A Painstaking Quest for Justice | Awake at Night | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-08 | A former judge, Catherine Marchi-Uhel has spent a lifetime pursuing justice. Now leading the quest for accountability for atrocities and war crimes committed in the Syrian civil war, she finds comfort in survivors’ resilience and their determination to move on with their lives.“In Syria, I was really struck by this lack of revenge. I haven't seen many people wanting revenge. They want justice. And that's really a very powerful attitude.”Since 2016, the UN’s IIIM has been helping investigate and prosecute the most serious atrocities committed in Syria during the devastating conflict. In this episode, Catherine Marchi-Uhel reflects on the painstaking job of documenting brutality, the importance of preserving evidence, and how she keeps faith in the face of humanity’s darkest crimes.About Awake at Night: What does it take to be a United Nations worker in some of the world’s most difficult and dangerous locations?How are UN humanitarians, human rights advocates, prosecutors, development experts, climate leaders and peacekeepers improving our world?Stationed in all reaches of the world and witness to suffering and atrocities, how are they helping people and coping themselves?To find out, Melissa Fleming meets them.Learn More: un.org/en/awake-at-night
UN Human Rights Prize Winner: The Global Coalition for the Right to a Healthy Environment United Nations 2023-12-14 | The Global Coalition, comprising over 1,350 organizations and entities from 75 countries, includes civil society organizations, Indigenous Peoples, social movements, and local communities. It advocates for “the universal recognition of the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment.” The Coalition has been instrumental in achieving the historic recognition of this right. The Human Rights Council acknowledged it on 8 October 2021 through resolution 48/13, which was followed by the General Assembly's adoption of resolution 76/300 on 28 July 2022. The Coalition is one of the Human Rights Prize winners of 2023. This prestigious award, established by the General Assembly in 1966 (A/RES/21/2217), was first bestowed in 1968 on what is now celebrated as Human Rights Day, 10 December. It is awarded every five years to honor “outstanding achievements in the field of human rights.”
Humanitarian situation in Gaza - World Food Programme | Press Conference | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-14 | Deputy Executive Director of the World Food Program (WFP) Mr. Carl Skau. He will be briefing on his recent visit to Gaza, and WFP's latest assessment released on the humanitarian situation in Gaza.---------Vea este vídeo en español en UNWebTV: webtv.un.org/es/asset/k1k/k1krotqliwRegardez cette vidéo en français sur UN WebTV: webtv.un.org/fr/asset/k1k/k1krotqliw在UN Web TV上观看中文视频: webtv.un.org/zh/asset/k1k/k1krotqliw
Switzerland, Mozambique & Others on Joint Pledges Climate, Peace & Security | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-13 | Informal comments to the media by 11 Security Council members signatories of the Joint Pledges related to Climate, Peace and Security (Albania, France, Gabon, Ghana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and the United States of America), on Central African region and The United Nations Regional Office for Central Africa (UNOCA).
Food security in Sudan - WFP Press Conference | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-13 | Press conference by Leni Kinzli, World Food Programme (WFP) Spokesperson in Sudan on food security in the country.A World Food Programme (WFP) spokesperson today (13 Dec) warned of “a looming hunger catastrophe by next year's lean season” in Sudan if access and regular delivery of food assistance to people trapped in conflict hotspots is not expanded.The worst affected areas include the capital, Khartoum, as well as the Darfur region in the West and the south central Kordofan region.Briefing via video teleconference from Sudan, WFP spokesperson Leni Kinzli said a new analysis shows “the highest level of hunger ever recorded during the harvest season, which is ongoing right now, and it's typically a period where more food is available.”Kinzli said, “if there's not a significant increase in food assistance, by the time the lean season arrives in May, conflict hotspots could see the emergence of catastrophic hunger or level 5 out of 5, the highest level on the Integrated Phase Classification Scale.”The spokesperson said, “regular and safe humanitarian access” to civilians in areas worst hit by violence has been “inadequate,” and noted that WFP “has been able to take advantage of momentary lulls in fighting to reach families in greater Khartoum with food assistance, but we've only managed to reach the capital one time in the last three months, and only 1 in 5 people who WFP has identified as most urgently in need of food assistance in the Khartoum area has received food aid since the conflict started.”She said, “climate shocks have impacted Sudan quite a lot, and it's actually been one of the main drivers of food insecurity” in the past and added that “the conflict is exacerbating that.”Conflict erupted across the country in the middle of April 2023. Hunger was already on the rise, with each year since 2020 registering record levels food insecurity which the ongoing fighting is now worsening. More than 6 million people are on the edge of famine and 20.3 million people – 42 percent of the population – face acute food insecurity.
COP 28, Guyana-Venezuela, Gaza & other topics - Daily Press Briefing (13 Dec 2023) | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-13 | Noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.Highlights:- COP 28 - Guyana-Venezuela - Gaza- Security Council - Ukraine- Global Refugee Forum - Guest Today/Tomorrow COP 28In a statement issued earlier today, the Secretary-General said that COP28, the climate change conference in Dubai, occurred at a decisive moment in the fight against the climate crisis – a moment that demands maximum ambition both in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and climate justice. The issues of the energy transition and the future of fossil fuels were front and centre. The Global Stocktake clearly reaffirmed the imperative of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees which requires drastic reductions in global greenhouse gas emissions in this decade, Mr. Guterres said. In addition, for the first time, the outcome recognizes the need to transition away from fossil fuels – after many years in which the discussion of this issue was blocked. To those who opposed a clear reference to a phase out of fossil fuels in the COP28 text, the Secretary-General said that a fossil fuel phase out is inevitable whether they like it or not. Let’s hope it doesn’t come too late, he added. Of course, he said, timelines, pathways and targets will differ for countries at different levels of development. But all efforts must be consistent with achieving global net zero by 2050 and preserving the 1.5 degree goal. And developing countries must be supported every step of the way. The era of fossil fuels must end – and it must end with justice and equity. Simultaneously, he said, COP28 agreed to commitments to triple renewables capacity and double energy efficiency by 2030. There was also progress in relation to adaptation and finance. COP28 offered some other building blocks for progress – including the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund, even though financial commitments are very limited. Pledges to the Green Climate Fund now total a record $12.8 billion for the most climate vulnerable communities. Over the next two years, governments are required to prepare new economy-wide national climate action plans. These plans must be aligned with the 1.5 degree temperature goal and cover all greenhouse gases. They must also be underpinned with credible climate policies and regulations, including a price on carbon and ending finance for fossil fuel. And both the preparation and implementation of these plans must be fully funded and supported. But much more is needed to keep the hope of the 1.5 degree limit alive and deliver climate justice to those on the frontlines of the crisis, the Secretary-General said. GUYANA-VENEZUELAThe Secretary-General welcomes the announcement of the meeting of the presidents of Guyana and Venezuela to be held on 14 December in St. Vincent and the Grenadines under the regional auspices of CARICOM and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC). The UN received an invitation from the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and pro-tempore President of CELAC, Ralph Gonsalves, to attend the meeting as an observer. The Secretary-General has designated his Chef de Cabinet, Courtenay Rattray, accompanied by Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas, Miroslav Jenča, to participate in the meeting as observers. GAZA Lynn Hastings, the Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, spoke to the press in Geneva by VTC today, and she pointed to the need for a humanitarian ceasefire, given the conditions on the ground. She emphasized that Israel needs to provide for unimpeded humanitarian access and to ensure that the conditions inside Gaza allow for the provision of humanitarian aid. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports that the spread of diseases in Gaza has reportedly intensified, especially due to overcrowded living conditions, which adds to the strain on an increasingly overwhelmed health system and an increased risk of people dying. Yesterday, the head of the World Health Organisation (WHO) in the occupied Palestinian territory announced that cases of meningitis, jaundice, impetigo, chickenpox and other upper respiratory tract infections had been recorded.Yesterday, for the first time since 7 October, aid trucks were screened at the Israeli-controlled Kerem Shalom crossing, and then allowed to enter Gaza through the Rafah crossing. While this should help alleviate some of the logistical delays, humanitarian agencies report this is not sufficient and are requesting that aid be allowed to transfer through Kerem Shalom crossing.Full Highlights: un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=13%20December%202023
UN News in Brief (13 December 2023) | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-13 | -Gaza ceasefire ‘in everybody’s interest’: UN humanitarian coordinator-Fossil fuel phaseout ‘inevitable’: UN chief on COP28 outcome -Global Refugee Forum opportunity to bolster forced displacement response: GrandiAudio Credit Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer, UN NewsAudio Duration 3'49"Photo Credit UNFCCC/Kiara Worth
Intl. Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals: Updates & Outcomes | UN Security Council United Nations 2023-12-13 | Briefing by Serge Brammertz, Chief Prosecutor of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, on his office's activities and results.
East Jerusalem & Palestinian Territories | Emergency UN General Assembly | United Nations (full) United Nations 2023-12-12 | Illegal Israeli actions in occupied East Jerusalem and the rest of the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Item 5). Continuation of the debate on the item.---The UN General Assembly voted by large majority demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza during an emergency session.The result of the vote was 153 in favor,10 against, and 23 abstentions.Speaking before the vote today (12 Dec), the President of the General Assembly Dennis Francis reiterated, “the violence must stop. I, therefore, once again, add my voice to the demand for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. We have one singular priority – to save lives.”Introducing the draft resolution to the General Assembly, Egyptian Ambassador Osama Mahmoud Abdel Khalek Mahmoud said, “The adoption and implementation of the draft resolution by the General Assembly today, which is specifically called for a ceasefire is the only guarantee for saving innocent civilians.”He explained, “Paragraph six of the preamble is very balanced and neutral despite what some might claim, it stresses the need for protecting civilians from both sides in line with international humanitarian law.”Ambassador Mahmoud added, “The draft resolution is calling in its operative paragraphs upon all parties to commit to the protection of civilians and the release of all hostages, and to ensure humanitarian access.”The United States is amongst the countries that voted against the resolution. It proposed an amendment to the resolution, but it did not gain the majority in a separate vote.Speaking before the vote, US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said, “We support speaking out with one voice to condemn Hamas for its terrorist actions on October 7. Why is that so hard to say unequivocally that murdering babies and gunning down parents in front of their children is horrific, that burning down houses while family shelter inside and taking civilians hostage is abhorrent?”Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan also spoke before the vote.He said, “By voting in favor of this resolution, you are supporting the survival of Jihadist terror and the continued suffering of people of Gaza.”Ambassador Erdan continued, “The exploitation of the Palestinians has made the UN a moral stain on humanity. Why are you continuing to allow them to make the United Nations irrelevant? If this body's intentions are just, why don't you just start by demanding a ceasefire only from those responsible for violating the past two? Why don't you hold the rapist and child murderers accountable?”“No piece of paper especially one that is adopted by a biased politicized majority will prevent Israel from defending itself against those that seek our destruction,” the Israeli Ambassador reiterated.He concluded, “Israel is fighting a war for her future. There is not a single Member State here - not a single member state here- that would act differently in a similar situation.”Speaking to reporters outside the General Assembly Hall after the vote, Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour said, “This draft resolution demands an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. Let me repeat: demands, the language of demands, it has the power of implementation. It does not call for or urges, it demands.”He continued, “We will not rest until we see compliance of Israel with this demand from the General Assembly, so that we can see a ceasefire in place, so that we can move into the massive, you know, amount of truckloads of assistance, humanitarian assistance of food, medicine, water and fuel in order to run the hospitals, to run the plants for desalination, and all the things that our people need for survival.”Ambassador Mansour concluded, “Today was a historic day in terms of the powerful message that was sent from the General Assembly, and it is our collective duty to continue in this path until we see an end to this aggression against our people to see this war stopping against our people. It is our duty to save lives. -------------The resumption of the ESS was requested in a letter, dated 8 December 2023, from H.E. Mr. Osama Mahmoud Abdelkhalek Mahmoud, Permanent Representative of the Arab Republic of Egypt and H.E. Mr. Sidi Mohamed Laghdaf, Permanent Representative of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, in their respective capacities as Chair of the Arab Group and Chair of the Organization for Islamic Cooperation.Learn more: un.org/en/ga/sessions/emergency10th.shtmlRead the details:press.un.org/en/2023/ga12572.doc.htmScreenshot Credit: UN Photo/Loey Felipe---------Vea este vídeo en español en UNWebTV: webtv.un.org/es/asset/k1k/k1krotqliwRegardez cette vidéo en français sur UN WebTV: webtv.un.org/fr/asset/k1k/k1krotqliw在UN Web TV上观看中文视频: webtv.un.org/zh/asset/k1k/k1krotqliw
(AR/EN) Humanitarian Vote: Arab & Islamic Groups on adoption in the United Nations General Assembly United Nations 2023-12-12 | Comments to the media by the Permanent Representatives of the Troika of the Arab Group and the Troika of the Islamic Group (Organization of Islamic Cooperation, OIC), on the Situation in the Middle East - Security Council Media Stakeout.Speaking to reporters outside the General Assembly Hall after the vote, Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour said, “This draft resolution demands an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. Let me repeat: demands, the language of demands, it has the power of implementation. It does not call for or urges, it demands.”He continued, “We will not rest until we see compliance of Israel with this demand from the General Assembly, so that we can see a ceasefire in place, so that we can move into the massive, you know, amount of truckloads of assistance, humanitarian assistance of food, medicine, water and fuel in order to run the hospitals, to run the plants for desalination, and all the things that our people need for survival.”Ambassador Mansour concluded, “Today was a historic day in terms of the powerful message that was sent from the General Assembly, and it is our collective duty to continue in this path until we see an end to this aggression against our people to see this war stopping against our people. It is our duty to save lives.
Israel/Palestine: UN General Assembly votes by large majority for immediate humanitarian ceasefire United Nations 2023-12-12 | Vote on draft resolution A/ES-10/L.27 “Protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations”RESULTS:In Favour: 153Against: 10Abstain: 23This video is available in multiple languages. Click the settings ⚙️ button to change the language track.----------------The UN General Assembly voted by large majority demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza during an emergency session.The result of the vote was 153 in favor,10 against, and 23 abstentions.Speaking before the vote today (12 Dec), the President of the General Assembly Dennis Francis reiterated, “the violence must stop. I, therefore, once again, add my voice to the demand for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. We have one singular priority – to save lives.”Introducing the draft resolution to the General Assembly, Egyptian Ambassador Osama Mahmoud Abdel Khalek Mahmoud said, “The adoption and implementation of the draft resolution by the General Assembly today, which is specifically called for a ceasefire is the only guarantee for saving innocent civilians.”He explained, “Paragraph six of the preamble is very balanced and neutral despite what some might claim, it stresses the need for protecting civilians from both sides in line with international humanitarian law.”Ambassador Mahmoud added, “The draft resolution is calling in its operative paragraphs upon all parties to commit to the protection of civilians and the release of all hostages, and to ensure humanitarian access.”The United States is amongst the countries that voted against the resolution. It proposed an amendment to the resolution, but it did not gain the majority in a separate vote.Speaking before the vote, US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said, “We support speaking out with one voice to condemn Hamas for its terrorist actions on October 7. Why is that so hard to say unequivocally that murdering babies and gunning down parents in front of their children is horrific, that burning down houses while family shelter inside and taking civilians hostage is abhorrent?”Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan also spoke before the vote.He said, “By voting in favor of this resolution, you are supporting the survival of Jihadist terror and the continued suffering of people of Gaza.”Ambassador Erdan continued, “The exploitation of the Palestinians has made the UN a moral stain on humanity. Why are you continuing to allow them to make the United Nations irrelevant? If this body's intentions are just, why don't you just start by demanding a ceasefire only from those responsible for violating the past two? Why don't you hold the rapist and child murderers accountable?”“No piece of paper especially one that is adopted by a biased politicized majority will prevent Israel from defending itself against those that seek our destruction,” the Israeli Ambassador reiterated.He concluded, “Israel is fighting a war for her future. There is not a single Member State here - not a single member state here- that would act differently in a similar situation.”Speaking to reporters outside the General Assembly Hall after the vote, Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour said, “This draft resolution demands an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. Let me repeat: demands, the language of demands, it has the power of implementation. It does not call for or urges, it demands.”He continued, “We will not rest until we see compliance of Israel with this demand from the General Assembly, so that we can see a ceasefire in place, so that we can move into the massive, you know, amount of truckloads of assistance, humanitarian assistance of food, medicine, water and fuel in order to run the hospitals, to run the plants for desalination, and all the things that our people need for survival.”Ambassador Mansour concluded, “Today was a historic day in terms of the powerful message that was sent from the General Assembly, and it is our collective duty to continue in this path until we see an end to this aggression against our people to see this war stopping against our people. It is our duty to save lives.
Israel/Palestine Humanitarian Crisis: #UNGA78 President at Emergency Session | United Nations | ⚙️ United Nations 2023-12-12 | Opening remarks by Dennis Francis, President of the 78th session of the General Assembly, on the Tenth emergency special session (resumed). This meeting is focused on the situation in East Jerusalem and the rest of the Occupied Palestinian Territory. This video is available in multiple languages. Click the settings ⚙️ button to change the language track.The resumption of the ESS was requested in a letter, dated 8 December 2023, from H.E. Mr. Osama Mahmoud Abdelkhalek Mahmoud, Permanent Representative of the Arab Republic of Egypt, and H.E. Mr. Sidi Mohamed Laghdaf, Permanent Representative of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, in their respective capacities as Chair of the Arab Group and Chair of the Organization for Islamic Cooperation.-----------
UN News in Brief (12 December 2023) | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-12 | -‘Humanitarian disaster zone’: Gaza hospital capacity decimated – WHO -Invest in primary healthcare, save lives: Tedros-Record hunger in West and Central Africa: UN humanitariansAudio Credit Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer, UN NewsAudio 3'50"Photo Credit © Unsplash/De an Sun
Gaza, Syria, West Africa & other topics - Daily Press Briefing (12 Dec 2023) | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-12 | Noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.Highlights:- Secretary-General - Gaza- Syria- Security Council- UNFPA 2024 Humanitarian Appeal- West Africa- Sudan- Opium- Human Rights 75- International Days- Senior Personnel Appointment- Financial ContributionGAZA The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports that, as of last night, 100 trucks carrying humanitarian supplies arrived into Gaza from Egypt – the same volume recorded on most days since the resumption of the hostilities on December 1st.More than 120,000 litres of fuel also entered Gaza through the Rafah crossing yesterday. This is an increase from the daily average of 67,000 litres over the previous three days – but it is the bare amount minimum of fuel needed to prevent the collapse of critical services in Gaza.Limited aid distributions are taking place in Rafah governorate. However, the intensity of hostilities and movement restrictions along the main roads has largely prevented aid distributions to the rest of the Gaza Strip in recent days.There have been limited fuel deliveries to key service providers – as well as Saturday’s mission to Al-Ahli hospital, which we flagged to you yesterday.Meanwhile, tens of thousands of internally displaced people who have arrived in Rafah over the last week continue to face extremely overcrowded conditions both inside and outside the shelters. They are in desperate need of food, water, shelter, health and protection.UNRWA reports that more than 85 per cent of Gaza’s population – that’s almost 1.9 million people, are now internally displaced – some of them multiple times. This includes 1.3 million displaced men, women and children who are sheltering at UNRWA facilities.Some of you have also been asking about Kerem Shalom crossing, which opened today as a second inspection point for aid from the UN and international NGOs.Once trucks are inspected at Kerem Shalom, they must return to Egypt before crossing through Rafah into Gaza.We hope that the opening of this second inspection point, will eliminate the 100 kilometers of travel from Al Areesh to Netzana at the border between Egypt and Israel. That will help expedite the entry of aid into Gaza.We are continuing to engage with Israeli authorities on all options to increase aid deliveries to Gaza. This includes, potentially, the use of Kerem Shalom as a transit point of goods going into Gaza.We reiterate the importance of safe conditions on the ground in Gaza to enable the delivery of life-saving assistance to those who desperately need it.SYRIA Turning to Syria, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is warning that civilians in the northwest of the country are continuing to be impacted by the escalation of hostilities there – the most significant since 2019.Humanitarians say that, according to local health authorities, nine civilians were killed, including three children on Saturday. That happened during the shelling that struck residential neighbourhoods in Idlib City and in Sarmin.The shelling also set fire to a city market and struck a displacement camp, destroying shelters for internally displaced people.This was the latest in a series of attacks over the past two weeks. On 2 December, OCHA tells us a school in Idlib was hit by shelling while students were present, causing injuries among students and teachers.Overall, since 5 October, fighting in the northwest has killed at least 92 civilians – nearly 40 per cent of them children – with nearly 400 others injured, according to local health authorities.Eastern Syria is not spared either. Heavy clashes in Deir ez Zor continue to result in civilian casualties and damage to critical civilian infrastructure, including water stations and schools. About 27,000 people have remained displaced since late August when the hostilities began.WEST AFRICA The World Food Programme, UNICEF and the Food and Agriculture Organization tell us that, according to a regional food security analysis released today, the number of hungry people in West and Central Africa continues to increase and is set to reach 49.5 million people between June and August of next year.They say that this trend is particularly worrying in coastal countries, where the number of women, men, and children facing acute hunger is expected to reach 6.2 million - a 16 percent increase over [this year].Acute hunger in this region is mainly driven by conflict, the impact of the climate crisis, as well as high food and fuel prices.The three agencies call on national governments and financial partners to prioritize programmes that strengthen climate resilient food systems and livelihoods and invest in social protection systems.Full Highlights: un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=12%20December%202023
Arab Group & Islamic Group on Palestine - Media Stakeout | UN Security Council United Nations 2023-12-12 | Comments to the media by the Permanent Representatives of the Troika of the Arab Group, and the Troika of the Islamic Group (Organization of Islamic Cooperation, OIC), regarding the forthcoming Emergency Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly. This session is convened to address the pressing issues in East Jerusalem and the Palestinian Territories.Ahead of a vote in the General Assembly, Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour today (12 Dec) said, “our duty is to try to save the lives who are still alive by having this resolution adopted and by forcing Israel to comply with it. And those who are shielding Israel to comply with the global consensus calling for a ceasefire.”Talking to reporters outside the Security Council, Mansour stressed that “the subject is urgent,” and added that “the fact that we are meeting on Tuesday after the veto on Friday, it indicates that the situation is dire, and we need action, and we need it as quickly as possible.”He said it was expected “there might be some amendments from those who are still insisting to politicize the subject.” Speaking on behalf of the Organization of Arab States and Arab Group, whose members flanked him at the podium, he said, “we are determined that we will not allow such amendments to succeed. We will oppose them. We will defeat these amendments.”“At the end of the day,” Mansour continued, “we believe we will prevail. With almost the entire international community in calling for a humanitarian ceasefire, as the Secretary-General is calling for, as all UN agencies working on the humanitarian field are calling for.”Commenting on the fact that General Assembly resolutions are not binding for states, he said, “is it binding or not binding? The language that is in it, it's it demands a cease fire. And that is the language that was used in the Security Council. Demanding from anybody from the United Nations, whether the General Assembly or the Security Council. It is much more powerful than calling for, and therefore, it should be looked at as binding in that sense. Definitely, if the great majority of the General Assembly demands an immediate humanitarian cease fire.”To conclude the Palestinian Ambassador said, “the Palestinian people are so angry and frustrated. And no one should blame them. And if they are upset and angry with all of us and the UN and the international system, no one should blame them.”The emergency meeting of the General Assembly was called invoking GA Resolution 377 also known as Uniting for Peace resolution.
Civil Society Town Hall with the President of the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly United Nations 2023-12-12 | Discussion with His Excellency Dennis Francis on his priorities and civil society engagement---The Department of Global Communications, Civil Society Unit, in collaboration with the Office of the President of the General Assembly, is organizing an in-person event, "Civil Society Townhall with the President of the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly."In his vision statement, His Excellency Dennis Francis, President of the 78th session of the General Assembly, has committed to enhance multilateralism and pursue vital objectives of “Peace, Prosperity, Progress and Sustainability.” He has also asserted the importance of open and wide-ranging consultation, transparency in decision-making, the ability to listen intently, clear and effective communication with the membership and with civil society to forge global consensus and enhance multilateralism to better address and resolve complex global challenges. The Town Hall with civil society will be an opportunity to engage with the President of the General Assembly on his priorities for the 78th session and exchange ideas and proposals to facilitate the meaningful participation of civil society in the work of the General Assembly.Moderated by Maher Nasser, Director of the Outreach Division in the Department of Global Communications the Town Hall will consist of an opening statement by the President of the General Assembly, three questions from civil society from around the world and an interactive discussion. Webpage: un.org/en/civil-society/civil-society-townhall-president-78th-session-un-general-assembly
Billy Porters inspiring performance for Human Rights Day 75 | United Nations Human Rights | Concert United Nations 2023-12-12 | Billy Porter is an American actor and singer, who first gained notice performing on Broadway before embarking on a solo career. He is a Grammy, Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner. He is a trailblazer in especially in the LGBTQI+ community including being first openly gay Black man to win an Emmy award. His performance of Audacity at the Royal Albert Hall in London was a world exclusive performance for the Human Rights 75 Concert on 10 December, 2023 in commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. @TheeBillyPorter #HumanRights75 and #act4rightsnowFollow Billy Porter on Instagram: @theebillyporter Produced by: @UNOHCHR & @CoreyBakerDance
What is the Global Refugee Forum? | Uniting for Action in Geneva | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-12 | According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, there are more refugees around the world than ever before. The forum will take place from 13 to 15 December at the Palexpo in Geneva, Switzerland.Held every four years, the Forum is the world’s largest international gathering on refugees. It is designed to support the practical implementation of the objectives set out in the Global Compact on Refugees: Ease pressures on host countries, enhance refugee self-reliance, increase access to third-country solutions and improve conditions in countries of origin.It provides the opportunity for States and stakeholders to announce concrete pledges and contributions, highlight progress made, share good practices and take stock of the challenges and opportunities ahead.The 2023 Forum is co-convened by five States – Colombia, France, Japan, Jordan and Uganda, and co-hosted by the Government of Switzerland and UNHCR.
Human Rights Day 2023 | 75 Years | What is the Declaration of Human Rights? | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-11 | Human Rights 75 Initiative“Together, let’s rejuvenate the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, demonstrate how it can meet the needs of our time AND advance its promise of freedom, equality and justice for all”. BackgroundRebirth often follows decimation. And so, in the aftermath of World War II, on 10December 1948, the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.If there was ever a moment to rekindle the hope of human rights for every person, it is now. And this moment will last throughout 2023 and beyond – a year of commemoration of one of the world’s most ground-breaking international commitments. In 2023, we reinvigorate the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, showing the ways it meets the needs of our time, and advancing its promise of freedom, equality, and justice for all.Solidarity for the rights of everyoneIn the decades since 50 countries signed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we have pushed the frontiers in medicine, technology, the environment, social and political expression, economic and labour laws, and more. Progress is a process, and we have much to build on. The Declaration reflects an agreement that equality, freedom and justice are values that drive a thriving society when everyone could experience equal access to opportunities in these domains and any of their choosing. The Declaration is a life guide encompassing 30 articles that address rights and benefits, which have been realized by many yet outside the reach of others. These include access to education, employment, fair pay, voting rights, healthcare and more; the values of free speech, privacy, and mutual respect irrespective of gender, race, ethnicity, or religion are evinced by the Declaration.Human Rights 75 is an initiative whose three main goals focus on universality, progress and engagement under the leadership of UN Human Rights, together with its partners. The initiative culminates in a high-level event in December 2023 that will announce global pledges and ideas for a vision for the future of human rights.---------UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk's message to mark the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.----------Learn More: ohchr.org/en/human-rights-75
UN News in Brief (11 December 2023) | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-11 | -Gaza humanitarian crisis deepens as fighting rages on across the Strip -COP28: UN chief urges climate talks ambition as clock runs out-Human rights at 75: Türk calls on countries to overcome divisions Audio Credit Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer, UN NewsAudio 3'46"Photo Credit © WFP/Ali Jadallah
MONUSCO on the situation in Democratic Republic of the Congo | Security Council | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-11 | Media Stakeout by Bintou Keita, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and head of the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), on the situation in Democratic Republic of the Congo - Security Council Media Stakeout (MONUSCO; Other matters).In the context of continued violence, upcoming elections and the withdrawal of the MONUSCO peacekeeping force from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in the country today (11 Dec) said, “we are today at an important crossroads in the relationship between the United Nations and the DRC, but also an important moment for the country itself.”Presenting the latest report of the Secretary-General on the DRC to the Security Council, Bintou Keita, who is also the Head of the MONUSCO peacekeeping force, said the report provides “an update on the situation on the ground, marked by steady progress in the electoral process” and also “highlights the continued and escalating insecurity in the East, especially related to the renewed M23 crisis, but also the emergence of new pockets of insecurity in other parts of the country, notably the Greater Katanga region as well as Mai-Ndombe and Tshopo provinces.”Unfortunately, she added, since the publication of the report, “the situation has further deteriorated in North Kivu.”The Special Representative said, “the tensions between the DRC and Rwanda remain extremely high and the risk of a military escalation between the two countries remains significant, despite regional and international efforts to smooth the tensions.”In this regard, she commended government efforts that “has put the armed group ADF under pressure without however, preventing new attacks against civilians.”Outside the Council, Keita spoke to reporters and said, “in the context where a plan has been proposed to the Security Council, the negotiations going on in terms of the renewal of the mandate, we hope that it's going to take into consideration the agreement, the joint agreement, which has been made by the Congolese authorities and ourselves, as the United Nations and MONUSCO, and we hope that the way we have in build flexibility, in the disengagement plans, the regular evaluation, quarterly evaluation, is going to be helpful in reassuring everyone that one of the visions that DRC has is to be able to say to the world, there is a model withdrawal of a peacekeeping mission for the country.”On 21 November, in Kinshasa, the Congolese Vice Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Francophonie, Christophe Lutundula, and Keita, co-signed a note on the accelerated, gradual, orderly and responsible withdrawal of MONUSCO from the DRC, containing a plan and a timeline for the complete disengagement of the Mission in the country.
Gaza, Mali, South Sudan & other topics - Daily Press Briefing (11 Dec 2023) | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-11 | Noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.Highlights:- Secretary-General- Gaza- Lebanon- Sudan- Convention Against Corruption- Security Council- Security Council/Afternoon- Mali- South Sudan- West Africa and the Sahel- Global Humanitarian Overview- Guatemala- Human Rights at 75- Briefing Tomorrow- Mountain DayGAZA On Gaza, Martin Griffiths, the Emergency Relief Coordinator, said today at the launch of the Global Humanitarian Overview in Doha that the situation is Gaza is bad and getting worse, while adding that the truce that was achieved last week was of great importance. He said that the efforts by humanitarian workers will be all the more important during the military operations happening in southern Gaza now. By last night, 100 trucks carrying humanitarian supplies had entered from Egypt into Gaza, the same volume as in most days since the resumption of hostilities on 1 December. This is well below the daily average of about 500 truckloads, including fuel, and of course, humanitarian and commercial, with the vast majority being commercial, that entered every working day prior to 7 October. Over the weekend, a daily average of 150,000 litres of fuel entered from Egypt, up from a daily average of 67,000 litres in the previous three days. The increased amounts are the bare minimum needed to prevent the collapse of critical services, including hospitals and ambulances, water, and sanitation infrastructures, and shelters for internally displaced people. Additionally, on Sunday, nearly 45 tonnes of commercial cooking gas also entered from Egypt, the first such delivery since the resumption of hostilities. Multiple health facilities and personnel were attacked across the Gaza strip over the weekend. They include Al Yaman As Saeed Hospital and Al Awda Hospital in Jabalia camp. Also, I just want to flag that in a statement yesterday on the International Human Rights Day, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Lynn Hastings, stressed that human rights have been under assault in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory. She said that violations perpetrated on both populations will bring neither peace nor security, as she reiterated the call for a humanitarian ceasefire.MALI Earlier today in Bamako, in Mali, our peacekeeping colleagues held a ceremony to mark the conclusion of United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), following our UN peacekeeping Mission’s 10-years of service to the people of Mali. Speaking at the event, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, and head of the Mission, El Ghassim Wane, thanked the thousands of peacekeepers, past and present, who have served with courage and commitment. He expressed gratitude for the international support provided throughout the lifespan of the Mission - including the many operational partners as well as Member States who contributed troops and police over the years. While acknowledging the obstacles faced by the Mission and its limitations, Mr. Wane highlighted some of its successes, including supporting the 2015 peace and reconciliation agreement and ensuring respect for the ceasefire. And also underscored peacekeepers’ role in protecting civilians from violent extremist groups throughout the northern part of the country. He also mentioned the Mission’s work to facilitate the return of State authority in central Mali, by rehabilitating infrastructure to provide basic services and livelihoods for communities, as well as support to build the capacity of national security forces. The Under-Secretary-General for Operational Support, Atul Khare was at the ceremony and is currently in Mali. He thanked the Malian people for their support. He also paid tribute to the 311 peacekeeping personnel who gave their lives in the cause of peace, including 174 of those who died in hostile acts. SOUTH SUDAN The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warns that more than half of South Sudan’s population is going hungry, and an estimated 1.6 million children are expected to suffer from acute malnutrition through June of next year. OCHA says that this year’s humanitarian appeal to help 7.4 million people is just half funded, with about $1 billion received to date. Meanwhile, humanitarians have been forced to halve rations and reduce support due to the funding cuts. In a joint statement – the UN Famine Prevention and Response Coordinator, Reena Ghelani, and the acting Humanitarian Coordinator for South Sudan, Martie Helen Verney, said the world cannot turn a blind eye to the extreme levels of food insecurity and malnutrition we’re now seeing in South Sudan. Full Highlights: un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=11%20December%202023
Stop ‘kicking the can down the road,’ UN chief urges phaseout of fossil fuels | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-11 | The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, said, “In our fractured and divided world, COP28 can show that multilateralism remains our best hope to tackle global challenges.”Talking to the media today (11 Dec) at COP28 in Dubai, Guterres noted that COP28 is scheduled to wrap up tomorrow, but large gaps still need to be bridged.He said, “It is time to seek compromise for solutions – without compromising on the science or compromising on the need for the highest ambition.”He continued, “Specifically, I ask Parties to ensure maximum ambition on two fronts: Ambition on reducing greenhouse gas emissions -- and ambition on delivering climate justice. The Global Stocktake must offer a clear plan for a tripling of renewables, a doubling of energy efficiency, and a single-minded focus on tackling the root cause of the climate crisis – fossil fuel production and consumption.”He specified that transformation won’t happen overnight.According to the UN Secretary-General, decarbonization will create millions of decent new jobs, but governments must also ensure support, training, and social protection for those who may be negatively impacted.At the same time, the needs of developing countries highly dependent on the production of fossil fuels must be addressed.But, he added, “it is essential that the Global Stocktake recognizes the need to phase out all fossil fuels on a timeframe consistent with the 1.5-degree limit - and to accelerate a just, equitable, and orderly energy transition for all.”A transition that considers the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and reflective capabilities considering national circumstances – not to reduce ambition but to combine ambition and equity.He said that that is why he proposed the Climate Solidarity Pact – in which big emitters make extra efforts to cut emissions, and wealthier countries support emerging economies in doing so.He also said that the timelines and targets might differ for countries at different levels of development.Still, they all must consistently achieve global net zero by 2050 and preserve the 1.5-degree goal.For Guterres, it is time for more ambition on climate justice, and COP28 began with two encouraging steps: agreement to operationalize the Loss and Damage Fund and replenish the Green Climate Fund.It’s a start, but much more is needed, he said.Many developing countries are drowning in debt, have no fiscal space, and are “churning in climate chaos.”Guterres said, “We need all commitments made by developed countries on finance and adaptation to be met - fully and transparently. We need increased capital and reform of the business model of multilateral development banks to increase direct support – and to leverage far more private finance at reasonable costs for developing countries' climate action efforts. And we need far more adaptation ambition.”He stressed that COP28 must send clear signals that governments have grasped the scale of the adaptation challenge and that it is a priority for the world.Guterres welcomed the emerging consensus for a new framework on adaptation with a set of measurable targets to propel action.He highlighted that doubling adaptation finance to $40 billion by 2025 must be an initial step towards allocating at least half of all climate finance towards adaptation.He said, “The next two years are vital. First, to establish a new and meaningful global climate finance goal beyond 2025, reflecting the scale and urgency of the climate challenge. Second, for governments to prepare and present new national climate action plans – or Nationally Determined Contributions – that are economy-wide, cover all greenhouse gases, and are fully aligned with the 1.5-degree temperature limit. Governments must leave Dubai with a clear understanding of what is required between now and COP30 in Brazil.”He concluded that we must conclude COP28 with an ambitious outcome that demonstrates decisive action and a credible plan to keep 1.5 alive and protect those on the frontlines of the climate crisis.Screenshot Credit: UNFCCC/Kiara Worth #COP28
Human Rights 75 Concert with Billy Porter, Angélique Kidjo & More (Highlights) | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-11 | To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a Human Rights Day concert will be held in Geneva, Switzerland.The free event featured world-class talent from every continent, covering different musical genres and human rights themes, as well as a historic dance performance.UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Angélique KidjoUNHCR Lifetime Ambassador of Goodwill Barbara Hendricks and Ulf Englund MC SolaarSara CurruchichAhmad Joudeh Karan RaiViolinist Yelyzaveta Zaitseva will be performing a composition by composer Myroslav Skyrok "Melody", accompanied on piano by Arthur Lea.Cercle Choral de GenèveCorey Baker DanceAde Adepitan MBE Exclusive filmed performances by: Billy Porter performing from The Royal Albert Hall in London Ludovico Einaudi and Corey Baker Dance company performing from The Hall in Zürich#hr75 Learn More: ohchr.org/en/events/events/2023/human-rights-75-concert
#COP28 Dialogues – Pathways to 1.5°C: Accelerating Global Energy Transformation | Amina J. Mohammed United Nations 2023-12-11 | This COP28 Dialogue highlights how green energy transitions can achieve a climate-safe future in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement. With speakers joining from New York and Dubai, this live conversation stresses the importance of a fossil fuel phase-out and a transition to a world powered by renewable energy sources.Convened by the UN Office for Partnerships, the COP28 Dialogues feature a series of conversations with UN leaders, experts, advocates and influencers on the nexus between the Sustainable Development Goals and the key areas of climate action and solutions being advanced at the UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai. Learn the benefits of renewable energy transition: un.org/en/climatechange/raising-ambition/renewable-energy-transition
UN Human Rights Prize Winner: Julio Pereyra | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-10 | Julio Pereyra is a dedicated community educator and activist who works with the most marginalized communities. He focuses on the re-institutionalization of children into the educational system and provides therapeutic-pedagogical support to children with disabilities, along with access to orthotics, prosthetics, and medications. His efforts also target the eradication of infant mortality and eugenics, school dropouts, malnutrition, and adolescent pregnancy. Additionally, Julio leads projects addressing child labor and malnutrition, and he is involved in promoting primary health care in villages, rural areas, marginalized neighborhoods, and regions heavily affected by drug trafficking. His work represents a comprehensive approach to tackling some of the most pressing issues faced by underprivileged communities.
UN Human Rights Prize Winner: The Amman Center for Human Rights Studies (ACHRS) | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-10 | The Amman Center for Human Rights Studies (ACHRS) is an independent, regional, scientific, advocacy center for studies, research, and training on issues of human rights and democracy. Its activities contribute to the dissemination of a culture of human rights. It covers five priorities covering key issues in human rights: Right to Life, Right to Think, Right to Speak, Right to Participate, and Human Rights of Women. ACHRS is one of the Human Rights Prize winners of 2023. Established by the General Assembly in 1966 (A/RES/21/2217), the Prize was awarded for the first time in 1968 on what is now known as Human Rights Day, 10 December. It is awarded every five years for “outstanding achievements in the field of human rights.”
UN Human Rights Prize Winner: Julienne Lusenge | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-10 | Ms. Julienne Lusenge is a distinguished leader, peacebuilder, human rights activist, and a vocal advocate who has dedicated over 40 years to advancing women's human rights in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Her efforts have focused on preventing and reducing sexual and gender-based violence, as well as enhancing women's participation and leadership in peacebuilding, political engagement, and civil society. Through her work, Julienne has empowered women to take control of their lives and make impactful changes in their communities. Ms. Lusenge is one of the Human Rights Prize winners of 2023. This prestigious award was established by the General Assembly in 1966 (A/RES/21/2217) and was first awarded in 1968, which coincides with what is now known as Human Rights Day, celebrated on 10 December. The prize is conferred every five years to recognize “outstanding achievements in the field of human rights.”
UN Human Rights Prize Winner: The Viasna Human Rights Centre | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-10 | The “Viasna” Human Rights Centre was established in 1996 amidst mass protests by the democratic opposition in Belarus, with the aim of contributing to the development of a civic society based on respect for human rights. The organization's objectives include providing practical assistance to civic initiatives in legal defense of citizens, researching the state of civic society and legal defense in Belarus, and promoting civic and human rights education. Additionally, Viasna focuses on the promotion of democracy and human rights, and supports civic initiatives in the sphere of human rights.Viasna has been recognized as one of the Human Rights Prize winners of 2023. This prestigious award, established by the General Assembly in 1966 (A/RES/21/2217), was first bestowed in 1968, coinciding with what is now celebrated as Human Rights Day on 10 December. The prize is awarded every five years to honor “outstanding achievements in the field of human rights.”
Catherine Marchi-Uhel: A Painstaking Quest for Justice | Awake at Night Series | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-09 | A former judge, Catherine Marchi-Uhel spent a lifetime pursuing justice. Now, leading the quest for accountability for atrocities and war crimes committed in the Syrian civil war, she finds comfort in survivors’ resilience and their determination to move on with their lives. Since 2016, the UN’s IIIM (International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism) has been helping investigate and prosecute the most serious atrocities committed in Syria during the devastating conflict.Listen to the full Podcast: youtu.be/TlR7MyQj1xI
Scourge of Landmines & Explosive Remnants in Yemen | UNMHA | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-09 | The removal of landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERWs) is essential to ensuring a safe and prosperous life for the civilian population in Hudaydah.Through Security Council Resolution 2643 (2022) - the UN Mission to support the Hudaydah Agreement (#UNMHA) is mandated, among other priorities, to oversee mine action operations in #Hudaydah governorate.To learn more about the Mission, visit: https://www.linktr.ee/UNMHA
UN Chief on Human Rights Day 2023 (Dec 10) | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-09 | UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivers a message on Human Rights Day: “ 'All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.' The iconic opening sentence of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is as important today as it was when it was adopted 75 years ago.The Universal Declaration is a roadmap, helping to end wars, heal divisions and promote lives of peace and dignity for all. But the world is losing its way. Conflicts are raging. Poverty and hunger are increasing. Inequalities are deepening. The climate crisis is a human rights crisis that is hitting the mostvulnerable hardest.Authoritarianism is on the rise. Civic space is shrinking and the media is under attack from all sides. Gender equality remains a distant dream and women’s reproductive rights are being rolled back.Today, it is more important than ever to promote and respect all human rights – social, cultural, economic, civil and political – which protect us all.The Universal Declaration shows the way to common values and approaches that can help resolve tensions and create the security and stability our world craves.As we work to update global frameworks and make them more effective in the 21 st century, human rights must have a unique and central role. I call on Member States to use this 75 th anniversary, and the Summit of the Future next year, to strengthen their commitment to the timeless values of the Universal Declaration.And on Human Rights Day, I urge people around the world to promote and respect human rights, every day, for everyone, everywhere."
(EN/AR) Arab Group & Islamic Group on the Middle East | Security Council | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-08 | Informal comments to the media by the Permanent Representatives of the Troika of the Arab Group with the Troika of the Islamic Group (OIC), on the situation in the Middle East.Also available in Arabic on UN Web TV: webtv.un.org/ar/asset/k1i/k1ie06l13l
UN News in Brief (8 December 2023) | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-08 | -Gaza humanitarian disaster announces “breakdown” of society-Haiti humanitarian crisis deepens as country awaits support mission-Sudan conflict-shattered health system overwhelmed by disease outbreaksAudio Credit Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer, UN NewsAudio 3'23"Photo Credit © UNICEF/Tariq Khalil
Gaza, Armenia/Azerbaijan, Haiti & other topics - Daily Press Briefing (8 Dec 2023) | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-08 | Noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.Highlights:- Security Council/Gaza- Gaza- Sexual Violence in Conflict- Trip Announcement- Security Council- Armenia/Azerbaijan- Haiti- Democratic Republic of the Congo - Senior Personnel Appointment- Artificial Intelligence- Peacebuilding Support Office- Global Humanitarian Overview- Food Price Index- Secretary-general Personal Envoy for Sudan- International DaysGAZAPhilippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner General of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), said today that he has written to the President of the UN General Assembly to inform him that UNRWA’s ability to continue delivering its mandate in Gaza has now become very limited. In an unprecedented letter, he noted that the constant bombardment and low and irregular flow of food and other humanitarian supplies into Gaza, compared with the immense needs of displaced people in UNRWA’s overcrowded shelters but also outside those shelters, adding that more than 130 UNRWA colleagues have been killed, most of them with their families. At least 70 per cent of UNRWA staff have been displaced, many multiple times. Mr. Lazzarini said that in his 35 years of work in complex emergencies, he would never have expected to write such a letter, predicting the killing of his staff and the collapse of the mandate that UNRWA is expected to fulfill. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) tells us that last night, 69 trucks carrying humanitarian supplies and 61,000 litres of fuel entered from Egypt into Gaza. These quantities are nowhere near sufficient to meet overwhelming humanitarian needs in Gaza – not to mention that the complete lack of safety in Gaza is severely limiting access to people in need. Rafah was the main governorate in Gaza where limited aid distributions took place yesterday. In the adjacent Khan Younis governorate, except for the delivery of medical supplies to two hospitals, aid distribution largely stopped due to the intensity of the ongoing hostilities. Also yesterday, the World Health Organization (WHO) delivered trauma and emergency care supplies to the European Gaza Hospital and the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis, to cover the needs of some 4,500 hospital patients. This was the first delivery mission to those hospitals since 29 November, despite active hostilities ongoing in the area.ARMENIA/AZERBAIJAN The Secretary-General welcomes the joint statement issued by Armenia and Azerbaijan announcing a series of confidence-building measures and reaffirming their commitment to normalize bilateral relations. The United Nations encourages the parties to build on the agreement to advance mutual confidence and secure long-term peace for the benefit of their populations and the region. HAITI Yesterday afternoon, we issued a statement on Haiti, in which the Secretary-General expressed his concern over the limited progress in the inter-Haitian dialogue towards a lasting and inclusive political solution to restore the country’s democratic institutions. He extends his full support to the efforts of the CARICOM Eminent Persons Group and to the UN Office in Haiti to facilitate sustainable and nationally-owned solutions to Haiti’s political crisis. Full Highlights: un.org/sg/en/content/ossg/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=08%20December%202023
Youth Climate Voices at #COP28 | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-08 | Youth climate voices advocate for the future of our planet at the 28th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) - COP28. The advocates represent Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Young Leaders, the official Children and Youth Constituency of the UNFCCC (YOUNGO), Youth Climate Movement, and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Youth Advocates.
Israel/Palestine Crisis: The eyes of the world, and the eyes of history, are watching - UN Chief United Nations 2023-12-08 | Security Council Briefing by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. UN Secretary-General António Guterres told the Security Council that he invoked Article 99 of the UN Charter because we are “at a breaking point,” warning that there is a high risk of the total collapse of the humanitarian support system in Gaza, which would have devastating consequences.This follows Wednesday’s urgent letter by Guterres - one of the most powerful tools at his disposal - urging the body to help end carnage in the war-battered enclave through a lasting humanitarian ceasefire.Speaking to Council Members today (08 Dec), Guterres said that he fears the consequences could be devastating for the security of the entire region, as the world has already seen the spillover in the Occupied West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen.He said, “There is clearly, in my view, a serious risk of aggravating existing threats to the maintenance of international peace and security.The UN chief highlighted, “The threat to the safety and security of United Nations staff in Gaza is unprecedented.”More than 130 of UN staff have been killed, many with their families, “this is the largest single loss of life in the history of our Organization,” Guterres reiterated, adding that “some of our staff take their children to work so they know they will live or die together.”While affirming that the United Nations is totally committed to staying and delivering for the people of Gaza, the Secretary-General said that under current conditions on the ground, the fulfilment of this mandate has become impossible. The conditions for the effective delivery of humanitarian aid no longer exist, he told Council members.The UN chief said that there is no effective protection of civilians; that Gazans are running out of food; and that Gaza’s health system is collapsing while needs are escalating.Guterres also noted that Israel began its military operation in response to the brutal terror attacks unleashed by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups on 7 October. He unreservedly condemns those attacks and is appalled by the reports of sexual violence.He stated that there is no possible justification for deliberately killing some 1,200 people, including 33 children, injuring thousands more, and taking hundreds of hostages. Some 130 hostages are still held captive.Guterres called for their immediate and unconditional release, as well as their humane treatment and visits from the International Committee of the Red Cross until they are freed.At the same time, the brutality perpetrated by Hamas can never justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people, the UN chief reiterated.Guterres also said, “International humanitarian law cannot be applied selectively. It is binding on all parties equally at all times, and the obligation to observe it does not depend on reciprocity,”He urged the members of the Council to spare no effort to push for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, for the protection of civilians, and for the urgent delivery of lifesaving aid.“The eyes of the world – and the eyes of history – are watching, It’s time to act,” the Secretary-General concluded.Full remarks (as delivered): un.org/sg/en/content/sg/statement/2023-12-08/secretary-generals-remarks-the-security-council-the-situation-the-middle-east-including-the-palestinian-question-bilingual-delivered-scroll-down-for-all-english
France on the Israel/Palestine Crisis | Security Council | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-08 | Comments to the media by Nicolas de Rivière, Permanent Representative of France to the United Nations, on the Middle East.
#COP28: Arab Youth Want Climate Action | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-08 | The Arab Youth Climate Movement Qatar arrives at COP with high hopes for climate action from the international community and is eager to meet other like-minded youth activists to partner up for a sustainable future.
Gaza, South Sudan, AI & other topics - Daily Press Briefing (7 Dec 2023) | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-07 | Noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.Highlights: - Gaza - Security Council - Artificial Intelligence - Central Emergency Response Fund - Democratic Republic of the Congo - South Sudan - Darien Jungle - Civil Aviation DayGAZA The Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths spoke to the press in Geneva today. He said that the pace of the military assault in southern Gaza is a repeat of the assault in northern Gaza. It has made no place safe for civilians in southern Gaza, which leaves the humanitarian plan in tatters, he said. The World Food Programme (WFP) warns that hunger is spreading widely in Gaza and people are growing increasingly desperate trying to find food to feed their families. Cases of dehydration and malnutrition are rapidly increasing. Recent WFP phone-based monitoring shows that between 83 and 97 per cent of families are not consuming adequate amounts of food, and in some areas as many as 90 per cent of households report spending a full day and night without any food - some for as many as 10 days in the last month. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that most patients and staff in the Kamal Adwan hospital in Jabalia were evacuated yesterday by Gaza’s Ministry of Health, and the hospital largely stopped functioning and ceased admitting new patients. This is due to the intense fighting in its vicinity, compounded by the lack of basic medical supplies, water, food and fuel. Currently, only 14 out of 36 hospitals in the Gaza Strip are functional, and these only provide limited services. Among them, two small hospitals in the north and 12 in the south are reported to be able to admit new patients. Meanwhile, eighty trucks carrying humanitarian supplies and 69,000 litres of fuel entered from Egypt into Gaza yesterday. This is well below the daily average of 170 trucks and 110,000 litres of fuel that had entered during the humanitarian pause implemented between 24 and 30 November, and the average of 500 truckloads (including fuel) that entered every working day prior to 7 October. The ability of the UN to receive incoming loads of aid has been significantly impaired over the past few days by several factors. These include a shortage of trucks within Gaza, with some being stranded in the Middle Area, which has been severed from the south; telecommunications blackouts; and the increasing number of staff who were unable to report to the Rafah crossing due to the hostilities.SOUTH SUDAN The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) participated today in a key meeting with the Government of South Sudan and partners on the status of implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement of 2018. The Mission welcomed the recent deployment of the Necessary Unified Forces to Upper Nile state while urging the Government to provide necessary funds and attention to ensure a cohesive, structured security sector that can effectively protect civilians and provide a secure environment. At the meeting, the Mission’s Deputy Special Representative, Guang Cong, expressed concern over reports of violence in the Abyei Administrative Area and Warrap State, as well as the fighting and mobilizations in Leer and Guit in Unity State.And with only 12 months to go to South Sudan’s first post-independence elections, Mr. Cong encouraged the Government to enter 2024 with a renewed drive and a sense of urgency to implement the Peace Agreement.ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE Earlier this morning, the Secretary-General participated in the opening segment of the first in-person meeting of members of his Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence. He underscored the significance of the interim report – that will be completed by the end of the year, and how important that report will be in the global debate on AI governance, including in the leadup to the Summit of the Future, which will take place in September here in New York next year.The Secretary-General also emphasized that the report should put forward ambitious recommendations on how Artificial Intelligence can help empower humanity. The meetings will continue tomorrow.Full Highlights: un.org/sg/en/content/ossg/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=07+December+2023
(EN/AR) Arab Group & Islamic Group on the Middle East - Media Stakeout | UN Security Council United Nations 2023-12-07 | Informal comments to the media by the Permanent Representatives of the Troika of the Arab Group with the Troika of the Islamic Group (OIC), on the situation in the Middle East.Available in Arabic on UN Web TV: webtv.un.org/ar/asset/k1n/k1nm2ar49nFlanked by Islamic Group (OIC) representatives, Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour today (7 Dec) said it was expected that a draft resolution calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza “will be put in blue today and action will take place on it when the Security Council meets tomorrow.”Mansour said, “the final touches” were put yesterday into the draft resolution tabled by the United Arab Emiratesand the OIC “ideas were intertwined with the very important, courageous letter of the Secretary General in which he invoked using Article 99 before the Security Council.”Guterres on Wednesday invoked article 99 of the UN charter, notifying the Council that the crisis in Gaza represents a threat to international peace and security.Mansour said the draft resolution “was given last night to all members of the Security Council out of courtesy and the correct thing to do in giving all members of the Security Council to study it, to share with their capitals, to share with us if they have any ideas that could be incorporated in that draft resolution.”The Palestinian Ambassador said “the number of killed are now in excess of 17,000 Palestinians and killed and injured around 65,000. A large number of them, 70 percent of them are women and children. This is something that is so disgusting and disgraceful to see this large number of children being killed more than any other conflict since the creation of the United Nations. This abhorrent behaviour by the savages in the leadership of the State of Israel who should be held accountable for their crimes, as we are debating at the Assembly of State Parties to the ICC.”
UN News in Brief (7 December 2023) | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-07 | -Gaza fighting further compromises aid amid near ‘apocalyptic’ conditions-UN warns of humanitarian emergency as 500,000 risk lives in the Darien-Over three in four people in Africa can’t afford healthy foodAudio Credit Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer, UN NewsAudio 3'24"Photo Credit © UNRWA/Ashraf Amra
Ecuador on Transnational Organized Crime & Other Topics - Media Stakeout | UN Security Council United Nations 2023-12-07 | Informal comments to the media by Daniel Roy Gilchrist Noboa Azin, Constitutional President of Ecuador, on Transnational organized crime, growing challenges and new threats.Daniel Roy Gilchrist Noboa Azín, Ecuadorian President and President of the Security Council for the month of December, read out a presidential statement.He said, “The Security Council expresses concern with the development of organized crime groups and networks, which are better equipped with new information and communication technologies and are becoming more decentralized, diversified and connected in their illicit operations, which in some cases may aggravate threats to international security.”The presidential statement, proposed by Ecuador and France, was adopted by all member of the Security Council. Asked about the latest developments with regard to the disputed Essequibo region along the Venezuela-Guyana border, Noboa said, “we are going to respect the sovereignty of each of the countries,” and called for the establishment of “real protection for our borders and that there is no type of invasion or appropriation of something that does not belong to another nation.”Venezuela has long-claimed the 61,000-square-mile region wich was adjudicated to Guyana through an international arbitration in 1899Asked about a draft Security Council resolution tabled by the United Arab Emirates calling for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, Noboa said, “Ecuador will always be in favour of peace, in favour of the ceasefire and of ending violence not only in Gaza, but in any area or territory in the world that is happening, including in Ecuadorian territory. Something important is also that we are also against terrorist actions against sovereign peoples and against friendly peoples.”Ecuador holds the presidency of the Council for the month of December.
(ES/EN) UNODC Chief on Transnational Organized Crime | Security Council | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-07 | Briefing by Ghada Waly, Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), on Transnational organized crime, growing challenges and new threats.Ghada Fathi Waly, Executive Director of United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), said, “Around the world illicit markets are expanding and diversifying. All threats persist from booming cocaine markets to illicit firearms flowing into volatile areas. And emerging challenges proliferate with synthetic drugs and cybercrime evolving faster than the world can keep up.”She added, “I would strongly encourage this esteemed Council to continue devoting its attention to the critical threat of transnational organized crime, which underpins many of the peace and security challenges you address.”Waly concluded, “UNODC is committed to providing reliable data and analysis and supporting operational capacities on the ground to enable an informed and effective response.”
(ES/EN) UN Chief on Transnational Organized Crime, Growing Challenges & New Threats | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-07 | Briefing by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, on Transnational organized crime, growing challenges and new threats.Secretary-General António Guterres said, “often invisible but always insidious, transnational organized crime is a vicious threat to peace, security, and sustainable development wherever it operates.”Addressing a Security Council open debate today (07 Dec) on transnational organized crime, growing challenges and new threats, Guterres said that it “operates everywhere – in all countries, rich and poor, North and South, developed and developing. Meanwhile, cyberspace is a virtual El Dorado for criminals.”He said, “the activities of transnational organized crime take many forms, but the ramifications are the same: weakened governance, corruption and lawlessness, open violence, death, and destruction.”Guterres continued, “Illicit financial flows are not abstract figures. They amount to billions of missed development opportunities, lost livelihoods, and worsened poverty.”He added, “On the African continent alone, more money is lost due to tax evasion, money laundering and illicit financial flows than comes in in through official development assistance.”Guterres said, “Transnational organized crime and conflict feed off each other. Crime is a catalyst for conflict. And when conflict rages, crime thrives.”He noted, “It undermines the authority and effectiveness of State institutions, erodes the rule of law, and destabilizes law enforcement structures.”The Secretary-General said, “From Afghanistan to Colombia, the production and trafficking of illicit drugs fueled brutal and long-lasting conflicts. And all across the world, criminal groups spread violence, fear and insecurity in their effort to control trafficking routes.”Guterres concluded, “The Security Council has a critical role in our collective fight against organized crime. But to succeed, we must act together and stand united. Together, let us commit to create a more peaceful and stable world in which organized crime has no place.”
#COP28 Dialogues – Women Rise for All | Amina J. Mohammed | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-07 | With women’s leadership networks continuing to gain visibility and leverage, the “Women Rise for All at #COP28” Dialogue features a discussion with influential women climate leaders, acknowledging their transformational leadership in climate action, taking action to keep 1.5C target of the Paris Agreement alive, saving lives, and protecting livelihoods.Convened by the UN Office for Partnerships, the COP28 Dialogues feature a series of conversations with UN leaders, experts, advocates and influencers on the nexus between the Sustainable Development Goals and the key areas of climate action and solutions being advanced at the UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai.Connect with the Women Rise for All Initiative on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/women-rise-for-all
UN CERF High-Level Pledging Event 2024: Humanitarian Aid & Emergency Relief | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-07 | Remarks by Martin Griffiths, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator (USG/ERC) for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), at the CERF High-level Pledging event for 2024.Since 2006, 126 UN Member States and observers, as well as regional Governments, corporate donors, foundations, and individuals, made it possible for humanitarian partners to deliver over $5.5 billion in life-saving assistance in over 100 countries and territories.CERF’s Rapid Response window allows country teams to kick-start relief efforts immediately in a coordinated and prioritized response when a new crisis emerges. CERF’s window for Underfunded Emergencies helps scale-up and sustain protracted relief.
Ukraines Humanitarian Situation & Nuclear Safety Risks | Security Council | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-06 | A top UN official said that in Ukraine, “intensifying Russian attacks on the country’s energy facilities, amidst heavy snow and freezing temperatures, are worsening the dire humanitarian conditions across the country.”Miroslav Jenča, Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and Americas today (06 Dec) briefed the Security Council on the situation in Ukraine.According to him, “Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine – in violation of the UN Charter and international law - the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights has verified 10,065 civilians killed and 18,679 injured.”He added, “the actual figures are likely considerably higher.”Jenča said, “as long as the war continues, all four Ukraine’s nuclear power plants remain at risk.”He continued, “On Saturday, the International Atomic Energy Agency reported that the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant – Europe’s largest nuclear power plant, located dangerously close to the front line - suffered a complete off-site power outage. This was the eighth time since the start of the invasion.”Jenča added, “Last Wednesday, the IAEA team at the Khmelnitsky Nuclear Power Plant in western Ukraine reported hearing several explosions close to the plant. The plant was not directly affected. Yet, the incident reminded of the risks faced by Ukrainian nuclear sites – even those away from active combat.”
Venezuelan Refugees, Gaza, Ukraine & other topics - Daily Briefing (6 Dec 2023) | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-06 | Noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.Highlights: - SG/Gaza - Gaza - Senior Personnel Appointments - High-level Pledging Event for the Central Emergency Response Fund - Venezuela/Guyana - Venezuelan Refugees - Security Council - Ukraine - UN Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting - COP28 - Human Rights - Children - AI Advisory BodyVENEZUELA/GUYANA In response to questions on the situation between Venezuala and Guyana. The Spokesman said the Secretary-General strongly supports the use of solely peaceful means to settle international disputes. He further recalls that, pursuant to the Charter and to the Statute of the International Court of Justice, decisions of the Court are binding and he trusts that both States will duly comply with the Order from the Court. The Secretary-General recalls the Order of the International Court of Justice, issued on 1 December 2023, indicating provisional measures in the case of Guyana against Venezuela concerning Arbitral Award of 3 October 1899. The Secretary-General notes the Court’s unanimous decision to order Venezuela to “refrain from taking any action that would modify the situation that currently prevails in the territory in dispute”. The Secretary-General also notes the Court’s order to both Parties to refrain from any action, which might aggravate or extend the dispute or make it more difficult to resolve. In accordance with the Statute of the Court, the Secretary-General transmitted the notice of the provisional measures ordered by the Court to the Security Council. VENEZUELAN REFUGEES Also related to Venezuela, this morning, the International Organization for Migration and the UN Refugee Agency launched a $1.59 billion regional plan to support the needs of refugees and migrants from Venezuela as well as their host communities across 17 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean countries. The number of refugees and migrants from Venezuela worldwide has now topped 7.7 million people, with the vast majority hosted by countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. The 2024 response plan aims to respond to 3 million refugees and migrants from Venezuela and host communities with emergency needs, while supporting socio-economic integration that will allow them to resume their lives. GAZAThe World Food Programme (WFP), in a statement issued earlier today, said that the renewed fighting in Gaza makes the distribution of aid almost impossible and endangers the lives of humanitarian workers. Only a lasting peace can end the suffering and avert a looming humanitarian crisis, they say. The ability of the United Nations to receive incoming loads of aid has been significantly impaired over the past three days by several factors. This includes a shortage of trucks within Gaza; the telecommunications blackout on 4 December; and the increasing number of staff who were unable to report to the Rafah crossing due to the ongoing hostilities. Yesterday, for the third consecutive day, Rafah was the only governorate in Gaza where limited aid distributions took place. In the adjacent Khan Younis governorate, aid distribution has largely stopped due to the intensity of the fighting.UKRAINE OCHA tells us there was an attack yesterday in the city of Kherson, in the south of the country, which destroyed a local NGO’s humanitarian warehouse. The humanitarian centre had been providing vital assistance to tens of thousands of residents of Kherson city and the region - whose needs have increased in the winter weather and the warehouse was completely burnt down.Full Highlights: un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=06%20December%202023
Qatar on Gender-Based Violence in Israel-Palestine Crisis | Security Council | United Nations United Nations 2023-12-06 | Informal comments to the media by Ambassador Sheikha Alya Bint Ahmed Bin Saif Al Thani, Permanent Representative of Qatar to the United Nations.
