UN Daily News 30 April 2012
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Home » 30 Apr 2012
Entries posted on “April 2012”
Eleven million people to lose their jobs by the end of 2013
Across the globe, the number of people who are unemployed continues to increase and there are no signs the situation will improve in the near future, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO). In its annual World of Work Report, the ILO says job recovery especially in Europe, is not expected before the end of 2016 [...]
General Assembly hosts concert marking first International Jazz Day
Jazz musicians from across the world will perform in the UN General Assembly hall in celebration of the first International Jazz Day observed on Monday, 30 April. They include veterans such as South African trumpeter Hugh Masekela and American saxophonist Jimmy Heath, as well as newcomers like bassist Esperanza Spalding. Award-winning pianist and producer [...]
Sheila E. represents Latin contribution to jazz on the first International Jazz Day
Drummer Sheila E. is used to sharing the stage with a crowd. In the 1980s she worked with pop music icon Prince and his multi-member band at the time, known as The New Power Generation. She also sang on the historic 'We Are the World' record which raised millions of dollars for famine relief, in [...]
Tabla master Zakir Hussain says jazz is about freedom
Rehearsals took place at the General Assembly Hall on Sunday for the first International Jazz Day to be celebrated on 30 April 2012. The hall was abuzz with jazz. Stevie Wonder, Sheila E, Jimmy Heath, Angelique Kidjo, were among the musicians doing sound checks and what not. Also in the hall was Zakir Hussain, a classical tabla virtuoso [...]
Legendary trumpeter Hugh Masekela on impact of jazz worldwide
South African trumpeter Hugh Masekela and other musicians rehearsed on Sunday in preparation for the first International Jazz Day which is being celebrated on Monday, 30 April. The day was proclaimed by the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in November 2011. UNESCO says it is intended to raise awareness of the virtues of [...]
Herbie Hancock marks the first International Jazz Day
UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock says jazz is a universal language that does not need translation. The legendary musician is taking part in a special concert, along with several other big name performers to mark the first International Jazz Day on 30 April. Mr. Hancock is one of a number of musicians performing at the [...]
Major music stars perform at first International Jazz Day concert
On 30 April the United Nations will celebrate the first International Jazz Day with a star studded musical concert. UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock will be joined by Angelique Kidjo, Wynton Marsalis, Hugh Masekela, Shankar Mahadevan, and many more musicians for the concert in the UN General Assembly Hall. There will also be events [...]
Angelina Jolie and Selena Gomez advocate for the UN
Two famous women use their celebrity to advance humanitarian causes. Angelina Jolie returned to the rural areas of Ecuador for her first mission in her new role as Special Envoy of the High Commissioner for Refugees. She has worked with UNHCR for more than 10 years. Selena Gomez took to twitter to spread the word [...]
Killing of journalist in Brazil condemned
The killing of a Brazilian journalist has been condemned by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Décio Sá, an investigative journalist reporting on politics, corruption and organized crime, was gunned down in a bar in Sao Luis, 23 April. Spokesman Rupert Colville says the Office is alarmed by his killing, [...]
Secretary-General urges young Indians to become global citizens
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is calling on young people in India to take their place in the country and the world. In an address at Jamia Millia Islamia University in New Delhi on Friday, Mr. Ban said great opportunity awaits as India emerges as a global power. Dianne Penn reports. Duration: 2’48″
UN Radio News 27 April 2011
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Visits to UN weather agency's website exceed one billion
There have been more than one billion visits to the World Weather Information Service website, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) announced on Friday. The service provides information about the weather around the globe which helps people to plan various activities such as sowing, planting, harvesting crops, sailing or engaging in other travels. The information also [...]
The road to the UN Rio+20 Summit: where are we?
Preparations for the UN Rio+20 Summit are moving along at a fast pace with just over a month to go before the world comes together to map out a plan for sustainability. It is known as Rio+20 because it marks the twentieth anniversary of the United Nations Conference on Environments and Development (Rio-92). The summit [...]
Aid for people displaced by conflict between Sudan and South Sudan
Hundreds of people displaced by the ongoing military clashes between Sudan and South Sudan are getting emergency hygiene kits from the International Organization for Migration (IOM). IOM says the items include jerry cans, buckets and water purification tablets. To help spread the word about the importance of hygiene, the agency is also giving out T-shirts [...]
HINDI #20: Antar Rashtriya Patrika
1. Women still earn only three-quarters of men's salaries. 2. Malaria in South-East Asia a major health problem. 3. A unique project in Brazil helps people to conserve water. 4. Water booths in Haiti providing clean and affordable water to poor people. Narrated and Produced by Ambalika Misra Duration: 14’00″
HINDI #19: Antar Rashtriya Patrika
1. Charles Taylor guilty of aiding war in Sierra Leone. 2. A shift in breastfeeding protocol for HIV positive women in South Africa.. 3. Titanic wreckage to be protected under UNESCO. 4. More women are needed in decision making bodies. Narrated and Produced by Ambalika Misra. Duration: 14’00″
UN chief calls for a rethink of approach to development
There is a need for the international community to rethink its approach to development, said United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. Mr. Ban spoke at the Jamia Millia Islamia University in India where he received an honorary doctorate. The Secretary-General said economic growth by itself is not enough. "The world needs inclusive growth that reduces [...]
Somalis fleeing drought and insecurity now face flooding in refugee camps
The number of Somali refugees at the Adollo Ado camp in southern Ethiopia has now reached 150,000, according to the UN refugee agency, UNHCR. The camp is receiving up to 450 refugees on a weekly basis as insecurity continues to push more Somalis across the border. In the meantime UNHCR says refugee camps in both Kenya [...]
Independence of judiciary under grave threat in Papua New Guinea
The government of Papua New Guinea is being urged to refrain from enacting laws which undermine the rule of law and interfere with the independence of the judiciary. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay cites the recent enactment of the Judicial Conduct Act, which establishes a new parallel system to deal with [...]
UN court finds ex-Liberian leader guilty of war crimes
• Former Liberian President Charles Taylor has been found guilty of war crimes. It is the first time in modern history that a former head of state has been found guilty of planning, aiding and abetting war crimes and crimes against humanity. UN officials say the verdict sends a strong signal to all leaders that [...]
Ban Ki-moon strongly condemns violence in Syria
Continued violence in Syria has been strongly condemned by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. In a statement issued Thursday, the Secretary-General says the situation is unacceptable and must stop immediately. The violence is happening as the UN prepares to deploy 300 unarmed observers that were authorized by the Security Council. Charles Appel reports. The Secretary-General [...]
Ghana leads in drive to stop mother to child HIV transmission
Preventing mother to child transmission of HIV is the focus of a new campaign by UNAIDS. The campaign, called 'Believe It. Do It,' is aimed at stopping new HIV infections among children and keep their mothers alive by promoting use of anti-retroviral drugs. It was launched on Thursday in Ghana, one of 22 countries working [...]
Worst nuclear power plant accident in history remembered
The international community has been urged to generously support the regions that were affected by the worst nuclear power plant disaster in history. The call has been made by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in his message to mark the 26th anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear power accident in Ukraine. Hundreds of emergency workers risked [...]
"Justice has been delivered" in Charles Taylor verdict: victim
Victims of Sierra Leone's brutal civil war celebrated as the guilty verdict against Charles Taylor was announced on Thursday. Many watched the proceedings live from the Netherlands on a monitor at the UN backed Special Court for Sierra Leone in Freetown. In other parts of the country the court set up areas where residents heard [...]
UN concerned about attacks on peacekeepers in Darfur
Staff members of the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) have been repeatedly attacked in the troubled region of Sudan. That's what Hervé Ladsous, the head of UN peacekeeping operations, told the Security Council during his briefing on the Secretary-General's report of the Darfur. Mr. Ladsous spoke about the danger UNAMID and humanitarian [...]
URDU #17: Bain Ul Aqwami Manzarnama
1. Joint UN and Arab League envoy says Syria situation fragile 2. OCHA drafts Syrian humanitarian response plan 3. Ban Ki-moon paves way for 300-plus observer team for Syria 4. UN Secretary-General urges both parties in Syria to exercise maximum restraint 5. Gaza urged to stop military trial of civilians by UN human rights office 6. [...]
UN court finds ex-Liberian leader guilty of war crimes
In a historic verdict, a United Nations-backed court has found former Liberian leader Charles Taylor guilty for his role in supporting rebels who committed atrocities during the civil war in Sierra Leone. His conviction marks the first time in modern history that a former head of state has been found guilty of planning, aiding and [...]
UN Radio News 26 April 2011
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Charles Taylor guilty of aiding war crimes in Sierra Leone
Former Liberia President Charles Taylor has been found guilty of aiding and abetting war crimes including murder, rape and recruitment of child soldiers during the civil war in Sierra Leone. Taylor was found to have provided military support including the provision of arms and ammunition to the rebels during the 10 year civil war. Judges at [...]
Children's lives in danger in Sahel
The Sahel region of West Africa is facing a serious food crisis brought on by drought that is threatening the lives of millions of people. The crisis in the region, which covers eight countries, has been compounded by rising food and fuel prices, as well as conflict in Mali. United Nations agencies estimate that 15 [...]
Botswana presses ahead with economic development
Botswana is one of the only three countries that have graduated from the list of least developed countries, known as LDCs, since it was established in 1971. The Southern African country was removed from the list in 1994, Cape Verde graduated in 2007 followed by the Maldives in 2011. Although graduating is a good sign [...]
Verdict in Charles Taylor war crimes trial expected
A verdict is expected in the war crimes trial of former Liberian President Charles Taylor on Thursday April 26. The proceedings, which lasted five years, were held by the Special Court for Sierra Leone in The Hague. Mr. Taylor is charged with 11 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by rebels he [...]
Saving millions from malaria with Nothing But Nets
More than a million lives have been saved over the past decade due to increased investment in malaria prevention and control, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Perhaps some of that success can be attributed to efforts such as Nothing But Nets, a campaign run by the UN Foundation in partnership with the National [...]
Securing borders against illicit materials and goods
Across the globe, insecure borders enable the trafficking of drugs, weapons, contraband, terrorist funding, materials related to weapons of mass destruction, conflict minerals, wildlife and people. The Security Council took up the issue of strengthening the boarders of countries against these illicit materials and goods, as well as people. Some Ambassadors brought up the problems [...]
UN Radio News 25 April 2011
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Egyptian authorities urged to withdraw restrictive law
Authorities in Egypt have been urged by the United Nations human rights chief to withdraw a law to control the activities of non-governmental organizations (NGOs). UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay says she is concerned about moves in a number of countries to restrict NGOs. Ms Pillay says using laws and administrative powers [...]
Member States narrow differences on mandate of UNCTAD
Member states have not yet reached agreement on the mandate of the United Nations trade and development body for the next four years, but they are making efforts to narrow differences. This message came from Taffere Tesfachew, the spokesperson for the meeting of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), taking place in Doha, [...]
Member States urged to ratify UN crime convention
Member States have been urged to ratify and implement United Nations conventions to combat organized crime and corruption. The call came from UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon as the Security Council discussed threats to international peace and security on Wednesday. The Secretary-General said regional cooperation is a key to addressing both illicit flows and human trafficking. [...]
T-3 initiative aims to combat malaria
A new initiative has been launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) in the ongoing efforts to combat malaria. According to WHO, the number of malaria cases and deaths have been reduced by more than 50 per cent between 2000 and 2010. The agency says this is due to the distribution and use of long-lasting [...]
Irregular migrants fear state violence
Migrants who go to work in other countries may not only face violence from criminals, but also from government authorities in those countries according to a UN independent human rights expert. The issue of violence against migrant workers and their families is one of the topics during the week-long session of the Commission on Crime [...]
UN chief calls for intensified efforts to defeat malaria
Efforts to combat malaria need to be intensified, says United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon in his message on World Malaria Day observed on 25 April. Mr. Ban says $3.2 billion is still needed to achieve and maintain universal coverage in Africa up to 2015 and ultimately to defeat the disease. He says under the Roll [...]
Charles Taylor faces judgement for war crimes
Judgment in the trial of former Liberian President Charles Taylor will be delivered on Thursday April 26. Judges at the Special Court for Sierra Leone will deliver a verdict on whether the former President is guilty of war crimes committed during Sierra Leone's civil war. The trial has lasted five years. Patrick Maigua Reports Charles [...]
Malaria in South East Asia a major health problem
1.3 billion people in South-East Asia are at risk of malaria and the World Health Organization says it can only be controlled if all sections of society are involved. Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected mosquitoes. WHO says with an estimated 28 million [...]
Bringing the world into better focus
A two-day United Nations-backed conference focused on developing a better global future through the power of storytelling and documentary film. The conference is a partnership between the Creative Community Outreach Initiative of the UN Department of Public Information (DPI), the Independent Filmmaker Project and the Ford Foundation. It was founded on the shared belief that [...]
UN chief calls respect of human rights of Bahraini people
Authorities in Bahrain have been urged to respect the fundamental human rights of the Bahraini people and due process concerning all detainees. The appeal has come from UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in a statement issued on Tuesday. Tensions have reportedly escalated in the Gulf state after a week of almost daily protests against the government [...]
More women are needed in decision making bodies
The Security Council has been urged to support increased numbers of women in leadership positions. The appeal came from Michelle Bachelet, the Executive Director of UN Women, an agency working for gender equality and the empowerment of women. Ms. Bachelet said that elections are the key means for more women to enter public office and [...]
Least developed countries need continued support
The United Nations recognizes that the least developed countries, known as the LDCs, need special international support to get out of poverty. More than 880 million people in the world live in these countries, the majority of which are in Africa. So, as the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) holds its conference in [...]
Security Council takes up women, peace and security
While much has been done to improve the situation of women when it comes to peace and security in the context of UN missions and resolutions of conflicts, much more needs to still needs to be done. That was part of the message delivered to the UN Security Council Tuesday during a briefing by two [...]
UN Radio News 24 April 2011
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Kofi Annan to brief Security Council about Syria challenges
UN-Arab League Joint Special Envoy Kofi Annan will brief the Security Council on Tuesday as a fragile cessation of violence in Syria enters its second week. The closed-door meeting comes days after the Council unanimously agreed to deploy a 300-strong UN Supervision Mission in Syria. The observers will join an advance team already on the [...]
Irregular migrants fear state violence
Migrants who enter other countries illegally in search of work fear the violence perpetrated by governments most, according to a United Nations independent human rights expert. François Crépeau, Special Rapporteur on the human rights of migrants participated in a debate on the issue on Tuesday during the session of the UN Crime Commission taking place [...]
Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice
The 21st Session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice opened Monday 23 April in Vienna with speakers acknowledging that transnational organized crime is one of the 21st century's key challenges and a threat to sustainable development and the rule of law. The commission is focusing on trends in world crime, how the [...]
Over a quarter of a million Malians displaced by conflict
The conflict in northern Mali has forced over a quarter of a million people to flee their homes, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). There have clashes between government troops and Tuareg rebels who want to secede, while Islamist militants who want to impose sharia law in that part [...]
Syrian cooperation with monitors "absolutely important"
The government of Syria is being urged to cooperate fully with observers deployed to monitor the cessation of violence in the country. United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told reporters late Monday that he is coordinating with the joint United Nations-Arab League Special Envoy, Kofi Annan as preparations are under way for the deployment of 300 [...]
Thousands flee border clashes between Sudan and South Sudan
The recent fighting near the border between Sudan and South Sudan has displaced some 35,000 people, according to the UN refugee agency UNHCR. The displaced are from areas around the disputed oil town of Heglig, Talodi and other parts of South Kordofan. UNHCR says it has no access to the region but is using its [...]
Displaced Syrians receive UN food assistance
Close to 250,000 Syrians are to receive food assistance from the United Nations World Food programme (WFP). Partnering with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, WFP is providing food assistance in cities such as Homs, Hama, Idleb and Damascus. WFP says it plans to double the number of those receiving assistance in the coming months. United [...]
Elimination of measles set back by major global outbreak
A deadly resurgence of measles is taking place worldwide with large outbreaks reported in Africa, Europe and Asia, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In Sub Saharan Africa an estimated 19 million children under the age of five did not receive the measles vaccine in 2010. WHO says poor public health systems coupled with [...]
UN chief to visit Myanmar at end of the week
United Nations Secretary-General is visiting Myanmar at the end of this week to meet with leaders there as the country enters what he says is "a critical moment" in its transition. Mr. Ban made the announcement late on Monday after meeting with his Group of Friends on Myanmar, made up of 14 countries and the [...]
WHO launches measles campaign: "Protect your world–Get vaccinated"
Measles is on the rise due in part to a decrease in both political commitment and funding, according to the World Health Organization. In an effort to combat the highly contagious infection, which is often deadly if left untreated, the WHO is pushing a vaccination program. This week, they are launching the "Protect your world–Get [...]
"Giant and coordinated" efforts needed to fight malaria
An estimated $3.2 billion is needed to fight malaria in Africa, over the next three years said Princess Astrid of Belgium. The Princess, who is Special Representative to the Roll Back Malaria Partnership, spoke to the press in New York ahead of World Malaria Day observed on 25 April. The Partnership includes malaria endemic countries, [...]
Immunization week rolls out in 180 countries
A week-long campaign to encourage people to vaccinate themselves and their children against deadly diseases is taking place in move than 180 countries. The World Health Organization's 'World Immunization Week' is running from 21 to 28 April. According to WHO, between two and three million deaths from diseases such as diphtheria, measles, mumps, tetanus, rubella [...]
Aerial bombings in South Sudan condemned by UN
Continued aerial bombardments of the town of Bentiu in South Sudan have been condemned by the UN mission in the country (UNMISS). According to reports, the bombing on Monday morning hit a market killing one person and injuring four others. The United Nations has expressed its concern about the escalation of conflict between Sudan and [...]
Forced displacement of 67 Palestinians condemned
The forced displacement of 67 Palestinian refugees in West Bank by Israeli authorities has been condemned by two United Nations agencies. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the United Nations Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in a joint statement on Sunday said that more than half of the displaced Palestinian refugees [...]
UN forum stresses potential of youth as force for progress
This generation of youth is the largest in history and it is also the focus of the 45th session of the Commission on Population and Development. The Secretary-General says the world's young people have their eyes wide open. They are informed as never before. They are connected to one another. And they care. That is [...]
Women still earn only three-quarters of men’s salaries
Economic policies should be more responsive to the needs of women and more instrumental to achieving inclusive development. This is the message delivered by the head of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, to a high-level event in Doha, Qatar. The Women in Development meeting coincided with the session of UNCTAD, which is [...]
UN Radio News 23 April 2011
News and features from United Nations Radio.
United States urged to repeal laws criminalizing homelessness
United States authorities have been urged by three United Nations independent human rights experts to repeal laws that criminalize homelessness. The experts on extreme poverty, housing, and water and sanitation welcomed a US federal report which recognizes that the criminalization of homelessness may violate the human rights of homeless persons. The study has been done [...]
World Book Day 2012 celebrates the work of translators
World Book Day is celebrated annually on 23 April. The day was chosen as some of the world's greatest writers either were born or died on that day, including William Shakespeare, Cervantes and Vladimir Nabokov. These authors and many others are read by people the world over thanks to the work of translators. Dianne Penn [...]
Syrian authorities need to do more to end violence
Syrian authorities need to immediately stop using heavy weapons and to withdraw military forces from population centres. That's what the head of the UN Department of Political Affairs, Lynn Pascoe told the Security Council during a briefing on the Middle East on Monday. The Syrian government has agreed to stop violence as part of the [...]
Youth cannot survive on hope alone: Ban Ki-moon
Young people need more than hope for a secure future, says UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. Mr. Ban spoke at the start of the 45th session of the Commission on Population and Development in New York on Monday. The session is focusing on adolescent youth. The Secretary-General said the world's young people, who are aware of [...]
Darfur remains a concern for international community
Darfur is still a major concern for the international community, according to the French ambassador to Sudan. Ambassador Patrick Nicoloso was part of a delegation of ambassadors of the five permanent members of the Security Council that paid a one day visit to El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur on Sunday. The ambassadors of China, [...]
Harmony with nature on World Earth Day
International Mother Earth Day is being observed on April 22. In 2009, the General Assembly proclaimed the day to promote awareness of the interdependence between human beings, other living species, and the planet. Earlier in the week at the UN a debate was held on the importance of harmony with nature and the role of [...]
UN observer mission to be deployed to Syria
A week after sending an advance monitoring team to Syria, the Security Council has authorized deployment of a full UN observer mission to the country. Following the vote, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed hope that the UN Supervision Mission in Syria (UNSMIS) will help end the killing and suffering. A UN-monitored cessation of violence is [...]
Doha trade meeting explores solutions to the global economic crisis
New policy ideas and bold action will be required for the world to recover from the global economic crisis. That is the message from UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in an address to the latest meeting of the UN Trade and Development Conference (UNCTAD) which opened on Saturday in Doha, Qatar. UN Deputy Secretary-General Asha-Rose Migiro [...]
Security Council reiterates strong condemnation of military coup in Guinea-Bissau
The Security Council has called for Guinea-Bissau to return to constitutional order following a military coup last week. The council also demanded the immediate release of the country's interim president, prime minister and other officials who have been held in detention. United States ambassador Susan Rice is Security Council president for April: "The Security Council [...]
Security Council establishes UN Supervision Mission in Syria
The Security Council has authorized the establishment of a UN observer mission to monitor the cessation of violence in Syria. Council members on Saturday unanimously adopted a resolution to deploy 300 unarmed military observers to the country. The Russian Federation was among the co-sponsors of the resolution. Vitaly Churkin is the country's ambassador to the [...]
"Silent Shout" promotes UN convention for disabilities
Finnish rap artist Signmark, who was born deaf, brought his sign-language rap music to New York to promote the human rights of people with disabilities. He gave two "Silent Shout" performances, one inside UN headquarters and another outside that drew a large crowd. While Signmark performed in American Sign Language, rapper Brandon Bauer provided the [...]
Loss of biodiversity threatens the earth
As the world celebrates Earth Day on April 22, some experts say more effort needs to be made to stem the loss of biodiversity. The United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) says targets have not yet been met by some countries that have signed onto the pact. The loss of biodiversity means that many [...]
South Sudan forces to withdraw from oil-rich Heglig region
Agnes Oswaha, Acting Deputy Permanent Representative of South Sudan to the UN South Sudan says its forces will withdraw from the contested Heglig region of Sudan within the next three days. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon earlier this week called on South Sudan to withdraw from the oil-producing region, and for Sudan to stop bombing its [...]
Sudan says it has expelled South Sudanese forces from contested region
Sudan says it has expelled South Sudanese troops from the oil-producing Heglig region. Sudanese ambassador Daffa-Alla Elhag Ali Osman told reporters on Friday that his country had exercised the right to self-defence in expelling the forces from its territory. "I would like to reiterate that we are a peace-loving country. We will not aggress and [...]
UN trade chief says finance should not be the "master" of development
As the world moves to recover from recession, finance should be used to better serve development goals. That is the message from the head of the UN Trade and Development Conference (UNCTAD), speaking on the eve of its latest meeting which opens in Doha, Qatar on Saturday. UNCTAD chief Supachai Panitchpakdi said financial markets and [...]
Musician Michael Franti uses his artistry to Envision a better world
Michael Franti often sings about social issues and has been using his music and other artistic endeavours to advocate for the environment. He recently took part in an event held by Envision, a UN initiative that brings together the creative community with scientists and the corporate world to work towards a more sustainable future. Mr. Franti says [...]
Global forum discusses investment for sustainable development
More than 600 representatives of governments and corporations have gathered in Doha, Qatar, to discuss investments for sustainable development. The World Investment Forum, convened by the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), is focusing on investments in poor countries. UNCTAD says that state investment funds, known as SWFs, can play a critical role in [...]
Armed groups in Darfur urged to join peace process
The top envoy of the United Nations and the African Union in the Darfur region of Sudan has called on armed movements there to abandon fighting and join the peace process. Ibrahim Gambari made the appeal on Friday following attacks on three towns in the southwestern part of the region early this week. He says [...]
Actress/director Angelina Jolie expands her role as an advocate for refugees
In the movies, the actress and director Angelina Jolie has played characters ranging from a tomb raiding archaeologist ('Lara Croft: Tomb Raider') to a tough-as-nails CIA agent ('Salt'). She was even the voice of an animated tiger in the popular 'Kung Fu Panda' movies loved by children all over the world. But effective this week, [...]
Nuclear discussions by Security Council include North Korea
The UN Security Council stands ready to take additional action against North Korea if it continues with rocket launches or attempts any nuclear tests. The country has already been officially condemned by the UN Security Council over its failed launch of a so-called "application satellite" on April 13. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says that condemnation [...]
UN Daily News 20 April 2012
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Preparations under way for humanitarian operations in Syria
United Nations relief agencies and their partners are making preparations for humanitarian operations in Syria. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) says that one million Syrians are in need of urgent assistance inside the country. At the same time the UN refugee agency (UNHCR), is helping Syrian refugees who fled to neighbouring [...]
Sanitation and water for all partnership aims to boost global access
For hundreds of millions of people around the world, safe water and proper sanitation remain a challenge according to the UN Children's Agency (UNICEF). Ministers from several dozen countries, both developed and developing, are meeting in Washington, DC to discuss ways of speeding up global access to these basic necessities of life. The April 20 [...]
Syrian refugee appeal underfunded: UNHCR
A humanitarian appeal to help people fleeing the violence in Syria remains underfunded, the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) reported on Friday. The agency said less than 20 per cent of the $84 million requested had been received one month after the UN and its partners launched the appeal. UNHCR spokesperson Melissa Fleming said the money [...]
Gaza urged to stop military trial of civilians
Authorities in Gaza have been urged to stop using military trials and executing civilians. The appeal has come from the UN human rights office which says it is "seriously concerned" that the military courts are sentencing civilians to death and executing them. It says that so far this year, six death sentences have been passed, [...]
Measles outbreak continues to stalk malnourished children in Yemen
A measles outbreak in Yemen has now claimed the lives of 177 children and left 4,000 infected according to the UN Children's fund UNICEF. Efforts to contain the outbreak are being hampered by insecurity and a near breakdown of health services following last year's political crisis and violence. UNICEF says most of the affected children [...]
UN prepares to respond to Syria's humanitarian crisis
The United Nations plans to mobilize $180 million to fund humanitarian operations inside Syria. A draft humanitarian response plan prepared by the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) says one million Syrians were in need of urgent assistance in the country. The Syrian authorities are yet to approve the response plan. Speaking in [...]
Violence remains a problem in Africa says Tanzanian scholar
Violence continues to be a serious problem in Africa, according to a Tanzanian scholar. Dr. Lindah Mhando says the causes of violence include unemployment, the unequal distribution of resources and marginalization of women. She has edited a book entitled "Birthing Masculinity". African countries continue to make steady progress in continue to Dr. Mhando spoke to [...]
Syria's cessation of violence remains fragile as killings continue
One week into the cessation of violence in Syria, the situation remains fragile with civilian casualties and killings being reported daily, according the joint UN and Arab League Special Envoy Kofi Annan. He says although the Syrian authorities were cooperating to a certain extent, the situation on the ground is not good. Mr. Annan says [...]
Growing Chinese investment in Africa
Chinese investment in Sub-Saharan Africa has been on the rise in recent years. In 2008, it peaked at more than $5 billion dollars. However, some controversy does surround the issue. Right now the increasing investment is having a major impact on African growth. But will it continue? Amy Held speaks with Antoinette Sayeh, the director [...]
Envoy warns of potential humanitarian crisis in Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Bissau could be facing a humanitarian crisis, the UN envoy for the country told the Security Council on Thursday. Joseph Mutaboba reported that although life appears to be returning to normal following the 12 April military coup, the situation is still tense and volatile. He reported that people have been leaving the capital city, Bissau, [...]
UN pays tribute to late President Mutharika of Malawi
• The UN General Assembly this week paid tribute to late President Bingu Wa Mutharika of Malawi. Representatives of regional groups and the United States as the host country praised the late president for his role in fighting hunger and poverty in his country. President Mutharika passed away on 5 April 2012. Hostilities between Sudan [...]
UN Daily News 19 April 2012
News and features from United Nations Radio.
UN envoy strongly condemns deadly bombings in Iraqi
The top UN envoy in Iraq has condemned a series of deadly bombings on Thursday which killed at least 35 people and injured hundreds in the country. The attacks occurred in several cities, including the capital, Baghdad. Martin Kobler, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, called on the Iraqi people to remain steadfast in the [...]
Secretary-General requests more UN observers for Syria
The United Nations and the Syrian government have worked out a deal for the UN observers in the country who are tasked with monitoring elements of the six-point peace plan. The agreement outlines the functions of the observers and the responsibilities of the Syrian government. Similar discussions are taking place with the opposition. Meanwhile, the [...]
Mexico meeting seeks to bridge broadband gaps in the Americas
The full rollout of broadband technology in the Americas is the topic of a meeting under way in Mexico City on Thursday. The forum has been organized by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), the UN agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs). Dianne Penn reports. Representatives from some of the world's top ICT companies, as [...]
Secretary-General paves the way for 300-strong observer team for Syria
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has recommended the establishment of a UN Supervision Mission for Syria. It is to comprise 300 military observers supported by a civilian component. Mr. Ban spoke to journalists following a closed door meeting of the Security Council on Thursday. "This is not a decision without risk. But I believe it can [...]
Almost 2.5 billion people are excluded from formal banking
Three quarters of poor people around the world don't have a bank account, according to a report issued by the World Bank on Thursday. The survey conducted last year of about 150,000 people in 148 countries found that more than 75 per cent of adults earning less than $2 a day did not use a bank. [...]
UN and Syria conclude agreement on mandate for observers
The United Nations and Syria on Thursday concluded an agreement concerning the mandate of UN observers deployed to the country. The agreement also covers implementation of the six-point peace plan proposed by UN-Arab League Special Envoy, Kofi Annan. That information comes from Ahmad Fawzi, who is Mr. Annan's spokesman, in a statement released on Thursday. [...]
Number of displaced people drops in Africa
The number of people who are internally displaced by conflict and violence in Africa has been declining since 2004, according to a new report. The Global Overview 2011, People Displaced by Conflict and Violence was compiled by the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (iDMC) and the Norwegian Refugee Council. The report shows a total of 26.4 [...]
Millions uprooted by armed conflicts and weather related disasters
Over 3.5 million people were newly displaced around the world in 2011 as a result of armed conflicts and weather related disasters. This represented a 20 per cent increase over displacements in 2010 according to a joint report by the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) and the Norwegian Refugee Council. The report says the uprising in North [...]
HINDI #18: Antar Rashtriya Patrika
1. Special campaign to raise awareness of landmines dangers. 2. World Health Day focuses on older people. 3. Water's role in food security. Narrated and Produced by Ambalika Misra Duration: 14″
HINDI #17: Antar Rashtriya Patrika
1. Remembering the 800,000 victims of genocide in Rwanda. 2. Football tournament raises awareness of polio vaccine in Pakistan. 3.Fighting human trafficking to end violence against women and children 4. WHO brokers deal on tobacco smuggling. Narrated and Produced by Ambalika Misra Duration: 15″
Secretary-General calls for Mali junta to end military rule
The UN Secretary-General calls for the military junta in Mali to complete the full transfer to civilian rule. In a statement on Wednesday, Ban Ki-moon is also calling on the junta to refrain from any further actions that might undermine the restoration of constitutional rule in the country. An interim president was recently appointed in [...]
Navi Pillay calls for integration of human rights in development
Human rights should be a part of the discussions and final outcome of the upcoming conference on sustainable development known as Rio+20 to be held in Brazil in June this year. That recommendation comes from UN Human Rights chief Navi Pillay. She says a strong message at the end of the conference which integrates environmental, [...]
$380 billion lost in disasters in 2011
2011 was the worst year on record for economic losses from disasters. That's according to the UN Officer for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR), which says these losses totaled $380 billion. On Wednesday the office launched an online Local Government Self-Assessment Tool. It allows cities to identify gaps in planning and investing for risk reduction. And [...]
Actor & Goodwill Ambassador Don Cheadle works for the environment
Don Cheadle may be well known for his on screen work, but it's his off screen efforts to let the world know about environmental issues that he is trumpeting ahead of the Rio+20 Sustainable Development conference. The actor and UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Goodwill Ambassador says the issue is one that effects everyone and eventually [...]
WHO and Syrian government to bring mobile clinics to desperate areas
The World Health Organization (WHO) is working to post mobile clinics in areas of Syria where there are no functioning health facilities. The joint effort involves the Syrian Family Planning Association and the country's Ministry of Health. Dr. Ibrahim Betelmal is WHO's Representative in Syria. He says the clinics, which are basically buses, will be [...]
Impact of sanctions on Côte d'Ivoire reviewed
Although Côte d'Ivoire has made significant progress over the past year, challenges still remain, Security Council President Ambassador Susan Rice of the United States said on Wednesday. Ambassador Rice spoke to reporters following closed door consultations on the impact of sanctions on the West African nation. The sanctions stem from the conflict that followed the [...]
UN Daily News 18 April 2014
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Situation in Syria "a moving target"
The situation in Syria has been described by the President of the Security Council as a "moving target". The Council is expected to receive an assessment from the UN Secretary-General related to the authorization of observers to Syria. A six-man advance team is in Syria to monitor the ceasefire which came into effect on 12 [...]
WHO mobile health clinics to hit the road in Syria
The World Health Organization (WHO) is working to post mobile clinics in areas of Syria where there are no functioning health facilities. The joint effort involves the Syrian Family Planning Association and the country's Ministry of Health. The mobile clinics are basically buses that are being refitted with medical equipment and supplies. WHO says doctors, nurses [...]
Mother Earth Day celebrated at UN in advance of April 22
In recognition of the life and sustenance that the planet and its ecosystems provide to the earth's inhabitants, International Mother Earth Day is observed on 22 April each year. The United Nations marked the day for the third time in New York on Wednesday with an inter-active dialogue entitled "Harmony with Nature". The forum was [...]
General Assembly highlights the importance of harmony with nature
The role of science in sustaining life while protecting the environment is the focus of a General Assembly debate on Wednesday. The event, entitled 'Harmony with Nature,' is being held in commemoration of International Mother Earth Day. Rafael Archondo is Bolivia's deputy ambassador to the UN: "Bolivia believes that the regenerative capacity of the planet [...]
Secretary-General calls for swift action in tackling Sahel crisis
The international community is being urged to act quickly to avert what UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called the "cascading crisis sweeping the Sahel." The region, which covers eight countries in Africa, has been hit by severe drought. The Sahel is also affected by rising food and fuel prices as well as conflict in countries [...]
Finnish deaf rapper brings his music to the UN
A deaf rap artist from Finland uses his music to change attitudes towards people with disabilities. Signmark, also known as Marko Vuoriheimo was born deaf. His passion for music and determination has made him the first deaf person in the world to get a record deal with Warner Music. He uses sign language to create [...]
FAO warns of potential rise in diet-related illnesses in Europe and Central Asia
Obesity and heart disease could become health challenges for Europe and Central Asia within the next two decades, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). FAO warns that as people consume more meat and dairy, the rate of diet-related illnesses could rise in parts of the region. The findings come in a report to [...]
URDU #16: Bain Ul Aqwami Manzarnama
1. Violence in Syria as ceasefire goes into effect 2. Critical Thursday for implementation of peace plan : Ban Ki-moon 3. Serious repercussions in the region if Syria does not comply, says Kofi Annan 4. Humanitarian workers and aid expanding in Syria 5. Political instability in Mali fueling human rights violations 6. Risk of sanitation [...]
Rapper Signmark raises the roof at the UN to promote disability rights
Signmark Visitors to the UN on Tuesday were treated to a performance by Finnish rapper Signmark who uses the power of music to help change attitudes towards the deaf and people with disabilities The rapper, who is deaf, performed in support of the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Brandon Bauer raps [...]
Security Council urged to convince Sudan and South Sudan to stop fighting
Continued hostilities between Sudan and South Sudan are causing growing concern at the United Nations. On Tuesday the Security Council was told that the two countries "are locked in a logic of war." The comment came in an informal interactive dialogue between council members and UN Special Envoy Haile Menkerios and former South African President [...]
World Bank calls for stepped up anti-HIV efforts in Africa
African governments, development partners and donors have been urged to intensify efforts to prevent HIV as national treatment programmes for AIDS could become unsustainable in the future. That warning comes from the World Bank in a report released on Tuesday. An estimated six million people worldwide receive antiretroviral therapy, more than five million of whom [...]
"World economy slowly improving but remains fragile: IMF"
Prospects for the global economy are slowly improving but risks remain according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). In its latest World Economic Outlook, the IMF warns about the danger of a renewed financial economic crisis in Europe. The report also highlights the threat of disruptions to the world's oil supply both of which it [...]
IMF predicts "slow" growth in global economy in 2012
The global economy is expected to grow 3.5 per cent this year, rising to 4.1 per cent in 2013, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its latest forecast released Tuesday. The IMF has described this growth as "slowly improving" but "fragile." Olivier Blanchard is IMF chief economist: "So our baseline is that growth [...]
Titanic wreckage to be protected under UNESCO convention
Now that the Titanic has turned 100, it is being protected by a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Convention on the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage. On the night of 14 April 1912, the ship struck an iceberg off the coast of Newfoundland in the North Atlantic and sank the next day. [...]
UN Daily News 17 April 2012
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Hostilities between Sudan and South Sudan cause concern
Continued hostilities between Sudan and South Sudan are causing growing concern at the United Nations. In an incident Sunday at least seven people died and several others were wounded when Sudan bombed the town of Mayom in Unity State. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called on the leaders of the two countries to immediately end [...]
Hurricane committee retires the name "Irene" from list of Atlantic storms
The name "Irene" has been retired from the official list of names for Atlantic tropical storms following the destruction caused by its namesake hurricane in August 2011. The decision was made by the hurricane committee for the Americas, which is part of the World Meteorological Office (WMO), during its recent annual meeting. WMO spokesperson Claire [...]
Geneva to host Syria humanitarian forum
The UN office in Geneva has announced that a humanitarian forum on Syria will be held on Friday. Directors of the humanitarian aid departments of various countries are expected to attend the event in Geneva. UN spokesperson Corinne Momal-Vanian says the forum will be co-hosted by the UN relief agency (OCHA), the Organization of Islamic [...]
UN monitors start work in Syria
The first group of UN monitors is in Syria to begin its work. The unarmed observers will report on the implementation of the ceasefire brokered by joint UN-Arab League special envoy Kofi Annan. The team comes from the UN's Department of Peacekeeping Operations. Spokesman Kieran Dwyer says the monitors have been meeting with Syrian authorities, [...]
Angelina Jolie appointed Special Envoy of the UN refugee commissioner
Hollywood superstar Angelina Jolie has been appointed Special Envoy of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. Ms. Jolie will work on behalf of High Commissioner Antonio Guterres to facilitate lasting solutions for people displaced by conflict. The appointment is an expansion of Ms. Jolie's 10 years of service as a Goodwill Ambassador for the UN [...]
UN mission concerned about aerial bomb attacks in South Sudan
Recent bomb attacks in South Sudan have killed eight people and injured 22 others, the United Nations mission in the country (UNMISS) reports. The mission is concerned about continued aerial bombardments of civilian areas in Unity and Warrap states. Corinne Momal-Vanian is a UN spokesperson in Geneva: "Over the weekend, UNMISS confirmed several bombings including [...]
UN committee says Denmark should compensate Iraqi refugee family
A UN anti-racism committee is recommending that Denmark compensate members of an Iraqi family who were victims of a violent attack eight years ago. In a statement on Monday, the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination said the Danish authorities failed in their obligation to investigate the incident. Up to 35 people participated [...]
General Assembly pays tribute to late President Mutharika of Malawi
The late President Bingu Wa Mutharika was remembered by the General Assembly as it met on Monday. The late President Mutharika passed away on Thursday, 5 April 2012 after suffering from cardiac arrest at his official residence at Lilongwe. An economist by training, he became the President of the Republic of Malawi in 2004 and [...]
UN Daily News 16 April 2012
News and features from United Nations Radio.
General Assembly remembers President Mutharika of Malawi
The General Assembly on Monday paid tribute to the late President of Malawi, Bingu Wa Mutharika, who died earlier this month. Algerian ambassador Mourad Benmehidi spoke on behalf of the African Group. He said Africa will remember President Mutharika "as a true nationalist" who was devoted to the progress of his country and continent. "Building [...]
UN monitors arrive in Syria as violence continues despite cease fire
The UN advance monitoring team is on the ground in Syria, getting down to the business of making sure that a fragile ceasefire holds. Six team members arrived in Damascus on Sunday, with more to follow. By the end of the week the UN expects to be about 30 observers from its peacekeeping department in [...]
Timor-Leste applauded for presidential election
The people of Timor Leste went to the polls on Monday to elect their president in a second round of voting. The two candidates are opposition leader Francisco Guterres and Taur Mtan Ruak. Incumbent President Jose Ramos Horta came in third in the first round of the election last month. United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon [...]
Security Council warns of new sanctions against North Korea
The Security Council on Monday unanimously adopted a presidential statement which provides for new sanctions against North Korea. This follows the country's failed launch last week of a so-called "application satellite" which the council has strongly condemned. United States ambassador Susan Rice is the Security Council president for April: "The Security Council directed its North [...]
UN observers arrive in Damascus
The advance team of UN observers in Syria on Monday began setting up their headquarters in the country's capital, Damascus. The six observers will monitor the days-old ceasefire proposed by UN-Arab League Joint Special Envoy Kofi Annan, in his peace plan for Syria. Ahmad Fawzi, spokesman for Mr. Annan, says the monitors are also reaching [...]
UN monitors enter Syria to start work
Six members of the United Nations' advance monitoring team have begun work in Syria as the violence there continues. The advance party is from the UN’s Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO). They arrived in the capital of Damascus on Sunday, a day after the UN Security Council passed a resolution authorizing their deployment. More observers [...]
UNESCO concerned over looting in historic city of Timbuktu
The UN cultural agency is appealing to the authorities in Mali to help prevent loss or destruction to artifacts related to the country's "extraordinary history." Irina Bokova, head of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), is concerned that rebels have looted centres in the historic city of Timbuktu containing thousands of ancient books [...]
UN condemns Taliban attacks in Kabul
The United Nations has condemned Sunday's brazen attack in the Afghan capital Kabul by suspected Taliban insurgents. The insurgents targeted the central district of Kabul where several Afghan institutions and foreign embassies are located. Attacks were also reported in Nangarhar, Logar and Paktia provinces in what the Taliban said was part of their “spring offensive”. [...]
Syrian ceasefire fragile as monitors arrive
The United Nations says the ceasefire in Syria remains fragile, with several sporadic acts of violence reported since it came into force on Thursday last week. United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is appealing to the Syrian government and opposition forces to exercise maximum restraint and allow the ceasefire to hold. The Secretary-General says the political [...]
Actress & Goodwill Ambassador Mira Sorvino fights human trafficking
Actress and Goodwill Ambassador Mira Sorvino uses her star power in the fight against human trafficking, especially when it comes to women and girls. She was at the UN recently to take part in an interactive dialogue on the issue. It is estimated that, across the globe, 2.4 million people are forced to endure the [...]
Secretary-General says Syria monitors will be deployed “as soon as possible”
The advance monitoring team authorized by the Security Council will be deployed to Syria "as soon as possible," according to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. Speaking in Geneva on Saturday, Mr. Ban welcomed the council’s unanimous vote in favour of sending the monitors, and expressed his gratitude for "the strong political support" from its 15 members. "I [...]
Security Council votes to send observers to Syria
![Security Council chamber [UN file photo].](http://www.unmultimedia.org/radio/english/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/sc.jpg "Security Council Chamber")
The Security Council has adopted a resolution to deploy an advance monitoring team to Syria. All 15 council members voted in favour of the resolution, which has been welcomed by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the UN-Arab League Joint Special Envoy Kofi Annan, who has been mediating a solution to the country's crisis. Syria has [...]
A shift in breastfeeding protocol for HIV positive women in South Africa
For more than a decade, HIV positive mothers in South Africa were assured they could stop the transmission of the virus that causes AIDS by not breastfeeding their babies. So, instead these women feed their infants formula. But by not breastfeeding, they were exposing them to other deadly childhood killers like diarrhea and pneumonia. Now [...]
Security Council unanimously votes to send observer team to Syria
The Security Council on Saturday unanimously adopted a resolution to send an advance monitoring team to Syria. The resolution authorizes the deployment of up to 30 observers to monitor the ceasefire in Syria as proposed by UN-Arab League Joint Special Envoy Kofi Annan in his peace plan. United States ambassador Susan Rice, Council president for April, spoke [...]
Secretary-General and UN-Arab League envoy welcome Security Council resolution
Kofi Annan and Ban Ki-moon (file photo) The Security Council's adoption of a resolution to deploy monitors to Syria has been welcomed by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the UN-Arab League Joint Special Envoy for Syria, Kofi Annan. "We were both very relieved and happy that the council has passed a unanimous resolution authorizing the [...]
United Kingdom welcomes Security Council resolution
The United Kingdom has welcomed the Security Council resolution to send monitors to Syria. In his address to the chamber following the vote, UK ambassador Mark Lyall Grant said he regretted that it came after the Syrian people had suffered "unimaginable brutality" for more than a year. "The relative de-escalation of violence achieved on 12 April was [...]
UN supports community policing in Timor-Leste ahead of presidential run-off vote
This month, Timor-Leste returns to the polls for the second round of presidential elections. Two men—Francisco Guterres and Taur Matan Ruak—are the candidates in the run-off. The UN Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste, known as UNMIT, has been helping the Timorese government by supporting the national police force, including through community policing. Daniela Traldi reports. Duration: [...]
North Korea satellite launch criticized
The attempt by North Korea to launch a satellite into space on 13 April has been criticized by the United Nations. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says it is not only in violation of a Security Council resolution but also threatens regional stability. The rocket carrying the satellite disintegrated and crashed into the sea a few [...]
Sinking of Titanic remembered on 100th anniversary
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the RMS Titanic which struck an iceberg on 14 April and sank in the north Atlantic as it travelled from England to New York City. This year also marks the start of the protection of the wreckage of the ship under the UNESCO Convention on [...]
Security Council to move on draft resolution for observer mission to Syria
The UN Security Council is meeting behind closed doors in connection with the deployment of an advance observer mission to Syria. It is expected that up to 12 personnel will travel to the country ahead of a possible full mission that could comprise up to 250 observers. Dianne Penn reports. Duration: 2’39″
UN condemns military coup in Guinea-Bissau
The UN Security Council as well as the Secretary-General have condemned the coup in Guinea-Bissau and urged all parties to refrain from violence. US Ambassador to the UN Susan Rice, who is Council President this month says the military in the West African country arrested the Prime Minister, as well as the acting President. In [...]
Titanic disaster at sea ushers in International Maritime Organization
The Titanic disaster of 1912 spawned the first International Safety of Life at Sea Convention, paving the way for the UN's International Maritime Organization which governs safety. One hundred years ago on 14 April, the Titanic struck an iceberg, while on her maiden voyage between Europe and the United States. Within a few hours, [...]
Apparent military coup in Guinea-Bissau
The military in Guinea-Bissau has reportedly taken control of the West African country. The apparent coup comes just two weeks before a presidential election runoff. Vladimir Monteiro, the spokesperson for the UN Integrated Peacebuilding Office in Guinea-Bissau says Thursday night, gunfire and fighting could be heard, but by Friday the situation there was very different. [...]
IOM needs $10M to help Sudanese fleeing fighting
Thousands of Sudanese refugees continue to flee fighting and aerial bombardments in Sudan’s Blue Nile State. Sudan and South Sudan have been battling over the oil rich region and recently the fighting has escalated. The UN's refugee agency, along with the International Organization for Migration have teams in South Sudan’s Upper Nile region to assist [...]
Fighting between government and militants in Pakistan displaces 181,000
The number of people displaced in northwest Pakistan by an ongoing government security operation against militant groups has now surpassed 180,000, according to the UN's refugee agency. In response, UNHCR has distributed 37,000 humanitarian relief kits which include items such as sleeping mats and jerrycans, while other UN agencies such as UNICEF, WHO and WFP [...]
Access to water improves but challenges remain
There has been considerable improvement in access to water, sanitation and hygiene or WASH, according to a new reported unveiled on Thursday. Interestingly enough, the United Nations report is called the Global Analysis and Assessment of Sanitation and Drinking Water or GLASS. However, the report, released by the World Health Organization and UN-Water stresses that [...]
Syria cease-fire holding, but tanks remain in civilian areas
The cease-fire in Syria remains in place although heavy weaponry was still present in many residential areas, according to the joint UN and Arab League Special Envoy Kofi Annan. Mr. Annan says the withdrawal of armored vehicles from residential areas is part of the cease-fire agreement and needs to be implemented. He also says Syrian [...]
UN deplores North Korea's failed satellite launch
The United Nations has deplored the failed attempt by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to launch a satellite into space. The launch conducted on 13 April ended in failure after the rocket carrying the satellite broke up and crashed into the sea shortly after lift-off. In a statement issued in Geneva, UN Secretary General Ban [...]
Security Council to debate sending observer mission to Syria
The Security Council is consulting on the possibility of sending an observer mission to Syria. This follows a request from the UN-Arab League Joint Special Envoy on Syria, Kofi Annan, who briefed council members via videoconference on Thursday. Dianne Penn reports. Duration: 3’51″
Humanitarian disaster looms in Sahel region of West Africa
• A disaster is in the making in the Sahel region of Africa plagued by drought and conflict. UN agencies estimate that 15 million people don't have enough food. They warn that approximately 1.5 million children are on the brink of starvation. The agencies say that only half of the $724 million required to respond to the [...]
Songwriters use music to teach children about The Mighty Sky
Annie Roboff and Beth Nielsen Chapman are used to working with stars. As songwriters, they have written tunes for artists such as country music superstar Faith Hill, her husband, Tim McGraw, and the late pop diva, Whitney Houston. But now the two talented friends are working with another group of stars: the ones in the [...]
UN Radio News 12 April 2011
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Sudan and South Sudan urged to resolve their differences amicably
The United Nations is calling for an end to border hostilities between Sudan and South Sudan. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon appealed to the leaders of both countries to meet urgently to negotiate a durable solution to their differences. During a Geneva press conference Thursday, the Secretary General reiterated an earlier call by the Security [...]
Freedom of the skies
A drama portraying the creation of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the UN body in charge of rules of airspace, aircraft registration and safety. Duration: 29′ Language: English Genre: Drama 1954
Political instability in Mali fueling human rights violations
Reports are emerging of grave human rights violations in the rebel held region of northern Mali. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay says civilians have been killed, robbed, raped and forced to flee. Ms Pillay also says the risk of sectarian violence is increasing as a result of tension among different ethnic groups [...]
Security Council demands S. Sudan troops withdraw from disputed oil town
The UN Security Council says it is considering what action to take against South Sudan and Sudan if the countries do not end the hostilities and fighting. Members were briefed on the situation Wednesday and are demanding that the South Sudan Army (SPLA) withdraw from Heglig a town just east of the disputed oil rich [...]
Book of Life celebrates memory of Rwandan genocide victims
It has been 18 years since the genocide in Rwanda, and on Wednesday the UN remembers the victims in its annual commemoration of this tragedy. Rwandan playwright Odile Gakire Katese has compiled what she calls 'The Book of Life.' It features some 100 letters from widows and orphans to their lost loved ones, but also [...]
Water for Loma
This programme describes the building of pumps and the fight for access to clear water in El Salvador. Language: English Genre: Report 1955 Duration: 14’38″
Marlon Brando: The Well of Happiness
American actor Marlon Brando narrates the success story of a Bolivian village that builds a water well with the help of the UN Technical Assistance Administration. Language: English Genre: Drama 1956 Duration: 4’43″
UN Radio News 11 April 2011
News and features from United Nations Radio.
‘More and Better Jobs in South Asia’
South Asia is a vast swath of land extending from Afghanistan to the west and Bhutan in the east and from the Himalayas to the Maldives. Covering 8 countries, it has a population of over one and a half billion inhabitants. Over half a billion of them are poor and half a billion are young [...]
Security Council wants Sierra Leone to consolidate peace in the country
The Security Council is calling on the Government of Sierra Leone to continue efforts to consolidate peace in the country. In a presidential statement, council members noted the progress achieved in a number of areas including national reconciliation, the promotion of gender equality and the preparation for national and local elections in November. US Ambassador [...]
Earthquake rocks Indonesia; UN ready to assist
A powerful earthquake has hit just southwest of Simeuleu District in Aceh province Indonesia, triggering a tsunami warning. The Indonesian Meteorological agency registered it at 8.9 on the Richter scale. So far there were no reports of major damage and a tsunami has not occurred. OCHA Chief in Jakarta, Ignacio Leon Garcia says the United [...]
Syria says it will comply with peace plan, but reserves right to defend itself
Syria says it will abide by a peace deal, but reserved the right to respond to any attacks, according to the Joint Special Envoy. Kofi Annan says he received a letter Wednesday from the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Syria informing him of the decision "to cease all military fighting throughout Syrian territory as [...]
Number of people with dementia is growing
As the world population gets older, the number of people living with dementia is also growing. That's according to a new report entitled: "Dementia: a public health priority”, published by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Alzheimer’s Disease International. It says that nearly 35.6 million people are living with the brain disease that leads to [...]
Remembering the 800,000 victims of the genocide in Rwanda
Victims of the genocide in Rwanda are being remembered by the United Nations. It was in 1994 that extremist Hutus massacred about 800,000 people, mainly Tutsis and moderate Hutus. This year's theme is "learning from history to shape a bright future" and in a video message Secretary-General Ban Ki- moon says Rwanda has done just [...]
Survivor of Rwanda genocide helps others in the United States
The United Nations is this week remembering the 1994 genocide in Rwanda when extremist Hutus massacred about 800,000 people, mainly Tutsis and moderate Hutus. This year's theme is "learning from history to shape a bright future". The United Nations Secretary-General says that Rwanda has learned from the appalling tragedy of 1994 and so has the [...]
Dementia cases on the rise, but disease still largely ignored
The number of people living with dementia is expected to increase from the current 35.6 million to more than 115 million over the next three decades according to the World Health Organization. Dementia is a brain disease that leads to loss of memory. Although it affects people all over the world, more than half of [...]
URDU #15: Bain Ul Aqwami Manzarnama
1.Syria says it will start withdrawing troops from civilian areas 2.Security Council urges Syria to implement its commitments 3.Armed groups disrupt UN food agency's work in Mali 4.Violence against women : UN expert urges Papua New Guinea to curb violence against women 5.UN chief calls for elimination of landmines 6.Agreement reached on eliminating illicit trade [...]
UN Radio News 10 April 2011
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's Google+ Hangout
The UN Secretary-General will take part in a Google+ Hangout with young people on 10 April. It's the first time Ban Ki-moon has used this particular social media tool to connect to the next generation. Julie Walker reports. Topics expected to be discussed are issues concerning young people, Ban Ki-moon’s priorities, and the use of [...]
UN response to the Sahel humanitarian crisis hit by lack of funding
Lack of funding is compromising efforts by aid agencies to respond to the growing humanitarian crisis facing the Sahel region of West Africa. United Nations humanitarian agencies operating in the region say donor fatigue has been taking its toll on the response with only half of the nearly $800 million required to respond to the crisis [...]
New World Bank strategy for West Bank and Gaza
The World Bank is giving $US 55 million to support development assistance to the West Bank and Gaza. The bank says the funds will be used to promote private-sector growth and strengthen public institutions. In a statement the organization said "the Bank's support will continue to focus on strengthening the institutions of a future Palestinian [...]
Mediations continue in Mali over constitutional order following coup
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon commended the continued efforts by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to help restore constitutional order in Mali. His spokesman Martin Nesirsky says there are two tracks being addressed, the need to restore constitutional order and need to restore territorial integrity. He says some progress has been made on the [...]
UN urges respect for human rights in Jonglei as disarmament continues
The United Nations is urging security forces in South Sudanese to ensure that human rights are respected as the civilian disarmament process continues in the country’s Jonglei state. The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) says that while the disarmament process has largely been peaceful and orderly, there have been reports of human rights violations [...]
Finance and the Good Society
Many blame the financial sector for the current economic downturn, but in his new book "Finance and the Good Society", Robert Shiller aims to change that way of thinking. Following the 2008 global economic crisis, the financial industry came under fire. Complex financial instruments were blamed for causing the worst downturn in more than half [...]
Water project in Haiti benefits 80,000 residents
A UNICEF-supported water project is targeting 50 of the poorest neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The programme, which repairs water systems damaged by the earthquake, will benefit some 80,000 people. UNICEF says the improvements to the community are especially popular with the children, who finally have a safe place to play. As for the water, it [...]
Disarmament of civilians proceeds well in South Sudan
The government of South Sudan is continuing to remove weapons from civilian hands. The United Nations mission in South Sudan (UNMIS) says the disarmament programme, which started on 12 March, has been preceding well despite some reports of human rights violations. UNMISS has been helping the new country since it voted to secede and declared [...]
Red Cross to expand activities in Syria
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) says there are growing humanitarian needs in Syria because of the ongoing unrest and violence in several parts of the country. The President of the ICRC Jakob Kellenberger was in Syria last week where he discussed with authorities the expansion of the agency's humanitarian work in the [...]
Humanitarian workers and aid expanding in Syria
Syria is allowing the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to expand its humanitarian work in the country according to the aid agency. The ICRC also says the Syrian government has agreed to halt fighting in order for the humanitarian organization to evacuate the wounded. The agreement was reached when ICRC president Jakob Kellenberger [...]
Syria peace deal may be in danger
With the deadline looming for Syria to pull its troops out of civilian areas, the peace deal looks like it may be in trouble. The UN-Arab League joint special envoy Kofi Annan had brokered a 10 April deal with a 48 hour window for a complete cessation of hostilities on both sides. His spokesman Ahmad [...]
UN Radio News 06 April 2011
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Disarmament project in Central African Republic needs support
The Central African Republic is making efforts to disarm, demobilize and reintegrate fighters into society but needs support from the international community. That's what the head of the UN Peacebuilding Office in the country (BINUCA) told a meeting of the Friends of the Central African Republic held at United Nations headquarters in New York [...]
Protect rights of Roma communities, say UN experts
Governments around the world are being urged to protect and promote the rights of the Roma communities. The call has come from seven United Nations independent human rights experts on International Roma Day which is observed on 8 April. The experts stress that renewed commitment, targeted action and adequate resources should be devoted to resolving [...]
Siege of Sarajevo remembered
Many reporters have gathered in Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina for the commemoration on 6 April of the start of the siege of the city 20 years ago. It followed the declaration of independence by Bosnia and Herzegovina during the breakup of the former Yugoslavia. The siege of Sarajevo lasted for nearly four [...]
Central African Republic needs help to demobilize fighters
The international community is being urged to support ongoing efforts to create stability in the Central African Republic. The call has come from the head of the United Nations peacebuilding office in the country, Margaret Vogt. She said that $19 million dollars is needed to complete the programme of the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of [...]
World population is rapidly ageing
Urgent action is needed to ensure that people reach old age in the best possible health. That's the message of the World Health Organization (WHO) on World Health Day which is observed on 7 April each year. WHO says that by the middle of this century, almost two billion people will be over 60 years [...]
Rwandans get along 18 years after genocide
On 7 April, the international community remembers the horrific slaughter that took place in Rwanda 18 years ago. From that day, and for approximately 100 days, extremist Hutus massacred around 800,000 people, mainly Tutsis and moderate Hutus, in the tiny east African country. As part of efforts to help heal the wounds and forge a [...]
World Health Day focuses on older people
In the next few years, and for the first time ever, there will be more people over 60 years of age than children less than five years old in the world. That's what the World Health Organization (WHO) is saying on World Health Day which is observed on 7 April each year. The agency [...]
“Race Against The Machine”
Are machines taking over the work of people and if so is this a good or a bad thing? The book "Race Against The Machine: How the Digital Revolution is Accelerating Innovation, Driving Productivity, and Irreversibly Transforming Employment and the Economy" tackles the topic. It was written by Erik Brynjolfsson and Andrew McAfee, who offer [...]
Hostilities force UN food agency to stop operations in Mali
• Fighting in Mali has forced the World Food Programme to temporarily halt operations in a number of areas mainly in the north of the country. Several WFP offices and depots have been closed after they were looted and food stocks stolen from warehouses. The agency has been helping about 100,000 people in that region. [...]
Titanic to be protected under UNESCO convention
The wreck of the huge RMS Titanic which struck an iceberg and sank on 12 April will soon be protected under a United Nations convention. The UNESCO Convention on the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage applies to remains submerged for at least 100 years. Donn Bobb reports. April 12 this year marks the 100th anniversary [...]
UN chief urges rebels in Mali to end violence
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has joined the UN Security Council in demanding that the rebels in Mali stop all violence and seek a peaceful solution through political dialogue. The rebels in the north of the country are reported to be conducting attacks, looting property and taking territory. Mr. Ban has also strongly condemned the [...]
Urban dwellers in Africa and Asia to increase by over 2 billion
The number of people living in urban areas in Africa and Asia is expected to increase by more than two billion over the next four decades, according to a new United Nations report launched on Thursday. The United Nations Department of Social and Economic Affairs, which issued the 2011 revision of the World Urbanization Prospects, [...]
UN Daily News 5 April 2012
News and features from United Nations Radio.
Syria tells Peace Envoy it has started withdrawing troops, still violence continues
The Syrian government has told Joint Special Envoy Kofi Annan that it has started withdrawing its troops from civilian areas in line with his six-point peace plan. But the UN is concerned that the violence continues and the death toll which it estimates to be at 9,000, is rising. Meanwhile, Mr. Annan is calling for [...]
Armed groups disrupts UN food agency's work in Mali
Activities of armed groups in Mali have disrupted the operations of the World Food Programmes (WFP) which is helping the people in need in the country. The agency says that the displacement of people continues, particularly in the northern part of the country where Tuareg rebels are fighting government forces. WFP spokesperson in Geneva, Elisabeth [...]
Hostilities force UN food agency to stop operations in Mali
In Mali, the ongoing military hostilities have forced the World Food Programme (WFP) to temporarily halt operations in a number of areas mainly in the north of the country. Several of the UN food agency's offices and depots have been closed after they were looted and food stocks stolen from warehouses. WFP spokesperson in Geneva, [...]
Syria needs "small, nimble" UN mission, says envoy
The violence in Syria cannot be addressed through the means of a traditional observer mission deployed between two armies, according to the joint special envoy of the United Nations-Arab League. Kofi Annan told the General Assembly that a United Nations team arrived in Syria on Thursday to start technical preparations for the potential deployment of [...]
Accountability, rather than impunity, for all acts of violence against women
The UN Special Rapporteur on violence against Women is calling on the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea to do a better job when it comes to protecting women. Rashida Manjoo was recently in both places urging the governments to launch programmes that to keep women safe and reinforce the laws that govern violence against [...]
Papua New Guinea urged to stop violence against women
Authorities in Papua New Guinea have been urged by an independent United Nations expert to stop violence against women. Rashida Manjoo, the Special Rapporteur on violence against women has concluded her first fact-finding mission to the Pacific island country. Ms Manjoo said violence against women is "a huge" problem in Papua New Guinea and the [...]
Security Council urges Syria to implement its commitments
The Security Council has urged Syria to urgently implement all the commitments it has made to withdraw its forces from populated areas by 10 April. The Security Council met on Thursday, after Syria told the Joint United Nations-Arab League Special Envoy, Kofi Annan, that it had started withdrawing its troops from civilian areas. The [...]
Myanmar moves forward following historic elections
Myanmar is facing a number of challenges as it transitions to a freer and fairer society according to the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the country. Tomás Ojea Quintana says the democratic election was a positive step forward. He hopes the outcome, which includes a parliamentary seat won by Daw Aung [...]
Fighting human trafficking to end violence against women and children
It is estimated that, across the globe, 2.4 million people are forced to endure the crime of human trafficking at any one time. They do so in forced labour, in domestic servitude, in sexual exploitation, and in every country and every region of the world. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime, UNODC, estimates that [...]
Syria to start withdrawing soldiers from civillian areas
The Syrian government says it will begin withdrawing its troops from civilian areas in line with the peace plan drawn by the joint UN and Arab League Special Envoy Kofi Annan. The troop withdrawal is to start in the cities of Daraa, Idlib and Zabadani. A complete troop withdrawal is expected to be completed by April [...]
Libyans are urged to stop factional fighting
Factions around towns in the north-western part of Libya have been urged by the United Nations to stop fighting. An outbreak of clashes between hostile ethnic groups in the towns of Zuwara, al-Jumail and Regdalin has reportedly left more than a dozen people dead. The United Nations Support Mission in Libya says it is deeply [...]
Myanmar moves forward following historic elections
Myanmar is facing a number of challenges as it transitions to a freer and fairer society according to the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the country. Tomás Ojea Quintana says the democratic election was a positive step forward. He hopes the outcome, which includes a parliamentary seat won by Daw Aung [...]
Security Council condemns attacks by rebels in northern Mali
The Security Council has strongly condemned the continued military attacks by Tuareg rebels supported by radical Islamists in northern Mali. In a statement on Wednesday, the 15-member Council called on the rebels to immediately stop all violence. It also urged all politicians in Mali to engage in political dialogue to find a peaceful solution to [...]
Football tournament raises awareness for polio vaccination in Pakistan
In Pakistan, a first ever 'united against polio' football tournament raises awareness for polio vaccination. The country is one of three in the world where polio remains endemic. Despite 20 years of sustained efforts to eradicate the disease, 198 cases were reported in 2011. Julie Walker reports. Duration: 2’52″
More research on influenza done in developing countries
Influenza is posing a public health challenge for poor and developing countries, according to a special theme issue of the Bulletin of the World Health Organization, published this month. The World Health Organization (WHO) says the theme issue is an important contribution to the debate on influenza. Derrick Mbatha reports. The Bulletin of the World [...]
Attack on theatre in Mogadishu condemned
A suicide attack at a theatre in the Somali capital which has killed at least six people and injured scores of others on Wednesday has been condemned by the top United Nations envoy in the country. The Al-Shabaab insurgents have claimed responsibility for the attack which took place at Mogadishu's National Theatre during a celebratory [...]
WHO brokers deal on tobacco smuggling
A global agreement has been reached to try and put an end to tobacco smuggling. The World Health Organization (WHO) says the practice makes smoking cheap and cheats countries out of profits from tobacco. WHO says tobacco kills nearly six million people a year from cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes and other illnesses. The deal was established [...]
UNESCO calls for harnessing power of science to benefit people
There is a need to harness the power of science for sustainable development, according to the head of the UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Irina Bokova spoke in Nairobi, Kenya on Tuesday, where African ministers gathered to discuss how science, technology and innovation can create jobs for young people. Donn Bobb reports. The [...]
Agreement reached on eliminating illicit trade in tobacco products
Agreement has been reached on a protocol to eliminate illicit trade in tobacco products. The agreement sets the rules for combating illicit trade in tobacco products, defines unlawful conduct and measures to be taken by various governments to cooperate in enforcing the new treaty. More than 135 countries have been participating in the Inter-governmental [...]
HINDI #16: Antar Rashtriya Patrika
1. Syria to withdraw troops from populated areas by 10 April. 2. Bhutan advocates happiness as a measure of economic growth. 3. Extreme weather events expected to increase due to climate change. 4. Leaving behind sustainable peace after the peacekeepers have left. Narrated and Produced by Ambalika Misra Duration: 15’00″
It's a crucial time for human rights in Chad says UN official
The government of Chad has a difficult task in improving human rights in the country, according to the Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights. Kyung-wha Kang spoke at the end of her visit to Chad where she met with senior officials including President Idriss Deby, representatives of civil society organizations and heads of United Nations [...]
UN chief calls for elimination of landmines
Governments around the world have been urged to work with the United Nations to eliminate landmines and explosive remnants of war for a safe sustainable world. The call comes from UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in a message marking the International Day of Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, observed Wednesday 4 April. The Secretary-General [...]
Landmine awareness day – Lend your Leg campaign
The United Nations estimates that more than one million people have been killed or injured by landmines in the past 30 years. April 4 is landmine awareness day and the Lift Your Leg campaign wants everyone to get into the act by rolling up their pant leg to bring awareness to the problem. Although landmine [...]
Syria to be a major topic during US Presidency of Security Council
Susan E . Rice, Permanent Representative of the United States of America and President of the Security Council for the month of April The United States assumes the Presidency of the UN Security Council for the month of April. Ambassador Susan Rice says Syria will continue to dominate much of what the council focuses on [...]
United States hopes for Security Council action on Syria
The United States hopes that the Security Council will take action against the government of Syria if it does not withdraw its forces from populated areas and stop the use of heavy weapons by 10 April as it has promised. That's what Ambassador Susan Rice, the President of the Security Council told reporters when she [...]
URDU #14: Bain Ul Aqwami Manzarnama
1. Kofi Annan asks Syrian government to declare cease-fire immedialely 2. UNHCR reports rise in LRA attacks in central African countries 3. Outbreak of measles in Yemen kills 177, infects 4,000 infants, UNICEF 4. Security Council expresses concern over political cooperation in Yemen 5. Political transition : Yemen ambassador tells Security Council, country facing “grave [...]
Blood donation campaign launched in Darfur to save mothers
A blood donation campaign has been launched by United Nations agencies in the Darfur region of Sudan to save the lives of mothers. According to the United Nations, 25 per cent of women who die while giving birth is caused by excessive bleeding due to lack of adequate blood for transfusion. The United Nations Population [...]
Resumption of Israeli Palestinian direct talks crucial says UN chief
It is crucial for Israeli and Palestinian leaders to resume direct talks aimed at reaching an agreement for a two-State solution. That's the message UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon sent to the UN International Meeting on the Question of Palestine, held in Geneva on Tuesday. Mr. Ban said that obstacles have again prevented Israelis and Palestinians [...]
Malnutrition continues to threaten millions of children in Sahel
At least one million children continue to face the threat of severe acute malnutrition in the Sahel region of Africa, according to the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). UNICEF is pushing to raise awareness about the nutrition crisis in the semi-dry region which stretches from the Atlantic Ocean through northern Senegal eastward to Sudan. UNICEF [...]
Palestinian school in Gaza gets support from United Arab Emirates
A school for Palestinians in the Gaza is getting support from a foundation in the United Arab Emirates for the second year. The Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation signed an agreement in Abu Dhabi on Monday to extend its support to the Khalif Bin Zayed Al Nehayan educational facility in Beit Lahia, Gaza. Donn [...]
Fighting human trafficking to end violence against women and children
It is estimated that, across the globe, 2.4 million people are forced to endure the crime of human trafficking at any one time. They do so in forced labour, in domestic servitude, in sexual exploitation, and in every country and every region of the world. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) estimates that [...]
Former child soldiers in Africa form hip hop group
Some former child soldiers in Africa are taking their experiences and turning them into rap songs. The five ex-child soldiers who met at a UNICEF supported transit centre in Bukavu, the Democratic Republic of Congo formed a hip hop group called 'The Flavour Boyz”. The boys, along with others, were captured or freed by government [...]
UN chief calls for action against human traffickers
Human traffickers have no place in the world the international community is striving to build. That's the message delivered by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to a meeting on fighting human trafficking held in New York on Tuesday. Mr. Ban called on all governments to combat human trafficking while adhering to international human rights standards. [...]
UNICEF calls for inclusion of nutrition in development
The UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) has appealed for the inclusion of nutrition security as an essential element of every development plan. UNICEF says providing nutrition to children is as critical as clean water and as indispensable as education to achieving the Millennium Development Goals by the target date of 2015. Charles Appel reports. The [...]
Blood donation campaign to save mothers launched in Darfur
Twenty-five per cent of maternal deaths in Darfur are caused by excessive bleeding due to lack of adequate blood for transfusion. The UN Country team in Darfur, with the United Nations Population Fund(UNFPA), in the lead, launched a blood donation campaign programme for all of Darfur to address this pressing need. Charles Appel reports: Duration: [...]
Healthy lifestyle key to a healthy and active old age
The number of people aged over 60 years is growing rapidly and are expected to outnumber the children under the age of five within the next five years according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The organization is calling for more attention to the health status of older people and a change of attitudes [...]
UN agencies worry over humanitarian situation in Mali
United Nations agencies are expressing grave concern over the humanitarian situation in Mali, where thousands of people have been displaced by fighting and severe food shortages. The insecurity and political instability stemming from the recent coup has worsened the situation. The United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) says the north of the country is becoming more [...]
Education of boys and girls critical for progress: UN chief
Providing education to boys and girls is essential for the development of societies, said United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Monday. The Secretary-General spoke at Colombia University in New York where he said young people are a force for transformation. The Secretary-General said the three Es which are important for young people are education, employment [...]
Syria agrees to a withdraw troops by April 10
The joint UN-Arab League envoy for Syria told the Security Council Monday that the country will complete the withdrawal of troops and heavy weapons from populated areas by April 10 according to US Ambassador Susan Rice. Envoy Kofi Annan has also urged the Council to give Syrian President Bashar al-Assad those 10 days to fully [...]
Parliaments essential to political life – new UN report
Parliaments are today more essential to the political life a country, according to a new report released on Monday. The first Global Parliamentary Report was issued by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP). Derrick Mbatha reports. The report examines the changing nature of parliamentary representation. It says that people are today questioning [...]
Syria to withdraw troops from populated areas by 10 April
The Syrian government has committed itself to withdraw all military forces from population centres and stop the use of heavy weapons by April 10. That's what the President of the Security Council in April, Ambassador Susan Rice of the United States told reporters after a briefing of the Council by the Joint United Nations -Arab [...]
UN offers support to flood victims in Fiji
The United Nations has offered support to Fiji where floods caused by heavy rains have affected hundreds of thousands of people. According to reports, the floods have caused river banks to burst in Viti Levu the main island in the small island country in the South Pacific Ocean. There are also reports that a state [...]
Disarmament work needs to be brought back on track
A lack of political will is affecting the work of United Nations bodies dealing with disarmament issues, according to the President of the General Assembly. Ambassador Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser told the opening of the 2012 session of the UN Disarmament Commission (UNDC) in New York on Monday that disarmament bodies are at a crucial juncture [...]
Steve Jobs exhibition opens at United Nations Geneva office
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is celebrating past and present inventors with the exhibition "Visionary Innovators" that highlights the work of Steve Jobs. The show on view at the UN's Geneva offices also covers the work of other inventors who have transformed the way the world lives including Thomas Edison, the father of the [...]
Greater investment needed to help people with autism
More investments in the social, education and labour sectors are crucially important to tackle the health challenge of autism. That's the message from UN Secretary Ban Ki-moon on World Autism Awareness Day observed on 2 April each year. He said the day is observed to spur action and draw attention to what he called "the [...]
Making happiness count in measuring national wealth
Gross National Product, or the total value of a country's economic activity for a year, has long been used to measure progress. But is GNP the only indicator of national wealth? Since the 1970s Bhutan has been experimenting with another yardstick that ties prosperity to well-being. Charles Appel reports. Duration: 2’58″
New initiative helps deliver medicines to Africa
A new initiative has been launched to ensure that Africa has access to essential, high quality, safe and affordable medicines. The East African Community (EAC) Medicines Registration Harmonization Project in Arusha, Tanzania, launched on 30 March, brings together a number of organizations. Donn Bobb reports. The East African Community (EAC) Medicines Registration Harmonization Project in [...]
Bhutan advocates happiness as measure of economic growth
The measurement of economic growth should not be limited to national income but should include happiness of a country's people, according to the Prime Minister of Bhutan. Speaking at a high-level event at UN headquarters on Monday, Prime Minister Jigmi Thinley said economic growth should be holistic. He said it should strengthen communities, protect the [...]
Forum seeks to boost African investment in science, technology and innovation
Helping Africa meet the demand for quality higher education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, is one of the goals of a three-day meeting underway in Nairobi, Kenya. The first Africa Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) for Youth Employment, Human Capital Development and Inclusive Growth, has been organized by several bodies including the [...]
DNA helps African-American filmmaker discover her "strong" heritage
On March 25, the UN paid tribute to the millions of African victims of the transatlantic slave trade. African-Americans, like other people of African descent in the New World, are often curious to know just exactly who their ancestors were and where they came from. Gerry Adams spoke to documentary filmmaker Leslie K. Brown, who [...]
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