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UN's Commission on the Status of Women kicks off
The United Nations' Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) kicked off its 52nd session yesterday; this year's theme is financing for gender equality and the empowerment of women and the emerging issue is gender perspectives on climate change. In... [More]
Ban pledges action on water resources at the World Economic Forum
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told participants at the World Economic Forum that the United Nations will take action to address the shortage of water resources in the context of reaching global anti-poverty targets. "Our experiences tell us that environmental stress,... [More]
Help stop violence against women
The United Nations Foundation has announced that it will donate $1 dollar for each of the first 100,000 signatures to an online petition aimed at battling violence against women. 18,000 worldwide have already added their names to the campaign... [More]
UN peacekeeping chief and Sudanese officials set for talks on Darfur
The head of United Nations peacekeeping is en route to the Sudan for talks with senior government officials about the joint UN-African Union Mission in Darfur. Under-Secretary-General Jean-Marie Guehenno is expected to reach the capital, Khartoum, today to begin a... [More]
WFP: Over 1 million Afghans face food shortage
Due to an increase in prices, more than 1 million people in rural Afghanistan are at risk of food shortages, says the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). "There are as many as 1.3 million Afghans who before were considered... [More]
The United Nations is providing continuing assistance to the victims of post-election violence in Kenya. The Kenya Red Cross Society announced that it has revised the death toll up from the official number of 486 to 575, and said that... [More]
With UN help, Arab League will launch campaign for Iraqi refugees
The 22-member Arab League will work with the United Nations refugee agency to launch a large-scale campaign tomorrow to help Iraqi refugees. "The Iraqi people have suffered extreme hardship. Women, children, entire families have witnessed terrible violence and despair," said... [More]
151,000 Iraqis have died from violence in the last three years
A new study conducted by the Iraqi Government and the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) shows that approximately 151,000 Iraqis have died from violence between March 2003 and June 2006. The findings, published today on the web site of... [More]
3 million children to be vaccinated against measles
Nearly 3 million children in Niger will be vaccinated against measles as part of a UN-backed immunization campaign. "The overriding goal is to prevent measles deaths and disability, and to give each child in Niger the best start in life,"... [More]
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has outlined the UN's 2008 agenda, with an emphasis on peacekeeping, pre-emptive diplomacy, and climate change. "If the challenges ahead appear daunting, let us remember that great expectations are placed on us...The world recognizes the indispensable nature... [More]
WFP launches emergency operation to feed 1 million displaced Iraqis
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has launched $126-million year-long emergency operation to feed more than 1 million displaced Iraqis. "We hope that the food assistance we provide can help avert a much bigger crisis," WFP Iraq Country Director... [More]
Sex abuse allegations down in Liberia
The United Nations Mission in Liberia's latest report on sexual exploitation and abuse shows a marked descrease in the number of allegations against its staff. Only two allegations involving UNMIL personnel were reported from July to December 2007, the period... [More]
Ban speaks out on post-election violence in Kenya
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon released a statement on the violence in Kenya following the election results: "The Secretary General calls on the political parties and leaders to resolve their differences peacefully through dialogue and by making full use of... [More]
GA calls for a moratorium on the death penalty
In a nonbinding resolution, the UN General Assembly has called for a moratorium on the death penalty. Among the countries joining the United States in opposition to the European-led measure were Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Sudan and Zimbabwe. Opponents argued... [More]
UN staff worldwide honors Algiers vitims with minute of silence
United Nations staff around the world observed a minute of silence yesterday to honor the victims of the recent attacks in Algiers. 17 UN staff died in the attack. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said, "The Algiers attack will never deter us... [More]
Ban extends Bali stay to continue climate change negotiations
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has extended his visit to Bali in order to continue forging ahead with efforts to bring about a successful conclusion to the United Nations Climate Change Conference. UN spokesperson Marie Okabe said, "The Secretary-General has decided to... [More]
Ban speaks out on Algiers attack
Responding to the bombing in Algiers, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said the attack would not prevent the U.N. from doing its work. "This attack on the U.N. is an attack on us all and our highest ideals...I call on this General... [More]
UN campaign links African farmers to food bloggers
A United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) online fundraising campaign plans to connect farmers in rural Africa to food bloggers around the world. WFP Director of Public Policy Strategy, Nancy Roman said, "It is difficult to imagine two worlds that... [More]
UN rights expert speaks out against abuses in the Congo
After an eight-day visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Titinga Frederic Pacere, the UN Independent Expert on Human Rights for the DRC, said that the situation was "alarming" and needed immediate international support. More... [More]
UN official says world's poor need action on climate change
A senior United Nations official told the UN Climate Change Conference in Bali that a delay in addressing the issue of adaptation would be “an attack on the poor.” Yvo de Boer, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention... [More]
16 Days: Woman takes rape case to the UN
We're well into the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence campaign, but the stories of violence against women just keep coming. A Filipino woman has brought her rape case to the UN's Convention on the Elimination of all forms... [More]
Quick Hit: Series on obstetric fistula spreads awareness
RH Reality Check has launched a great blog series on obstetric fistula, which effects two million women in the developing world. Through photo essays, information spreading and ways to get involved, the blog series shines a light on this tragic--but... [More]
UNESCO Chief condemns murder of Pakistani journalist
Director-General Koichiro Matsuura of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), has spoken out against the murder of Pakistani journalist Zubair Ahmed Mujahid, who was shot in the southern province of Sindh. Matsuura called the journalist someone "who... [More]
16 Days: Take action for women in the Congo
In keeping with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence, check out Salon's Broadsheet on how to help women affected by rape in the Congo. [A]sk your reps to support the International Violence Against Women Act (S.2279), introduced by... [More]
16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence
This weekend not only marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, but it also kicked off a fantastic campaign: 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence. Founded at Rutgers Univeristy's Center for Women's Global Leadership, the... [More]
Ban speaks out on violence against women
Yesterday marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, in which governments, UN agencies and NGOs raise public awareness on the issue. To mark the day, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon pledged increased efforts by the United Nations... [More]
WFP sends relief to Bangladesh
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is sending relief in the wake of Cyclone Sidr in Bangladesh—the organization is sending food to feed 400,000 people in the affected areas. “We have to move as quickly as possible to get... [More]
UN report shows over 33 million people worldwide living with HIV
A new report released by the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that the number of people living with HIV worldwide is about 33.2 million. The data in the report, 2007 AIDS... [More]
UNHCR pledges $11 million to Iraqi refugees in Jordan
The United Nations refugee agency has pledged $11 million to help care for the hundreds of thousands of Iraqi refugees living in Jordan. Under a funding agreement signed in Amman today, the money will help the Ministry of Health enhance... [More]
Ban pledges support to Bangladesh cyclone victims
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has voiced his concern at the devastation and increasing death toll left by Cyclone Sidr in Bangladesh. Media reports say that more than 2,000 people have been reported killed as a result of Cyclone Sidr, which struck... [More]
UN Names New Chief Prosecutor at the Hague
Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has nominated Belgian criminologist Serge Brammertz as the new chief prosecutor at the war crimes tribunal in The Hague. From The New York Times: Mr. Brammertz’s candidacy became known informally this summer, but he had to... [More]
UN forum focuses on Internet resources and accessibility
The second meeting of the United Nations Internet Governance Forum in Rio de Janeiro tackled internet resources, access, how to use the internet to assist in development. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said, "The United Nations does not have a role in... [More]
Ban: Antarctica needs action on climate change
During Ban Ki-moon's visit to Antarctica, the UN Secretary General said warming temperatures on the continent mark dangers of climate change. "It is here where our work, together, comes into focus...We see Antarctica's beauty – and the danger global warming... [More]
WFP rushes aid to flood-hit Mexico
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is sending aid to 70,000 people affected by floods in the Mexican state of Tabasco. "We are moving as swiftly as possible to bring critical help to the people of Tabasco, who are... [More]
UNHCR releases video game to raise refugee awareness
An English version of a United Nations online game aimed at raising awareness about refugees, "Against All Odds," was recently released. [The game] is a reworked version of a Swedish-language game, Motallaodds, which was designed by the UN High Commissioner... [More]
International Rescue Committee to honour Angelina Jolie
Actress Angelina Jolie, Goodwill Ambassador to the United Nations High Commission on Refugees, will be honored by the International Rescue Committee tomorrow. Jolie will receive the organization's annual Freedom Award, along with UNHCR. More... [More]
Top UN rights official speaks out on Pakistan's state of emergency
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Louise Arbour, has voiced alarm at the imposition of a state of emergency in Pakistan. In a statement, Louise Arbour expressed concern about reports that leading judges, lawyers and political and human... [More]
UN-backed meeting takes on commitment to reproductive health
Experts, advocates and activists came together at a United Nations-backed meeting in Asia to call for a commitment to reproductive health for women. "Too many governments remain shackled by external pressures, outmoded laws and regulatory structures undermining reproductive health," said... [More]
UN anti-drugs conference begins in Kabul
A two-day summit aimed at stopping the flow of drugs out of Afghanistan kicked off yesterday in Kabul. The meeting, bringing together international counter-narcotics officials, is being held under the framework of the Paris Pact – an initiative launched in... [More]
Ban travels to Turkey for meeting on Iraq
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will attend a high-level diplomatic meeting on Iraq in Turkey this week. The Istanbul Expanded Meeting of Foreign Ministers of the Neighbouring Countries of Iraq will focus on ways to promote greater regional dialogue. "The... [More]
UNCHR: More than 4.4 million Iraqis have been displaced
UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, reports that violence in Iraq has displaced more than 4.4 million people. The agency estimates that 60,000 people are forced to leave their homes every month. Of these, some 2.2 million Iraqis are displaced internally,... [More]
UN agencies work together to help Somali rape victims
United Nations agencies are working together to address the problem of sexual violence in Somalia. "After years of war, rape has become a threat to women in Somalia when they move along roads, due to the presence of militia at... [More]
UN official raises concerns about the humanitarian conditions facing Palestinians
B. Lynn Pascoe, the Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, raised concerns recently about the humanitarian conditions facing Palestinians. "Economic activity and humanitarian operations will be seriously affected by the decision of Israel to further restrict access for West Bank residents -... [More]
Happy Birthday to the United Nations!
Today marks United Nations Day, the anniversary of the entry into force of the United Nations Charter on today's date in 1945. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today, "More people and governments understand that multilateralism is the only path in our... [More]
David Beckham teams up with Nothing But Nets
David Beckham joins forces with Nothing But Nets; find out how you can get involved here.... [More]
UNESCO chief condemns murder of Somali radio executive
The Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has condemned the recent assassination of the chief executive of a popular radio station. UNESCO chief Koïchiro Matsuura said "I am gravely concerned about worsening violence against journalists... [More]
Lesotho launches anti-measles drive
With financial backing from the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), Lesotho has launched a major drive against measles. The campaign aims to reach nearly a quarter of a million children under the age of five. More... [More]
UNESCO chief condemns killings of Iraqi journalists
The Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) continues to speak out on the "systematic" media killings in Iraq. Director-General Koïchiro Matsuura said recently, "I condemn the killings of Salih Saif Aldin, Jasim and Mohhamed Nofaan,... [More]
UNHCR launches HIV/AIDS awareness project in Nepal
The United Nations refugee agency has launched a project in Nepal to increase HIV and AIDS services among conflict-affected populations. Mr. Abraham Abraham, UNHCR Representative in Nepal, said, "This new programme is a result of a joint UN assessment undertaken... [More]
Bloggers worldwide issue a call to save the planet
For the first-ever United Nations-backed Blog Action Day, thousands of bloggers from across the globe will join forces to push for environmental protection. More than 12 million readers have viewed the 15,000 blogs - ranging from those promoting gardening such... [More]
VIDEO: Al Gore's response to Nobel Win
Al Gore speaks out at a press conference on his recently announced Nobel Prize win.... [More]
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has hailed the awarding of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize to Al Gore, noting Gore's "exceptional commitment and conviction, as an example of the crucial role that individuals and civil society can play in encouraging... [More]
Environment conference begins in Belgrade
The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (ECE) has started a 'carbon-neutral' environment conference in Belgrade. "Ministers and other high-level representatives will discuss environmental policy, including measures to tackle global warming. But they will not have contributed to climate change... [More]
UNICEF urges aid for Iraqi school children
Nearly six million Iraqi children are going back to the classroom this week. While UNICEF hails the return to schools as a remarkable achievement," the agency is also calling for more aid. The damaging toll of displacement and the pervasive... [More]
Conference focuses on urban crime
At a UN backed conference, over 600 delegates from 42 countries are meeting to take on crime and violence in urban environments. "The inexorable transition to a predominantly urban planet bears with it many opportunities and consequences," UN Human Settlements... [More]
Cholera continues to spread in Iraq
According to the UN World Health Organization (WHO), cholera continues spread across Iraq with more than 30,000 people having already fallen sick. Fourteen are known to have died from the disease which is often caused by polluted water, but the... [More]
UN expert speaks out on racism in France
A United Nations independent expert, after a mission to France, has noted that "visible" minority immigrants are targets of racism. UN Independent Expert on minority issues, Gay J. McDougall said, "Racism is alive, insidious and clearly targeted at those 'visible'... [More]
UN condemns attack on peacekeepers in Darfur
United Nations officials, along with Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, have condemned this weekend's attack on African Union (AU) peacekeepers in Darfur. The attack resulted in the deaths of nearly a dozen people. Ban called the attack as "shocking and brutal" and... [More]
Ban calls for ‘stronger UN for a better world’
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon opened his first annual debate of the General Assembly with a call to global leaders to back efforts to bolster the United Nations. "Our changing world needs a stronger UN...My vision is an administration focused on results... [More]
Afghan children fly kites for peace
To mark the International Day of Peace, some 100 Afghan children flew kites decorated with doves and olive branches in Kabul. Today’s event, on Nader Khan hill, was one of many around the country in the final days of a... [More]
UN hosts premiere of anti-trafficking film ‘Trade’
The world premiere of Trade, a movie highlighting the horrors of human trafficking, will be held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. Tonight's premiere of Trade is being co-hosted by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC),... [More]
First free clinic for refugee women in Kuala Lumpur
More than 300 women lined up to see doctors on the opening weekend of a UNHCR-funded center for refugee women in Kuala Lumpur. Volunteers turning up at dawn on Sunday to run the half-day clinic – organized by the UN... [More]
The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) reports that the number of people struck by a cholera outbreak in Northern Iraq has doubled to 16,000 people. "The good news was that, although the disease has spread, the number of deaths... [More]
UN adopts Declaration on Rights of Indigenous Peoples
The General Assembly has adopted a declaration outlining the rights of the world's 370 million indigenous people and outlawing discrimination against them. [T]he Declaration sets out the individual and collective rights of indigenous peoples, as well as their rights to... [More]
Executive Director of UNICEF speaks out on FGM
Ann M. Veneman, the executive director of UNICEF, penned a column for The Modesto Bee recently about the dangers of female genital mutilation (FGM). This summer, two young girls died in Egypt — one age 13, the other just 12... [More]
Top UN envoy calls for an end of violence in Afghanistan
Special Representative Tom Koenigs, top United Nations envoy in Afghanistan, has called for a total cessation of violence in the country on September 21--the International Day of Peace. "In Afghanistan, we all know about conflict and insecurity," Koenigs said. "But... [More]
Ban Ki-moon speaks out on Darfur
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called on all parties to the conflict in Darfur to create a climate conducive to peace negotiations. In a statement released in the Libyan capital, where Mr. Ban is wrapping up a three-nation trip... [More]
Ban: Darfur peace talks begin next month
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has announced that fresh peace talks to resolve the conflict in Darfur will start next month in Libya. "There must be an end to violence and insecurity, a strengthened ceasefire supported by the incoming Hybrid... [More]
Ban speaks to displaces persons in Darfur
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon met with just a few of the hundreds of thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Darfur, bringing a message of "hope, peace, security...and water." Mr. Ban spoke with Rodolphe Adada, the Joint UN-AU Special... [More]
Envoy on children and armed conflict visits Côte d’Ivoire
Radhika Coomaraswamy, the Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, has began a visit to Côte d’Ivoire; she will focus on the follow-up of action plans aimed at releasing children from armed groups and reintegrating them into their communities. Ms.... [More]
Ban kicks off first visit to Sudan
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon arrived in Sudan yesterday to check on the progress made in Darfur. "I want to see for myself the plight of those we seek to help, and the conditions under which our peacekeepers in Darfur will operate,"... [More]
UNICEF rushing emergency aid to cholera victims in Iraq
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) is providing assistance to thousands of victims of a cholera outbreak in northern Iraq. Yesterday the World Health Organization (WHO), which is leading the UN response to the outbreak, reported that Sulemaniyah governorate experienced... [More]
UN envoy to Liberia calls for an end of violence against women
The United Nations envoy to Liberia has called for an end to violence against women, stressing the importance of security. Special Representative of the Secretary-General Alan Doss remarked yesterday, "It does not matter where you are in Liberia, your security... [More]
Ban to visit Sudan, work towards peace in Darfur
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon he will be traveling to Sudan next week, to check on the peace progress in Darfur. Mr. Ban told a press conference at UN Headquarters that he is visiting Sudan and some of its neighbours "to go... [More]
Global climate change meeting kicks off
A United Nations-backed climate change meeting--drawing 1,000 representatives from over 150 governments, business, environmental organizations and research institutions--kicked off in Vienna yesterday, in preparation for a global summit in Bali. The summit, scheduled to take place from 3 to 14... [More]
UN backs conference on youth, technology and the environment
More than 180 young people from 85 different countries will meet in Germany next week to discuss the ways in which technology can be used to promote environmental protection. UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Executive Director Achim Steiner said, "Our hope... [More]
UN marks International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition
Koïchiro Matsuura, Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) marked the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition by reflecting on slavery's "tragic past" while noting that its modern forms still... [More]
UNESCO joins efforts to aid Peruvian earthquake victims
UNESCO is joining the United Nations in their effort to aid those affected by the August 15 earthquake in Peru which left some 500 people dead. UNESCO will provide assistance to Peru's Ministry of Education to assess the situation of... [More]
UN Liberia envoy hails Indian female police unit
The first all-female peacekeeping unit in Liberia was lauded by the top UN envoy to the country. Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Alan Doss, congratulated the women for their work, noting "Though a new beginning for gender equality in peacekeeping,... [More]
UN grants more than $8 million for Sudanese flood relief effort
The United Nations has granted $8.7 million to help the ongoing humanitarian relief efforts in Sudan in the wake of devastating floods. "Emergency Relief Coordinator John Holmes announced that he had approved the grant, which will be allocated among 11... [More]
UNESCO chief speaks out on death of journalist in Iraq
Koïchiro Matsuura, Director-General of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), issued a statement on the murder of journalist Adnane al-Safi. "The murder of Adnane al-Safi strikes yet another blow against peace and democracy in Iraq...His killers stand condemned... [More]
UN-HABITAT launches alliance of public water operators
The UN Settlements Programme (UN-HABITAT), which promotes socially and environmentally sustainable housing, has launched a new worldwide alliance with water operators to improve to clean water and basic sanitation. The new Global Water Operators Partnership Alliance is designed to strengthen... [More]
UNICEF supports flood-stricken Bangladesh
One month after floods devastated Bangladesh, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is still providing food, safe drinking water, sanitation facilities and shelter to those affected. UNICEF has also deployed 10 mobile water treatment plants for communities needing safe water... [More]
Conference aims to stop maternal deaths
In sub-Saharan Africa, one in every 16 women will die in pregnancy or childbirth. In Afghanistan and Sierra Leone, pregnancy and birth complications kill one in every six women. To take on the millions of maternal deaths worldwide, the UN... [More]
Ban speaks out on gender parity
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon spoke out on gender parity at all levels of the United Nations at a ceremony welcoming the first-ever all-female class of security officers. "We need to be exemplary and to be the first organization to keep the... [More]
UN approves 26k peacekeepers for Darfur
Yesterday the United Nations Security Council voted unanimously to deploy up to 26,000 peacekeepers in an effort to stop the violence in Darfur. The resolution will create the world's largest peacekeeping operation, costing about $2 billion in its first year... [More]
Women's rights activist Noeleen Heyzer chosen to head UN regional bodies
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has named leading women's rights advocate Noeleen Heyzer of Singapore, who is also the former Qatari ambassador to the United States, to head up the Bangkok-based UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP).... [More]
Rwanda abolishes the death penalty
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour has hailed Rwanda's abolition of capital punishment. "Abolition in Rwanda sends a very strong message," Ms Arbour said. "A country that has suffered the ultimate crime and whose people's thirst for... [More]
Ewan McGregor on UNICEF-backed motorcycle ride
Actor Ewan McGregor, a United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Goodwill Ambassador, is riding his motorcycle from northern Scotland to the southernmost tip of Africa in an effort to raise awareness surrounding children's issues. McGregor, along with fellow actor Charley Boorman... [More]
UN investigating possible peacekeeper misconduct
Jane Holl Lute, Officer-in-Charge of the Department of Field Support--which works with the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO)--says that investigating misconduct allegations against peacekeepers is a high UN priority. "We are not turning a blind eye to any activity anywhere,"... [More]
Iran agrees to new UN nuclear inspections
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has announced that it's reached an agreement with Iranian authorities to allow new inspections and safeguards. ...[I]nspectors will visit the heavy water research reactor at Arak by the end of this month and will... [More]
UN convention on disability rights reaches milestone
The global treaty to protect the rights of the estimated 650 million disabled people worldwide could take effect by early next year after Qatar became the 100th country to sign the pact. The Convention on the Rights of Persons with... [More]
UNFPA calls on men to take responsibility for maternal health
The United Nations Population Fund has chosen "Men as Partners in Maternal Health" as the theme of World Population Day. UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid says, "Men are equal partners in making the new life that the women will... [More]
Louise Arbour urges rights-based approach to achieving anti-poverty targets
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour has called on nations to ensure that strategies to achieve anti-poverty goals be grounded in internationally recognized human rights. She cited sobering statistics on child mortality, saying it remains "deeply troubling" in... [More]
UNHCR appeals for urgent aid for Iraqi refugees
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has urged the United States and others to assist Syria and Jordan, the two countries caring for the biggest proportion of Iraqi refugees. "It is unconscionable that generous host countries be left... [More]
UN Global Compact Leaders Summit adopts declaration on responsible practices
Business leaders attending the second UN Global Compact Leaders Summit in Geneva adopted a declaration complying with labor, human rights, environmental and anti-corruption standards. Some 4,000 organizations from 116 countries - among them trade unions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and some... [More]
Ban urges action at Global Compact Leaders Summit
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged action on climate change and other concerns in an address to the Global Compact Leaders Summit in Geneva. "This Summit is an important opportunity to take our partnership forward - in learning as well as action,"... [More]
Ban speaks out on anti-poverty goals
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says that the world's goals for fighting poverty remain achievable in most countries, but only if urgent and concerted action is taken. Addressing the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in Geneva, Mr. Ban... [More]
Ban makes surprise visit to Afghanistan
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon made a surprise visit to Afghanistan today to meet with top officials. During a four-hour stay in Kabul, the Secretary General met with President Hamid Karzai, with the leader of the Wolesi Jirga (House of... [More]
UNICEF calls for awareness-raising around HIV in Iran
A senior official from the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in Iran has called for increased efforts to prevent HIV and AIDS from becoming an epidemic in the country. "I am very impressed by Iran's social programme and in particular... [More]
Ban Ki-moon urges ratification of torture-banning treaty
Marking the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon roundly denounced torture and called on all countries to ratify the international treaty that bans it. Ban said, "Let us speak with one voice against... [More]
Meeting calls for more male facilitators in gender training
An expert-group discussion hosted by United Nations International Research and Training Institute for the Advancement of Women (UN-INSTRAW) has concluded that the number of male trainers in gender training for security personnel must be increased. With special attention given to... [More]
UNEP: Environmental degradation triggering tensions in Sudan
A new report from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) reports that environmental degradation is among the root causes of decades of conflict in Sudan. Achim Steiner, Executive Director of UNEP, says the report "has shown clearly that peace and people's... [More]
UN appeals to Kenya to allow food into Somalia
The United Nations food relief agency has appealed to Kenyan authorities to allow assistance for more than 100,000 people to be trucked into Somalia, where deliveries are being hampered. One hundred and forty WFP-contracted trucks carrying the food left the... [More]
Ban seeks more peacekeeping funds
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon visited Washington, DC yesterday in an effort to seek support for reducing the U.S. deficit in peacekeeping dues. "He's meeting with congressional leaders, mostly talking about peacekeeping funding," said Deborah DeYoung, information officer for the... [More]
UNESCO chief speaks out against murder of female Iraqi journalist
Koichiro Matsuura, Director-General of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), has has condemned the murder of Iraqi journalist Sahar Hussein Ali al-Haydari. This death follows the murder of two female Afghan journalists in recent weeks. "In only a... [More]
African women's entrepreneurial efforts stalled by discrimination
A new study by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) reports that pervasive sex discrimination is impeding African women's success in business. The study, entitled "Lessons from Success Stories of African Women Entrepreneurs," called for initiatives beyond microcredit... [More]
UNICEF calls for an end to child trafficking
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has called on governments, communities and families to increase efforts to prevent child trafficking. UNICEF Executive Director Ann M. Veneman noted that every year globally, about 1.2 million children are trafficked. "Children are trafficked... [More]
Tanzanian singer advocates for safe maternity
Stara Thomas, a well-known Tanzanian singer, is joining forces with the United Nations to advocate for safe motherhood. "In our country there is joy; in our country there is peace; in our country there is hope, but we still need... [More]
UNICEF speaks out on fatal shooting outside Afghan girls' school
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has condemned a shooting outside a girls' school in Afghanistan which left two students dead and four people injured, including a teacher. Catherine Mbengue, UNICEF Representative in Afghanistan, said "This is a heinous, cowardly... [More]
Human rights situation in Somalia worsening
A United Nations expert says that the human right situation in Somalia is getting worse: hundreds of thousands have been forced to flee their homes, others are being subject to threats, rape and violence. Ghanim Alnajjar, the Independent Expert on... [More]
UN launches guide on child rights treaty
A new publication by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights aims to serve as a research tool for children's rights advocates. "This major study documents how the Convention on the Rights of the Child came to represent a... [More]
UN Envoy: Liberian women "vanguards of peace"
The senior United Nations envoy to Liberia says that the nation's women should not just be looked on as victims of war, but as post-conflict "vanguards of peace." "Such inclusion can only be achieved through the strengthening of democratic institutions... [More]
Ban welcomes climate deal struck by G8
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon spoke about the agreement made by the "Group of Eight" to tackle global warming, saying that he "wholeheartedly welcomes that G8 leaders have agreed on a strong and early action to combat climate change." As they began... [More]
Migiro: Africa not meeting global anti-poverty targets
Deputy Secretary-General Asha-Rose Migiro says that Africa remains off-track in meeting world goals for fighting poverty, and is urging international support for the continent. Presenting an update on sub-Saharan Africa’s progress towards obtaining the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) - a... [More]
UNAIDS urges wealthy countries to show leadership on AIDS
As top officials from the Group of Eight (G8) gathered in Germany for their summit meeting, UNAIDS urged them to show continued leadership on the issue of HIV/AIDS. The Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) "urges the G8 leaders to... [More]
GA President pushes for women's public participation in the Middle East
United Nations General Assembly President Sheikha Haya Rashed Al Khalifa says that for gender equality to become a reality in the Middle East, more women must take leadership positions in the public sphere. "The Middle East is a vast, diverse... [More]
Oscar-winning actress helps launch global race for safe water
Hilary Swank, the two-time Academy Award winning actress, kicked off a race--known as the Blue Planet Run--to bring safe drinking water to 20 million people by 2015. "We're gathered here to acknowledge that for over one billion people on this... [More]
Louise Arbour "appalled" by sexual violence
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour says that she is appalled by the level of sexual and gender-based violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Burundi. "I have to say the level of sexual... [More]
UN agencies issue new guidelines to boost HIV testing and counselling
The UN World Health Organization (WHO) and the Joint UN Programme Against HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) have called for increased care and prevention services related to HIV. The prevailing model now is voluntary testing and counselling, where individuals actively seek diagnosis. But... [More]
Helping the rural poor in Cambodia
The United Nations International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has announced its support for a $11.5 million development project in Cambodia to help the rural poor. "The project will not only boost incomes, it will also lay foundations for sustainable... [More]
WHO pushes for smoke-free indoor environments
The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) has released recommendations urging that all indoor environments be completely free of smoke. The organization cites extensive evidence of harm caused by second-hand tobacco smoke in their statement. WHO Director-General Dr. Margaret Chan... [More]
Assembly President: Female UN officers are role models
General Assembly President Sheikha Haya Rashed Al Khalifa says that female United Nations police and military serve as role models in the war-torn countries where they are deployed. "Peacekeepers not only carry out their mandated tasks; they create a lasting... [More]
UN rights experts meet with Sudanese officials on Darfur
United Nations human rights experts have reported some progress in their talks with the Sudanese Government on the conflict in Darfur. The UN Experts Group on Darfur "welcomed the positive approach taken by the Government of Sudan and specific proposals... [More]
Award-winning singer Sheryl Crow supports WFP
After watching the United Nations World Food Programme's (WFP) newest Ambassador actress Drew Barrymore discuss child hunger, musician Sheryl Crow decided to support the organization as well. Crow, a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, said "I was so struck by this story that... [More]
UNEP campaign to plant billion trees hits target seven months early
UNEP's Plant for the Planet: Billion Tree Campaign met its goal--to plant a billion trees worldwide this year--seven months early after Senegal unveiled a pledge to plant 20 million trees. The campaign, announced at the recent climate change convention conference... [More]
ICC probes into Central African Republic
The Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) has announced an investigation into alleged crimes, most notably widespread rape, committed in the Central African Republic (CAR) in 2002 and 2003. "My Office has carefully reviewed information from a range of... [More]
UNICEF takes on child disarmament in Central African Republic
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has started talks with rebel groups in the Central African Republic (CAR) to negotiate the release of hundreds of child soldiers; 220 have been freed so far. Discussions have started with the full support... [More]
UN Human Rights Council elects fourteen countries to serve
Fourteen countries have been elected to serve on the United Nations Human Rights Council after a vote by Member States at UN Headquarters in New York. Angola, Bolivia, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Madagascar, the Netherlands, Nicaragua, the Philippines, Qatar, Slovenia and... [More]
Ban: Youth need better access to information technology
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has urged policymakers and industry leaders to work to ensure that young people have better access to information and communications technology (ICT). "In many instances, young people are the driving force behind innovation in the... [More]
World's first humanitarian video game launched by WFP
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has announced the launch of "Food Force," the world's first humanitarian video game for children. "Children have very few opportunities to understand the realities of a hungry world. By engaging children in a... [More]
GA President: Female entrepreneurs need better government policies
Speaking at a conference on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), President of the General Assembly Sheikha Haya Rashed Al Khalifa said that governments worldwide can help lift women and their families out of poverty by introducing more gender-sensitive policies that... [More]
UN indigenous forum takes on land, resource issues
The United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues opened its two-week session today in New York, where more than 1,000 indigenous representatives will take on issues related to lands, territories and natural resources. These matters are widely viewed as central... [More]
Darfur peace process at a "crossroads," says envoy
United Nations Special Envoy Jan Eliasson said that the peace process in Darfur is at a "crossroads," after he and his counterpart from the African Union (AU) finished their third joint visit to Sudan. Serious obstacles to the political process... [More]
Actress Drew Barrymore becomes advocate for World Food Programme
Actress Drew Barrymore has been named as an Ambassador Against Hunger for the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), and will advocate for school feeding projects. Ms. Barrymore, 32, becomes the latest Ambassador for the WFP, joining Kenyan world marathon... [More]
New climate change envoys speak out
Three climate change envoys, newly-appointed by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, say that global warming must be tackled at the international political level. The three envoys - former Norwegian Prime Minister Gro Harlem Brundtland, former Republic of Korea Foreign Minister and... [More]
Ban urges action on sanitation
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has noted that the world is lagging in its efforts to aid the number of people who lack access to decent sanitation; he called for concrete measures from Member States and civil society groups to... [More]
WFP receives $40 million donation
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has welcomed a $40 million donation from the European Commission's Humanitarian Aid Office (ECHO), to help feed over 2 million people in Darfur. Kenro Oshidari, Sudan Representative UN World Food Programme (WFP) said... [More]
Over $30 billion in commitments made at Iraq Compact meeting
A five-year plan for peace and development in Iraq was co-launched today by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, in which world leaders pledged their partnership with the Iraqi Government. Over $30 billion in financial commitments have been announced so far.... [More]
UNICEF launches handbook to help stop violence against children
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) have launched a handbook for lawmakers to help them devise strategies to protect children from violence. IPU President Pier Ferdinando Casini said, "With this handbook, we hope that parliaments... [More]
Ban names three Special Envoys on Climate Change
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has named Special Envoys for Climate Change: the first woman Prime Minister of Norway, the former President of Chile, and the President of the 56th Session of the UN General Assembly. The three envoys--Norwegian... [More]
CSD calls for policy push promoting energy efficiency
Kicking off the 15th session of the Commission on Sustainable Development, delegates in New York proposed a wide range of measures to bring modern energy services to the poor, reduce energy waste and cut climate change-causing greenhouse gases. "We need... [More]
Ban meets with Al Gore to take on environment issues
Last week, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon met with former United States Vice President Al Gore to discuss climate change. In his meeting, Ban said he was "very much encouraged by his firm commitment, as well as voluntary willingness... [More]
The United Nations refugee chief has pledged to step up efforts to improve local access to water in the Darfur region. UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Antonio Guterres toured areas adjacent to the Sudanese-Chadian border and met with African... [More]
UN human rights report: Iraq casualty figures continue to climb
According to the latest United Nations human rights report on Iraq, large-scale killings and targeted assassinations continue to impede efforts to bring lasting stability and security to Iraq. Although Government officials declared a drop in the number of killings... [More]
World Food Programme and African Union renew partnership
The African Union (AU) and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) have renewed their partnership to fight hunger and enhance food security, education and emergency response. Their cooperation agreement was signed by African Union Commissioner Rosebud Kurwijila and WFP... [More]
Ban speaks out against violence in Somalia
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called for an end to the violence in Somalia, where hundreds of people have been killed and hundreds of thousands forced to flee their homes. "The Secretary-General is gravely concerned about the continuing... [More]
International Compact for Iraq to launch next month
The United Nations-sponsored International Compact for Iraq (ICI), which seeks to consolidate peace and pursue political, economic and social development, will be launched in Egypt early next month. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said that he and Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki... [More]
UNEP honors seven with "Champions of the Earth" awards
Actress Daryl Hannah was among the awardees. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) recognized seven winners for its 'Champions of the Earth Award' at a ceremony in Singapore. UNEP chief Achim Steiner, who presented the awards, said "If we... [More]
UNHCR conference takes on the plight of displaced Iraqis
In a UNHCR-organized conference in Geneva, some 450 delegates met to discuss the nearly 4 million Iraqis who have fled their homes. "There was truly a humanitarian spirit that allowed us to work together, to work together in a committed... [More]
WHO: Violence in Iraq threatens health services
The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) says that the escalating violence in Iraq combined with a shortage of health workers is putting severe pressure on the health of the Iraqi population. A release from the WHO relays concern that... [More]
UNCHR calls for international humanitarian effort for Iraq refugees
Today the UN refugee agency opened an international conference on the humanitarian crisis facing nearly 4 million refugees and displaced people in Iraq. UN High Commissioner for Refugees Antonio Guterres called for a sustained international response. "The humanitarian dimension... [More]
UN envoy condemns latest bombings in Iraq
The senior United Nations envoy to Iraq, the Secretary-General's Special Representative Ashraf Qazi, condemned weekend bombings which targeted hundreds of civilians. Qazi "denounced in the strongest terms the bombings in Karbala, and Al Jaderyia Bridge in Baghdad on Saturday, 14... [More]
UN envoy on children: Schools must be "zones of peace"
Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict Radhika Coomaraswamy, after completing a three-day fact-finding mission to Lebanon, called on all sides in the Middle East to respect international humanitarian law to ensure that schools are "zones of peace." After visiting... [More]
Rwanda signs on for 'One UN' program
The United Nations has announced that Rwanda will participate in the "One UN" pilot program that aims to better coordinate development activities nationally. The scheme will test how the greater UN family can ensure efficient and more effective development operations,... [More]
Preventing genocide: Remembering Rwanda
Yesterday, thirteen years after some 800,000 Rwandans were murdered, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called for "a global partnership against genocide." The post of UN Special Adviser for the Prevention of Genocide -- currently held by Juan E. Méndez of Argentina... [More]
UN rights official urges action on sexual violence in Darfur
Louise Arbour, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, has called for investigations into the widespread sexual violence in Darfur. Arbour noted that based on the testimony they gathered for a new report, "it appears that rape during... [More]
UN to take part in meeting on stepping up support for Darfur
The United Nations, the African Union (AU) and the Sudanese Government will participate in a technical-level meeting next week to finalize the measures for the UN "heavy support package" to the AU peacekeeping mission in Darfur. Monday's meeting is not... [More]
HIV experts seek increased condom use for sex workers
At a UN-backed meeting in Beijing, experts called for the promotion of increased condom use for sex workers and clients as a way to stop the spread of HIV. The meeting offered an opportunity for participants to review successful local... [More]
International Day for Mine Awareness
Today, International Mine Action Day, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called on Member States to continue efforts to eliminate landmines. The International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action "is a reminder that millions of people in... [More]
Ban speaks out on peacekeeper murders
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon spoke out yesterday about the murder of five African Union (AU) peacekeepers in Darfur, saying it further illustrates the need for a hybrid UN-AU force in the region. "I would like to strongly deplore such killings,"... [More]
Ban presses for ceasefire in Lebanon
After visiting South Lebanon, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon voiced hope for peace between Israel and Hezbollah. Responding to questions at a press conference in Naqoura, Mr. Ban said both Israel and Lebanon showed interested in this goal. "It... [More]
Hybrid peackeeping force to be deployed in Darfur
The United Nations, the Sudanese Government, the African Union (AU) and the League of Arab States (LAS) have agreed to deploy a hybrid UN-AU peacekeeping force to Darfur in an effort to end violence in the region. During a meeting... [More]
UNEP: Building sector can play key role in combating global warming
A new report released by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) says that the right mix of government regulation, energy saving technologies and behavioral change can reduce global-warming carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from the building sector. The building sector, the... [More]
Sudan agrees to give humanitarian groups better access
The Sudanese government, which has been accused of holding up aid in the Darfur area, signed an agreement yesterday with the United Nations pledging to give humanitarian groups better access to the region. Under the deal, the Khartoum government would... [More]