life in the new era of urbanization, according to UN-Habitat, the United Nations agency responsible for human settlements.
1.5 Million children to receive UN Polio Immunization in Afghanistan
One and half million Afghan children are due to be immunized as part of the United Nations campaign in Afghanistan. It follows an outbreak of polio in the north-east of the country – the first reported in more than a decade.
Calls for improved tax collection in poorest countries
Improved tax collection in the world’s poorest countries is critical for long-term development according to the United Nations.
Secretary-General calls for use of non-violence to build peaceful societies
Communities, families and individuals across the world are being urged to use non-violence to build peaceful and just societies.
UN Secretary-General condemns bombing in Nigeria
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon has condemned the car bombing in Abuja, Nigeria on Friday, which reportedly killed a number of people.
Providing shelter is major challenge as winter approaches in Pakistan
Providing shelter to people displaced by floods in Kyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab provinces of Pakistan is a huge challenge as the winter approaches, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
IOM estimates that 75 per cent of the more than 20 million people displaced by floods in Pakistan are in Sindh and Punjab provinces.
Dianne Penn reports.
Polio immunization campaign targets 5.6 million children in Angola
A polio immunization campaign targeting 5.6 million children started in Angola to stop the spread of the paralyzing disease to other African countries.
The World Health Organization (WHO) says that the spread of the disease in Angola is quickly becoming the greatest threat to polio eradication in Africa.
Jocelyne Sambira reports.
Experts find mercury levels in Nigeria 100 times higher than acceptable
A team of United Nations experts investigating pollution in villages in Zamfara State in north-western Nigeria have found that traces of air mercury are 100 times higher than acceptable maximum levels.
Governments must do more to support older persons: Ban Ki-moon
Governments are being urged to do more to support the growing number of older people across the world.
UN releases extensive report to date on Congo war massacres and rapes
Uganda’s Ambassador to the United Nations says his country firmly rejected a UN report released today that accuses the Ugandan military, and those of Rwanda and Burundi, of the murder, rape and mutilation of tens of thousands of people in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Jocelyne Sambira reports: NARRATOR: The report lists over 600 incidents [...]
Free money for older people in Malawi
Some of the poorest people in the developing world are older people – they’re often unable to work and many have no-one to look after them. HIV/AIDS has also deprived many older people of their sons and daughters, children who might otherwise bring much needed money into the household. In Malawi, old people are amongst [...]
Challenges remain in Pakistan after the floods
UN Calling Asia – a weekly magazine programme, in English, that keeps you in touch with UN developments covering Asia and the Pacific.
General Assembly brings chaos and cash to New York City
One of New York’s biggest annual events came to an end this week. The UN General Assembly attracts leaders from around the world, and causes a certain discomfort to the city’s population. But as Dianne Penn reports, there is a financial bonus: NARRATOR: Relative calm has returned to the area around the New York headquarters [...]
Sexual violence in the DRC
Women: a weekly 14-minute news magazine that looks at issues affecting women around the world.
Caribbean States: Achieving the MDGs
Although progress has been made towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals, the international community has not connected the rhetorical support from the developed world for their achievement to actual delivery. That according to Guyana’s President Bharrat Jagdeo. He told the general debate of the 65th session of the UN General Assembly that the same situation [...]
Four hundred ten thousand people living in "capital of Somalia's displaced"
410,000 displaced Somalis are now sheltering along the Afgooye Corridor, a strip of land west of the Somali capital Mogadishu, that's according to the United Nations refugee agency.
UNHCR says the number of displaced people in the approximately 20 kilometre-long strip has increased by over 40 thousand during the last 12 months.
Ben Malor reports.
UN Helicopter with relief aid makes emergency landing in Pakistan
A helicopter used by the World Food Programme or WFP to deliver food assistance in the flood affected areas of Pakistan has had to make a forced landing in Sindh province.
Charles Appel reports.
UN Secretary-General calls for peaceful resolution of crisis in Ecuador
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called for a peaceful resolution of the crisis in Ecuador in which the President, Rafael Correa, was held for several hours by rebellious police.
General Assembly: Caribbean States express their views
Caribbean States this week continued to express their views of global concern as the UN General Assembly wrapped up general debate in its 65th session. Trinidad and Tobago in a wide- ranging statement, joined the assembly in echoing the call for a world where people are again placed at the centre of the assembly’s actions; [...]
UN releases DR Congo report listing 10 years of atrocities
Tens of thousands of people were killed and many others raped over a ten-year period in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, according to a United Nations report released on Friday.
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