The SG: In a statement today, the SG reaffirmed his concern for the deteriorating situation in Ukraine and announced that USG for Political Affairs Jeffrey Feltman will travel to Moscow and Kiev next week to “promote de-escalation and work toward a peaceful resolution to the crisis.”
Security Council: The SC had a formal meeting on Ukraine today with a briefing from the USG for Political Affairs, Jeffrey Feltman. The Republic of Korea holds the presidency for the month of May and briefed the SC on the program of work, which will include a high-level open debate on non-proliferation.
UNICEF: The SG reappointed Anthony Lake as Executive Director of UNICEF today after meeting with UNICEF’s Executive Board.
South Sudan: UNHCR and WFP are urging parties in South Sudan to help provide safe access to humanitarian aid. Currently, fighting near key routes is preventing supply deliveries.
CAR: A UNHCR employee was abducted and killed yesterday in Bangui. The incident is still under investigation.
Afghanistan: OCHA is coordinating with local Afghan authorities to help with relief and rescue efforts after a mudslide.
DRC: A recent attack on the UN Mission in the DRC’s base was confirmed to be Mayi-Mayi Janvier, part of APCLS.
OHCHR: The office said Clayton Lockett’s April 29 execution in Oklahoma may be cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment under international human rights law. In the past, UNHRC and the Committee against Torture have called for the U.S. to review execution methods to eliminate pain and suffering.
Chad: USG for Humanitarian Affairs Valerie Amos leaves for Chad May 5 in her first visit to the country. While there, she will raise attention to the chronic food insecurity and malnutrition affecting the country, as well as the impact of the crisis in CAR.
Week Ahead:
On Sunday and Monday May 4-5, the SG will co-host the Abu Dhabi Ascent to gather multi-stakeholder partners in discussions on how to take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance resilience to climate change, creating momentum leading into the SG’s Climate Summit in September.
On Tuesday May 6, the SG will arrive in Rome to chair the UN System Chief Executives Board (CEB) meeting.
On Tuesday May 6, the WHO will launch updated estimates on maternal morality and a new study on causes of maternal death in Geneva.