GalleryNew global survey shows E-government emerging as a powerful tool for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals
The United Kingdom, followed by Australia and the Republic of Korea, lead the world in providing government services and information through the Internet, according to a new survey released today by the United Nations showing […]
GalleryAfrican elephants face ‘unacceptably high’ level of poaching
Many African elephants continued to face serious threats to their survival in 2015 from the illegal trade in ivory and unacceptably high levels of poaching.
GalleryUN warns of more heatwave deaths as climate change pushes up temperatures
Warning of a possible rise in heatwave deaths due to climate change, the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction called for measures to reduce mortality from this natural hazard.
GalleryTokyo art scene collaborates for SDGs
Love 1980’s pop music and the Sustainable Development Goals? The United Nations Information Centre in Tokyo (UNIC Tokyo) is raising awareness of the SDGs with a new music video featuring more than 100 Japanese celebrities dancing […]
GalleryOn first International Day, UNESCO calls for protection of mangrove ecosystems
Mangroves are rare and vital ecosystems that help to protect coastlines but their survival is being jeopardized, said UNESCO, calling for mangroves' protection.
Temperature in Kuwait hits 54 Celsius, sets possible record
The World Meteorological Organization will set up a committee to examine whether a 54 degrees Celsius temperature recently recorded in Kuwait has set a record for the Eastern hemisphere.
AIDS conference closes with calls to end HIV discrimination
As the 21st International AIDS Conference wrapped up, a UN official called for ending discrimination against patients, especially those from the most vulnerable populations.
Gallery2016 on pace to be hottest year ever, says WMO
Global temperatures for the first six months of this year reached new highs, setting 2016 on track to be the hottest-ever on record, the United Nations weather agency said.
GalleryNew UN study links trees in drylands with sustainable development
For the first time, a new United Nations report details the number of trees, forests and how the land is used in the world’s drylands, and the findings could be used to track progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals and help fight climate change.
First report card maps scope of SDGs progress
Report reveals that benefits of development are not equally shared by all
New York, 19 July 2016 – As the world begins the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development […]
GalleryBan urges burden-sharing, solidarity to combat effects of El Niño and mitigate climate change
The lives and livelihoods of more than 60 millions people around the world have been turned upside down by the extreme weather events linked to the El Niño phenomenon, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today said, calling for a scaled-up, unprecedented response that goes beyond humanitarian action.
GalleryCountries need to be reminded they are built on diversity, says UN Deputy Secretary-General
United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson today called for an alternative narrative on migration, where human mobility is seen as a positive development and a driver for economic prosperity and social progress.
GalleryUN chief launches first report to track Sustainable Development Goals
Launching the first-ever Sustainable Development Goals report on the new global development agenda adopted last year, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today said that the 15-year undertaking is “off to a good start” but will require all parts of the UN family and its partners to work together.
GalleryPress briefing: Business engagement on SDGs
The briefing will address the reasons why the Sustainable Development Goals and climate action are important to business, and how the private sector is engaging in the 2030 Agenda.
GalleryUN health agency urges speeding up efforts on noncommunicable diseases
Governments must make greater efforts to protect people from heart disease, cancers, diabetes and lung disease – the leading causes of death among the elderly – the United Nations health agency today said.
GalleryPress Release: UN Secretary-General invites all Member States to event on 21 September aimed at accelerating Paris Agreement entry into force
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has invited leaders from all countries to attend a special event on 21 September to deposit their instruments of ratification, acceptance, approval or accession to the Paris Agreement on climate change. The event will also provide an opportunity to other countries to publicly commit to joining or ratifying the agreement before the end of 2016.
GalleryNew UN report links farming, forestry and improved food security
Agriculture and forestry can improve food security, according to a new United Nations report released today, at the start of World Forest Week.
GalleryUN officials spotlight need to move from commitments to results on Global Goals
Every country must accelerate the implementation pace of the 'ambitious and transformative' development agenda adopted by United Nations Member States nearly one year ago, by boosting efforts to overcome persistent challenges, new obstacles and unforeseen setbacks in today's turbulent world, the UN Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson today declared.
GalleryIn Kenya, Ban calls for broader partnerships, sustainable investments to drive global development
At a United Nations intergovernmental forum opening in Nairobi, Kenya, today, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged participants to focus on strong collaboration, equality and inclusion in trade, finance and investment in order to better align action with agreed-upon sustainable development targets and help restore trust in the global economy.
GalleryUN agency urges implementation of accord to tackle illegal fishing
An international agreement aimed at tackling illegal fishing “marks the dawn of a new era,” but rapid action is needed to ensure that its implementation is effective, the head of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has said.
GalleryWarning against ‘cherry-picking’ among Global Goals, UN experts say human rights cannot be ignored
The largest group of rights experts in the United Nations system stressed today that focus on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development should in no way become “the perfect excuse” for Member States to give less priority to their binding human rights obligations, or to ignore the comprehensive protection that is at the core of international human rights instruments.
GalleryWarning of stalled progress against HIV infections, new UN report urges stepped-up prevention efforts
Globally, new HIV infections among adults and children have been reduced by 40 per cent since the peak in 1997, but the decline among adults has stalled for at least five years, according to a new report from the United Nations agency leading the world’s HIV/AIDS response.
GalleryUN political forum opens with focus on achieving 2030 Agenda’s call to ‘leave no one behind’
Opening the first meeting of the United Nations High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development since the adoption of the UN 2030 Agenda, the President of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) today outlined the tasks before the body and called for stronger commitment to accomplish its mandated tasks.
GalleryStand up for and invest in teenage girls, UN says on World Population Day
Leaders and communities must focus on and stand up for the rights of teenage girls, particularly those who are poor, out of school, exploited, or subjected to harmful traditional practices, the United Nations has said, marking World Population Day with a call to bolster the success of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by investing in better opportunities for teen girls.
GalleryUN food relief agency launches innovation project to spur progress towards ending hunger by 2030
The United Nations food relief agency launched today an initiative to identify and nurture new technologies and business models which will contribute to the global goal of ending hunger by 2030.
Press release: UN to shine spotlight on SDGs efforts
For the first time since last year’s historic adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 goals, countries will meet in New York at the High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development from 11-20 July.
GalleryGlobal conference sets health action agenda for the implementation of the Paris Agreement
Participants attending the Second Global Conference on Health and Climate proposed key actions for the implementation of the Paris Agreement to reduce health risks linked to climate change.
Press briefing: Forum to examine early SDG implementation efforts
The 2016 High-level Political Forum will see 22 countries — developed and developing— presenting an overview of their plans to achieve the Goals during the ministerial segment on 18-20 July.
Gallery‘Monster’ El Niño subsides but impact on children set to worsen as disease, malnutrition spread – UNICEF
While the 2015-2016 El Niño – one of the strongest on record – has ended, its devastating impact on children is worsening, as hunger, malnutrition and disease continue to increase following the severe droughts and floods spawned by the event, a new report from the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) revealed today.
GalleryIn China, Ban highlights country’s leadership on sustainable development, climate change
In China today, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon highlighted the country’s relationship with the Organization, noting in particular its crucial role in improving tensions, building peace and promoting the agenda on climate change.
GalleryGlobal food prices rose in June; wheat harvest outlook robust – UN agency
Global food commodity prices rose 4.2 per cent in June, their steepest monthly increase of the past four years, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said today, also noting improved production prospects for the year ahead.
GalleryAs global per-capita fish consumption hits all-time high, UN warns on overharvesting
A new report from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) shows that while growth in aquaculture has helped drive global per capita fish consumption above 20 kilograms a year for the first time, almost a third of commercial fish stocks are now overharvested at biologically unsustainable levels.
GalleryAs robotics advance in South-East Asia, investment needed to build skilled workforce – UN labour agency
The robot age is already a reality among manufacturers in South-East Asia, where countries have been incrementally introducing automation to improve quality, consistency, and workplace safety, with robots deployed in human-centric, collaborative ways to raise the productivity of higher skilled workers, rather than replace them, a new study by the International Labour Organization (ILO) has found.
GalleryResponse to El Niño must be ramped up amid preparedness for La Niña’s likely knock-on effect – UN
Failure to prepare for and adapt to the 'new normal' of increasing climate-linked emergencies such as El Niño could put global development targets at risk and deepen widespread human suffering in areas already hard hit by floods and droughts, top United Nations officials said in Rome today.
#17days17goals: Progress made on Sustainable Development Goals
To draw attention to progress on the Sustainable Development Goals, we'll highlight the work done in one country toward each of the 17 SDGs every day from 4 July until the UN High-level Political Forum concludes on 20 July.
GalleryOn World Day, UN hails cooperatives as drivers of sustainable future
Cooperatives are an old idea but more relevant than ever as they can be the drivers of a sustainable future, senior United Nations officials said on the International Day of Cooperatives today, urging Governments to create an enabling environment for these groups to thrive and grow.
GalleryConflict prevention efforts more effective and sustainable when women participate – Security Council
Despite commitments of the international community, inconsistent levels of political will, resourcing, accountability and gender expertise often hinder the full and meaningful inclusion of women in efforts to prevent conflict, the Security Council said today.
GalleryCaribbean region must boost efforts to prepare for increased drought – UN report
Climate change is expected to increase the intensity and frequency of droughts in the Caribbean, so countries in the region must enhance their capabilities to deal with this and other extreme weather-related challenges to ensure food security and hunger eradication, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has said in a new report.
GalleryUN highlights risk reduction, mitigation to combat El Niño’s impact in Central America’s Dry Corridor
The international community must take urgent action to help build resilience, food security, and restore livelihoods in El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras, which are impacted by drought and other extreme-weather effects of the El Niño phenomenon, senior United Nations officials today said.
GalleryUN chief appoints 12 experts to his task force to prevent and manage future health crises
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today announced the membership of his Global Health Crises Task Force, which aims to help countries and communities prepare and respond to emergencies, such as the recent outbreaks of Ebola and Zika.
GalleryUN rights expert applauds media initiative to shine light on homelessness in San Francisco
The United Nations human rights expert on housing today commended a large media initiative in the US city of San Francisco aimed at bringing the issue of homelessness to the forefront of discussions and encourage civil engagement.
GalleryUNICEF report: Growing inequalities threaten most disadvantaged kids
Some 69 million children under five years of age will die from mostly preventable causes, 167 million children will live in poverty, and 750 million women will have been married as children by 2030, unless the world focuses more on the plight of its most disadvantaged children, according to a United Nations report published today.
GalleryUN agencies to meet on El Niño’s ‘devastating impact’ in Central America’s Dry Corridor
With the El Niño climate event devastating Central America’s so-called Dry Corridor, where one of the worst droughts in decades has left 3.5 million people food insecure, United Nations agencies will gather this week to discuss ways to improve the long-term response to the weather developments in the region.
GalleryUN deputy chief highlights benefits from and challenges confronting oceans
Addressing a gathering on laws affecting the world’s oceans, the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson today underscored that healthy oceans are critical to maintaining life on the planet, while also noting their connection to broader sustainable development aims.
GalleryEl Niño puts more than 26 million children at risk in Eastern and Southern Africa – UNICEF
One of the strongest El Niño events ever recorded has placed the lives of 26.5 million children at risk of malnutrition, water shortages and disease in ten countries in Eastern and Southern Africa, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has reported.
GalleryOn Day Against Drug Abuse, Ban calls for ‘effective, compassionate’ global response
Marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, United Nations Secretary-General today called for “a global response that is simultaneously effective, compassionate and humane,” to the challenges posed by the world drug problem.
GalleryOn World Day, Ban spotlights role of seafarers in meeting sustainable agenda targets
Marking the Day of the Seafarer, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon highlighted the role of the shipping industry in moving forward the international agenda on sustainable development and climate change.
GalleryIn Cannes, Ban pitches ad agencies on Global Goals, announces ‘Common Ground’ partnership
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called on advertising and creative communication professionals to wage “the biggest-ever campaign for humanity” by supporting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, a 15-year anti-poverty, pro-planet action plan, adopted by 193 Member States last year.
GalleryEgyptian athletes vow to promote peace, Sustainable Development Goals
A group of 22 top Egyptian athletes this month pledged to promote world peace and advance the new and universal Sustainable Development Goals.
GalleryBan Ki-moon announces Common Ground initiative with advertising’s ‘Big Six’ to support SDGs
“Today, the communications industry is taking a historic, first-of-its-kind step to beat poverty, injustice and inequality,” said the Secretary-General, speaking at the Lions Festival of Creativity, Cannes.
GalleryUN Global Compact launches SDG Pioneers to promote business for good
To create momentum, Global Compact has selected 10 of the brightest leaders in promoting community sustainability to be Local SDG Pioneers.
GalleryUN highlights role of public service in achieving SDGs
Emphasizing the critical role that public institutions must play in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, the UN marked 2016 Public Service Day today by focusing on how to mobilize public institutions for the implementation of the SDGs.
In letter, SDG Advocates urge business leaders to take action
With the support of the UN Global Compact, a number of the SDG Advocates are calling on business to take concrete action towards helping the UN achieve the SDGs.
GalleryRecord 29 million people drug-dependent worldwide; heroin use up sharply – UN report
The number of people suffering from drug use disorders has increased disproportionally for the first time in six years in 2014, while the number of people who used at least one drug stayed at five per cent of the adult population, according to the annual report prepared by the United Nations.
GalleryBan marks UN Public Service Day with call for shared drive to achieve sustainability agenda
The efforts of women and men engaged in public service are crucial to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today, paying tribute to public servants on the day set aside by the General Assembly to spotlight their invaluable contributions.
GalleryWorld’s oft-marginalized widows must be part of sustainable development, says Ban
With nearly half the world’s 259 million widows living poverty, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged greater efforts to “make them more visible in our societies” and ensure they are a vital part of the UN Sustainable Development Agenda’s pledge to ‘leave no one behind.’
GalleryUN summit jump-starts global drive for responsible business actions on Sustainable Development Goals
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today rallied corporate leaders and entrepreneurs gathered for a summit in New York to focus on key areas required to reach a new era of sustainability, including responsible practices, transformative partnerships, breakthrough innovation and targeted investment.
GalleryEU Covenant of Mayors and Compact of Mayors launch largest global coalition of cities committed to fighting climate change
Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy will combine efforts and leadership to accelerate climate action at the local level worldwide.
GalleryBan Ki-moon to students: Small actions make a difference
In a world of rapid technology, sometimes all it takes is an old-fashioned letter. United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon welcomed students from P.S. 333 in Manhattan and Cottage Grove Elementary in upstate New York to UN […]
GalleryLetters to Ban Ki-moon: Fifth-graders write about climate change
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has been very busy, but not too busy to make time to meet the fifth graders who wrote to him asking him to find solutions to the universal challenge of climate […]
GalleryOn International Yoga Day, Ban spotlights importance of healthy living in realizing Global Goals
21 June 2016 – United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged everyone to embrace healthier choices and lifestyles and to commit to unity with other human beings, regardless of ethnicity, faith, age, gender identity or sexual orientation.
GalleryOn World Day, Ban calls for ending elder abuse as a pathway towards Global Goals
Marking World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today emphasized that ending neglect, abuse and violence against older people is crucial as the international community continues to work together towards achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and fulfill their underlying pledge to leave no one behind.
GalleryNew Zika response strategy to focus on preventing, managing medical complications – UN health agency
The United Nations health agency today issued a revised strategic response plan for the next one and a half years to combat the transmission of the Zika virus, which has now spread to 60 countries.
GalleryMedia Advisory: Yoga for SDGs, UN International Day of Yoga
2 events will mark this year’s International Yoga Day at the United Nations
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GalleryOn Day to Combat Desertification, UN calls for action to restore land resources
17 June 2016 – Nearly 800 million people are chronically undernourished as a direct consequence of land degradation, declining soil, fertility, unsustainable water use, drought and biodiversity loss, requiring long-term solutions to help communities increase resilience to climate change, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon declared today.
GalleryIn Russia, Ban spotlights leadership and shared input in advancing global commitments
16 June 2016 – Participating in the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon highlighted the importance of translating the various landmark agreements made by the international community during the past year into action as soon as possible.
GalleryUN Women announces Anne Hathaway as Goodwill Ambassador
The United Nations entity tasked with promoting gender equality today announced the appointment of Academy Award-winning American actor Anne Hathaway as global Goodwill Ambassador.
GallerySustainable Energy for All shifts gear to speed delivery of affordable, clean energy
Sustainable Energy for All – the global, multi-stakeholder platform that played a core role in putting universal access to modern energy services at the heart of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Paris climate agreement – is shifting gear with a new five-year strategy that will drive action and deliver on those promises.
GalleryNew UN study identifies small fish with ‘big role’ to play feeding Africa’s drylands
Small, fast growing wild fish could be crucial allies in the race to end hunger in some of the world's most chronically poor and underfed regions, according to a new report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on fisheries in the drylands of sub-Saharan Africa.
GalleryVisiting UN food relief agency, Pope Francis shines spotlight on urgent need to end hunger
In the first papal visit to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), Pope Francis today gave his full support to the goal of eradicating hunger and paid tribute to the organization’s staff, including those who had lost their lives at work.
GallerySpotlighting Global Goals, Ban kicks off 100-day countdown to International Day of Peace
In a kick-off for the 100-day countdown to the International Day of Peace, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called on the international community to work together in recognizing that development and peace are interdependent and mutually reinforcing in order to help build a future of peace and prosperity for all.
GalleryEqual Rights for Persons with Disabilities Key to Achieve New Development Agenda
Implementing the new Sustainable Development Agenda for all persons with disabilities will be the main focus of the Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) as they meet in New York from 14-16 June.
Gallery‘Audacious’ Solar Impulse airplane showcases power of clean energy
Calling it an "audacious, historic and transformative expedition," Ban Ki-moon visited the Solar Impulse aircraft as it awaited the next leg of its worldwide, solar-powered journey.
Gallery‘Disability is not inability,’ says Ban, urging equal rights for all to achieve Global Goals
Marking the 10th anniversary of a United Nations treaty that protects the rights of persons with disabilities, senior UN officials today highlighted the critical role people with disabilities play as invaluable partners to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
UN Secretary-General to Visit Solar Impulse at JFK Airport
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will meet with the pilots and founders of the Solar Impulse, the first solar plane capable of flying day and night without using a drop of fuel that is attempting to circumnavigate the globe, on Monday, 13 June, during the expedition’s stopover in New York City.
‘Science of Cities’ Tool Measures Impact of Cities on People
UN-Habitat will release details of a new scientific tool that measures the rate of global urbanization, its characteristics, and the potential effect of urban sprawl on the quality of life for city dwellers.
GalleryBan Ki-moon reunites with Hokule’a crew for World Oceans Day
Warning that we are dangerously close to breaking the limit of how we should use oceans, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon met with a Polynesian voyaging canoe crew using traditional methods to circumvent the world.
GalleryWorld Oceans Day in photos
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon asked that we recommit to using the oceans' gifts "peacefully, equitably and sustainably."
GalleryUN General Assembly adopts political declaration to fast-track progress on ending AIDS
At a high-level meeting on ending AIDS that opened at the United Nations General Assembly today, Member States adopted a new political declaration that includes a set of time-bound targets to fast-track the pace of progress towards combating the worldwide scourge of HIV and AIDS over the next five years and end the epidemic as a public health threat by 2030.
GalleryMonitoring World Urbanization Trends and Conditions with a Global Sample of Cities
UN Habitat’s Global Urban Observatory has created a new UN Global Sample of Cities to monitor, report, and advise on world urbanization trends, conditions and developments.
GalleryOn World Day, UN urges meaningful action to protect future health of oceans
On World Day, UN urges meaningful action to protect future health of oceans Healthy oceans are critical to sustaining life on Earth, by regulating the climate and providing a wide range of services, including natural resources, nutritious food and jobs that benefit billions of people, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon declared today, as the UN kicked off its celebrations to mark World Oceans Day.
GalleryUNAIDS appoints amfAR chair and fashion designer Kenneth Cole as Goodwill Ambassador
The Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) today appointed the Chair of the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) and leading fashion designer Kenneth Cole as a UNAIDS International Goodwill Ambassador.
New Financial Initiative in Support of Paris Agreement
New Financial Initiative in Support of Paris Agreement To help developing countries monitor and report progress in a transparent manner under the Paris Climate Agreement, a new financial initiative and an associated trust fund was approved today by the GEF Council.
GalleryUN announces first-ever global standard to measure food loss and waste
A partnership of leading international organizations, including the United Nations, has announced the launch of a first-ever global standard to measure food loss and waste while at the Global Green Growth Forum (3GF) 2016 Summit currently underway in Copenhagen, Denmark.
GalleryHigh-Level Meeting on Ending AIDS
More than 30 cities playing a leading role in the AIDS response meet to discuss ongoing strategies and innovations in their cities that are improving health and development
GalleryConcern about marine ecosystems at center of World Oceans Day observances
Growing concern over the health of marine ecosystems is at the center of United Nations observances to mark World Oceans Day 2016 on 8 June.
GalleryDroughts and persisting conflicts exacerbate global food needs – UN agency
Droughts linked to El Niño and civil conflicts have pushed the number of countries currently in need of external food assistance up to 37 from 34 in March, a new report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has found.
GalleryTwo million more people living with HIV on life-saving treatment in 2015 – new UN report
The number of HIV-positive people taking antiretroviral medicines more than doubled to an estimated 17 million people from 2010 to 2015, with two million people gaining access to the life-saving drug last year alone, the United Nations agency leading the world’s HIV/AIDS response announced today.
GalleryPhotos: UN Green Fair 2016
Staff and visitors at the United Nations Headquarters in New York picked up tips on composting, beekeeping, gardening, and other sustainable living ideas from more than 30 vendors
GalleryUN conference adopts global education action agenda to mobilize civil society
A global education action agenda affirming the importance of Sustainable Development Goal 4 – ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong opportunities for all – was adopted today in Gyeongju, Republic of Korea.
GalleryLDCs: With journalists sponsored from vulnerable nations, news on UN conference can reach all corners of globe
More than two dozen journalists from the world's least developed countries are in Antalya, Turkey, to report on a United Nations conference focused on the state of their homelands, and to ensure that key messages are disseminated as widely as possible thanks to their local news outlets.
GalleryUN official acclaims 2016 Crime Commission session for role in sustainable development
As the week-long annual session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ) came to a close in Vienna today, the head of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) highlighted that bonds had been strengthened between efforts in crime prevention and criminal justice and work undertaken to promote sustainable development.
GalleryWorld Heritage sites at risk from climate change – joint UN report
Some 31 natural and cultural World Heritage sites in 29 countries across the world are becoming increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, a new report released by the United Nations has found.
Gallery‘You have unlimited power’ Ban tells youth, rallying support for SDGs
Ban urged youth to think about the circumstances in which people in other parts of the world live – underscoring the importance of tempering passion with empathy.
GalleryUN chief opens DPI/NGO Conference with call for cooperation on education
Kicking off the conference in Gyeongju, Republic of Korea, Ban highlights the vital role that NGOs, academia and youth play in achieving the SDGs.
GalleryUN adopts new declaration, calls for support of least developed countries
A major UN meeting focusing on the world's least developed countries has closed in Antalya, Turkey, with the adoption of an outcome document paving the way for further concrete action.
GalleryUN launches campaign to urge ‘smart’ transition to sustainable cities
Two United Nations entities have launched a global initiative to advocate for public policy that will promote use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) as a catalyst for the transition to smart sustainable cities.
GalleryWith busy bees in the lead, ‘pollinator-friendly’ approach vital for healthy agricultural ecosystems – UN
As bellwethers for ecosystem health and biodiversity, bees play a crucial role in agriculture and ending hunger, and “pollinator-friendly” approaches are therefore highly encouraged, according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Gallery‘Spirit of Paris’ Lives as Governments Get Down to Implement Landmark Agreement
The first UN climate change meeting since governments adopted the landmark Paris Agreement closed today amid a suite of positive outcomes that will support the treaty’s widely anticipated early entry into force and stronger, sustained action world-wide into the future.
Gallery#WildForLife campaign seeks to mobilize millions to end illegal wildlife trade
The UN, backed by A-list celebrities from across the globe, launched an unprecedented campaign against the illegal trade in wildlife, which is pushing species to the brink of extinction, robbing countries of their natural heritage and profiting international criminal networks.
GalleryWith many plant and animal species ‘hanging on by a thread,’ UN urges action to tackle wildlife crime
The poaching and illegal trade of thousands of species across the globe present real environmental dangers and undermine the rule of law, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said today, urging shared responsibility among the international community in tackling wildlife and forest crime.
GalleryIndigenous peoples share hopes for the SDGs
With its promise to leave no one behind, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is of vital importance to the 370 million indigenous peoples around the world, who are often over-represented among the poor, the […]
Gallery‘We need to solve humanitarian crises together,’ says Sustainable Development Goals Advocate Forest Whitaker
On the opening day of the World Humanitarian Summit in Istanbul, the Special Envoy of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Forest Whitaker, called on individuals, governments and international organizations to act collectively to improve humanitarian action and invest more in development aid.
GalleryUN Environment Assembly opens in Nairobi aiming to ensure ‘healthy planet, with healthy people’
Hundreds of key global decision-makers are gathering in Kenya today for the second United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-2), aiming to tackle some of the most critical issues facing our planet, from the air pollution that kills millions of people every year to an illegal trade in wildlife that is pushing species to the brink of extinction.
GalleryNew fund launched at UN humanitarian summit to address education in crisis zones
UNICEF announced the launch of a new fund to better coordinate support for education for children and youth affected by humanitarian emergencies.
GalleryBan: UN humanitarian summit to ‘shape a different future’
“We are all here because global humanitarian action is unprecedentedly strained,” the UN Secretary-General said at the World Humanitarian Summit opening ceremony.
GalleryUN highlights biodiversity’s role in underpinning development
Biodiversity and the ecosystem services it supports are the foundations for life on Earth and the livelihoods and well-being of people everywhere, said Ban Ki-moon on International Day of Biodiversity.
GalleryWorld Humanitarian Summit will be ‘launch pad’ for new initiatives
"There is huge need for us to show solidarity with those who are affected by natural disasters and man-made disasters,” UN Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson said.
GalleryUN hails potential of cultural diversity to boost development
Cultural diversity is an outstanding source of exchange, innovation and creativity, and has the enormous potential to accelerate sustainable development, UNESCO said.
GalleryBan urges UN system to bolster support for indigenous peoples
Much has been achieved to improve the rights of indigenous peoples, but conflicts on their lands and territories, and the lack of inclusion of their voices in peace processes, remain a challenge, Ban Ki-moon said.
GalleryRate of Environmental Damage Increasing Across Planet but Still Time to Reverse Worst Impacts
The environmental change sweeping the world is occurring at a faster pace than previously thought, making it imperative that governments act now to reverse the damage being done to the planet, says the most authoritative study that UNEP has ever published on the state of the global environment.
GalleryBan appoints Mexican diplomat to head UN climate change framework
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon yesterday appointed Patricia Espinosa Cantellano of Mexico as Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
GalleryOn World Telecommunication Day, UN hails role of IT in sustainable development
The global sustainable development agenda recognizes the great potential of information and communication technology to accelerate human progress, bridge the digital divide and advance knowledge, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today, marking World Telecommunication and Information Society Day.
GalleryGround-breaking illegal fishing accord soon to enter into force
Illegal, unregulated and unreported (IUU) fishing is about to become much more difficult thanks to the imminent entry into force of the Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA), a ground-breaking international accord championed by FAO.
GalleryGovernments Enter New Era of Collaboration on Climate Change
Speaking at the opening of the UN Climate Change Conference in Bonn (16 to 26 May), the UN’s top climate change official Christiana Figueres said that following the successful conclusion of the historic Paris Climate Change Agreement in Paris last year, governments are leaving behind the phase of negotiations and entering a new era of collaboration.
GalleryLaunch of World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) mid-2016 Report
Economic activity in the world economy remains lacklustre, with little prospect for a turnaround in 2016, says the United Nations World Economic Situation and Prospects as of mid-2016 report, launched today.
GalleryUN health agency warns of rise in urban air pollution, with poorest cities most at risk
More than 80 per cent of people living in urban areas that monitor air pollution are exposed to air quality levels that exceed guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO), with populations in low-income cities the most at risk for respiratory diseases and other long-term health problems.
GalleryUN conference to review progress of least developed countries
A UN conference is set to undertake a review of progress made during the past five years by the world's 48 least developed countries (LDCs), which comprise about 12 per cent of the global population.
GalleryUNEP report: Cost of adapting to climate change could hit $500B per year by 2050
Failure to cut emissions will dramatically increase the annual costs of adaptation, which could be up to five times higher by 2050 than previously thought.
GalleryMedia advisory: Briefing to present World Economic Situation and Prospect as of mid- 2016 Report
Economic activity in the world economy remains weak with little prospect for a turnaround in 2016, says an updated UN report to be released 12 May.
GalleryEl Niño not a one-off event, UN says, calling for action
The international community must boost efforts to build the capacity for disaster risk management to prevent El Niño weather extremes from causing humanitarian crises, the ECOSOC president said.
GalleryUN calls for end to illegal poaching, trade of migratory birds
Millions of migratory birds are being lost each year as a result of illegal killing, taking and trade, UN officials warned on World Migratory Bird Day.
GalleryMigratory birds need our action
While migratory birds--which include eagles, storks and cranes--are struggling, there are things we can do to help.
GalleryUN Forum on indigenous issues opens 2016 session with focus on conflict, peace and resolution
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today announced the launch of a plan to realize the full rights of indigenous peoples who are increasingly being drawn into conflicts over their lands and resources.
GalleryECOSOC on El Niño: reducing risks, capturing opportunities
The El Niño phenomenon––with its increasing intensity––has lasting consequences for development.
GalleryAt climate summit in Washington, UN officials call to take action ‘to the next level’
Recalling that just two weeks ago, 175 countries came to the United Nations to sign the historic Paris Agreement on climate change, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today said it is time to take climate action to the next level.
GalleryCities Define Key Obstacles to Achieving Climate Goals & Solutions to Overcome Them
For the first time, representatives from more than 80 of the world’s largest cities have revealed the barriers that are limiting their ambitions to tackle climate change, in a new analysis released today by C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group (C40). Unlocking Climate Action in Megacities also presents a corresponding set of innovative and replicable solutions to overcome these challenges.
GalleryUNFCCC chief wins prestigious sustainability award
BOSTON — Christiana Figueres, the executive secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), has been awarded the Joan Bavaria Award for Building Sustainability into the Capital Markets. The announcement was made […]
GalleryBan announces intention to appoint seasoned Mexican diplomat to head UN climate framework
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has started the process of consultation with the Conference of Parties through its Bureau, and has informed of his intention to appoint Patricia Espinosa Cantellano of Mexico as Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
GalleryCall for applications for US$1M sustainable energy grant
Applications are open to individuals, institutions or partnerships based on past and current achievements.
GalleryAt high-level forum, UN spotlights power of IT in development
Tech has the power to help people around the world bridge the digital divide, Ban Ki-moon underlined at the opening of a high-level forum of the ICT for development community.
GalleryBan intends to appoint Erik Solheim new UNEP director
The Secretary-General informed the General Assembly of his intention to appoint Erik Solheim of Norway as the new Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme.
GalleryKenya stages largest-ever ivory destruction as UN reaffirms ‘zero tolerance’ on poaching
As African leaders soundly rejected “those who think our natural heritage can be sold for money,” senior UN officials expressed support for Kenyan-led efforts to end illegal wildlife trade.
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GalleryUNEP Report Provides Roadmap for Solar Energy Exports from Ghana
A grid-connected 100 megawatt (MW) solar power plant in the north of Ghana could save the country 40,000 tonnes in annual CO2 emissions, create 3,000 direct jobs, provide livelihoods for 23,000 of the poorest people and earn the country an annual $38 million from energy export.
GalleryPress briefing: UN Economic and Social Survey of Asia and the Pacific
The Economic and Social Survey of Asia and the Pacific is the most comprehensive annual review of economic and social development in Asia and the Pacific.
UN launches partnership initiative to promote South-South cooperation on climate change
A new initiative that will build partnerships that help developing countries to assist other developing countries implement the Paris Agreement on climate change and the 2030 Development Agenda was launched in New York by the United Nations in the margins of last week’s Climate Signing event.
GalleryMount Kenya conquered in name of SDG awareness
To bring attention to the Paris Agreement on Climate Change signing ceremony on 22 April, a team from the United Nations Information Centre in Nairobi set off to climb Mount Kenya, where glaciers are rapidly diminishing.
GalleryYouth stress vision of inclusive society at UN forum
Gathering from around the world for a United Nations conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, youth work to counter potentially compelling discourse of those who seek to divide society.
GalleryUNPA launches special stamps featuring Angry Birds
To commemorate Earth Day, the United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA) will issue a new personalized stamp sheet featuring the Angry Birds.
GalleryDay in Photos: Paris Agreement Signing Ceremony
On 22 April, 175 Parties signed the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. Check out the photos from the event and behind the scenes of this busy, historic day.
GalleryRecord support for advancing Paris Climate Agreement entry into force
In an extraordinary show of support for the Paris climate agreement adopted last December, 175 countries signed the Paris Agreement at a ceremony at UN Headquarters today that far exceeded the historical record for first-day […]
Forest Whitaker speaks with students at the Bronx Center for Science and Mathematics
Renowned actor Forest Whitaker had a conversation with students at the Bronx Center for Science and Mathematics about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how individuals can contribute to achieving them.
GalleryUN leaders go green for Earth Day, plant tree in Food Garden
In honor of Earth Day, the UN Deputy Secretary-General and President of the General Assembly lead a team in planting a tree in the UN Food Garden.
Gallery‘Today is an historic day,’ says Ban, as 175 countries sign Paris climate accord
As 175 world leaders signed the Paris Agreement at United Nations Headquarters today, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said the next critical step is to ensure that the landmark accord for global action on climate change enters into force as soon as possible.
Gallery‘We are in a race against time,’ says Ban, as leaders sign landmark Paris climate accord
As world leaders gathered at United Nations Headquarters in New York this morning to officially sign the Paris Agreement on climate change – the landmark accord that sets outs a global action plan to put the world on track to avoid dangerous global warming – Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called on Member States to move quickly to join the accord at the national level so that it can enter into force as early as possible.
GalleryAt UN, Forest Whitaker calls on leaders to ensure benefits of global goals ‘touch everyone’
Peacebuilding advocate and Academy Award-winning actor Forest Whitaker addressed world leaders yesterday at the United Nations, asking them to ensure that the benefits of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can touch everyone worldwide.
GalleryUN says Paris Agreement on climate change must aim for long-term environmental stability
As global leaders prepare to sign the Paris Agreement on climate change today at United Nations Headquarters in New York, the head of the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction today called on signatories to go beyond their existing commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions if the world is to avoid catastrophic future weather events.
GalleryMedia Advisory: Informal High-Level Event on promoting the early entry into force of the Paris Agreement on climate change 22 April, UN Headquarters in New York
In the lead-up to the Signature Ceremony, many countries have announced their intention to ratify the Paris Agreement on the 22nd, or during 2016. Many more countries have signaled their support for the Paris Agreement’s early entry into force and for its full implementation.
Media advisory: Press briefing on civil society and Paris Agreement
At this press briefing, civil society leaders from a wide sector of stakeholders will react to the signing, report on what’s been happening since December, and discuss steps forward for climate action.
GalleryMedia advisory: Press briefing on the impact of the Paris Agreement on business
The press briefing will highlight how the Paris Climate Agreement has already begun to impact private sector operations and investments.
Media advisory: List of 22 April press conferences
All press conferences and briefings will take place in the Press Briefing Room (S-237) except where noted. This schedule is subject to change.
GalleryUN urges action on sustainable development to create pathways for global ‘transformation’
The President of the United Nations General Assembly today called on the international community to take action on the new UN sustainable development agenda in order to begin a transformation for the benefit of all people and the planet, or risk failure that will be felt for generations to come.
GalleryMore than 165 Countries Expected to Sign Climate Change Agreement at Ceremony on 22 April at United Nations Headquarters
More than 165 countries have indicated that they will sign the historic climate change agreement reached in Paris last December at a signature ceremony hosted by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon tomorrow, Friday, 22 April.
GalleryWith Global Goals agreed, UN focuses on what it will take to achieve sustainability targets by 2030
In a watershed moment for international cooperation, global political, business and civil society leaders are headed to New York where they will pledge fast action on the new United Nations sustainable development agenda and the landmark Paris climate agreement, to build on momentum from 2015 to create a better future for people and the planet.
GalleryUN Credits Used to Make Paris Agreement Signing Climate Neutral
Country delegations heading to New York for this Friday’s signing of the Paris Climate Change Agreement will be traveling climate neutral.
GalleryIndigenous Mbororo woman to speak at Paris Agreement signing ceremony on 22 April
Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, an Indigenous woman from the Mbororo pastoralist community of Chad, is the speaker selected to represent civil society at the 22 April signing ceremony of the historic climate agreement that was reached in Paris last December.
List of Parties that signed the Paris Agreement on 22 April
The Paris Agreement opened for signature by the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on 22 April and will remain open for signature for one year. Did your country sign on the first day? Find out here.
GalleryPulses are praised for health, ecological and economic benefits
"Pulses are good for people, and are good for soils," Eduardo Mansur, the head of FAO's land and water division, said today at an event that highlighted the promising future of edible seeds such as lentils, chickpeas and pigeon peas, all often neglected in the shadow of the world's major staple grains.
GalleryFAO, Google collaborate on satellite data tools to manage natural resources
The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and Google announced plans to make high-resolution satellite data a common tool in managing the world’s natural resources, boosting efforts towards the pursuit of sustainable development.
GalleryUN urges ‘tangible actions’ to finance sustainable development
Opening the inaugural session of the Forum on Financing for Development Follow-up, Mr. Ban said that the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, together with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on climate change, are “triumphs of multilateralism.”
GalleryMedia advisory: 19 April press briefing on Paris Agreement signing ceremony
MEDIA ADVISORY
18 April 2016
Press briefing on the Signing Ceremony for the Paris Climate Agreement
19 April, UN Headquarters in New York
More than 150 countries have indicated that they will sign the Paris Agreement on climate change […]
Media Advisory: High-Level Thematic Debate on Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals
Seeking to drive forward implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and taking into account its strong interlinkages with the Paris Climate Agreement, President of the UN General Assembly H.E. Mogens Lykketoft will convene […]
SDG Advocate Co-chair H.E. Solberg speaks about the Sustainable Development Goals at Korean National Assembly
Norwegian Prime Minister and Co-chair of the UN SDG Advocates, H.E. Erna Solberg, visited the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea in Seoul to discuss the UN Sustainable Development Goals with South Korean parliamentarians.
GalleryMedia advisory: ECOSOC Forum on Financing for Development
The 3-day Forum aims to track progress and identify gaps and challenges to the means of implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), monitor the financing for development outcomes and promote the sharing of lessons from experiences at the national and regional levels.
GalleryMedia advisory: Briefing on ‘Water and Jobs’ report
Briefing on the 2016 UN World Water Development Report, “Water and Jobs”
1:15 p.m., Thurs., 14 April
Three out of four jobs worldwide are water-dependent. Water shortages and lack of access may limit economic growth in the […]
WHO says address protracted emergencies to achieve Sustainable Development Goals
More predictable, long-term funding and planning needed for protracted emergencies.
GalleryUN stresses demographic data as key to achieving SDGs
A report of the UN Secretary-General notes that well-maintained, centralized population registers are one of the best sources of information on fertility, mortality and migration.
GalleryRecord number of signatures expected for climate change agreement on 22 April
More than 130 countries have confirmed that they will sign the Paris Agreement on 22 April, the first day that the agreement will be open for signature.
GalleryFast-tracking climate action by UN officials Christiana Figueres and Achim Steiner
After the historic Paris climate agreement, the focus should not just be on reducing carbon dioxide emissions, but also other pollutants like hydrofluorocarbons and methane, say UNEP head Achim Steiner and UNFCCC executive secretary Christiana […]
GallerySecretary-General commends US-China commitment to Paris Agreement
The Secretary-General commends the announcement that China and the United States will sign the Paris Agreement at a special ceremony at the UN on 22 April.
UN celebrates Earth Hour around the world
The United Nations' Secretariat building, agencies and missions around the world hit the switch to darken their buildings from 8:30-9:30 p.m. local time on Sat., 19 March, to show their support for climate action.
Media advisory: Press briefing on ECOSOC Special Meeting on Inequality
Recognizing that addressing inequalities within and between countries is critical to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, H.E. Mr. Oh Joon, the President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), is convening […]
Countries to begin negotiations on elements for a binding instrument to conserve and sustainably use marine biodiversity
The first negotiating session of a Preparatory Committee established by the General Assembly to discuss the elements of a draft text of a legally binding instrument to improve the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in the world’s oceans in areas beyond national jurisdiction will take place from 28 March-8 April 2016.
GalleryRenewables added more to global energy generation capacity than all other technologies combined, UN-backed report finds
Coal and gas-fired electricity generation last year drew less than half the record investment made in solar, wind and other renewables capacity, according to a United Nations-backed report released today.
The report also found that for […]
GalleryWMO report: 2015 shattered temperature records
State of the Climate: Record Heat and Weather Extremes
World Meteorological Day: Hotter, Drier, Wetter. Face the Future
Geneva 21 March 2016 (WMO) – The year 2015 made history, with shattered temperature records, intense heatwaves, exceptional rainfall, […]
GalleryMedia advisory: World Meteorological Day press briefing
The theme “Hotter, Drier, Wetter. Face the Future” highlights the challenges of climate change and the path towards climate-resilient societies.
GalleryUN Women unveils new Media Compact for gender equality
The Step it Up for Gender Equality Media Compact brings together a broad coalition of media outlets to ensure wide reach and robust efforts towards women’s rights.
GalleryBusinesses show SDG support with new #WASHforWork initiative
11 leading organizations introduced a new initiative called WASH4Work, aimed at mobilizing greater business action to address water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) challenges in the workplace, communities where workers live, and across supply chains.
GalleryThreats to forests could imperil global freshwater supplies
Safeguarding forests is essential for sustainable management of global freshwater resources and avoiding water shortages, according to United Nations officials and forest experts at an event today marking the International Day of Forests.
GalleryUN Secretariat Building goes dark for Earth Hour 2016
United Nations Headquarters in New York observed Earth Hour on Sat., 19 March, by turning off the lights in the Secretariat Building from 8:30-9:30 p.m.
GalleryHelp your local parks this International Day of Forests
We spoke with Bram Gunther, co-director of the New York City Urban Field Station, to find out what we can do to help our parks and forests.
GallerySustainable Development Goals win Egyptian mini-Olympics
After three days of sports and workshops, the Aswan, Egypt, mini-Olympics ended with a commitment to work jointly towards the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon honoured with ‘Delivering for Girls and Women’ Award
The first-ever ‘Delivering for Girls and Women’ award was given today to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in recognition of his work and achievements to improve the lives of women and girls worldwide.
GalleryUN urges focus on ‘shared responsibility’ to combat illicit drugs
Ahead of a special session on drugs at the UN, senior officials focused on the people affected by drugs and the shared responsibility in stopping the suffering caused by them.
UN Statistical Commission agrees on global indicator framework
As the final piece of the architecture for implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the proposed global indicator framework for the SDGs was agreed by the 47th Session of the United Nations Statistical Commission which closed today.
GalleryUN officials make call to ‘Step It Up’ for gender equality
Senior UN officials from around the world are marking International Women's Day with calls to “Step It Up” with more resources and greater political action to achieve gender equality by 2030.
The future of wildlife is #InOurHands
Here are actions you can take to encourage living in a way that's sustainable for wildlife and reduce demand for illegal products.
GalleryMedia advisory: 8 April deadline to request accreditation for Paris Agreement Signature Ceremony
Media members applying for accreditation must submit a request on official letterhead of a media organization, signed by the Publisher, Editor-in-chief, or Assignment Editor.
GalleryUN Adviser underlines importance of partnership with mobile-communications industry to achieve Sustainable Development Goals
The UN Secretary-General Adviser on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development urged the mobile industry to work together and develop policy frameworks and technical standards that would ensure no one is left behind at the World Mobile Summit.
GalleryDisplaced people need more opportunities, Ban says at camp in DR Congo
"We have to do much more to protect human dignity and human rights of women and girls to save them, to protect them from sexual violence," Mr. Ban said.
GalleryApplications for 2016 Momentum for Change Awards open now
Submit Your Climate Solution and be Celebrated at the UN Climate Change Conference in Marrakech, Morocco
Starting today, organizations, cities, industries, governments and other key players that are taking the lead on tackling climate change can […]
GalleryUnited Nations appoints independent advisors to position UN development system for 2030 Agenda
The ECOSOC Bureau announces the establishment of an Independent Team of Advisors to support the second phase of the ECOSOC Dialogue on the longer-term positioning of the UN development system.
GallerySilent epidemic: The fight to end FGM in Colombia
Exact figures about FGM are hard to come by, but as many as two out of three girls from the indigenous Emberá group are subjected to the procedure.
GalleryUN event mobilizes action toward ending female genital mutilation
“I am proud to be among so many champions in the cause of eliminating female genital mutilation,” United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said during his keynote address.
Ban: 2016 must be ‘year of traction’ to propel 2030 Agenda
“We have to make things move - rolling traction,” UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told the Commission for Social Development.
Senior UN officials urge elimination of ‘violent practice’ of female genital mutilation by 2030
The most senior United Nations officials are urging the world to eliminate female genital mutilation (FGM) by 2030, calling it a “violent practice” that scars girls for life, endangering their health, depriving them of their rights, and denying them the chance to reach their full potential.
GallerySenior UN official: Migration, multilateralism to be hallmarks of 2016
The UN Special Representative for International Migration, Peter Sutherland, said a series of comprehensive initiatives is needed to drive home – and effectively address – the global nature of the issue.
GalleryMedia advisory: Two events to end Female Genital Mutilation
To mark the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), officially celebrated on 6 February, an event will take place at UN headquarters on 8 February.
GalleryNew stamps promoting LGBT equality worldwide unveiled at UN
The United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA) unveiled a set of six commemorative stamps to promote UN Free & Equal – a global UN campaign for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) equality.
GalleryWith focus on cervical cancer, Ban says where people live should not determine chances of survival
Ban Ki-moon called to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health issue while also reducing the burden that millions face from all cancers.
GalleryNew session of UN Social Development Commission ties social inclusion to 2030 Agenda
A senior UN official opened the body's 54th annual session with a call for building on its strengths to foster an integrated approach when addressing social policies.
GalleryUN official: Young people key to new sustainability agenda
Marking the end of the two-day ECOSOC Youth Forum, ECOSOC President Oh Joon told youth leaders that the time is now for young people to get behind global efforts to ensure sustainable development for all.
GalleryUN launches new initiative to tackle youth employment crisis
As more than 800 young leaders gather in New York for the annual United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum, UN officials launched a new initiative to tackle youth unemployment
GalleryVisiting drought-hit region of Ethiopia, Ban urges support
The international community must stand with the people of Ethiopia in their time of need, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today, urging donors gathered in Addis Ababa to step up assistance to the country, before heading […]
Special event: Towards a Cervical Cancer Free World
On World Cancer Day, join us to shed light on cervical cancer, the leading cause of cancer deaths in low- and middle-income countries, which kills over 250,000 women annually.
Ban appoints group to support tech facilitation mechanism
The Mechanism comprises a UN interagency task team on science, technology and innovation, an annual multistakeholder forum and an online platform.
Ban appoints Pasztor senior adviser on climate change
Pasztor most recently served as the Assistant Secretary-General on Climate Change in the lead up and successful conclusion of the historic 2015 Paris Agreement.
GalleryPress briefing with Janos Pasztor, ASG on Climate Change
Press briefing will cover recent developments on climate change issues after the Paris agreement.
GalleryYouth Forum to explore youth role in sustainable development agenda
More than 800 youth leaders from around the world will gather at the ECOSOC Youth Forum to examine the role of young people in implementing, communicating and realizing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
GalleryWHO convenes emergency meeting to address Zika virus
The United Nations health agency called an emergency meeting for next Monday to counter the “dramatic” rise in Zika virus infection, warning that it could spread even further afield amid an “extremely high” level of alarm.
GalleryBan: Global investors must play full role in shift to clean energy
More than 500 global investors gathered at UN Headquarters to mobilize the trillions of dollars needed to move the world onto the path of clean energy, with Ban Ki-moon challenging them to, at a minimum, double clean energy investments to $660 billion by 2020.
GalleryLivestock biodiversity must be preserved as tool against climate change
The genetic diversity of livestock can play a vital role in feeding the world in the face of hotter weather and the other effects of climate change, yet many valuable breeds continue to be at risk, the FAO warned, calling for stronger global efforts to safeguard the existing gene pool.
GalleryMedia advisory: ‘No Impact Man’ Colin Beavan to speak at UN
The “No Impact Man” set to speak about his latest book on how to increase happiness through living sustainably.
GalleryBan Ki-moon’s remarks at Investor Summit on Climate Risk
"The investor community is of critical importance if we are to move from aspirations to action," Ban says.
GalleryGlobal investors mobilize action in wake of Paris Climate Agreement
Ceres and the UN Foundation convene some 500 financial leaders at the UN to scale clean energy opportunities and manage the fossil fuel risks from the low-carbon transition.
GalleryUN official says science ‘vital’ in promoting development
The chief of the UN office tasked with synergizing disaster reduction activities emphasized the importance of leaders’ attention to the role of science in lowering the exposure to extreme disaster events.
GalleryPhotos: Behind the scenes of the SDG Advocates panel
On 21 January in Davos, Switzerland, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon hosted an Open Forum panel of his new Advocates for the Sustainable Development Goals.
World leaders invited to Paris Agreement signing ceremony on April 22
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has invited all world leaders to a signing ceremony on 22 April for the historic climate agreement that was reached in Paris in December last year.
GalleryReport: Governments must act to reverse rise in childhood obesity
With the number of overweight children under five on track to jump from 42 million to 70 million over the next decade, a UN report called on governments to reverse the trend by promoting healthy foods and physical activity.
GalleryAverage temps in 2015 broke records, says UN weather agency
“An exceptionally strong El Niño and global warming caused by greenhouse gases joined forces with dramatic effect on the climate system in 2015,” said WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas
GalleryFAO helps Pakistan cope with natural disasters
A UN development agency is teaming up with state and provincial authorities to shore up the country's agriculture, among the sectors most affected.
GalleryWMO confirms 2015 as hottest year on record
The World Meteorological Organization has confirmed that the global average surface temperature in 2015 broke all previous records by a strikingly wide margin, at 0.76° Celsius above the 1961-1990 average.
GalleryECOSOC marks 70th anniversary, cites ‘central role’ in achieving sustainable development
Celebrating the 70th anniversary of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), its current President highlighted the organ’s central role in realizing the new Sustainable Development Goals.
GalleryWHO: El Nino threatens at least 60 million people in developing countries
The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners announced today they predict a major global increase in health consequences of emergencies this year due to El Niño.
GalleryHalf the population of Central African Republic faces hunger, UN warns
An emergency food security assessment by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and its partners has revealed that half the population of the Central African Republic (CAR) – nearly 2.5 million people – faces hunger.
GalleryBan calls strongly on governments to ‘leave no one behind’
In Zurich, Ban Ki-moon urged governments to show strong ownership in the 2030 Agenda by aligning policies, legislation and resources so that people and the planet can benefit.
GalleryBan names ‘eminent advocates’ to propel Sustainable Development Goals
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Advocates “will build on their unique standing and leadership to promote the SDGs as part of an ambitious and transformative global development agenda,” a UN spokesperson said.
Full text of ground-breaking assessment highlighting threats to world’s oceans from human activities made public
Report warns that a failure to quickly respond to problems poses greatest threat to oceans.
GallerySecretary-General announces High-Level Advisory Group for Every Woman Every Child
Secretary-General announces High-Level Advisory Group for Every Woman Every Child. The Group includes leaders from governments, business community, philanthropists, young people’s network and civil society to champion women’s, children’s and adolescents’ health.
GalleryBan announces High-Level Panel on Women’s Economic Empowerment
Ban Ki-moon announced the first-ever panel to provide leadership and mobilize concrete actions aimed at closing economic gender gaps that persist around the world.
GalleryWorld of business must play part in achieving SDGs, Ban says
“I ask all the CEOs here today to help us. Your advocacy and example can drive action to achieve a life of dignity for all people,” Ban Ki-moon told business leaders at an event on the Global Compact in Davos, Switzerland.
Secretary-General appoints advocates to build widespread support for the Sustainable Development Goals
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon announced today the appointment of a group of eminent persons to assist in the campaign to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that world leaders unanimously adopted last September.
GalleryGlobal unemployment projected to rise over next two years, ILO warns
Despite falling unemployment in some developed economies, the global jobs crisis is likely to continue for at least the next two years, especially in emerging economies, the ILO warned.
GalleryRenewable energy ‘limitless and will last forever,’ says Ban at global debate
Everyone involved in energy—governments, the private sector, investors and financial institutions, cities, and people everywhere–has understood that we can no longer burn our way to global prosperity, Ban Ki-moon declared at a debate hosted by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the Financial Times.
GalleryFunding shortfall threatens UN efforts to counter drought in southern Africa
With 14 million people facing hunger in southern Africa as the El Niño weather pattern exacerbates drought, the World Food Programme (WFP) warned that it faces critical funding challenges.
GalleryUN chief says humanitarian finance gap is a ‘solvable problem’
Highlighting that people around the world are living at an age of “mega-crises,” Ban Ki-moon welcomed the launch of a new report on finding solutions to the growing gap between the increasing numbers of people in need of assistance and sufficient resources to provide relief.
GalleryEthiopia: $50 million needed to tackle food insecurity caused by El Niño-induced drought, says UN
As the worst El Niño-induced drought has sparked a sharp deterioration in food security and massive drop in agricultural and pastoral production in Ethiopia, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) presented a $50 million plan to assist agriculture- and livestock-dependent households and enhance their resilience.
GalleryUN must get ‘priorities right’ in 2016, Ban tells Member States
Sharing his thoughts on the direction of the UN’s work in 2016, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said the global community begins the year needing to get its “priorities right,” while underlining that more and better work needs to be done.
GalleryReport: Reviving domestic demand key to growth in Asia-Pacific
Reinvigorating domestic and intra-regional demand plays a crucial role in reviving economies in Asia and the Pacific, according to a new UN report, which also recommends a proactive fiscal policy emphasizing productivity and addressing inequalities in the region.
GalleryWFP boosts efforts to end hunger by 2030 with Indian partnerships
The World Food Programme (WFP) is promoting agreements with the Indian Government and business sector to boost nutrition in the world’s second most populous country, with 1.3 billion people, a vital step in eradicating global hunger by 2030.
244 million international migrants living abroad worldwide, new UN statistics reveal
The number of international migrants -- persons living in a country other than where they were born -- reached 244 million in 2015 for the world as a whole, a 41 per cent increase compared to 2000, according to new data presented by the United Nations today. This figure includes almost 20 million refugees.
Media advisory: Press briefing on trends in international migration
UN to hold a press briefing to present “Trends in International Migrant Stock: The 2015 Revision.”
GalleryFood price index drops due to abundant supplies, slow economic growth
Prices of major food commodities declined for the fourth year in a row in 2015 according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), averaging 19.1 per cent below their previous-year's levels, while the agency also reported that the dwindling global economy has triggered sharp price falls from metals to energy markets.
GallerySanitation becomes separate UN human right in enhanced fight against infection
With more than 2.5 billion people worldwide, one third of the total population, living without access to proper toilets, the United Nations General Assembly has recognised sanitation as a separate human right in a bid to curb a major source of deadly infections.
VIDEO: The Sustainable Development Summit: Building the 2030 Agenda
Now, at the dawn of 2016, we're presented with an unprecedented opportunity to bring the world together to improve the lives of people everywhere through the 17 #GlobalGoals to improve our world. Follow us at @GlobalGoals
Launch of new sustainable development agenda to guide development actions for the next 15 years
The new year ushers in the official launch of the bold and transformative 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development adopted by world leaders last September at the United Nations. The new Agenda calls on countries to begin efforts to achieve 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) over the next 15 years.
GallerySustainable Development Goals kick off with start of new year
On 1 January, the United Nations officially will usher in an even more ambitious set of goals to banish a whole host of social ills by 2030.
GalleryRecent unusual weather worldwide calls for urgent preventive action, UN official warns
Extreme tornadoes in the United States over Christmas, abnormal snowfalls in Mexico, and heavy flooding in South America show that governments must take more preventive action to reduce losses from weather-related disasters, a senior UN official warned.
GalleryUN declares end to Ebola virus transmission in Guinea
The WHO declared the end of Ebola virus transmission in Guinea, where the epidemic began two years ago before spreading to neighbouring Liberia and Sierra Leone and, ultimately by land and air travel to seven other countries, killing over 11,300 people.
GalleryUN refugee agency seeks to protect displaced gays, lesbians as they face prejudice
With lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) persons in forced displacement facing discrimination, prejudice, violence and other hurdles as they seek asylum, the UN refugee agency has rolled out a comprehensive training package to enhance their protection.
GalleryWorld Tsunami Awareness Day welcome boost for disaster risk reduction, says UN official
The head of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction today welcomed the resolution adopted by the General Assembly recognizing 5 November as World Tsunami Awareness Day.
GalleryAs WTO moves to phase out farm subsidies, UN agency urges fair policies that support food security
The UN Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) welcomed an agreement by the World Trade Organization (WTO) to move towards eliminating agricultural export subsidies, while noting that differences remain over other measures meant to create equitable global trading conditions, particularly for developing countries.
Impact of El Niño could be worst in 18 years in southern Africa
Crop and livestock production prospects in southern Africa have been weakened by this year’s powerful El Niño, while the phenomenon is also impacting agricultural sectors in Australia, Indonesia and a wide swathe of Central America and Brazil, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said.
GalleryUN agencies collaborate to help Sudan mitigate climate change while combatting hunger
Two United Nations entities today announced a cooperation agreement to help Sudan manage its natural resources in a way that is compatible with combatting hunger and improving livelihoods while at the same time mitigating the effects of climate change.
GalleryBan: Spirit of solidarity ‘must inspire our collective response’ to world’s major challenges
On International Human Solidarity Day, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon pointed to the newly-adopted 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and called for joint action to implement its targets and create a better future for all.
GalleryGlobal forced displacement for 2015 on track to break all records, topping 60 million
Forced displacement this year is likely exceed all previous records, for the first time topping 60 million, meaning that one out of every 122 persons on Earth has been forced to flee their home.
On Migrants Day, UN remembers thousands who lost their lives this year trying to reach safe harbour
Global candlelight vigils marked the International Day of Migrants today to remember the more than 5,000 women, men and children who lost their lives in arduous journeys in search of protection and a better life.
Some 150 million migrants now participating in global workforce – new UN labour agency report
A new statistical study conducted by the United Nations International Labour Organization (ILO) has revealed that migrant workers account for 150.3 million of the world’s approximately 232 million international migrants, which amounts to a total of 72.7 per cent of working age migrant population.
GalleryCountries adopt plan to use Internet in implementation of Sustainable Development Goals
Countries reaffirmed their commitment to utilize Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) as an essential tool for achieving the new Sustainable Development Goals at a high-level meeting of the UN General Assembly today.
GalleryUNICEF urges swift action, ‘robust financing’ to close water and sanitation gaps in sub-Saharan Africa
Some 180,000 children under the age of five die every year – roughly 500 a day – in sub–Saharan Africa due to diarrhoeal diseases linked to inadequate water, sanitation and hygiene, the United Nations Children''s Fund (UNICEF) warned today ahead of a conference in the region on boosting financing for the sector.
GalleryBan urges greater collaborative action to tackle crises in 2016
As 2015 draws to a close, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon summed up the “pivotal year” in which the Organization marked its 70th anniversary by highlighting landmark steps taken to advance sustainable development, climate action, […]
GalleryDespite progressive laws, gender-based violence ‘pervasive’ in South Africa, UN expert warns
Warning that deeply entrenched patriarchal attitudes make violence against women “an almost acceptable phenomenon” in South Africa, a United Nations human rights expert today urged the Government to strengthen its fight against gender-based violence through awareness and education at all levels of society.
GalleryAssembly President: Unity over Paris climate accord should not be forgotten
The President of the 193-member United Nations General Assembly today vowed to begin the hard work of carrying out the Paris Agreement on climate change, reminding the world that at a time of great division, the unity, leadership and collective responsibility demonstrated in the French capital should not be forgotten.
With high-level forum, UN General Assembly aims to narrow digital divide
Ten years after the United Nations World Summit on the Information Society, delegates from Member States and observer entities are meeting at UN Headquarters starting tomorrow to identify emerging trends, fresh priorities and innovations for advancing information and communications technologies.
Gallery2 billion move out of extreme poverty over 25 years, says UN report
However, in order to secure these gains and galvanize progress, a stronger focus to “act now” to provide decent work is needed, according to the new United Nations Human Development Report released today.
GalleryUN chief offers thanks to civil society for its role in Paris Agreement
"From young activists to artists, faith leaders to business leaders, mayors to mothers, all of society has come together under one banner and brought forth this moment of hope," writes Mr. Ban.
GalleryBan hails Paris climate accord as ‘health insurance policy for the planet’
Calling the Paris Agreement on climate change “a health insurance policy for the planet,” United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today he never lost faith over his nine years in office that the international community could rise to the challenge and take steps to curb emission and boost climate-resilient growth.
GalleryThe Paris Agreement: FAQs
The agreement provides a pathway forward to limit temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius, maybe even 1.5, and it provides a mechanism to increase the level of ambition.
UN chief hails new climate change agreement as ”monumental triumph”
“The Paris Agreement is a monumental triumph for people and our planet,” said Mr. Ban in a tweet, immediately following its adoption. “It sets the stage for progress in ending poverty, strengthening peace and ensuring a life of dignity and opportunity for all.”
New UN study reveals disturbing hunger trends in highland areas
For International Mountain Day this year, FAO mapped the vulnerability of highland peoples to food insecurity and found that the number of food insecure people living in mountain regions in developing countries grew to nearly 329 million in 2012, up from 253 million in 2000.
GalleryUN chief remains encouraged by progress of talks at climate change conference
Highlighting that the climate negotiations in Paris are perhaps the most significant and complex ever attempted, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today said that he is encouraged by progress of the talks at the UN climate change conference (COP21).
GalleryUN champions prevention as best hope for eliminating violence against women
UN Women was among the many voices that called for immediate reform of the sexual harassment laws in India, where a study conducted by the agency and the Government showed that nearly 54 per cent of women and 69 per cent of men who see women getting harassed prefer not to get involved.
GalleryReport: Global growth estimated at 2.4 per cent in 2015
The world economy has fallen below forecasts of even six months ago and will grow only modestly over the next two years due to “cyclical and structural headwinds,” including low commodity prices and stagnant investment, the United Nations reported today, urging steps to ensure stronger growth.
Gallery‘We can consign rabies to the history books’ – UN health agency
The United Nations announced today a new framework to eliminate human rabies and save tens of thousands of lives each year by ensuring ready availability of vaccines and treatment, and emphasizing mass dog vaccinations to tackle the disease at its source.
GalleryUN chief calls on civil society to keep governments accountable on climate commitments
Meeting with civil society groups today at the United Nations climate change conference (COP21), Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said he counts on grassroots organizations to help keep governments accountable, so they implement what they have committed to in words.
GalleryFundamental freedoms ‘inalienable and inherent – now and always,’ UN says on Human Rights Day
“In a year that marks the 70th anniversary of the United Nations, we can draw inspiration from the history of the modern human rights movement, which emerged from the Second World War,” said Mr. Ban in a message to mark Human Rights Day, celebrated annually on 10 December.
GalleryUN report: Global economy faces headwinds – only modest improvement projected for 2016-17
The world economy stumbled in 2015 and only a modest improvement is projected for 2016/17 as a number of cyclical and structural headwinds persist, says the United Nations World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) 2016 report.
GalleryOn Anti-Corruption Day, UN says ending ‘corrosive’ crime can boost sustainable development
To mark International Anti-Corruption Day the United Nations is calling for people across the globe to join a worldwide campaign to raise awareness about whatSecretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called a “corrosive” scourge, and encouraging people from all walks of life to take action against this crime.
GalleryEfforts advance on reaching climate change agreement, says top UN official
A new stage in the development of a final agreement on climate change to limit global temperature rise to below two degrees Celsius or less has been reached today, according to the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General on Climate Change.
GalleryNew report signals ‘significant progress’ toward malaria elimination
The world is making “significant progress” toward malaria elimination with prevention and treatment efforts saving more than 660 million lives and $900 million in case management costs since 2001, the World Health Organization (WHO) has reported.
GalleryBan’s advisory group to advance transport solutions to climate change
The UN Secretary-General’s High-Level Advisory Group on Sustainable Transport, meeting on the margins of the Paris Climate Conference, pledged to highlight the critical role that sustainable transport will play in addressing climate change.
GalleryLima-Paris Action Agenda matures into major force driving climate action
The outcome of the 5 December Action Day and the 12 “Focuses” held from 1-8 December under the Lima to Paris Action Agenda (LPAA) during COP21 demonstrate the massive and rising response by cities, regions, business and civil society to take ambitious climate action, frequently in cooperation with national governments.
GalleryUN health agency outlines global trends, looks ahead to 2030 targets
The World Health Organization (WHO) today issued a comprehensive analysis of global health trends since 2000, and laid out actions that should be prioritized over the next 15 years to achieve the newly-agreed United Nations […]
GalleryEthiopia: UN urges support to mitigate most devastating drought in 30 years
The United Nations stepped up its efforts to mitigate the effects of the worst drought to strike Ethiopia in 30 years, with an appeal from the heads of four UN humanitarian bodies for massive international funding now to pre-empt the high risk of death and large scale suffering later.
GalleryUN chief tells private sector ‘how we do business today will determine if we can do business in the future’
Speaking at the United Nations climate change conference (COP21) today, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told a room full of business leaders that the global gathering will serve to share progress made in important areas and to establish even greater ambition for the future.
GalleryUpcoming technology review meeting to focus on Sustainable Development Goals
The President of the UN General Assembly, Mr. Mogens Lykketoft, will convene a General Assembly High-Level Meeting on 15-16 December to review the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) and discuss how Information Communications Technology (ICT) can support sustainable development.
$5 billion Africa renewable energy plan launched at climate summit
The United Nations and partners launched today a $5 billion initiative to expand renewable energy capacity in Africa as Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told the UN climate change conference (COP21) in Paris that saving energy is a triple-win in the battle against global warming.
GalleryKaty Perry calls for action on climate change in weather report
UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Goodwill Ambassador and global pop star Katy Perry read a unique weather report to draw attention to the devastating effects of the phenomenon on the world’s children.
GalleryUN launches largest ever humanitarian appeal at $20.1 billion
Warning that global suffering has reached levels not seen in a generation, the United Nations and its partners today launched their largest ever humanitarian appeal, calling for 20.1 billion life-saving dollars for 2016, even as the 2015 appeal posts the largest funding gap on record - $10.2 billion.
GalleryBan at COP21: We have chance ‘to define our own destiny’
Calling climate change a defining issue of our time, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today told top government officials that the opportunity exists “to define our own destiny” at the UN climate change conference (COP21) in Paris.
GalleryUN chief says 5 December ‘is about action by all sectors of society’
As the United Nations climate change conference (COP21) marked 'Action Day' with dozens of events happening throughout its sprawling venue in the north-east of Paris, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said the purpose of the occasion was to highlight solutions the world “so urgently” needs.
GalleryQuébec announces $6 CAD million to Least Developed Countries Fund
First-ever pledge by sub-national government to GEF climate fund boosts total new financing for Least Developed Countries Fund to over $US 252 million
The Premier of Québec, Philippe Couillard, announced today a contribution of $6 CAD […]
New UN ‘bedside tool’ will help prevent and reduce maternal and newborn deaths worldwide
The World Health Organization (WHO) announced today a new checklist for healthcare workers that will help reduce maternal and newborn deaths with “a single and practical bedside tool” designed to make a difference for women and infants in various settings around the world.
In Paris, mayors and celebrities join UN launch of report on boosting investment towards climate smart cities
Proven innovative policies and mechanisms are unlocking investment for much-needed climate-smart infrastructure in cities, according to a new report launched today at Paris City Hall by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and international partners.
UN-backed platforms show greenhouse gas emission reductions surpass global emissions of iron and steel sector
A new report by Yale University finds that the combined greenhouse gas emission reduction commitments recorded in two United Nations-backed platforms by cities, regions and companies alone surpasses the global emissions of the iron and steel sector.
GalleryNew report identifies ways to mobilize investment in low-emission urban infrastructure
Proven innovative policies and mechanisms are unlocking investment for much-needed climate-smart infrastructure in cities, according to a new report, and need to be scaled up globally.
Digital map launched by UNICEF helps young people tell their climate change stories
A digital mapping project called ‘Act Now For Tomorrow,’ which was recently launched by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), is helping young people around the world identify climate issues in their communities and find ways to address them.
UN joins France and private sector partners for action on electro-mobility
Recognizing that transportation has the highest growth in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of any industrial sector, transport representatives at the United Nations climate change conference (COP21) presented 10 initiatives today that aim to reduce these emissions and build more sustainable transport systems.
At end of International Year of Soils, UN chief appeals for reverse in rate of soil degradation
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is marking the second World Soil Day and the end of the International Year of Soils with an appeal to reverse the current rate of soil degradation because of expanding cities, deforestation, unsustainable land use and management practices, pollution, overgrazing and climate change.
Ban delivers favourable report card on early-stage talks at Paris climate summit
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon gave a favourable report card today to the early stages of the United Nations climate change conference (COP21) in Paris, while at the same time urging both developed and developing countries to do more to reach universal agreement to mitigate the threat.
Janos Pasztor’s Reddit’s Ask Me Anything from COP21 – recap
The UN Assistant Secretary-General on Climate Change took a break from negotiations to answer questions on the Reddit forum on climate change and the UN Climate Change Conference.
GalleryUN report identifies innovative ways to boost investment for climate action in cities
Proven innovative policies and mechanisms are unlocking investment for much-needed climate-smart infrastructure in cities, according to a new report being launched today in Paris, France by the United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and international partners.
Fundamental change needed to address women’s health in conflicts, disasters – UN
Of the more than 100 million people in need of humanitarian aid this year due to conflict and natural disasters, 26 million are women and adolescent girls of reproductive age, yet efforts to meet their desperate needs are seriously underfunded, a United Nations report warned today, calling for fundamental change in the situation.
Children under five account for one third of deaths from foodborne diseases – new UN report
Diarrhoeal diseases are responsible for more than half of all foodborne diseases globally and of all those who fall ill after consuming contaminated food, 420,000 people die – almost third of them children under the age of five, the World Health Organization said today in its first ever report on the issue.
COP21: UN emphasizes crucial impact of young and future generations to tackle climate change
At the Climate Change Conference in Paris, hundreds of participants gathered to mark “young and future generations day,” an opportunity for youth to remind world leaders and negotiators of the need to reach an ambitious climate agreement to secure their future, according to the UN Envoy on Youth.
On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, UN urges inclusion, access for people of all abilities
The United Nations is marking this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities today with the theme “inclusion matters” to raise awareness and mobilize support for some one billion people living with disabilities who remain one of the most marginalized groups in the world.
Transport industry present 10 initiative to reduce carbon emissions at UN conference
Major transport climate action initiatives and a collective call to action on electro-mobility presented at Paris Climate Conference
Transport representatives today presented several initiatives at COP21 in Paris that will reduce emissions and build more sustainable […]
GalleryOn ‘Resilience Day,’ UN and partners launch initiatives to protect millions of people
On the third day of the United Nations climate change conference (COP21), dubbed 'Resilience Day,' the UN and the Governments of Peru and France have announced major international partnerships that are mobilizing large-scale financing to protect people who are most vulnerable to climate impacts.
GalleryUN expert: Those who contributed least to climate change now fighting for survival
By Gyan Chandra Acharya, Under-Secretary General and High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States.
The world has often been reminded over the past year that we must leave no one behind […]
Secretary-General to launch report on mobilizing investment in climate-smart city infrastructure
New report identifies innovative ways to mobilize investment in low-emission,
climate-resilient urban infrastructure
State of City Climate Finance report to be launched 4 December
Press conference 9:30 at COP-21;
High-level launch 18:00 at Paris City Hall with UN Secretary-General,
Mayors […]
GalleryOn Slavery Abolition Day, Ban warns of enslavement, trafficking risks for refugees, migrants
With over 60 million people driven from their homes and millions more crossing borders to seek a better life, the risk of mounting human trafficking and enslavement with all its “horrific abuse” must be confronted, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon warned today.
GalleryUN marks World AIDS Day with ‘new hope’ as momentum builds to break epidemic by 2030
The first World AIDS Day since political leaders committed to ending the epidemic by 2030 as part of the United Nations-led Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has generated “new hope” to break the epidemic and keep it from rebounding in “an unparalleled opportunity to change the course of history for ever.”
GalleryBan tells African leaders they have ‘enormous stake’ in success of climate conference
At a gathering of African leaders at the United Nations climate change conference (COP21), UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stressed that their continent has an enormous stake in the success of the global event which aims to reach a new universal climate agreement to limit the rise of global temperature.
At UN Climate Change Conference, leaders strengthen commitments to protect forests
Innovative Efforts to Eliminate Natural Deforestation and Forest Degradation in a Few Decades Strengthens Communities, Improves Livelihoods and Feeds the World
Leaders in the global drive to protect and restore forests met on Tuesday to announce […]
COP21 liveblog – Highlights
For the next two weeks we will share highlights here from the heart of what will be one of the biggest climate conferences ever.
GalleryUN chief launches initiative to build climate resilience of world’s most vulnerable countries
A new initiative to build climate resilience in the world’s most vulnerable countries was launched by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and 13 agencies of the UN system.
GalleryAt COP21 opening, Ban tells world leaders ‘political moment like this may not come again’
Speaking at the opening of the United Nations climate change conference (COP21) which seeks to reach a new universal agreement to protect people and planet, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said a political moment like this may not come again.
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Permalink GalleryUN Secretary-General’s initiative aims to strengthen climate resilience of the world’s most vulnerable countries and people
Cities, Climate change, Climate Partnerships for the Global South - News, COP21, Disaster risk reduction, Economic growth, Financing for Development, Infrastructure, News, Partnerships, Secretary-General, Sustainable Development Agenda
UN Secretary-General’s initiative aims to strengthen climate resilience of the world’s most vulnerable countries and people
UN Secretary-General’s Initiative Aims to Strengthen Climate Resilience of the World’s Most Vulnerable Countries and People
GalleryOn eve of UN climate conference, Ban says ‘time for action is now’
On the eve of the opening in Paris of the United Nations climate change conference, widely known as COP21, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is urging all countries and all sectors of society to act now to […]
GalleryHow to follow the UN Climate Change Conference
There are many ways to keep informed about what is happening at the UN Climate Change Conference, also known as COP21. Here are a few ways in which you can follow all the action over the next two weeks.
UN System Chief Executives Board for Coordination on Climate Change proposes 4 actions
In recognition of the need to better integrate and coordinate their work on sustainable development, peace and security, human rights and humanitarian engagement to achieve these objectives, the United Nations System Chief Executives suggest four actions.
Ahead of Climate Change Conference, UN top officials urge countries to reach ambitious agreement
The United Nations Chief Executives Board for Coordination on Climate Change today urged countries to adopt an ambitious agreement to limit global temperature rise to below 2°C this century, and commit to achieve sustainable development.
The call to […]
GalleryCOP21 interview with Janos Pasztor, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Climate Change
To find out more about COP21 and the UN's expectations, the UN News Centre met with Janos Pasztor, the UN Assistant Secretary-General on Climate Change. Since January, Mr. Pasztor's work has focused on supporting efforts towards a new climate agreement and mobilizing global climate action on the ground.
GalleryUN urges concerted action to create a world where women and girls live free from violence
Expressing deep concern about atrocity crimes being committed against women and girls in conflict zones, as well as the domestic abuse found globally, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women by urging collective action to end such crimes and “grave threats to progress.”
GalleryWhat I expect from the UN Climate Change Conference in Paris
Climate change carries no passport; emissions released anywhere contribute to the problem everywhere. It is a threat to lives and livelihoods everywhere. Economic stability and the security of nations are under threat. Only through the United Nations can we respond collectively to this quintessentially global issue.
Media advisory: Discussions on ICTs for Sustainable Development Goals
To harness the potential of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) for improving people’s lives and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, high-level representatives from governments, civil society and the private sector will gather at the UN headquarters in New York from 15 to 16 December to review progress on the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on Information Society (WSIS).
GalleryWorld Bank unveils $16 billion business plan to boost climate resilience, adaptation in Africa
Noting the significant impact climatic activities have on African people and countries, the World Bank Group announced today a new plan outlining actions required to increase climate resilience and low-carbon development in an effort to maintain the continent’s current and protect future growth and poverty reduction goals.
GalleryUN report finds 90 per cent of disasters are weather-related
A new report issued today by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR) shows that over the last 20 years, 90 per cent of major disasters have been caused by 6,457 recorded floods, storms, heatwaves, droughts and other weather-related events.
GalleryOn Africa Industrialization Day, Ban warns gender inequity, youth unemployment risk continent’s progress
Marking the Africa Industrialization Day, United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon is calling for job creation in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for women and youth to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable industrial development on the continent.
GalleryUN Millennium Development Goal target to reduce malaria burden achieved
With roughly six weeks left under the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), global leaders, diplomats and health experts are gathering at the UN today in New York to celebrate the progress made against one of the world’s leading killers: malaria.
GalleryOn Universal Children’s Day, UN says world remains ‘deeply unfair’ place for children
Marking Universal Children’s Day, the United Nations today highlighted that the world remains a “deeply unfair” place for the poorest and most disadvantaged children despite major advances since the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, 26 years ago today.
Ahead of UN conference, Reykjavik and businesses sign declaration on climate change
Ahead of the UN climate change conference starting on 30 November, a declaration on climate issues has been signed in Iceland by the city of Reykjavik and more than one hundred businesses and institutions, all pledging to take active measures to cut global warming by reducing emissions of greenhouse gases and cut waste.
GalleryBan establishes eminent panel to help broaden access to quality medicines at affordable costs
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has announced the establishment of 15-member High-Level Panel on health technology innovation and access, in an effort to escalate investments in research and development for diseases where financial returns are not guaranteed.
COP21 must be turning point to ‘climate-resilient future,’ UN official says
The United Nations climate change conference must be the turning point towards a low-emission, climate-resilient future, the top UN official dealing with climate issues said today just days before the start of the international gathering in Paris, France.
GalleryIndigenous peoples’ voices must be heard at Paris climate change conference, UN agency says
Indigenous peoples own, occupy or manage up to 65 per cent of the Earth’s land surface, yet they have largely been excluded from national plans prepared for next month’s United Nations climate change conference in Paris, according to the UN Development Programme (UNDP), which is working to address the issue.
UN Assistant Secretary-General on Climate Change Janos Pazstor to brief press on Friday, 20 November
The Press briefing will cover developments leading up to the UN Climate Change Conference in Paris (COP21) and United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s engagement on climate change issues.
Who: Mr. Janos Pasztor, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General on […]
Special UN event stresses key role of water management in tackling challenges of climate change
The United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon hosted a meeting on the links between water management and disaster risk reduction today, stressing that floods, droughts and cyclones have caused more than $1 trillion in damages and affected over 4 billion people since 1990.
GalleryUN-backed conference adopts measures to tackle threats to migratory waterbirds
With many of the world's migratory waterbirds under heightened threat due to human activities and climate change, a United Nations Environment Programme-supported conference has adopted action plans to tackle various dangers those vulnerable species face and provide guidance on their sustainable use.
GalleryNew global arena needed to confront water challenges, UN board says
The supreme importance of water and sanitation to development and well-being merits creation of a powerful new global arena inside the UN, dedicated to resolving water conflicts and common challenges while tracking progress against the world’s newly-agreed development goals.
GalleryUN calls on countries to protect health from impacts of climate change
With the United Nations climate conference (COP21) starting in Paris in less than two weeks away, the World Health Organization (WHO) today underlined that climate change is already causing tens of thousands of deaths every year, and called on countries to take strong actions to address the issue.
GalleryWidespread misunderstanding about antibiotic resistance threatens public health, WHO says
A recent multi-country survey revealed that people are confused about the rising threat of antibiotic resistance to public health and are unclear about how to prevent it from growing, World Health Organization (WHO) said today at the launch of a global campaign at the initiation of the first World Antibiotic Awareness Week.
Gallery10th Internet Governance Forum enhances the linkages between the Internet and sustainable development
The 2015 Internet Governance Forum (IGF) succeeded in giving some 4,000 online participants, from 116 developed and developing countries, the opportunity to engage directly with 2,400 on-site attendees in output-oriented debates that addressed the challenges, as well as opportunities for the future of the internet.
Gallery‘Turn digital divides into digital opportunities,’ Ban tells annual UN forum on Internet governance
To cover the “breadth and depth” of the recently adopted Sustainable Development Goals, the potential of the data revolution must be explored through the use of new and non-traditional sources of data, United Nations Secretary-General […]
Secretary-General calls on countries to keep development assistance commitments
With the world facing the largest crisis of forced displacement since the Second World War, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called on the international community to meet this immense challenge without lessening its commitment to vitally needed official development assistance.
GalleryMillions of children’s lives at stake as El Niño strengthens, UNICEF ‘wake-up call’ report warns
As a result of a strengthening El Niño, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is warning that an estimated 11 million children are at risk from hunger, disease and lack of water in eastern and southern Africa alone, as the weather phenomenon has left droughts and floods in its wake throughout parts of Asia, the Pacific and Latin America.
GalleryWMO: Atmospheric greenhouse gases reach record high
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) announced today that the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere reached yet another new record high in 2014, continuing aWMO: Atmospheric greenhouse gases reach record high relentless rise which […]
GallerySustainable development at center of 10th Internet Governance Forum
Approximately 5,000 people, including high-level government officials, civil society leaders and internet policy experts, will gather both - in-person and online - at the 10th Annual meeting of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in João Pessoa, Brazil (10 to 13 November) to discuss the crucial role the internet must play in the successful implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
GalleryImmediate push on climate-smart development can keep more than 100 million people out of poverty
Climate change is already preventing people from escaping poverty, and without rapid, inclusive and climate-smart development, together with emissions-reductions efforts that protect the poor, there could be more than 100 million additional people in poverty by 2030, according to a new World Bank Group report released before the international climate conference in Paris.
GalleryUNEP report: Emissions to be limited by 2030 but more action needed
Existing policies and strong engagement by nations submitting their contributions ahead of the Paris climate meeting will limit anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030, but a new climate agreement can encourage further action to limit global temperature rise to 2°C by 2100, according to a new United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report.
Gallery‘Climate change knows no national borders,’ UN chief says
With the “deadline” for concluding a universal climate agreement just four weeks away, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today warned that despite months of talks and critical pledges on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, key issues still remain in play.
GalleryWMO launches climate change videos in advance of Paris climate conference
To promote awareness of the UN climate change conference in Paris, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) invited television weather presenters from around the world to imagine a “weather report from the year 2050.”
Global response ‘keeps door open’ to limit temperature rise to 2 degrees Celsius
A new report issued today by the secretariat of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) assesses the collective impact of over 140 national climate action plans, called Intended Nationally Determined Contributions or INDCs, and says that together, they can dramatically slow global emissions into the atmosphere.
Gallery2015 Winners of UN Climate Solutions Awards Announced
Winning activities include a seriously cool smartphone that puts social values first and an initiative that is enabling 40 Latin American cities to take concrete climate action.
GalleryAchieving sustainable development difficult in Asia-Pacfic without tackling disaster risks, warns new UN report
According to a United Nations report, Asia-Pacific, touted to be the most disaster prone region of the world, have been struck by 1,625 disasters during the last ten years amounting to over 40 per cent of the global total, thereby calling for a collective political commitment from the regions' leaders to mitigate risks posed by disasters.
Gallery‘Express for Sustainable Development Goals’ train departs on tour through Belarus
Several hundred people boarded the "Express for SDGs" train decorated with the 17 Global Goals in Minsk on 23 October and will tour the country to promote the UN and its 2030 Agenda.
GalleryNew UN health agency report cites measures to reduce risks from climate pollutants
The World Health Organization (WHO) today spotlighted the need to reduce short-lived climate pollutants like black carbon, ozone, methane and carbon dioxide that contribute to climate change and lead to more than 7 million deaths linked to air pollution each year.
GalleryUN expert on right to housing challenges governments to end homelessness
Saying human rights have been largely absent from discussions of urban development at a time when more than half the world’s population lives in cities, the UN independent expert on adequate housing today challenged governments to end homelessness and improve living conditions for all.
GallerySenior UN official warns funding shortages could be disastrous for chronically food-insecure Mauritania
On her two-day visit to Mauritania, Ertharin Cousin, the Executive Director of the World Food Program (WFP), saw at first hand the challenges faced by nearly 1 million food insecure people amid rising malnutrition in the country.
GalleryWomen worldwide live longer, healthier lives with better education, says new UN report
The lives of women and girls around the world have improved in several areas over the last 20 years but they continue to be victims of gender-based discrimination and violence, according to a new report launched today by the United Nations.
GalleryOn World Statistics Day, UN flags importance of reliable data to achieve new development agenda
Emphasizing that “reliable and timely statistics and indicators are more important than ever,” United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged all partners and stakeholders to work together to achieve the ambitious 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
GallerySecretary-General welcomes new Carbon Pricing Panel
“Putting a price on carbon has been recognized as one of the most effective tools to incentivize low-carbon growth and lower greenhouse gas emissions. The Carbon Pricing Panel established by the World Bank can help accelerate the momentum to put a price on carbon-based fossil fuel emissions," Ban Ki-moon said.
Women globally live longer, healthier lives with better education, reveals new UN report
But women and girls continue to be victims of gender based discrimination and violence, underscoring critical need for gender equality as defined by newly adopted SDGs
The lives of women and girls around the world have […]
GalleryIn Slovakia, Ban highlights importance of ‘living harmoniously’ and sustainably
Visiting the Slovakian city of Levoca, the United Nations Secretary-General stressed the importance of the role of the local community, particularly mayors and governors, and the importance of living harmoniously and in a sustainable way.
UN Member States and stakeholders review development-oriented information society ahead of the high-level WSIS+10 meeting
United Nations Member States and relevant stakeholders will meet in New York this week to review the use of information communication technologies (ICTs) for improving people’s lives and to discuss how to bridge the digital divide.
Gallery‘Our generation can be the first to witness a world without extreme poverty,’ says Ban
Today’s observance of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty at the UN calls for the participation of people living in poverty in the development of policies and strategies to ensure a sustainable future that benefits everyone and leaves no one behind.
GalleryUN envoy calls for concerted efforts to eliminate bullying in all regions
Speaking at a panel discussion on protecting children from bullying, the United Nations envoy on violence against children said bullying is a “serious concern” for millions of children all over the world and it is compromising their right to education.
GalleryMarking International Day, Ban says new 2030 Agenda can help eradicate poverty
This can be the first generation to witness a world without extreme poverty, where all people – not only the powerful and the privileged – can participate and contribute equally, free of discrimination and want, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon declared Friday, urging global action to fully implement the newly-adopted goals of the UN 2030 Agenda.
Gallery2,500 Nigerian children participate in Global Goals lesson
Staff members from the United Nations Information Center in Lagos introduced more than 2,500 students to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals at a special workshop at Nurul Hudda Primary School in Tudun Wada Zaria, Nigeria, recently.
UNIC Lagos […]
Gallery‘Rural women are the backbone of sustainable livelihoods,’ Ban declares on International Day
Marking the International Day of Rural Women, the United Nations today affirmed the role of women as significant and crucial for the progress of rural households, local and national economies.
Security Council renews commitment to landmark resolution on women, peace and security
Marking the 15th anniversary the adoption of the United Nations Security Council’s resolution 1325, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today declared his commitment to the inclusion of women in peace-building processes, while the Council adopted a new text by which it decided to integrate women, peace and security concerns across all country-specific situations on its agenda, within relevant contexts.
Ban lauds steps taken for Africa’s long-term development agenda
Africa Week 2015 kicked off at Headquarters Monday with Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon commending African Member States of the United Nations for taking an “important step” this year toward the establishment of a Continental Free Trade Area envisioned in the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
UN report: Expanding social protection offers a faster track to ending hunger
A new report published today by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) finds that social protection is emerging as a critical tool in the drive to eradicate hunger, yet the vast majority of the world’s rural poor are yet to be covered.
Peace endures when women can participate meaningfully in peace talks, says new UN report
A new report on women, peace and security, launched today to coincide with the 15th anniversary of the landmark United Nations Security Council resolution on the issue, highlights the important gains to be made by the greater empowerment of women in peacebuilding efforts.
Top UN forum on food security focuses on eradicating hunger by 2030
Marking the first international gathering on food security and nutrition since world leaders approved the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Committee on World Food Security (CFS) commenced today, focusing on ending hunger by 2030.
On International Day, UN focuses on adolescent girls as part of ‘relentless’ drive towards equality for all by 2030
“Our task now is to get to work on meeting the SDG targets and making good on our promises to give girls all the opportunities they deserve as they mature to adulthood by 2030,” said Mr. Ban in his message on the Day, referring to the newly–adopted 2030 Agenda and its landmark 17 Global Goals.
Everyone is entitled to a life of dignity, Ban says on World Mental Health Day
Everyone has the right to respect and dignity, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has declared in his message on World Mental Health Day, highlighting that people who have mental health and psychosocial disabilities deserve to live with the dignity that is integral to a healthy and fulfilling life.
Caring for planet is ‘moral issue,’ UN chief says in Bolivia
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, speaking in Bolivia at the Peoples World Conference on Climate Change and the Defence of Life, said that the subject of the conference was both “important and timely.”
‘The stakes are high,’ UN chief tells climate finance meeting in Peru
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today said that in order to create a low-carbon, climate-resilient future that benefits everybody, allocating appropriate finance is of key importance.
UN official calls on finance ministers to create ‘climate-friendly’ policies
Assistant Secretary-General for Climate Change Janos Pasztor urged global finance ministers meeting in Lima on Friday to "ensure that climate-friendly policies are adopted, replicated – and enforced – throughout the world."
Food prices staying lower for longer periods, UN agency says
Food prices are staying lower for longer periods, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported today, saying lower food prices "seem to be a boon to food security and are indeed just that for households who spend a large share of their income on food purchases.”
Rice genetics placed in global data pool to help develop sustainable crops, says UN agency
The genome sequences of thousands of rice varieties have been placed with a United Nations-backed treaty on plant genetics by the world’s leading rice research institute to help boost plans to set up a global data exchange for crop genetic resources, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
On International Walk to School Day, UN envoy urges action to make roads safe for children
Marking International Walk to School Day, Jean Todt, the United Nations Special Envoy for Road Safety, has is calling for urgent action to halt road deaths and traffic accidents, which, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), kill some 500 children a day.
Financial Markets Shifting to Address Climate Change but Acceleration Requires Greater Policy Support: New Report
Private sector investments are shifting to address the challenges posed by climate change, and this trend could accelerate if governments and policy-makers take further actions to increase the demand for low-carbon, climate resilient investment, according […]
GalleryIntergovernmental Panel on Climate Change elects Hoesung Lee of Republic of Korea as Chair
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) elected Hoesung Lee of the Republic of Korea as its new Chair on Tuesday.
UN agencies launch new standards to improve adolescent care worldwide
Two United Nations agencies—the UN World Health Organization (WHO) and the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS)—announced today they have developed new standards for quality health-care services for adolescents, which aim to help countries improve services for people between the ages of 10 and 19.
First Draft of New Climate Change Agreement Presented to Governments
Work towards a new universal climate change agreement was today strengthened through the issuance of the first comprehensive draft of the agreement.
World Bank Forecasts Global Poverty to Fall Below 10% for First Time
Major Hurdles Remain in Goal to End Poverty by 2030
The number of people living in extreme poverty around the world is likely to fall to under 10 per cent of the global population in 2015, […]
GalleryOn World Habitat Day, UN highlights importance of public spaces for all
Marking World Habitat Day, which is observed every year on the first Monday of October, top United Nations officials today urged the creation of “Public spaces for all.”
Ban welcomes submission of climate action plans by 147 nations ahead of Paris conference
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today welcomed the submission of national climate action plans by 147 countries, accounting for over 85 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, calling it a “positive first step” towards achieving a universal climate change agreement this December.
GalleryPacific islands play vital role in advancing action on climate change, Ban tells leaders
Located on the frontlines of climate change, Pacific island nations have a crucial role to play in efforts to advance a sustainable future, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told the region’s leaders as they met today at United Nations Headquarters.
GalleryOn International Day, UN highlights urban sustainability and inclusiveness of older persons
The United Nations is today urging countries to improve older persons’ accessibility to urban infrastructure, facilities and services as two phenomena – rapid urbanization and ageing populations – are combining to dramatically change the face […]
New UN treatment guidelines say all people with HIV should get antiretrovirals
Anyone infected with HIV should begin antiretroviral treatment as soon after diagnosis as possible, the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) announced today, as it issued new guidelines that could help avert more than 21 million deaths and 28 million new infections by 2030.
UN agencies call for end to violence and discrimination against LGBTI community
Twelve UN agencies today called for an end to violence and discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) adults, adolescents and children, and set out specific steps to protect these individuals.
At UN, Mongolian President urges coordinated action to tackle pressing global issues
In his speech at the 70th United Nations General Assembly’s annual General Debate, Mongolian President Tsakhia Elbegdorj urged his international counterparts to unite and exercise decisive leadership to fulfil UN’s core missions.
‘The only sustainable future is one that includes us all,’ Rwandan President tells UN Assembly
Change is coming and it is vitally necessary, the President of Rwanda told the General Assembly today, urging United Nations Member States to not merely pledge commitment to the Global Goals but to acknowledge that the bold new targets will only be reached if all countries work together and acknowledge their mutual interdependence.
The UN Sustainable Development Summit – illustrated
During the UN Sustainable Development Summit, countries, businesses and civil society organization took part in 6 Interactive Dialogues to discuss relevant issues to the new development agenda such as poverty, hunger, inequality and climate change. For […]
Report by UN and Gates Foundation presents vision for eradicating malaria by 2040
A new report released by the United Nations and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation presents a vision to eradicate malaria by 2040 that involves new strategies, tools and financing and urges world leaders to expand their commitments to fight a disease that still kills about one child every minute.
At UN Assembly, Brazilian President urges solidarity towards Global Goals, tackling refugee crisis
Following the tradition of being the first Head of State to address the annual General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly, Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff today, in a wide-ranging address, stressed, among other issues, her country’s improved economy after the 2008 economic crisis and its efforts to provide refuge for migrants stranded across Europe.
Rabies 100 per cent preventable, UN health agency says on World Day
Do you have a dog? Vaccinating dogs is the most cost-effective strategy for preventing rabies in people, which leads to tens of thousands of deaths, mostly in Asia and Africa, according to the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO).
Warning of dangers to health, environment, UN experts urge phase-out of hazardous pesticides
Two independent United Nations human rights experts today called for an immediate worldwide phase-out on use of highly hazardous pesticides that are inflicting significant damage on human health and the environment.
Global Goals will only be realized in a world of peace, security and respect for human rights – UN Assembly President
Never before has such a large share of humanity enjoyed so good a life, “yet never before have we been at greater risk of fundamentally disrupting the basic living conditions on our small globe,” the President of the General Assembly warned today, challenging the United Nations to generate the political will to end conflict and poverty and invest the trillions of dollars that will be needed to build a sustainable global infrastructure over the next 15 years.
‘When we stand together, there is no limit to what we can achieve,” Ban tells UN Assembly
Facing a world where inequality is growing, trust is fading, and impatience with leadership can be seen and felt far and wide, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon set the stage for 70th General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly today with a call to “translate promises on paper to action on the ground” by backing a bold new sustainability agenda that aims to wipe out poverty and build a sustainable future for a
Fighting childhood malnutrition: Resource-rich African countries rise to the challenge
Four countries agree to use revenues from extractive industries in fight against child malnutrition.
China’s President urges UN General Assembly to put new development agenda into action
In his address to the United Nations General Assembly’s annual gathering of world leaders, the President of China warned that the security of all countries was interrelated and that no country could protect its security alone and none could find stability at the expense of another’s.
Latin American leaders urge reform of UN bodies, highlight 2030 ‘agenda of change’
Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, one of several leaders from the Latin American and Caribbean region to address the General Assembly today, warned of the urgent need for United Nations Member States to react to the plight of refugees, which she said had become a global crisis affecting peace and security.
Sustainable Development Summit Day 3 – highlights
Barack Obama, President of the United States of America, addresses the United Nations summit for the adoption of the post-2015 development agenda.
UN Photo/Mark Garten
Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff at a press briefing
Virtual reality at the We […]
GalleryCommitments Made at Sustainable Development Summit to Kickstart Implementation of Global Goals
The Sustainable Development Summit which wrapped up today, successfully galvanized support for the implementation of the ambitious and historic new Sustainable Development Agenda that countries adopted on Friday, 25 September.
Global Goals provide opportunity to ‘quicken pace of action’ to end AIDS epidemic by 2030 – UN
Speaking at United Nations Headquarters in New York, the leaders of Kenya and Malawi co-hosted today with the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) a high-level panel discussion on scaling up efforts to end the epidemic by 2030.
UN General Assembly’s annual debate opens with focus on sustainable development
Monarchs, Presidents and Prime Ministers will gather by the scores at United Nations Headquarters in New York today for the General Assembly's annual General Debate, with a small island State that symbolises the combat against climate change – an urgent threat to global sustainability – set to occupy the first seat.
UN launches new joint partnership to help countries close gaps in primary health care
Underscoring the urgent need to transform how essential health care is delivered in low- and middle-income countries, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the World Bank Group and the UN World Health Organization (WHO) have launched a new partnership to support countries in improving the performance of primary health care.
UN deputy chief says world now has ‘legitimate hope’ that universal goal on energy will be met
United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson today welcomed the adoption of the first-ever universal goal on energy, but cautioned that it will take “arduous work” to reach the targets needed to end poverty and combat climate change as part of the new sustainable development agenda.
On World Day, UN highlights ‘transformative’ potential of tourism for sustainable development
Marking the observance of World Tourism Day, senior United Nations officials are spotlighting the transformative potential of one billion tourists and their increasing capacity to help boost socio-economic and environmental development.
At Global Citizen Festival, Ban tells crowd to ‘stand up for a better world,’ make Global Goals a reality
“Take your passion and compassion – and let’s make the global goals a global reality,” United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged a massive crowd at New York’s Central Park last night, where he joined a star-studded roster of the world's leading performers to kick-off the fourth annual Global Citizen Festival.
Tackling water challenges an ‘urgent task’ as world moves forward on sustainable development goals – UN deputy chief
United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson today urged swift action on the newly-adopted Global Goals directly related to the protection and equitable use of the planet’s precious water resources, as discussion continued at UN Headquarters on the post-2015 Sustainable Development Agenda.
Global Goals cannot be achieved without ensuring gender equality and women’s empowerment – UN chief
As world leaders continued their Summit on the Sustainable Development Goals, UN Women and China co-hosted a landmark event today on gender equality and women’s empowerment at which Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon declared that the new Global Goals could not be achieved “without full and equal rights for half of the world’s population, in law and in practice.”
Informal talks on climate change reveal broad support for ‘durable’ deal in Paris, Ban reports
Secretary General Ban Ki-moon reported today that ahead of an upcoming United Nations climate conference in Paris, world leaders have voiced broad support for reaching a durable agreement that will accelerate investments in clean energy and spur a global, low-carbon transformation well before the end of the century, consistent with a below 2 degrees Celsius pathway.
United Nations digital ambassador Elyx shares new illustrations in support of the Sustainable Development Goals
As the Sustainable Development Summit takes place in New York this weekend, Elyx features in a new series of illustrations designed to further explain the Sustainable Development Goals.
Sustainable Development Summit Day 2 – in pictures
Key highlights from the second day of the Summit.
‘Human security depends on health security,’ Ban says, calling on nations to be proactive
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today warned that in the coming years, unexpected new disease outbreaks will hit, and societies that proactively address these challenges are at the heart of secure nations and a safer world.
Putting education first key to unlocking progress across new UN development agenda – Ban
World leaders and education activists met at the United Nations today for a high-level event to mark the inclusion of education as a transformative stand-alone goal in the new 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
UN calls on young people to champion global goal of ending hunger by 2030
United Nations officials today called on youth to champion the cause of ending hunger, achieving food security and improving nutrition – one of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) world leaders committed themselves to on Friday.
Cooperation among developing nations key to achieving new anti-poverty goals, says Ban
Cooperation among developing countries across a full spectrum ranging from trade to financing to technology transfers has a key role to play in achieving the ambitious goals of the newly adopted 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today.
UN forum highlights ‘fundamental’ role of private sector in advancing new global goals
The fundamental role of the private sector in advancing the newly-adopted sustainable development agenda was highlighted today at a United Nations forum, during which a new tool was launched to support companies in navigating and operationally aligning with the global goals that make up the agenda.
The makings of a sustainable future – from the Earth Summit to the Sustainable Development Goals
On Friday, world leaders unanimously adopted the new sustainable development agenda which entails of 17 goals to end poverty, reduce inequality and address climate change. But how did we get here? It took a lot of work from governments, civil society organization, the private sector and regular citizens over several decades to come up with the 17 Global Goals. Let's take a look back at the people and places where history was made.
Lang Lang offers to help promote implementation of Sustainable Development Goals
Chinese pianist Lang Lang and his mother Xiulan Zhou met with Mogens Lykketoft, President of the UN General Assembly, on Saturday for a brief chat during the second day of the Sustainable Development Summit.
UN Secretary-General Announces $25 Billion in Initial Commitments to End Preventable Deaths of Women, Children and Adolescents by 2030
World leaders begin pledging support as Secretary-General launches the “Global Strategy for Women’s, Children’s and Adolescents’ Health” to deliver the Sustainable Development Goals.
Business leaders pledge investments worth millions to boost gender equality – UN
Top global companies and foundations, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Unilever, are committing millions of dollars to promote gender equality as they gather at a United Nations event in New York.
GallerySustainable Development Summit highlights Day 1 – in pictures
UN Sustainable Development Summit Day 1 in photos
UN already forging ahead on ways to implement ambitious new development agenda
Within hours of the General Assembly’s adoption today of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the United Nations was already looking ahead to the monumental task of wiping out poverty, fighting inequality and tackling climate change over the next 15 years.
Historic New Sustainable Development Agenda Unanimously Adopted by 193 UN Members
A bold new global agenda to end poverty by 2030 and pursue a sustainable future was unanimously adopted today by the 193 Member States of the United Nations at the start of a three-day Summit on Sustainable Development.
UNMAS Advocate Daniel Craig participates in the Launch of the Sustainable Development Goals
This morning the British-born actor Daniel Craig, who was designated by the UN Secretary-General as the first United Nations Global Advocate for the Elimination of Mines and other Explosive Hazards in April of this year, arrived to lend his support, his voice and his image to the launching of the Sustainable Development Goals.
UN rights expert urges Brazil to introduce measures to ‘fulfill promises of equality’ for minorities
Warning that despite a wealth of legislation, minority groups in Brazil have not seen the promises of equality fulfilled, a United Nations human rights today urged Brazilian authorities to introduce immediate measures to overcome serious structural challenges facing the country’s most vulnerable communities.
Pope Francis, decries global ‘culture of waste,’ urges action sustainable development
In an address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York today, Pope Francis spoke at length on a range of subjects from equity and the environmental protection to the promotion of the rule of law and eradicating global poverty.
Malala Yousafzai urges world leaders at UN to promise safe, quality education for every child
Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly alongside 193 youth representatives from the Organization’s 193 Member States, Pakistani education advocate Malala Yousafzai today asked world leaders to promise that every child will have the right to safe, free and quality primary and secondary education.
Ban welcomes joint China-US announcement on measures to tackle climate change
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has commended the joint announcement made today by the Governments of China and the United States on the significant steps each country is aiming to take to address climate change.
Polio is no longer endemic in Nigeria – UN health agency
The World Health Organization (WHO) announced today that polio is no longer endemic in Nigeria, leaving the devastating disease endemic in only two countries and bringing the world one major step closer to achieving this goal of ending polio for good.
Meeting with developing country leaders, Ban stresses universal nature of new sustainability agenda
On the eve of a United Nations summit convened to give impetus to an ambitious new agenda to eradicate poverty and set the world on the path of sustainable development, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called on both developed and developing nations to play their part.
All eyes are on the UN as world body prepares to adopt new sustainable development goals
The buzz and excitement about global development are intensifying at the United Nations, as world leaders begin arriving in New York to launch a landmark new framework that will aim to end poverty and build a life of dignity for all, leaving no one behind.
UNICEF and David Beckham unveil digital installation to help bring voices of youth to General Assembly
A unique installation that brings the voices of children and young people to the heart of the United Nations General Assembly was unveiled today by top UN officials, UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Goodwill Ambassador David Beckham and youth representatives from an initiative called ‘Voices of Youth.’
Summit Charts New Era of Sustainable Development
“We have a big, bold agenda before us – now we must work to make it real in people’s lives everywhere,” said United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, ahead of the gaveling of a new agenda for sustainable development.
At meeting of African Presidents, Ban highlights importance of urban planning as tool for development
Speaking at a presidential dialogue on the African Urban Agenda at United Nations Headquarters in New York today, the Secretary-General addressed the leaders of several African countries and highlighted the importance of effective urban planning as a vital tool for development.
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Permalink GalleryAhead of Sustainable Development Summit, UN Secretariat building lights up to showcase sustainable development goals
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Ahead of Sustainable Development Summit, UN Secretariat building lights up to showcase sustainable development goals
Ahead of the United Nations Sustainable Development Summit from 25-27 September, and to mark the seventieth anniversary of the United Nations, a 10-minute film introducing the sustainable development goals was projected onto the United Nations Headquarters last night.
Thousands of women on the move in Europe need reproductive healthcare – UN
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) today stressed the need to ensure women refugees and migrants moving across Europe have access to life-saving sexual and reproductive healthcare, as it appealed for $4.2 million for humanitarian assistance.
UNICEF and Goodwill Ambassador Shakira urge leaders to join early childhood revolution
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and its Goodwill Ambassador and international pop star Shakira urged global leaders today to invest heavily in early childhood development in the wake of new science that is creating a revolutionary shift in understanding the lasting effects of deprivation and stress on the developing brains of young children.
United Nations launches initiative to drive more voluntary action to combat climate change
Climate Neutral Now, a new UN initiative, is hoped to encourage more individuals and organisations to get involved and voluntarily take action in protecting our planet when it comes to climate change.
Indigenous and local groups from 20 countries recognized with UN Equator Prize
A Brazilian indigenous group that inspired the film Avatar, a conservation outfit in Indonesia that is saving sea turtles and a movement for pygmy rights in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are among the 20 winners of a United Nations prize that recognises outstanding community efforts to reduce poverty, protect nature and strengthen resilience in the face of climate change.
Why should you care about the sustainable development goals?
Even if you don't live in a place affected by poverty and hunger, these goals still affect you. Wu Hongbo, UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs explains.
Billions of people in developing world still without Internet access, new UN report finds
Broadband Internet is failing to reach billions of people living in the developing world, including 90 per cent of those living in the poorest nations, according to a new United Nations report that offers country-by-country data on the state of access around the globe.
Unilever chief honoured by UN for advocating more sustainable business models
Paul Polman, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Unilever and transformative business leader, is the winner of this year’s United Nations Champions of the Earth Award in the Entrepreneurial Vision category.
Global partnership needs ‘rejuvenation’ to achieve new sustainable development agenda – UN report
The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) achieved significant progress over the past 15 years, but persistent gaps in official development assistance and insufficient access to markets, affordable medicines and new technologies have highlighted the need for a rejuvenation of the global partnership for development, according to a new United Nations report launched today.
Countries urged to submit climate action plans ahead of UN conference in Paris
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is eager to get countries to submit as soon as possible their action plans that will form the basis of the new universal climate change agreement to be adopted in December in Paris, a senior United Nations official dealing with the issue said today.
Global malaria target met amid sharp drop in cases, but 3 billion people still at risk – UN
Malaria death rates have plunged by 60 per cent since 2000, but the ancient killer remains an acute public health problem with 15 countries mainly in sub-Saharan Africa accounting for some 80 per cent of cases and deaths globally, according to a new United Nations report released today.
UN, France and Peru present cooperative climate action with new website
The UN and the governments of France and Peru have launched a new website to demonstrate how momentum for climate action is building ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference in Paris (COP 21), at which governments will conclude a new universal climate agreement.
UN welcomes new partnership and leadership to spearhead sustainable energy efforts
A firm foundation to ensure affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all has been built but a solid long-term institutional arrangement is needed, the United Nations Secretary-General said today, as he welcomed the creation of an international not-for-profit organisation to spearhead renewable energy efforts.
World must protect climate as it preserved ozone layer, Ban says on International Day
A political commitment to manage hydrofluorocarbons under the Montreal Protocol – a huge environmental success that agreed to phase out ozone-depleting chemicals – could be one of the biggest climate change wins in the lead-up to the December’s climate conference, says United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
UN chief to highlight important work that lays ahead for world leaders in coming weeks
Ahead of what is expected to be one of the busiest high-level periods in recent memory at the United Nations, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will brief reporters on Wednesday on a range of issues that world leaders will tackle in New York beginning next week.
Opening 70th UN General Assembly, President underscores urgent need for action
A major priority for the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly is to ensure that all actors move swiftly to deliver on the promises being made for sustainable development, the President of the 193-member body said today.
No country has yet achieved equality between men and women – UN human rights chief
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights said today that no country to date has achieved full equality between the sexes and urged the 47 members of the Human Rights Council “to do better than our societies” and make a real difference in achieving gender parity.
Bulgarian musician Theodosii Spassov named UNESCO Artist for Peace
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) announced today that Bulgarian musician Theodosii Spassov is being designated as an Artist for Peace in recognition of his talent and innovation, as well as his commitment to highlight music as a force to enhance dialogue among people, cultures and communities.
UNICEF advocate David Beckham issues call to end violence against children
David Beckham, Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), is championing a letter signed by 18 child survivors of violence that calls on world leaders to end the widespread abuse affecting millions of children around the world.
UN marks International Day by stressing vital role of civil society for true democracy
A strong and freely operating civil society is crucial for successful and stable democracies and must be given the space to carry out their vital functions, the United Nations emphasised today, as it marked the International Day of Democracy.
President highlights ‘historic opportunity’ to change the world, as 69th UN General Assembly concludes
The 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly presented countries with a “historic opportunity” to change the world for the better and was guided by the overarching principles of cooperation, compromise and solidarity, its President said today.
Creator of energy solutions to shine a light on childbirth wins $1 million UN grant
We Care Solar, which provides renewable energy at low cost with a medical device that prevents maternal and child complications during labour in areas without electricity, was announced today as the winner of a $1 million grant by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA).
UN atomic energy chief highlights importance of science and technology for development
The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) today stressed the importance of science and technology for development, as he highlighted the links between the Sustainable Development Goals that will be adopted by United Nations Member States next week and the work of the Agency.
Bangladeshi Prime Minister wins UN environment prize for leadership on climate change
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh has been announced as one of the winners of the United Nations Champions of the Earth award in recognition of her country’s initiatives to address climate change.
Central America faces major crop losses due to El Niño, warns UN agency
This year’s cereal outputs in El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua have been severely reduced because of the dry weather associated with the El Niño weather phenomenon, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said today.
Ban highlights vital role of South-South cooperation in attaining Sustainable Development Goals
Marking the United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged the acceleration of the development momentum across the global South.
UN agencies helping empower young girls to stand up against female genital mutilation in Ethiopia
In a country where female genital mutilation is commonplace, the work of UNFPA and UNICEF in Ethiopia is helping young girls to stand up against the procedure.
National Geographic Society wins UN environmental prize for science and innovation
The National Geographic Society, one of the largest non-profit scientific and educational institutions in the world that reaches more than 700 million people each month, is this year’s winner of the United Nations Champions of the Earth award in the area of science and innovation.
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Forests of the future fundamental to achieving Sustainable Development Goals – UN agency
The 14th World Forestry Congress concluded today with a declaration setting out a vision for 2050 that sees forests playing “a decisive role” in ending hunger, improving livelihoods and combating climate change, said the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).
UN envoy for education unveils plan to get 1 million Syrian children in school in 21 days
With more than 4 million children having left Syria – half of them for Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey – in a “crisis of biblical proportions,” the United Nations Special Envoy for Global Education today said $250 million could get 1 million refugee children in school by the time the UN General Assembly meets later this month.
World food prices hit lowest level in almost seven years, UN agency reports
The price of major food commodities continued to drop through August due to abundant supplies, a decline in energy prices and concerns over the economic slowdown in China, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported today.
Peace ‘a distant dream’ without development, UN high-level forum told
United Nations officials today shared a common message that building a culture of peace means not just ending conflict but building inclusive societies that are able to develop and thrive in the absence of discrimination.
UN agencies boost effort to avoid ‘catastrophic loss’ of young children’s lives in South Sudan
Two United Nations agencies are intensifying their efforts to reverse “dire” malnutrition in South Sudan, where every two minutes another child becomes severely malnourished and brutal conflict has displaced millions of people, destroyed basic services and increased disease.
Watch the historic moment when UN adopts ‘charter for people and planet’ – UN official
The top United Nations official who oversaw the negotiations that whittled down more than 500 proposals into 17 goals to end extreme poverty, fight inequality and injustice and tackle climate change says it will be a “historic moment” when world leaders formally commit to the Sustainable Development Goals later this month.
Child mortality rates plunge by more than half since 1990 but efforts must be redoubled – UN report
Child mortality rates have plummeted to less than half of what they were in 1990, but it is not enough to meet the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) of a two-thirds reduction over the past 15 years, according to a new report released today by a number of United Nations agencies.
Girls” rights are a priority, say UN chief and UNFPA head
“I am proud to be a girl.” These were the bold closing words of a drama performed by 15 girls for United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon and UNFPA’s Executive Director Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin, in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja.
Literacy for all ‘must stand at the heart’ of new sustainable development agenda – UNESCO chief
Urging governments and partners to join forces for universal literacy as a key component of “the future we want,” the United Nations is emphasising that literacy is essential to reach the newly-proposed Sustainable Development Goal on promoting inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning for all.
Majority Female Ranger Unit from South Africa Wins Top UN Environmental Prize
The Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit, a South African and majority-women ranger group, has been announced as one of the winners of the United Nation’s top environmental accolade, the Champions of the Earth award.
Deforestation slows, ”but we need to do better” on sustainable forest use – UN agriculture chief
While the world''s forests continue to shrink as populations increase and woodlands are converted to agriculture and other uses, over the past 25 years, the rate of net global deforestation has slowed down by more than 50 per cent, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said in a report published today.
UN agency chief and U2”s Bono urge action to address hunger needs of people fleeing conflict
As the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) continues to face challenges in funding its emergency response in Syria, the agency''s Executive Director Ertharin Cousin has thanked U2 lead singer and ONE co-founder Bono, Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi and Ireland''s Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney for their efforts to give voice and support to the world''s hungry poor.
At governing body, UN atomic energy chief spotlights sustainable development, Iran nuclear deal
Supporting the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will be a key focus for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in years to come Director General Yukiya Amano told a meeting of the Agency''s Board of Governors in Vienna today, where he also provided an update on the application of nuclear safeguards in Iran, Democratic Republic of Korea and Syria.
New online platform encourages global engagement in support of global goals for sustainable development
The United Nations has launched a new online platform to encourage global engagement around partnerships and voluntary commitments in support of the global goals for sustainable development, which are expected to be formally adopted on 25th September by 193 countries.
G20 nations weighed down by weak economic growth and lack of decent jobs – UN backed report
In advance of the Group of 20 meetings taking place this week in Ankara, Turkey, a United Nations-backed inter-agency report has warned that growth among the economies of those countries has slowed considerably over the last three years and unemployment rates remain unacceptably high.
Top musicians release ”love song” to Earth to inspire action at UN climate conference
Internationally renowned artists have joined forces to record a song to inspire action to tackle climate change and urge world leaders to reach a global agreement during United Nations negotiations in December that will reduce carbon emissions.
Global Goals campaign launches at UN to promote sustainable development agenda
As United Nations Member States prepare to adopt a new set of Sustainable Development Goals, a ground-breaking collaboration of campaigners, public figures, companies and civil society groups are uniting to tell seven billion people in seven days that “it’s time to change the world.”
Rachel Kyte Chosen to Lead Sustainable Energy for All
Charles O. Holliday, Jr., Chair of the Executive Committee of Sustainable Energy for All, today announced that Rachel Kyte has been selected as Chief Executive Officer of the Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All) initiative.
Government Subsidies for Agriculture May Exacerbate Deforestation, says new UN report
An estimated 80 per cent of global deforestation occurs as a direct result of agricultural practices. Government subsidies, estimated at $200 billion annually, are often the key underlying drivers of forest loss worldwide, with policy makers rarely recognizing their impact, says a new United Nations brief.
First-ever UN-backed summit opens to harnesses global momentum to eliminate viral hepatitis
Delegates from more than 60 countries are gathered in Glasgow for the first-ever World Hepatitis Summit that began today aiming to provide “a wake-up call to build momentum to prevent, diagnose, treat – and eventually eliminate – viral hepatitis as a public health problem,” the World Health Organization (WHO) has said.
At UN, official stresses role of parliaments in success of sustainable development agenda
Parliaments have a critical role in translating the new sustainable development agenda – which world leaders will adopt later this month at the United Nations – into real improvements for the lives of the world’s people, says the head of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).
General Assembly hands over draft global sustainability agenda to UN Member States
The United Nations General Assembly today approved a resolution sending the draft ‘2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development’ to Member States for adoption later this month, bringing the international community “to the cusp of decisions that can help realize the… dream of a world of peace and dignity for all,” according to Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
More than 850,000 people face acute food insecurity in Somalia, UN food assessment shows
Somalia’s humanitarian situation remains “alarming” four years after a devastating famine with the number of people requiring emergency aid rising 17 per cent to more than 850,000 and those in “food-stressed” situations still at 2.3 million, according to the latest United Nations-managed food assessment study released today.
Civil society must be ‘equal partners’ in implementing UN sustainability agenda, Ban tells parliamentarians
With speakers of parliament meeting at United Nations Headquarters at a moment when the world is gripped by multiple crises – displacement has soared to all-time highs and the threat of climate change grows by the day – Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged the legislators to help drive forward the new UN sustainable development agenda and ensure that civil society are equal partners in “building the future we want.”
GalleryLargest consultation on climate change and energy shows citizens’ growing support for measures to lower carbon emissions
In a project co-initiated by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the World Wide Views Alliance has carried out a worldwide consultation quizzing citizens on the issues of climate change and energy.
UN health agency unveils sanitation and hygiene plan towards eradicating tropical diseases by 2020
The World Health Organization (WHO) today announced that it is strengthening water, sanitation and hygiene services to accelerate progress in eliminating and eradicating neglected tropical diseases by 2020 that affect more than 1 billion of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable populations.
Ebola response panel studying ways to enforce compliance with key UN legal health instrument
A special United Nations international panel reviewing the role of existing international health regulations in the response to the Ebola outbreak in West Africa is studying the use of possible sanctions and other mechanisms to ensure better compliance with what it described as “a very important legal instrument in order to improve the global health security.”
As momentum builds for December climate talks in Paris, Ban looks ahead to ‘bold’ outcome
Commending France’s “exemplary leadership” on efforts to tackle climate change, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today affirmed that the international community is now at a stage where the final elements of the new climate agreement are being negotiated.
Senior UN climate change official envisages ‘good agreement’ at upcoming Pairs conference
The climate change agreement world leaders are expected to sign in December “has to take us to a less than 2 degree global warming path because that is the ultimate test of the whole package that will come out of Paris,” according to Janos Pasztor, a senior United Nations official dealing with the issue.
In France, Ban and President Hollande discuss global issues including upcoming Paris climate talks
In Paris today, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon met with the President of France, François Hollande, with whom he discussed a range of issues, including the climate change conference, which is due to start in December (COP-21) in the French capital, as well as the next steps to be taken to ensure an ambitious outcome.
UN and partners to highlight innovations for achieving Sustainable Development Goals at Solutions Summit
In a bid to find new and creative solutions to world issues, the UN, along with partner organisations, will be highlighting key work done by innovators from across the world. These will be projects that have already been looking at how to address some of the problems the sustainable development goals also aim to tackle.
Ebola aftermath is ‘best chance’ to transform future epidemic response – UN health agency
The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) today warned that infectious diseases have become “a much larger menace” under the unique conditions of the 21st century with its unprecedented global travel volume of nearly 100,000 flights carrying 8.6 million passengers every day.
GalleryNew open-access database aims to get water-scarce countries ‘more crop per drop’ – UN agency
At the start of the World Water Week conference in Stockholm, Sweden, the United Nations agriculture agency today announced that it would develop a new open-access data portal that uses satellite imagery to provide insights into more efficient and productive use of agricultural waters.
States Governors of Nigeria can implement locally the Sustainable Development Goals, says UN chief
The UN chief travelled over the weekend to Abuja, Nigeria, where today he met the States Governors, who can play a “fundamental role” in shaping the future of their country by implementing the sustainable development agenda Members States will adopt in a month in New York.
UN health workers vaccinate millions of children against polio and measles in war-ravaged Yemen
Nearly a quarter of all health facilities in Yemen are no longer operating fully – with more expected to close down in the coming weeks – resulting in “catastrophic consequences” for patients suffering from chronic kidney failure who are dependent on life-saving support, the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned.
At Security Council, UN officials spotlight need for effective and accountable security institutions
The Security Council today turned its attention to the need to develop effective, affordable and accountable security institutions, with senior United Nations officials representing peacekeeping, development and conflict-related sexual violence outlining concrete steps to lay the foundations for rule of law, peace and sustainable development.
UN kicks-off global events for World Humanitarian Day as Ban declares ‘each one of us can make a difference’
On the eve of World Humanitarian Day, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is drawing attention to the 100 million people affected by natural disasters, conflict, hunger and disease, whose needs are far outstripping the capacity to help them, but he is also reminding the international community that “each one of us can make a difference” and “create a more humane world.”
Changing habits and behaviours is key to overcome vaccine hesitancy – UN health agency
With one in five children still not receiving routine life-saving immunizations, and an estimated 1.5 million dying each year of diseases that could be prevented by vaccines, people who delay or refuse vaccines for themselves or their children are presenting a growing challenge for countries seeking to close the immunization gap, according to the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO).
No new Ebola cases reported in Sierra Leone in past week for first time since outbreak – UN
The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) announced today that no new Ebola cases were reported during the most recent reporting period in Sierra Leone for the first time since the beginning of the outbreak in West Africa, thanks to strong community involvement and the thorough work of rapid response teams.
UN health agency kicks-off campaign honouring world’s health workers
The World Health Organization (WHO) is preparing to launch a campaign aimed at honouring the sacrifices and efforts of thousands of international health workers deployed to the frontlines of the world’s most pressing crises, the United Nations agency has announced.
Major assessment finds world is running out of time to sustainably manage its oceans
Delays in implementing solutions to the problems that have already been identified as threatening to degrade the world’s oceans will lead, unnecessarily, to incurring greater environmental, social and economic costs, according to a summary released this week of the most comprehensive scientific and socioeconomic assessment ever undertaken on the world’s oceans and which is to reinforce the science-policy interface for oceans.
Africa moves a step closer to polio eradication, but more work to be done – UN
Africa has made great strides towards eradicating polio but the job remains to be finished through strengthened immunization campaigns and surveillance measures, according to the United Nations.
On Youth Day, UN officials urge Member States to make young people ‘drivers of change’
Marking International Day of Youth, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stressed that no one knows better than young people the issues at stake in today's rapidly changing world or the best way to respond.
UN body stresses vital role of geospatial data to achieving sustainable development goals
Geographic information about people and the planet is critical to making better decisions and using resources more wisely, and will be vital to achieving the new Sustainable Development Goals that countries have recently agreed on, according to a United Nations expert on the issue.
World must invest in new sustainable development agenda, UN official stresses
It is vital that countries make the necessary investments to carry out the new sustainable development agenda that will be formally adopted next month, says a senior United Nations official, warning that the world can ill afford the costs of not doing so.
1st Photographic Forum for the Planet Launched
A new photo competition has been launched, based around the idea of loving our planet. This in the hope that the submitted images can then be used to positively influence decision makers at the COP21 conference on climate change, later in the year.
UN chief urges greater efforts to improve health and well-being of indigenous peoples
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called on the international community to commit to do more to improve the health and well-being of indigenous peoples, who face a wide range of challenges from inadequate sanitation and housing to high rates of diabetes, drug and alcohol abuse.
GalleryCommunicate with Clarity & Leave No One Behind: How the UN Is Scaling Sustainability in a Post-2015 World, Part 1
Part 1 of 2: A Conversation with Ms. Amina Mohammed, UN Special Advisor of the Secretary-General on Post-2015 Development Planning
World food prices hit lowest level in almost six years, UN agency reports
Prices for global agricultural products in July hit their lowest level since September 2009, as sharp drops in the prices of dairy products and vegetable oils more than offset some increases for those of sugar and cereals, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) confirmed today.
US leadership, support vital to host of global issues, UN chief stresses at White House
The United Nations counts on the leadership and support of the United States on a range of critical issues, from climate change and sustainable development to resolving crises such as those in Syria and Yemen, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today, following a meeting at the White House with President Barack Obama.
Member States lauded for reaching agreement on new UN sustainable development agenda
Member States answered the call to make 2015 a year of global action by agreeing on a “bold, ambitious and transformative” sustainable development agenda for the next 15 years, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today.
UN chief welcomes climate change plan unveiled by President Obama
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the Clean Power Plan formally unveiled today by President Barack Obama, saying it shows the determination of the United States to address global warming while also saving money and growing the economy.
Ban hails UN Member States’ agreement on ‘people’s agenda’ to end poverty, promote sustainability
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has praised UN Member States for reaching agreement on the draft outcome document that will constitute the new sustainable development agenda, which will be formally adopted by world leaders in New York this September.
What progress has been made in ending global poverty?
Since the launch of the Millennium Development Goals back in 2000, organisations and governments worldwide have been working, together with the United Nations, to accomplish eight anti-poverty goals. But just how much progress has been made?
Amid ‘steady rise’ in rhino poaching and elephant killings, UN urges action to tackle illegal wildlife trade
Recognizing that wild animals and plants are an “irreplaceable part of the natural systems of the Earth,” the United Nations General Assembly today urged its Member States to take decisive steps to prevent, combat and eradicate the illegal trade in wildlife, “on both the supply and demand sides.”
Momentum gathers for international agreement to combat rogue fishing
Growing numbers of countries are ratifying an international agreement to combat illegal fishing, fueling interest in how best to implement the instrument.
Small island developing states need partnerships to overcome ‘unique vulnerabilities,’ Council told
The global challenges facing the small island developing States (SIDS) are the international community's collective responsibility, today stated the top United Nations official at the Security Council.
UN projects world population to reach 8.5 billion by 2030, driven by growth in developing countries
The world’s population is projected to reach 8.5 billion by 2030, 9.7 billion by 2050 and exceed 11 billion in 2100, with India expected to surpass China as the most populous around seven years from now, according to a new United Nations report.
‘Prevent hepatitis; Act now,’ declares UN on World Day targeting hepatitis B and C
Marking World Hepatitis Day 2015, which falls on 28 July in honour of the birthday of the scientist who discovered the hepatitis B virus and its first vaccine, the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners are urging policy-makers, health workers and the public to act now to prevent infection and death from the infectious disease.
At 70, UN remains ‘real’ to the lives of people worldwide, UN information chief says in Washington, D.C.
From the lofty aims set out by its founding Charter 70 years ago, to the life-saving work it undertakes today in peace and security, development and human rights, “the UN is real and critical to the day-to-day lives of so many people around the world,” the Organization's top public information official said today.
UN agencies and partners warn of ‘acute shortage’ of meningitis vaccines
West Africa is at risk of a large meningitis outbreak unless drug manufacturers increase vaccine production by 5 million doses before the 2016 meningitis season starts in January, the United Nations and leading public health organizations warned today.
Ban welcomes UN Assembly’s endorsement of action plan on post-2015 development financing
The United Nations General Assembly today endorsed the new global action agenda for financing sustainable development adopted two weeks ago by a major UN conference.
Winners of multilingual essay contest on new UN sustainability agenda honoured in New York
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon welcomed the 70 winners of the United Nations-sponsored Many Languages, One World contest who wrote “inspired” essays in languages not their own about a new sustainable development path that will lead to an end to poverty and a life of dignity for all.
UN health agency welcomes European regulators’ initial green light on malaria vaccine
The World Health Organization today welcomed a major regulatory hurdle cleared by a malaria vaccine, saying it expects to make a policy recommendation later this year on its use in the context of an overall panoply of public health tools for combatting the disease which kills one African child a minute.
UN health agency to mark World Hepatitis Day with pilot initiative to curb unsafe injections
The World Health Organization (WHO) announced today that it will commemorate the fifth World Hepatitis Day next week with a global injection safety initiative campaign in three pilot countries together with the foundation arm of IKEA to combat the “silent epidemic” that kills more than 1.4 million each year.
Syria: bread prices up nearly 90 per cent, pushing more people into hunger, UN report warns
Syria’s food production in 2015 remains at 40 per cent below its pre-crisis levels, impacting the price of bread, which has spiralled by 87 per cent, and shrinking poultry production by half, according to a United Nations agency report released today.
First half of 2015 ‘hottest six months on record’ – UN
From January to June 2015, the globally averaged temperature over land and ocean surfaces was the hottest for such period on record, the United Nations World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reported today.
In latest update, UN health agency reports no new Ebola cases in Liberia
No new cases of Ebola were reported in Liberia nor in recent hotspots in West Africa with half the 26 cases in this week’s update from the United Nations World Health Organization coming from the capitals of Guinea and Sierra Leone, bringing the number of people who have died of the disease to 11,269.
GalleryAddis Ababa Action Agenda ”major step forward” towards dignity for all – Ban
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today congratulated countries on the adoption of the Addis Ababa Action agenda, calling it a "major step forward in building a world of prosperity and dignity for all."
UN agency calls for $20 million to halt spread of ‘highly virulent’ avian flu in West Africa
The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) today warned that without timely intervention “to stop it in its tracks,” outbreaks of the highly virulent avian flu virus H5N1 will spread across the region and beyond.
UN-backed action plan to improve study of weather and climate in Polar regions takes shape
An international action plan to improve predictions of weather, climate and ice conditions in Polar regions has been agreed in an effort to minimize the risks and maximize the opportunities associated with rapid changes in the Arctic and Antarctic environments, according to the United Nations World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
Breakthrough partnership sharply lowers price of HIV early infant diagnosis – UNAIDS
A dramatic 35 percent reduction in the price for HIV early infant diagnostic technologies today has been announced by the Diagnostics Access Initiative, in partnership with Roche Diagnostics.
UNICEF, UN health agency report increase in immunization figures for world’s children
An increasing number of children are receiving life-saving vaccinations around the world, according to the latest data released by two United Nations agencies.
Countries reach historic agreement to generate financing for new sustainable development agenda
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 15 July – Countries today agreed on a series of bold measures to overhaul global finance practices and generate investments for tackling a range of economic, social and environmental challenges at the […]
GalleryUN negotiations resume on financing framework to advance global development
Negotiations on a comprehensive financing framework for sustainable development resumed today in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where Member States have gathered for a United Nations conference aimed at securing the resources necessary for the well-being of all people and the health of the planet.
GalleryInvesting in gender equality vital to economic growth, sustainable development, says Ban
Increased investments in gender equality are vital if the world is to achieve sustained economic growth and development, United Nations Secretary-General said today during the Third International Conference on Financing for Development, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
GalleryUN agency stresses role of partnerships to finance inclusive, sustainable industrial development
Partnerships involving all development players will be key to scaling up the financing needed for industrial infrastructure and projects, an important element in the economic and social advancement of countries, a senior United Nations official told a conference in Ethiopia today.
Committing Billions and Investing Trillions: Paying for the Post-2015 Agenda by Mukhisa Kituyi
Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi is the United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Secretary-General of UN COnference on Trade and Development
Back in 2002 at the 1st Financing for Development Conference in Monterrey governments were grappling with an extra $50 […]
GalleryUN and partners launch key financing platform to end maternal, child mortality
The United Nations and its partners today launched a new initiative to help end maternal and child mortality by 2030, as they gathered in Addis Ababa for the Third International Conference on Financing for Development.
GalleryUN conference opens with call for ”reboot” of development finance
At a critical moment in what the United Nations has dubbed “a year for global action,” the Third International Conference on Financing for Development kicked off today in the Ethiopian capital with calls to ensure the necessary resources to improve people's lives while protecting the planet.
GalleryGreater investments needed as fight against malaria enters critical phase – UN
Despite the tremendous progress made over the past 15 years, greater investments are needed to achieve the goal of a world free of malaria, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stressed today in Ethiopia, where world leaders have gathered to discuss financing for development.
GalleryFinancing for Africa’s Transformation- by Carlos Lopes and Amina J. Mohammed
As the race to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) draws to a close, the momentum will only intensify as the baton passes to the post-2015 development agenda.
Financing global response to climate change critical to end global poverty
Ending global poverty and achieving the proposed sustainable development goals will require mobilizing financial resources to help countries address climate change, the UN Third Conference on Financing for Development heard today.
Development agenda must address causes of migrant crisis, says UN adviser
The world must recognise the central role that sustainable development can play in improving global security and tackling migration as it prepares to set the development agenda for the next 15 years, a senior UN official has warned.
GalleryUN chief hails key role of civil society in financing future development agenda
As Member States press on with efforts to reach agreement on a plan to secure the necessary financing for sustainable development, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today told civil society organizations gathered in Addis Ababa that their role is vital in keeping governments accountable and ensuring that the voices of billions around the world are heard.
Africa Renewal: Spotlight On…Cashing in on the cashew nuts boom
In today’s article, Franck Kuwonu investigates the increasing production of the cashew nut in Côte d’Ivoire and how it is helping to boost West African economies.
Interview: Addis Ababa conference crucial for major UN events later this year: official
The UN development financing conference, being held in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa this week, will be crucial for success of the UN development summit in September and the climate change conference in December, a senior UN official told Xinhua.
Africa Renewal Spotlight on…Africa’s Debt Challenge
Today’s article takes an in-depth look at the acquisition of new debt in Africa, its current debt and whether the continent is borrowing money too hastily.
Lessons from Millennium Development Goals ‘springboard’ for future UN agenda – Ban
The United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) galvanized the world to produce the most successful anti-poverty movement in history, helped lift more than one billion people out of extreme poverty, made inroads against hunger and enabled more girls to attend school than ever before.
UN agriculture agency partners with Italy’s Autogrill to cut food waste and support small farmers
The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization today announced a partnership with Autogrill to cut food waste and introduce products of small-scale farmers in developing countries.
Forecasting positive 2015 world crop prospects, UN agency warns of food insecurity ‘hotspots’
Favorable worldwide conditions for cereal crops will lead to better-than-expected production this growing season at the global level, today said the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Some $3.2 billion needed for Ebola recovery efforts in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone – UN
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will call for continued solidarity with the three West African countries most impacted by the unprecedented Ebola outbreak at tomorrow's International Ebola Recovery Conference.
Countries Advance Agreement on New Ways to Finance Bold New Sustainable Development Agenda
Countries advanced negotiations this week for the Third International Conference on Financing for Development with broad agreement on a range of actions they will undertake to finance a new global sustainable development agenda.
‘We can be the first generation that ends poverty’ Ban Ki-moon
This piece was first published by The Guardian.
An African proverb teaches that “fine words do not produce food”. That wise counsel is foremost in my mind as leaders gather in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for a […]
Main UN economic forum closes high-level segment with calls to bolster sustainable development agenda
The United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is now stronger and must fully use its power to spur integration, and help mobilize a range of actors, including the UN system in the transition towards the sustainable development goals, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today.
Combining social protection with pro-poor investments can eradicate world hunger by 2030 – UN
According to a new joint United Nations agency report, an additional $160 per year for each person living in extreme poverty would end chronic hunger – and additional investments of an estimated $267 billion annually in social protection and in rural and urban areas would sustainably eradicate world hunger by 2030.
UN and regional leaders launch effort to put Ebola-affected West Africa on path to recovery
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today focused world attention on the “final stretch” of the response to the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, an epidemic that has killed more than 11,000 people.
Africa Renewal…an interview with Wu Hongbo
In this interview with Wu Hongbo, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs and the Secretary-General of the Third International Conference for Financing for Development, Tim Wall highlights several issues surrounding the sustainable development goals and asks about their effects on certain countries.
At UN Economic and Social Council, ministers commit to ‘people-centred’ post-2015 development agenda
The United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) today committed itself, through a Ministerial Declaration, to establishing a new set of inclusive sustainability goals that build on the successes of and the lessons learned from the landmark Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which are set to wrap up at the end of 2015.
At academic event, UN officials spotlight data and technology as key to sustainability
The importance of quality data and cutting edge information communication technologies (ICTs) is increasingly critical to the shaping of the future sustainable development agenda, the head of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) confirmed today.
Ebola cases evade detection due to ongoing lack of trust in communities – UN
The origin of the new cluster of Ebola cases is “not yet well understood,” the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) said today about the outbreak in West Africa.
Alarmed by melting glacier in Norway, Ban says world must ‘act now’ to curb climate change
At the site of a rapidly shrinking glacier in the Norwegian Arctic, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stressed the need for the international community to “take action now” to fight climate change.
Africa Renewal: Spotlight on…New bond issue set to help Africa go ‘green’
In today’s highlighted article, climate change is on the agenda. Growing populations are forcing cities to come up with innovative ways to make their habitats more eco-friendly and Africa is no different.
Targeted investment in women needed to break gender inequality
Investments which target the development of women and girls around the world are needed to break gender inequality and discrimination, according to the UN agency with deals with gender issues.
Development financing conference to agree ‘concrete’ action on social protection, aid delivery – UN official
The senior United Nations official who will act as head of the upcoming Third International Conference of Financing for Development, to be held in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, announced today that among the meeting's “concrete deliverables” would be a commitment to establish a new technology bank for the least developed countries by 2017.
Education ‘essential to vision of a life of dignity for all,’ says Ban at Norway summit
The Oslo Summit on Education for Development is a chance to reaffirm the human right to education, an opportunity to mobilize political commitment, and “our moment” to galvanize international support for education, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon declared today in Norway, where he has been attending a number of high-level events over the past two days.
Small farmers can be major actors in reducing agriculture’s carbon footprint – UN agency
Helping farmers adapt to the impacts of climate change can also significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, finds a new study released today by one of the agricultural agencies of the United Nations system.
Africa Renewal: Spotlight on…Loans to Women
With the Third International Financing for Development Conference taking place in Addis Adaba, Ethiopia, next week, we are highlighting a series of articles from the Africa Renewal magazine that examine some of the challenges faced by people in Africa every day.
Africa Renewal: Spotlight on…financing to save depleted healthcare systems
With the Third Financing for Development Conference taking place in Addis Adaba, Ethiopia, next week, we are highlighting a series of articles from the Africa Renewal magazine that examine some of the challenges the people of Africa face every day.
At high-level forum, UN official calls for final push towards new sustainability agenda
The international community stands on the cusp of eradicating extreme poverty and reaching the world's most vulnerable people with “a chance to live a life of dignity,” the Vice-President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) declared.
UN: cholera outbreaks can be controlled thanks to vaccines, water and sanitation
Use of oral vaccines is proving to be an effective tool to control outbreaks of cholera, the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) said today.
MDG success springboard for new sustainable development agenda: UN report
The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) have produced the most successful anti-poverty movement in history and will serve as the jumping off point for the new sustainable development agenda to be adopted this year, according to the final MDG report launched today by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
Africa Renewal: Spotlight on… trade to boost Africa’s industrialization
With the third Financing for Development Conference taking place in Addis Adaba, Ethiopia, next week, we are highlighting a series of articles from the Africa Renewal magazine that examine challenges the people of Africa face every day. They will analyse economic and development issues as well as education, health and women's advancement to name just a few of the topics.
Global education targets at risk amid surge in out-of-school numbers, says UN report
The number of out-of-school children and adolescents around the world has risen to worrying levels, dealing a potential blow to education targets aimed at achieving universal primary and secondary education, a new United Nations report has warned.
UN hails cooperatives as vehicle to make sustainable development a reality for all
Cooperatives will play an “invaluable role” in the international community's roll-out of a sustainable development goals, said United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
AIDS is a ‘human rights issue,’ Ban declares, launching major new UN report in Barbados
Ending the AIDS epidemic – in all places and all communities – is essential to realizing the vision of a life of dignity for all, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon declared.
Robert Redford urges youth to join battle against climate change before it is too late
“Only by acting now and standing together behind a universal climate agreement can we live up to the UN’s founding promise. Only by acting now and standing together can we achieve the results we need in the time we have left. Only by acting now and standing together can we tip the scales and change the course of history.”
Adequate, targeted financing key to people-centred sustainable development – UN official
In 2002, the global community came together in Monterrey, Mexico, to address key financial issues affecting global development.
Regions, states and cities pivotal for accelerating climate action
Lyon, France— Bold action on climate change by cities, states and provinces will be needed to help national governments to increase their level of ambition to implement the agreement that will be reached in Paris this December, UN Assistant Secretary-General Janos Pasztor told more than 800 mayors, governors, CEO’s and civil society leaders gathered at a summit today in Lyon, France
Ban welcomes new post-2020 climate targets submitted by China and Republic of Korea
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon welcomed today's formal submission of post-2020 climate change targets or Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDC) by both the China and the Republic of Korea.
Despite gains, 2.4 billion people worldwide still lack basic sanitation – UN report
United Nations agencies tracking access to water and sanitation targets against the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) warned today that the lack of progress on sanitation threatens to undermine the child survival and health benefits from gains in access to safe drinking water.
Better science needed to guide policy decisions for sustainable development – UN report
A new United Nations flagship report launched today finds that solutions to the challenges to people and planet must build on clear scientific findings in order to be sustainable.
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At Stanford University, Ban says UN ready to build a better future for all
The United Nations and the international community are experiencing an age of great difficulties and opportunities which will help define the future of the planet, Ban Ki-moon declared in a wide-ranging address that touched upon the myriad common challenges – from climate change to sustainable development – currently facing humanity.
In 2015, world must ‘realize great dream’ of sustainable development for all – UN Economic and Social Council chief
The President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) today opened the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, declaring that 2015 must be the year when the world’s people and leaders realize the dream of a new sustainability agenda.
On UN Charter Day, Ban calls for ‘deeper cooperation’ amid growing global challenges
On June 26th, 1945, the United Nations was born from the ashes and rubble of the Second World War as delegates from fifty nations came together to sign the UN Charter – the Organization's founding document and the bedrock of global peace and development.
‘Business can be a global force for good,’ Bans says as General Assembly honours UN Global Compact
The business community and the private sector can make a difference as United Nations Member States are in the process of formulating a new sustainability agenda, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today said at the General Assembly, which was meeting to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the UN Global Compact.
New UN report finds drop in global foreign direct investment in 2014
Global foreign direct investment (FDI) declined in 2014 but flows to developing countries actually reached their highest level ever, says a new United Nations report released today that also calls for systematic reform of the current international investment agreement regime.
GalleryNew UN study calls for major surge in AIDS treatment to avoid ‘catastrophic’ resurgence of HIV
The world risks a deadly AIDS rebound unless the countries most affected by the virus expand access to antiretroviral treatments and boost their focus on stopping new infections, a new United Nations report has warned.
South Sudan children at risk from cholera outbreak, warns UNICEF
A cholera outbreak is threatening South Sudan’s children in the latest blow to a country already teetering on the brink of all-out crisis amid incessant fighting and mass displacement, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has reported.
GalleryMillions of children will fall behind unless new UN development goals focus on most in need – UNICEF
The global community will fail millions of children if it does not focus on the most disadvantaged, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) warns in its final report on achievement of the child-related UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), emphasizing that “we were not ambitious enough” to reach those with the greatest needs.
Three years into the Zero Hunger Challenge, it’s time to accelerate action and commitment to end hunger in our lifetimes
Three years after UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon launched his Zero Hunger Challenge, governments, groups and people around the world have built a global movement to end hunger – end it in our lifetimes, and end it once and for all.
GalleryCelebrating first International Yoga Day, UN says ancient practice can boost public health and promote peaceful relations
The first International Day of Yoga is being celebrated around the world today following recognition by the United Nations General Assembly that the holistic benefits of the ancient Indian practice and its inherent compatibility with […]
UN chief welcomes encyclical by Pope Francis calling for swift action on climate change
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today welcomed the papal encyclical released by Pope Francis which highlights that climate change is one of the principal challenges facing humanity, and that it is a moral issue requiring respectful dialogue with all parts of society.
Negotiations on Financing for Sustainable Development Agenda Enter Critical Phase
Negotiations over proposals that would finance the ambitious sustainable agenda that world leaders will adopt this September are entering a critical phase, ahead of the Third International Conference on Financing for Development that will be held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 13-16 July.
GalleryOn Day to Combat Desertification, UN urges action to protect ‘every hectare’ of arable land
Land is a renewable resource, but only if investments are made in land degradation neutrality, which has been proposed as an element of the post-2015 development agenda, today said United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in his message on the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought.
GalleryUN and NASA astronaut Scott Kelly launch #whyspacematters photo contest
The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs and United States astronaut Scott Kelly, currently on board the International Space Station, today launched a global photography competition to highlight the importance of outer space for […]
GalleryIn Geneva, UN rights chief calls for ‘urgent measures’ in promoting girls’ education
Although the empowerment of women has been among the most significant achievements of the past century, the international community must “push further” in its struggle to ensure the right to education for all girls, the top UN human rights official declared today.
GalleryRobert Redford and an indigenous teenage activist to address UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting on Climate Change
The actor and environmental campaigner Robert Redford and 15-year-old indigenous climate activist Xiuhtezcatl Roske-Martinez will address a critical High Level Event at the United Nations on 29 June to energize multilateral cooperation on climate change.
On World Day, UN launches education appeal in fight against child labour
The United Nations has announced it is marking the 2015 edition of the World Day Against Child Labour with a call for the international community to invest in quality education as a key step in the fight against child employment – a scourge that consumes over one hundred million children worldwide.
Welcoming progress towards MDGs, Ban encourages Uzbekistan to promote human rights
Continuing his visit to Central Asia, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today hailed Uzbekistan for the solid progress it achieved towards the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, in reducing poverty and maternal mortality, ensuring universal access to primary education, while recalling that there can be no peace and development without human rights.
Coherent policy critical to tackling child labour, lack of decent jobs for youth – UN labour agency
Around 20 to 30 per cent of children in low income countries complete their schooling and enter the labour market by the age of 15, according to a new International Labour Organization (ILO) report prepared for World Day against Child Labour which is marked worldwide tomorrow.
An age-old model of healthy living, the Mediterranean diet is now under threat – UN
The Mediterranean region is undergoing a “nutrition transition” away from its traditional diet, long revered as a model for healthy living and sustainable food systems and known for preserving the environment and empowering local producers, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has warned.
Pope Francis and UN agency discuss sustainable future of agriculture
Addressing over a hundred delegates attending a United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) conference in Rome, Pope Francis today urged Member States to work toward combatting food waste, reducing the volatility of food prices, and creating a sense of global solidarity to ensure food security for all people.
‘Inaction on climate change now will cost us all in the future,’ UN labour chief warns work summit
The head of the International Labour Organization today opened a summit meeting devoted to tackling climate change as a unique opportunity for job creation and economic growth, saying that up to 60 million jobs can be created in a greener, low carbon economy if the right policies are adopted.
At annual meeting, UN committee on space issues renews focus on sustainability and climate change
The Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space opened its annual session in Vienna today with the role of sustainability and climate change in outer space activities taking centre stage, the United Nations space agency has reported.
In Tajikistan, UN chief highlights importance of safe water, sanitation and human rights
Kicking off a high-level event on water in Tajikistan today, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged nations in the region and beyond to renew their commitment to safe water and sanitation as the international community forges ahead with the post-2015 development agenda and climate change intensifies the need to act.
The way cities are planned, run and managed is crucial for development – UN deputy chief
In his address to the World Cities Summit in New York today, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson called on global leaders to adapt to the demographic and cultural shift that is taking place in cities worldwide in order to make them economically viable, environmentally sustainable and socially vibrant.
At UN-backed forum, Africa’s least developed countries pledge to transform their economies
Voicing determination to transform the structure of their economies and graduate from their status as some of the world's poorest nations, Ministers from the least developed countries (LDCs) in Africa at a United Nations-supported meeting in Milan have pledged to draw on their countries' great potential to boost growth and lock in sustainable development.
UN deputy chief urges action to reduce exclusion and discrimination of persons with disabilities
Empowering persons with disabilities and securing their rights will advance society as a whole, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson said today as he urged strengthening global cooperation and partnership on the matter at the Eighth Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Ending hunger, boosting nutrition and tackling climate change top priorities – UN agriculture agency chief
José Graziano da Silva, two days after his re-election as the head of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) for another four years, today announced that eradicating hunger, raising levels of nutrition and addressing climate change are among the agency’s top priorities during his second term.
INTERVIEW: Heading to Central Asia, UN chief pledges to promote ‘common response’ to region’s diverse challenges
Aiming to support and promote a common response to the many cross-border challenges Central Asia faces – from environmental degradation to drug trafficking and water scarcity – United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is heading to the region this week for meetings in which he will also touch on key UN priorities, such as ensuring sustainable development and tackling climate change.
Addressing Economic and Social Council, UN deputy chief advocates ‘true global pact for development’
Experience in the past two decades, particularly the 15 years of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), has shown the potential of a “true global pact for development,” the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson said today during a commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the UN World Summit for Social Development.
On World Oceans Day, UN urges global resolve to ‘appreciate, protect and restore’ Earth’s oceans
Although the world's oceans are vast, their capacity to withstand damage caused by human activity is limited, compromising their critical contribution to the future of sustainable development, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon declared today as the United Nations kicked-off its celebrations for the 2015 edition of World Oceans Day.
In Germany ahead of G7 summit, Ban rallies support for ‘once-in-a-generation’ UN sustainability agenda
The world has before it a unique opportunity to build a better future for all, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon declared today in Bonn, Germany, where he urged broad support for a trio of course-correcting United Nations events in 2015 that aim to lock down agreements on protecting the planet, ensuring sustainable development and unleashing the finances and technology to ensure these vital goals are achieved.
UN invites world’s seven billion people to become agents of change on World Environment Day
The United Nations invited each of the seven billion people on the planet to mark this year’s World Environment Day on 5 June, stressing the need of sustainable consumption worldwide.
U.N. chief: We can end poverty, hunger
This year offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to put our world on more peaceful, sustainable and equitable footing. When they meet at the Schloss Elmau Summit in Germany on June 7-8, G7 leaders can show they are serious about seizing the moment and protecting people and the planet.
UN agency reports world food prices declining to six-year low
The prices of major food commodities continued their downward trajectory through May as cereal prices dropped amid an increasingly favourable forecast for this year’s harvests, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) confirmed today.
Senior UN official calls for global movement to end hunger once and for all
The head of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) today called for a global movement to eradicate hunger as countries look ahead to the new set of development goals that will be adopted in September.
In Zambia, UN forum urges faster development action for landlocked developing nations
A United Nations-backed conference aimed at accelerating an ambitious development plan for the world’s 32 landlocked developing countries (LLDCs) concluded today in Zambia with a global ‘Call to Action’ intended to streamline their path towards sustainable, inclusive and economic progress.
Marking 10-year partnership, UNICEF and Gucci celebrate education successes across Africa and Asia
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is celebrating its longstanding partnership with luxury goods brand Gucci and marking a decade of successes in bringing access to quality education to more than seven million children across sub-Saharan Africa and Asia, the agency announced.
GalleryAt Geneva jobs summit, UN labour chief urges a global debate on the future of work
Addressing some 4,000 government, worker and employer representatives, the head of the United Nations International Labour Organization (ILO) called for a global debate on the future of work at the 104th International Labour Conference in Geneva today.
Gallery‘Give young people decent jobs and they will create a better future’ – UN chief
When young people have decent jobs, political weight, negotiating muscle and real influence in the world, they will create a better future, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today as he kicked off a Headquarters event on empowering youth through employment.
Transport Ministers from 54 countries call for global policies to mainstream low-carbon transport
Transport Ministers participating in the International Transport Forum (ITF) Annual Summit agreed in their Declaration from Ministers on Transport, Trade and Tourism on the value of pursuing low-carbon transport towards COP21.
GalleryInclusion and active involvement of youth vital to success of UN sustainability agenda – Ban
The United Nations General Assembly today commemorated the 20th anniversary of the World Programme of Action for Youth with an acknowledgement that young people have been “disproportionately” affected by many global challenges but “are ready and willing to be actively involved in shaping their future.”
GalleryAt main UN economic and social body, former US President Clinton calls for partnerships to boost health
As the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) met to discuss the role of partnerships in achieving the Post-2015 development agenda, the focus fell on the recent response to the Ebola crisis in West Africa and the need to work together to boost capacity in healthcare systems.
GalleryAt UN Asia-Pacific policy forum, leaders discuss post-2015 agenda, financing and partnerships
The 71st session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) opened its ministerial session today in Bangkok, as region’s leaders meet to discuss the integration and implementation of economic, social and environmental development with focus on financing and partnership.
GalleryJoint UN report says rate of world hunger dropping amid wider eradication efforts
The number of the world's chronically undernourished has dropped below the 800 million mark as an increasing number of countries hit their Millennium Development Goal (MDG) targets on hunger, according to a new United Nations report released today by the Organization's three food agencies.
GalleryUN health agency governing body ends session agreeing ‘landmark’ reforms on emergency response
The World Health Assembly wrapped up its work today after giving the greenlight for the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) to reform its emergency and response capacity to better tackle future disease outbreaks like Ebola, and agreeing to address antimicrobial resistance and air pollution, as well as improve access to affordable vaccines and set global nutrition targets.
GalleryUN launches mass polio vaccination campaign set to target nearly 5.7 million Iraqi children
Aiming to target 5.7 million children under the age of five, the United Nations today launched a mass polio vaccination campaign in Iraq, which is set to be conducted in all governorates to maintain the country's polio-free status.
GalleryUN Women announces partnership with top Spanish football team to boost gender equality
The United Nations entity dedicated to promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women announced today a partnership with Valencia Club de Fútbol, the first time ever that UN Women will collaborate with a professional sports team.
GalleryOn Africa Day, UN chief spotlights continent’s achievements, reflects on challenges of 2015
Each year, Africa Day is an opportunity to celebrate the continent's achievements and to reflect on its challenges, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today, highlighting the courage and determination it took to make remarkable progress to end the Ebola outbreak and urging leaders to commit to ending violence against women and empower them.
At UN meteorological forum, experts meet to discuss post-2015 action plan, climate change
With a welcoming 'tweet' from the International Space Station and Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's renewed appeal for “bold climate action,” the United Nations-backed World Meteorological Congress opened its seventeenth session today as international delegates will seek to address continuing concerns over global warming.
GalleryOn International Day, Ban says biodiversity is essential to sustainable development, eradicating poverty
Variety of life on Earth is essential for the welfare of current and future generations, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today on the International Day for Biological Diversity, as he called on the international community to recommit to reduce the rate of biodiversity loss particularly as the United Nations prepares to adopt a new set of development goals.
GalleryIn Seoul, Ban spotlights role of young people and technology in future development agenda
Continuing his official visit to Republic of Korea, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon at two forums today highlighted the importance of youth, education and information communication technologies (ICTs) in shaping the future sustainable development agenda.
GalleryAt high-level energy forum, UN deputy chief says action on sustainability a ‘moral and historical duty’
The world is facing complex challenges regarding the future of sustainable energy which demand comprehensive and immediate solutions, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson declared today as he delivered remarks to the General Assembly’s Global Energy Ministerial Meeting.
GalleryAt UN forum, Ban urges world leaders aim to set global roadmap for education until 2030
Education is not a privilege but rather a birthright that secures human rights and fights violent extremism, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today in Incheon, Republic of Korea, as he opened the World Education […]
UN agency calls for renewed global commitment to develop effective HIV vaccine
To mark HIV Vaccine Awareness Day, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, or UNAIDS, has renewed its call for a sustained worldwide commitment to finding an effective HIV vaccine.
GalleryMost workers now employed in part-time or temporary jobs – UN labour agency
The International Labour Organization (ILO) today warned of widespread insecurity in the global employment market, saying that some 75 per cent of all workers are employed on temporary or short-term contracts in informal jobs often without any contract, under own-account arrangements or in unpaid family jobs.
GalleryProgress on sustainable energy improving, but more needed to meet agreed targets – UN backed-report
Renewable energy generation and energy efficiency improvements will need to accelerate dramatically if the world is to achieve universal access to sustainable energy by 2030, according to a United Nations-backed report released today as senior leaders from government, business, finance, civil society and global institutions are gathering in New York for the second annual Sustainable Energy for All Forum.
Entrepreneurship and innovation essential for growth of small island developing states – UN official
While traditional sectors of fisheries and tourism have helped economic development, it is entrepreneurship and innovation in new sectors, that will boost productive activities in world’s small island developing states, a United Nations official stressed today.
UN Under-Secretary-General […]
GalleryNew UN report shows mixed results for reaching MDG health targets by end of 2015
The United Nations health agency today reported that by the end of 2015, the world will have met the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) for turning around the epidemics of HIV, malaria and tuberculosis, and boosting access to drinking water, but will likely fall short of reaching other health-related goals in areas such as child and maternal deaths and basic sanitation.
GalleryMigration issues must be part of sustainable development agenda – UN official
The United Nations refugee agency and the world body’s top envoy on international migration have applauded European Union (EU) authorities’ proposals for dealing with refugees and migrants arriving in Europe via the Mediterranean, calling for swift implementation of the reforms “for the urgent purpose of saving lives.”
GalleryNew UN report calls for economic inclusivity to drive growth in Asia-Pacific region
While developing economies in the Asia-Pacific region continue to fare well in comparison to the rest of the world, structural weaknesses, like infrastructure shortages and excessive dependence on commodities will continue to hamper their growth potential, a new United Nations report on the region says, calling for greater economic inclusivity if sustainable development is to succeed.
Mothers and children need more – not less – social protection, says UN labour agency
Calling for greater “social protection” for women as the United Nations draws up a new development agenda, the International Labour Organization (ILO) has cited alarming statics, including that some 800 women die in child birth every day, only 28 per cent of employed women receive cash benefits during their maternity leave, and that child poverty is rising in 18 of 28 countries in the European Union.
What role do indigenous people and forests have in a sustainable future?
Prime Minister of Norway and co-chair of the UN Secretary General’s Millennium Development Goals Advocacy Group, Erna Solberg, writes about our responsibility to protect indigenous peoples who have invaluable knowledge on how to sustainably manage forests.
New UN-backed report emphasizes possible contribution of forests to ending hunger
A new United Nations-backed report on the link between forests and food production and nutrition says that woodlands could be the key to ending hunger and will be intimately linked to the global fight against climate change.
GalleryUN environment chief warns of ‘tsunami’ of e-waste at conference on chemical treaties
The head of the United Nations body tasked with setting the global environmental agenda today stressed the need to limit the use of dangerous chemicals and to find a solution to the masses of electronic waste building up around the world, as a Conference of Parties to three major Conventions on the subject began in Geneva today.
UN launches #SaveKidsLives campaign to boost road safety for children
Each day some 500 children die from road traffic crashes, thousands more are injured and the situation is only getting worse, the United Nations warned today as it launched #SaveKidsLives, a global campaign to generate action to make streets safe for children.
GalleryMidwives could help avert millions of maternal and newborn deaths
“I have seen more and more women with child-delivery problems suffer needlessly,” said midwife Florence Djihoun, 48, at her UNFPA-supported clinic in Cotonou, Benin.
Economist and UN adviser Jeffrey Sachs on why 2015 is critical to setting the world on safer, more prosperous path
Jeffrey Sachs explains why it is urgent for the world to change direction and embark on a more sustainable path, what he hopes countries will achieve during this critical year, and what it will take to truly end poverty.
GalleryTop UN officials cite strengthening cooperation with regional partners as vital priority
United Nations Secretary-General Ban K-moon and the General Assembly President Sam Kutesa today drew attention to the importance of the Organization’s cooperation with regional partners to shape a “bold new vision” for a post-2015 development agenda, as well as to tackle the world’s myriad pressing challenges.
Op-ed: No more business as usual by Amina Mohammed
Through a new set of transformative Sustainable Development Goals, countries will have a roadmap and the means to end extreme poverty and protect the planet, says the UN Secretary-General's Special Advisor on Post-2015 Development Planning
GalleryForests pivotal to new sustainable development agenda
Deliberations beginning this week at the eleventh session of the UN Forum on Forests present an unprecedented opportunity to forge an international forest policy for the next 15 years that will be aligned with the new sustainable development agenda expected to be adopted in September.
GalleryAsia-Pacific countries agree to harness financial resources to accelerate sustainable development at UN meeting
Asia-Pacific policymakers, together with business and civil society representatives from around 40 countries in the region, today agreed to a landmark financing strategy to mobilize the region’s immense financial resources for inclusive and sustainable growth.
GalleryLeaders gather at Vatican for historic meeting on climate change and sustainable development
On 28 April, the Secretary-General met with His Holiness Pope Francis at the Vatican and later addressed senior religious leaders, along with the Presidents of Italy and Ecuador, Nobel laureates and leading scientists on climate change and sustainable development.
GallerySomalia registers record export of livestock in 2014 due to trade boost with Gulf States
Somalia in 2014 exported a record five million livestock to markets in the Gulf of Arabia thanks to heavy investments in animal disease prevention backed by the European Union and the United Kingdom, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) said today.
GalleryAir pollution in Europe costs $1.6 trillion a year in deaths and diseases, UN study shows
The United Nations health agency reported today in first-of-its-kind study that air pollution across Europe is costing “a staggering” $1.6 trillion a year in deaths and diseases, which amounts to nearly one tenth of the […]
At Vatican meeting, UN chief and Pope Francis discuss climate change, Mediterranean migration
During a meeting with His Holiness Pope Francis today, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said he very much looked forward to the Pontiff’s encyclical on climate change, which he said he believed would act as a moral voice on the issue.
GalleryNew UN platform aims to bring pastoralists’ voices to global decision-making stage
Millions of pastoralists – from the Bedouin of North Africa to the Sherpa in Nepal and Navajo in North America – will benefit from a new online knowledge hub launched today by the United Nations that will help them raise their voices in international policy debates and share valuable information to strengthen their agricultural livelihoods.
GalleryNew UN report finds bulk of world’s rural populations excluded from healthcare access
The majority of the world’s rural populations continue to live and work without essential healthcare services, in stark contrast to their urban-dwelling counterparts, according to a new report released today by the United Nations International Labour Organization (ILO)
GalleryUN agency unveils alternative policy agenda to transform economies, make gender equality a reality
A major new report released today in seven locations around the world by the United Nations entity for gender equality and women’s empowerment (UN Women) calls for the transformation of economies to make women’s rights and equality a reality.
GalleryWorld Malaria Day: call to close gaps in prevention and treatment to defeat malaria
WHO is calling on the global health community to urgently address significant gaps in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of malaria. Despite dramatic declines in malaria cases and deaths since 2000, more than half a million lives are still lost to this preventable disease each year.
GalleryOn ‘Girls in ICT Day,’ UN urges increased opportunity in information and communications technology
Aiming to attract women to fields “where strong demand is creating global skills shortfall,” the tech community is gearing up to celebrate ‘Girls in ICT Day’ around the world.
GalleryAhead of World Immunization Week, UN warns global vaccination targets ‘far off track’
The United Nations World Health Organization today warned that progress towards global vaccination targets for 2015 is “far off track,” with one in five children still missing out on routine life-saving immunizations that could avert 1.5 million deaths each year from preventable diseases.
On Earth Day, UN Pension Fund highlights importance of low carbon investments to tackle climate change
The United Nations Pension Fund today stressed the importance of low-carbon investments at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in New York, to mark Earth Day.
GalleryWanted: people taking action on climate change to address UN General Assembly
Are you or do you know a young person from a developing country with an inspiring story about climate action? If so, the United Nations wants to hear from you. A global search is underway for a young entrepreneur from a developing country to address a special High-Level Event on Climate Change on 29 June convened by the President of the General Assembly, Sam Kutesa.
Following UN Climate Summit commitment, McDonald’s announces initiative to combat deforestation
Following its commitment at the United Nations Climate Summit, food chain McDonald’s today announced a global commitment on deforestation across the company’s global supply chain.
Countries to consider financing for new 2015 sustainable development agenda
At a special session this week, United Nations Member states will consider proposals to align the outcome of the upcoming Conference on Financing for Development with the new sustainable development agenda that will be adopted this September.
GalleryAt UN, religious and political leaders weigh strategies to stem rising tide of intolerance, extremism
Senior United Nations officials today called on the international community “in the name of our shared humanity to unite in courage and resolve” against intolerance at a critical time when people, communities and nations are grappling with disparity and radicalism.
GalleryUN official stresses link between healthy soils, sustainable development as Global Soil Week starts
As Global Soil Week began in Berlin today, a United Nations agricultural agency official used his opening address to stress the significance of healthy soils to global food production and the importance of prioritizing soil health in public policy.
GalleryRenewed global development partnership vital to post-2015 agenda, Ban tells top finance institutions
Kicking off a high-level meeting with global financial institutions and development agencies at United Nations Headquarters this morning, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called on governments, the business sector and civil society to work closely together to push forward the post-2015 development agenda.
GalleryAhead of World Malaria Day, UN officials urge continued investment in fight against the disease
Although more investment and stronger coordination have helped the international community make significant inroads in the global fight against malaria, continued investment for malaria control and elimination targets remains essential for a post-2015 future.
Gallery‘Make global goals a global reality': UN chief urges climate action at Earth Day concert
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has declared 2015 a year for global action on climate, gender and development issues, warning revellers attending the 2015 edition of the Global Citizen Earth Day concert that there is “no Plan B because there is no Planet B.”
GalleryUN chief urges finance leaders to ”plant seeds” of post-2015 agenda
Financing will be key for the creation and unveiling of an ambitious post-2015 development agenda, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon declared today, as he stressed that 2015 marked a time of global action for people and the planet.
Norwegian Prime Minister congratulates Viet Nam on progress towards Millennium Development Goals on education, health
Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg today praise Viet Nam's progress towards the eight anti-poverty targets known as the Millennium Development Goals, highlighting the country's achievements in the areas of health and education.
GalleryNegotiations begin on ways to channel investment to finance ambitious sustainable development agenda
Negotiators from 193 countries began the process of shaping a global plan to deliver predictable financing for sustainable development over the next 15 years as the latest round of preparatory negotiations for Financing for Development wrapped up at the UN Headquarters in New York today.
GalleryAt UN-backed conference, Ban calls for more investment to achieve sustainable energy
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called on business leaders to expand investment in low-carbon growth and opportunities to advance sustainable energy for all and tackle climate change, in a statement to The Future of […]
GalleryNew global advocate Daniel Craig looks to boost UN’s ‘incredible work’ on mine action
After designating the renowned actor Daniel Craig as the first United Nations Global Advocate for the Elimination of Mines and Explosive Hazards at Headquarters today, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon thanked the current James Bond for his commitment to supporting the UN’s vision of a world free from the threat of landmines and explosive remnants of war.
GalleryThe road to Addis: Financing for Development logo and website launched
With three months to go until world leaders meet in Addis Ababa to reach an agreement on financing sustainable development, the Conference logo and website were unveiled at the UN Headquarters in New York today.
10 things you did not know about the world’s population
As the 48th session of the Commission on Population and Development gets on its way at UN Headquarters, here are 10 little-known facts about the world as it stands today.
UN food agency warns of 2050 deadline for dwindling water supplies, urges government action
Although the world's water supplies are expected to remain sufficient for a global population of nine billion in 2050, continuing overconsumption and the impact of climate change will diminish their availability in many of the planet's neediest regions, according to a new United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) report.
Doha: UN conference stresses grave need to combat wildlife crime
With wildlife and forest crimes on the rise, yielding enormous profits for criminal networks, United Nations high-level officials at a major anti-crime meeting under way in Doha, Qatar, stressed the gravity of the scourge, saying that it fuels violence, corrupts supply chains and undermines the rule of law.
GalleryDoha: UN officials spotlight equal access to justice in promoting inclusive economic development
The role fair, transparent and accessible legal frameworks play in poverty eradication – and in promoting sustainable development – was highlighted today by General Assembly President Sam Kutesa and other top United Nations officials told the UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, in Doha, Qatar today.
Civil society has ‘important role’ in building sustainable future, says UN General Assembly President
Civil society actors have a critical role to play in the outlining of a successful post-2015 sustainable development agenda, President of the United Nations General Assembly Sam Kutesa declared yesterday
GalleryAt Americas Summit in Panama, Ban urges nations to pursue prosperity with equality
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, in an address in Panama to the seventh Summit of the Americas, commended the hemisphere's commitment to peace, democracy, human rights and sustainable development, while urging leaders to continue to pursue a future of prosperity with equality, where no one is left behind.
Over 100 mayors adopt declaration to combat climate change, support sustainable cities
More than 100 Mayors and elected leaders have committed to making their cities sustainable with the adoption of the “Seoul Declaration,” which was adopted today during the ICLEI (Local Governments for Sustainability) World Congress in the capital […]
GalleryDespite major gains, world’s education goals far from achieved – UNESCO
Just one third of countries have achieved all the measurable education goals set in 2000 and only half of all countries have achieved universal primary enrolment, the United Nations agency mandated with promoting learning spotlighted today, urging countries to bridge the $22 billion annual finance gap needed to achieve quality basic education for all by 2030.
GalleryIn Qatar, UN forum to discuss link between crime prevention and sustainable development
Ahead of a major summit in New York in September on the future global development agenda, the 13th United Nations Crime Congress will convene in Doha next week to discuss the links between crime prevention, security, justice and sustainable development.
GalleryUN bodies present projects showing how ‘Big Data’ can save lives, fight hunger
Anonymized data – information from which the identity of the sender has been stripped – from mobile telephone usage could provide vital support in efforts to achieve sustainable development and to respond to humanitarian crises, according to insights derived from a study by the United Nations.
GalleryFinanciers put social teeth into money decisions, at hearing on new global finance framework
Governments at the United Nations hammering out an agreement on financing a new global development push are hearing from decision makers with a broad understanding of “return on investment.”
GalleryUN forum seeks answers to questions on how to make sustainable development reality
As the Economic and Social Council began today its Development Cooperation Forum in Incheon, Republic of Korea, senior United Nations officials emphasized the need to build on the success of the Millennium Development Goals and to deliver sustainable development for all by finding strategies to mobilize significant financial resources.
GalleryAt thematic debate, UN chief urges efficient private sector funding for post-2015 development
The international community needs a financial framework capable of confronting the multifaceted crises of the day in a predictable and effective manner if it is to delineate a successful post-2015 sustainable development agenda, United NationsSecretary-General Ban Ki-moon confirmed.
GalleryFrom farm to plate: French chef keeps food safe
Jean-Marc Roman, owner/chef of the Café du Rhône in Haute Savoie, France, follows a longstanding tradition of preparing local products of top quality and freshness while also adhering to the five keys to safer food recommended by WHO. Patrons of his restaurant can enjoy the delicious local specialties Roman prepares, confident that their meal will not cause foodborne illness.
GalleryFrom kebabs to fattoush – keeping Lebanon’s food safe
Lebanon’s food is considered a national treasure, and the country’s cuisine is appreciated worldwide. Local people and visitors love to search for the best of the best, from the tastiest kebabs at a simple roadside stand to high cuisine at sophisticated restaurants. However in recent years Lebanon’s government has observed an increase in foodborne illnesses, which shed light on issues in the safety of the food chain.
Making street food safe in Viet Nam
South-east Asia is known for its astonishing variety of inexpensive and delicious street food. In Viet Nam, eating street food is a local way of life. From quick snacks to entire meals, the Vietnamese capital Hanoi offers it all on the pavement. Over a bowl of Pho Bo (a typical Vietnamese beef noodle soup) WHO sat down with Dr Nguyen Thanh Phong, Director-General of the Viet Nam Food Administration, to learn how Viet Nam makes its tasty street food safe for consumption.
GalleryHaiti: safe food in rural schools
Every day at lunchtime, dozens of children pour into a newly built canteen next to their school in Palmiste Tampe, Haiti. They and their parents can feel safe about the food they are eating since it comes from a kitchen set up by World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organization that provides safely prepared food and education about it to schools in remote areas.
GalleryEl Salvador: Women spread the word on food safety
Growing her own food and making sure that food is safe are relatively new skills for Rodriguez. In 2013 she participated in an educational programme supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), working in collaboration with El Salvador’s government and other United Nations partner Organizations: the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), UNICEF, UNWomen, and the World Food Programme (WFP).
GalleryExperts at UN see decent work as the cornerstone of sustainable development
Promoting safe, dignified and fairly paid jobs for all will be crucial to the success of the new global sustainable development agenda that will be adopted this September, national leaders and labor experts in New York emphasized this week at a three-day event grappling with the challenge of under- and unemployment.
GalleryMarking World Day, UN calls on businesses to commit to employing people with autism
On World Autism Awareness Day, the United Nations is spotlighting the unique skills of people with autism and the need to recognize their talents through an initiative inviting businesses to make concrete commitments to employ people on the autism spectrum.
GalleryUN agency launches project to boost agricultural production in northern Mali
A new project aimed at restoring the livelihoods of some 33,000 households affected by armed conflict and climate change in northern Mali has been launched today by the country’s Government and the United Nations agriculture agency.
UN Economic, Social body to launch network tackling ‘monumental’ global employment challenge
As the Economic and Social Council concluded its three-day segment on boosting integration of the three pillars of sustainable development, the body’s Vice-President said he would work with the United Nations labour agency to follow-up on delegates’ work by launching an international entity to help address the issue of providing employment and decent work to people around the world.
GalleryEliminating sheep and goat plague will boost livelihoods and nutrition, says UN official at conference
The United Nations agricultural agency will outline a strategy in Côte d’Ivoire today for the total eradication of sheep and goat plague by 2030 at an international conference that began today in the country’s capital, Abidjan.
A “water secure future” is possible with changes to water management practices
A possible 40 per cent water shortfall in freshwater supplies by 2030 could be avoided if the international community takes recommended action, according to the 2015 World Water Development report.
GallerySenior UN officials stress need for employment, decent work to achieve sustainable development
Top United Nations officials today underlined the importance for States to create employment opportunities and decent work for all in order to achieve poverty eradication and sustainable development, and to fulfill the objectives of the new UN development agenda.
Deputy UN chief calls for ‘hydro-diplomacy’ as world faces growing water shortages
30 March 2015 - The international community must gear up for a new era of “hydro-diplomacy” as the threat of water scarcity risks plunging the world into a period of geopolitical tension and stunted development, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson told delegates gathered at the General Assembly today.
GalleryUN goes dark for Earth Hour, joining a global call for climate action
The United Nations went dark this evening as the Organization turned off the lights at its iconic Headquarters complex in New York and other facilities around the world in observance of ''Earth Hour,'' an annual global event raising awareness about the need to take action on climate change and promoting sustainable energy consumption.
GalleryUN set to observe Earth Hour to mobilize climate action
The United Nations will switch off its lights at it New York Headquarters tonight in support of Earth Hour, an annual event featuring the participation of millions of people around the world to call attention to the need for climate action.
GalleryUN trade report calls on governments to improve environment for e-commerce
The scope for developing countries to participate in and benefit from e-commerce is expanding, according to a new United Nations report released today, with improved connectivity, new e-commerce applications, platforms and payment solutions, and the emergence of local e-commerce companies that are tailoring their services to local demands.
GalleryFinancing for development: Regional dimension critical on way to Addis Ababa and beyond
Preparations for the Addis Ababa Financing for Development conference are entering a critical phase. The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe and the Regional UN Development Group for Europe and Central Asia organized a regional consultation in Geneva on 23 March to provide a regional input to the global negotiations, shortly after the release of the zero draft of the outcome document of this conference.
GalleryWorld records shattered for HIV testing
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia/Gaborone, Botswana – Record-breaking numbers of people in eastern Africa have received HIV counselling and testing through two historic initiatives in Ethiopia, Botswana, South Africa and Tanzania.
UN chief urges governments intensify efforts to end tuberculosis by 2035
With some 37 million lives saved between 2000 and 2013 through the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis, it is possible to end the epidemic by 2035, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said on World Tuberculosis Day, urging leaders to recommit to ending one of humanity's top killers.
GalleryOn World Meteorological Day, UN chief stresses need to mitigate climate change patterns
With extreme weather and changing climatic patterns taking a heavier toll on the planet, mitigating and adapting to them remains “among the great tests of our time,” Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today, as he stressed the need for timely, reliable information to further strengthen resilience.
GalleryInspired by UN Climate Summit, French artist sketched 100 portraits of leaders calling for climate action
French artist Yann Toma was one of the few artists that attended the United Nations Climate Summit last year as an "observer." Throughout the day, he listened to many of the speeches given by world leaders, celebrities and members of civil society, all expressing their concern for the impact that climate change is having on people's lives.
Cyclone Pam cripples sexual and reproductive health services in Vanuatu – UN agency
Sexual and reproductive health services, including family planning and antenatal care, urgently need to be restored in Vanuatu following the massive destruction caused by Cyclone Pam.
Elephant poaching rates virtually unchanged in 2014, reports UN-backed programme
According to the latest figures released by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), overall elephant poaching rates at monitored sites remained virtually unchanged in 2014 compared to the previous year. Poaching rates still exceed natural elephant population growth rates, meaning a continued decline in elephant numbers overall is likely.
World Water Day 2015: UN calls for global unity in pursuit of better water access for all
As the perils of climate change increasingly threaten the planet, the international community must unite in “a spirit of urgent cooperation” to address the many water-related challenges facing humanity, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon declared today.
GalleryOn International Day, UN says learning lessons of intolerance critical to eliminating racism
Marking the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, the United Nations today urged Member States to boost efforts towards ending discrimination around the world and ratify a critical international convention aimed at abolishing racism in all its forms.
GalleryBan, on World Down Syndrome Day, applauds all who champion rights of disabled
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged everyone to “make every effort” to ensure that the new sustainable development goals address equality and help build a life of dignity for all, including people with Down syndrome and other persons with disabilities.
Forest Day: Forests Essential for Meeting People’s Needs and Tackling Climate Change
New York, 21 March —The sustainable management and conservation of forests must be considered in the design and implementation of the new sustainable development goals and the new climate change agreement to be adopted this […]
GalleryVanuatu: UN finds ‘extensive’ loss of agriculture; full scale of damage still to be revealed
The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) today called for emergency support for farmers in Vanuatu, where the vast majority of crops have been destroyed by Tropical Cyclone Pam.
“Supporting Vanuatu after the disastrous cyclone […]
GalleryOn International Day, UN chief calls for efforts to ‘fill world with happiness’
Happiness for the entire human family is one of the main goals of the United Nations, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon declared, as the Organization kicked-off its global celebrations marking the annual observance of the International Day of Happiness.
GalleryUN health agency: ‘Push back hard’ against tobacco industry to protect public health
The head of the United Nations health agency today welcomed new data showing that non-smoking is becoming the new norm, but urged global action to “push back hard” against the tobacco industry, saying: “We do not have the riches of the tobacco industry, but we are right and we are resolved.”
GalleryUN envoy Gordon Brown makes ‘plea from the heart’ to end child rights abuses, promote safe schools
The United Nations Special Envoy for Global Education, Gordon Brown, called today for “fundamental changes” to strengthen the global commitment to defending the rights of schoolgirls and boys, as he said that 2015 should be the year to end violations of children’s rights.
GalleryWorld Conference adopts new international framework for disaster risk reduction after marathon negotiations
Representatives from 187 UN member States today adopted the first major agreement of the Post-2015 development agenda, a far reaching new framework for disaster risk reduction with seven targets and four priorities for action.
GalleryJapan and Netherlands join UNISDR in resilient cities initiative
Two countries at the forefront of global disaster risk management efforts today joined with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR) in an innovative partnership to strengthen urban resilience.
GalleryModel researcher wins 2015 Sasakawa Award
The Jury of the 2015 United Nations Sasakawa Award for Disaster Risk Reduction today said the work of this year’s winner – Allan Lavell – that he represents “A timeless model; a model for all times.”
GalleryAs UN steps up aid efforts, Ban promises ‘necessary action’ to assist cyclone-hit Vanuatu
With United Nations relief agencies stepping up their response in Vanuatu after the country was hit by Cyclone Pam, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today that the event “tragically underscored” the importance of global efforts on disaster risk reduction.
GalleryAgriculture bears brunt of disaster impacts, new report says
Farmers in developing nations bear the "major brunt" of natural disasters yet receive just a small percentage of post-disaster aid, says a new study released today by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) at the UN World Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction in Sendai, Japan.
UNICEF: on disaster resilience, ‘we must listen to those who know their communities’
Children and youth are a major part of community-level responses to disasters and must play an important role in risk reduction, United Nations officials said today in Sendai, Japan, with the head of the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) challenging a gathering of youth representatives to demand that they be involved in processes that impact them.
GalleryDevastation in cyclone’s wake illustrates need for targeted disaster response, Pacific leaders say at UN conference
With reports slowly emerging about the damage wrought in Vanuatu, which suffered the brunt of Cyclone Pam that pummeled the South Pacific over the weekend, leaders from the region made a joint call today from a United Nations conference on disaster resilience for scaled-up storm recovery efforts, as well as durable partnerships that would help their countries strengthen capacities to deal with such extreme weather events.
Breaking taboos on sanitation
At a side event during the Commission on the Status of Women, women (and men) from around the world eagerly packed into a UN conference room to discuss the impact of inadequate menstrual hygiene, open defecation and other practices on women and girls.
GalleryWATCH: Why risk-informed development makes communities more resilient
In the last 20 years, we've seen over 1.3 million people killed and more than 4 billion affected by disasters that have cost at least US$2 trillion. It is clear that we will never eradicate poverty or achieve sustainable development goals so long as disasters continue to set back progress. But it doesn't have to be this way. While weak development choices expose people to disasters, good, risk-informed development makes people and communities more resilient.
GalleryGlobal energy-related emissions of carbon dioxide stalled in 2014
Data from the International Energy Agency (IEA) indicate that global emissions of carbon dioxide from the energy sector stalled in 2014, marking the first time in 40 years in which there was a halt or reduction in emissions of the greenhouse gas that was not tied to an economic downturn.
GalleryFEATURE:’Rebuilding Sichuan’ takes top film prize at UN event on disaster resilience
A film chronicling the monumental effort of the engineers and designers to rebuild entire new cities from scratch following the devastating 2008 earthquake in China’s Sichuan Province, took the top prize at the first United […]
GallerySendai: Early warning saves lives, but communities need targeted, useful information
When disaster strikes, the surest way to save more lives is to get targeted, practical information quickly out to communities, United Nations experts told delegations gathered in Sendai, Japan, but stressed that even the most technically impressive systems “are useless” if people are not reached or do not understand the warning.
GalleryTop insurers call for urgent action to reduce risk from natural disasters
Top insurers from around the world have called on governments, Saturday, to step up global efforts to build resilience against natural disasters, highlighting that average economic losses from disasters in the last decade amounted to around US $190 billion annually, while average insured losses were at about US $60 billion.
UN relief agencies ramp up support to cyclone-hit Vanuatu as country’s President appeals for assistance
Amid reports that powerful Cyclone Pam has impacted at least half the population of Vanuatu, the country''s President, attending a United Nations conference under way in Japan aiming to reduce disaster risk, appealed for international support in anticipation of large-scale needs.
Ban praises Sendai earthquake recovery as model for turning tragedy of disaster into sustainable future
Integrating disaster risk reduction into development can save lives and livelihoods, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said as he toured Sendai, Japan, which was devastated four years ago by an earthquake and tsunami but which today, following an impressive rebuilding effort, is a reminder to the world that “we must turn all of the painful lessons of disasters into new policies for a better future.”
Gallery‘Health at very center of disaster risk reduction,’ say UN agency officials in Sendai
The Ebola outbreak in West Africa, powerful storms in the Asia-Pacific region and ongoing conflicts in Syria and elsewhere are all stark reminders that health and stronger health system capacities must be central to the new framework for managing disaster risk currently being discussed in Sendai, Japan, senior United Nations health agency officials emphasized today.
Critical role of women in building disaster resilience focus of event at UN conference
Spotlighting the positive actions of women in planning and decision-making to make their communities safer before, during and after disasters strike, senior United Nations, Government and civil society representatives today emphasized that risk reduction efforts can never be fully effective or sustainable if the needs and voices of women are ignored.
GalleryJapan launches US$4 billion Sendai Cooperation Initiative as UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction opens
The Japanese Prime Minister, Mr. Shinzo Abe, today pledged $US 4 billion to support implementation of the “Sendai Cooperation Initiative for Disaster Risk Reduction” over the next four years.
GalleryIn Japan, UN chief urges global solidarity to strengthen disaster resilience, boost development
With global leaders gathered in Sendai, Japan, to agree a new framework for managing disaster risk which will reduce mortality and curb economic losses, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today declared that responding to the world''s growing needs requires empowering individuals, supporting communities and backing promises with resources.
WATCH: Disaster risk reduction is a development issue
A changing climate and rapidly growing exposure to disaster risk presents the world with an unprecedented challenge. For developing countries, both less able to cope with the impact and more likely to be affected, the […]
GalleryTime to rethink Financing for Development, say Latin American and Caribbean ministers and UN experts
Latin American and Caribbean Ministers and senior United Nations representatives called for a rethinking of the international financial architecture to put inclusion at the centre of the new post-2015 development agenda, in the context of a meeting on financing for development held at the headquarters of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) in Santiago, Chile.
Updated: What will the weather be like in 2050?
If humanity’s greenhouse gas emissions continue to increase, the average temperature of the Earth’s lower atmosphere could rise more than 4 °C (7.2 °F) by the end of the 21st century. But what does a […]
UN disaster risk reduction conference key to future sustainable development agenda
Government and civil society leaders from around the world are gathering in the Japanese city of Sendai for a United Nations conference that will take stock of ten years of global work to better prepare for and curb the impact of disasters, and to agree on an updated global response framework.
Persons with disabilities can lead the way in situations of emergency
Including persons with disabilities in emergency plans will be one of the topics addressed at the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction held from 14 to 18 March 2015 in Sendai, Japan.
GalleryUN guidelines aim to simplify care for millions infected with hepatitis B
With 650,000 deaths caused by hepatitis B each year, and with up to 240 million people worldwide infected with the virus’s chronic strain, the United Nations health agency today issued its first ever official guidance for treating the disease.
Patricia Arquette on why it’s “an exciting time to be a woman”
“It’s an exciting time to be a woman in the world” says Academy Award winning actress Patricia Arquette, speaking at the Planet 50-50 by 20130: Step it up for Gender Equality event in New York […]
GalleryExperts seek gender-inclusive framework for disaster risk reduction
Experts want gender to feature strongly in the final text of the post-2015 framework for disaster risk reduction, due to adopted at the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction.
Galvanizing global attention, world leaders, celebrities and activists unveil Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step It Up for Gender Equality
At a star-studded event today in New York City, high-powered speakers took the stage to put out a clarion call: a firm expiry date of 2030 for gender inequality, with real equality being nothing short of 50-50.
GalleryIn new report, UN agency promotes ‘agrocorridors’ as economic driver for developing countries
Targeted development programmes prioritising smallholder farmers can boost food security in lower-income countries and draw critical private capital to agricultural areas in need, according to a new report released by the United Nations Food and […]
UN Secretary-General receives winning “climate” artwork by student from Trinidad and Tobago
A vibrant vision of a future powered by the sun painted by 17-year-old Coryse Wright was the winning artwork recently presented to the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon by H.E. Eden Charles, Charge d’Affaires a.i. […]
Equality means business: UN urges private sector to help close gender gap
Although businesses were not part of the discussions at the historic Beijing Women’s Conference 20 years ago, it is now clear that achieving gender equality will require the concerted efforts of the private sector, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told participants at the annual Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) event at UN Headquarters.
Global health partnership has saved 2.5 million women and children since 2010, says UN chief
At a high-level event this morning at the United Nations, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said preventable deaths of women and children could be ended “within a generation,” with political commitment an increase in innovative financing and strong partnership.
Gender Equality and Earth’s Future
Opinion piece by Mary Robinson, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on Climate Change, Christiana Figueres, Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, and Amina J. Mohammed, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Adviser and Assistant-Secretary-General on Post-2015 Development Planning.
GalleryUN commission on women kicks off annual session; takes stock of Beijing 20 years on
The Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) kicks off its annual two-week session at United Nations Headquarters in New York this morning to discuss progress and gaps in gender equality and the empowerment of […]
Gender equality vital for world to fulfill potential, Ban tells thousands at women’s march in New York
Thousands of people gathered today in New York to march from United Nations headquarters to Times Square in commemoration of International Women's Day and to demand greater efforts by Governments to achieve gender equality worldwide.
GalleryOn International Women’s Day, UN urges more action to achieve gender equality
To mark International Women’s Day today, senior United Nations officials highlighted the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a historic roadmap signed by 189 governments 20 years ago that set the agenda for realizing women’s […]
GalleryMember States must ‘step it up’ on gender parity as UN sets equality targets for 2030
The past 20 years has seen haltering progress on women’s rights issues and, in some areas, outright stagnation and regression, the head of the United Nations entity for gender equality and women’s empowerment said today.
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GalleryAhead of global risk reduction conference, UN review finds vast majority of disasters climate-related
The United Nations office dedicated to disaster risk reduction today appealed to world leaders ahead of a major gathering in northern Japan next week to provide clear, action-oriented guidance to tackle the underlying drivers of risk, such as climate change, which now accounts for 87 per cent of the disasters that have killed some 700,000 people over the past decade.
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GalleryUN kicks off International Women’s Day celebrations with appeal for gender equality
Despite great strides in the advancement of gender parity, women still lag behind men across an array of critical areas, from political representation and wage inequality to education – a gender gap that the United Nations is once again tackling head-on as it kicks off its annual observance of International Women’s Day.
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GalleryDespite progress, UN labour agency says women’s workplace equality may take ‘decades’
Women earn on average 77 per cent of what men earn, the United Nations labour organization said today, noting that “without targeted action, pay equity between women and men will not be achieved before 2086, […]
GalleryFuelled by ‘strong’ cereal stocks, world food prices dip to lowest level since July 2010
Food prices dipped to a 55-month low in February, dropping a steady per cent from the previous month and 14 per cent below its level compared to a year earlier, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported today.
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GalleryUN health agency points to ‘solid evidence’ backing its call to reduce sugar intake
New guidelines released by the United Nations health agency today recommended that adults and children worldwide reduce their daily sugar intake to boost health and stave off non-communicable diseases.
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GalleryCosts of Climate Change Adaptation Expected to Rise Far Beyond Africa’s Coping Capacity Even if Warming Kept Below 2°C
Ambitious Cuts in Global Emissions, Increased and Innovative Adaptation Financing Needed to Spare Continent Worst Climate Change Impacts, Finds UNEP Report
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UN Secretary-General: World threatened by dangerous and unacceptable levels of risk from disasters
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today warned that “growing global inequality, increasing exposure to natural hazards, rapid urbanization and the overconsumption of energy and natural resources threaten to drive risk to dangerous and unpredictable levels with […]
Gallery‘It’s time to get serious about wildlife crime’ UN proclaims on World Wildlife Day
Illegal wildlife trade undermines rule of law, degrades ecosystems and severely hampers the efforts of rural communities striving to sustainably manage their natural resources, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today as the United Nations marked World Wildlife Day. […]
What is the real impact of disasters?
As countries prepare to meet at the Third Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in less than two weeks, UN officials tell us why strengthening our resilience is essential if we want to achieve sustainable development.
On Zero Discrimination Day, UN urges tolerance for diversity
The United Nations agency leading the world's HIV/AIDS response has kicked off the 2015 global edition of Zero Discrimination Day as part of the Organization's wider effort to spur solidarity towards ending discrimination.
In Paraguay, UN chief says 2015 a ‘pivotal year’ for international community
In an intensive year of landmark events – from establishing a post-2015 agenda to tackling climate change – Paraguay has yet another opportunity to demonstrate its “exceptional global leadership” in the international arena, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has affirmed.
Gallery‘Women must be at the decision-making table at all levels’ UN tells high-level meeting in Chile
The world must unite to end violence and discrimination against women and girls, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged at a high-level event in Chile on women and decision-making today.
GalleryAgriculture in Caribbean vital to economic growth, sustainable development, says UN official
The head of the United Nations agriculture agency underlined yesterday the huge importance of agriculture and farming to countries of the Caribbean during an address to Heads of Government at the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) summit in the Bahamas.
Partnerships ‘central’ to post-2015 agenda, says UN Economic, Social Council President
Partnerships involving Government, the private sector, civil society, academia and philanthropic organizations will prove central to implementation of the new development agenda, the President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council said this morning as he opened a special event on Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships at UN Headquarters in New York.
Governments on track to reaching Paris 2015 universal climate agreement
Another key step towards a new, universal climate change agreement has just been taken as the negotiating text for the agreement was officially issued by the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Modernizing energy systems can reduce primary energy consumption in heating and cooling by up to 50% – UN report
A transition to modern district energy systems could contribute to 60 per cent of required energy sector emissions reductions by 2050, and reduce primary energy consumption by up to 50 per cent, according to a new report launched today by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in collaboration with the Copenhagen Centre on Energy Efficiency (C2E2), ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability, and UN-Habitat.
In Paraguay, UN chief sets sights on post-2015 development agenda
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called on the Government of Paraguay to join forces with the United Nations and forge ahead in framing the post-2015 agenda for a new generation of sustainable development goals, noting that the country had “an important role to play across the board.”
New studies ‘significant breakthrough’ in HIV prevention, says UN agency combating virus
The United Nations programme working to combat HIV/AIDS welcomed yesterday the results of a number of recent clinical studies of the effects of antiretroviral medicines on preventing new HIV infections, which were presented at a […]
UN health agency launches billion dollar appeal to tackle soaring needs in four crisis-torn countries
The World Health Organization (WHO) today appealed to donors to provide $1 billion for life-saving health needs ranging from childhood vaccinations to surgical care for the severely wounded for some 25 million people caught up in conflict across the Central African Republic, Iraq, South Sudan and Syria.
UN Photo competition shines spotlight on ‘family meal’ in achieving ‘Zero Hunger’
Scenes of families eating together in Burundi, Laos and the Philippines today won a photo competition judged by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver aimed at demonstrating “the simple yet powerful role provided by sitting tougher and eating as a family,” the World Food Programme (WFP) announced.
2015 pivotal for finalizing universal climate change agreement, Ban tells Member States
This year is pivotal for global action on climate change, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today in New York, emphasising that all the major advances of 2014 have set the stage for success in 2015.
On Social Justice Day, UN spotlights human trafficking, modern slavery
The United Nations Secretary-General said today that the World Day for Social Justice comes at a pivotal moment for people and the planet, adding that this year's commemoration focuses on the scourge of human trafficking and the plight of approximately 21 million women, men and children in various forms of modern slavery.
New UN report urges boosting national-level investment to tackle neglected tropical diseases
Scaling up investment to tackle leprosy, dengue fever, sleeping sickness and other neglected tropical diseases will improve the health and well-being of more than 1.5 billion people, the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) said today, launching a new report stressing that countries must make firm and sustainable budgetary commitments if they are to meet the agency’s targets and accelerate progress.
New software may allow better protection of endangered shark species, says UN agency
The United Nations agricultural agency has today announced the launch of new technology that will allow quick identification of species of the fish while better helping to protect endangered shark species and to combat illegal […]
GalleryUN mission chief welcomes commitment to ensure accountability for sexual violence in South Sudan
Any peace agreement reached to end the conflict in South Sudan should reflect the commitments made at the end of 2014 to ensure accountability for sexual violence crimes, the UN Secretary-General’s Representative on Sexual Violence […]
Invest in cities, renewable energy, UN envoy Michael Bloomberg tells conference in India
Welcoming India’s efforts to confront climate change, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Cities and Climate Change, Michael Bloomberg, said today that the country was incredibly well placed to capitalise on the benefits of renewable energy.
UN launches ‘All In’ initiative to end adolescent AIDS
In the fight against HIV/AIDS, progress for adolescents has fallen behind, world leaders gathered at a United Nations meeting in Nairobi, Kenya, stressed today, as they launched a global initiative that aims to end the […]
As Kyoto Protocol turns 10, UN says ‘first critical step’ must trigger new 2015 emissions-curbing deal
As momentum builds towards negotiations in Paris next year on a universal climate agreement, the United Nations announced today that early analysis shows that countries with targets under the landmark Kyoto Protocol – the world's first emission reduction treaty – have collectively exceeded their original ambition.
States agree key document on route to climate change agreement – UN
A key milestone on the route to a new, universal agreement on climate change was reached today in Geneva, with a week of United Nations-facilitated discussions among over 190 States ending with successful conclusion of the negotiating text for a binding treaty expected to be adopted in Paris at the end of this year.
GalleryUN-hosted Forum opens in New York, seeks to identify aims on women’s health for post-2015
United Nations Headquarters in New York hosted the inaugural World Women’s Health and Development Forum today, bringing together world leaders, representatives of UN system entities, scientists, healthcare professionals, and members of civil society, the media […]
At thematic debate, UN calls on Member States to boost funding for post-2015 development
The world has embarked on a “crucial last stretch” to the post-2015 development agenda and towards securing a sustainable future for all, United Nations Deputy-Secretary-General Jan Eliasson declared today, adding that the international community would finally have a chance to provide “a life of dignity” for millions of people.
GalleryFEATURE: ‘I’m not whole’ – female genital mutilation survivor speaks out
Jaha was just a week old when she was infibulated.
Infibulation, or type 3 female genital mutilation (FGM), entails narrowing of the vaginal opening through the creation of a covering seal. The seal is formed by […]
GalleryBreaking silence, disproving myths first steps towards eliminating female genital mutilation – UN chief
On the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, marked every year on 6 February, and this year focused on ending the ‘medicalization’ of the procedure, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called on […]
New UN sustainability agenda needs low-carbon growth to meet goals, Ban tells Delhi summit
Speaking via video message to the Delhi Sustainable Development Summit organized by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) of India, the United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called for countries to take a low-carbon approach to development in the coming years.
Development must be built on inclusive policy aligned with people’s needs, aspirations – Ban
Senior United Nations officials today addressed the Commission for Social Development as it marked the 20th anniversary of the Copenhagen Declaration – the outcome of a summit which emphasized, for the first time, the need to put people at the centre of development – with Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today that the world's current generation is the first able to wipe out extreme poverty and the last that could address the worst impacts of climate change.
2015 is a chance to change history, Ban tells UN Youth Forum
This generation of young people – the largest the world has ever seen – has a historic opportunity to end poverty, combat climate change, create jobs and fight injustice, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told a Youth Forum at UN Headquarters in New York this morning as he called on the participants to get involved in shaping a future sustainable development agenda.
GalleryScourge of sexual violence in armed conflict ‘far from being rooted out,’ Security Council told
Despite some positive developments across the United Nations system, the task of protecting civilians has become more onerous as conflicts have become increasingly vicious, with the brutalization of women a deplorable persisting trend, a senior […]
Caribbean and Latin American Summit take up UN agency anti-hunger plan
A new plan to combat hunger in the Caribbean and Latin America presented by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is being considered for adoption at a summit of the region’s leaders taking place today and tomorrow in the Costa Rican capital.
UN Women launches next phase in ‘HeForShe’ campaign at Davos Forum
At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, today, UN Women, the United Nations entity dedicated to achieving women’s empowerment and gender equality, unveiled a new initiative to galvanize the support of global leaders to bring an end to the persisting inequalities faced by women and girls around the world.
In Davos, Ban urges global action in 2015 on development, gender equality, climate change
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged world leaders gathered at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, to maintain their focus on a broad range of climate, development and gender equality issues, warning that as the global community continues to face multiple crises, the new year must be a time for ‘strong commitment’ from international stakeholders.
Private sector, ‘care economy’ will be key engines of job creation for next 5 years – UN report
Private sector services, such as business and administrative services, and real estate, as well as related industries, will employ more than a third of the global workforce over the next five years, according to new data released by the United Nations labour agency.
‘Resilience can become hallmark of 2015,’ says UN disaster risk reduction chief
Ten years ago today, world leaders in Hyogo, Japan agreed on a framework to better manage risk and curb the impact of disasters in the wake of the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami – which claimed some 227,000 lives – and in March, they are set to meet for a United Nations conference in another Japanese city to take stock of whether the world has lived up to that promise.
Concerts to Encourage Climate Action Announced at Davos
Former US Vice President Al Gore, pop star Pharrell Williams and concert producer Kevin Wall today announced a Live Earth music event to demand action on climate change which will take place on June 18 across seven continents, including Antarctica.
New Report Identifies Key Innovations to Bridge Sustainable Development Investment Gap
A new report released today by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) identifies critical innovations in the US$300+ trillion global financial system, which, if brought to scale, could help close the widening sustainable development investment gap. The report is being launched at the World Economic Forum at Davos - at the outset of what promises to be a momentous year for sustainable development.
UN study predicts rising global unemployment due to slower growth, inequality, turbulence
An extra 10 million people worldwide are likely to be unemployed by 2019, a new United Nations report has said today, pointing to slower growth, widening inequalities and economic turbulence as reasons behind the trend.
Radical shift in agriculture critical to making future food systems smarter, more efficient – UN
Climate change and increasing competition for natural resources have essentially rendered the agriculture model of the past 40 years unsustainable, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has stressed, calling for a ‘paradigm shift’ in food production.
UN health agency urges greater government action against non-communicable diseases
The international community has an opportunity to reverse the global epidemic of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and prevent the grim annual toll of 16 million people who die of heart and lung diseases, strokes, cancer and diabetes before the age of 70, the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) revealed today.
Marking international year, UN chief celebrates role of light in boosting sustainable growth
The role light-based technologies play in spurring sustainable development can help the international community tackle the challenges of the 21st century, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon declared today as he unveiled the International Year of Light – the United Nations effort showcasing light’s vital contribution to issues related to energy, education, agriculture and health.
Wake-up call’ data shows 63 million adolescents out of school – joint UN agency report
One in five adolescents worldwide is not in school, which means that some 63 million young people between the ages of 12 and 15 are denied their right to an education, mainly because they are marginalized and poor, a joint United Nations agency report has found as pressure mounts to include universal secondary education in the post-2015 global development agenda.
UN agency stresses need for genetic diversity in agriculture to combat climate change
Knowledge of agricultural genetic resources needs to grow more quickly because of the critical role they have to play in feeding the world as climate change advances faster than expected, according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
UN Assembly President says post-2015 agenda will need partnership across full spectrum of stakeholders
Today, during an interactive dialogue with representatives from civil society, Sam Kutesa, President of the General Assembly, urged the participants to harness resources for an inclusive, transformative post-2015 sustainable development agenda.
“Together, we must go beyond […]
UN ‘barbershop’ conference aims to dispel stereotypes, promote gender equality
Looking to promote change in how men and boys think and talk about women’s empowerment and gender equality, the United Nations is hosting at its New York Headquarters a two-day high-level “Barbershop” event, which this afternoon focused on initiatives that aim to support non-sexist male attitudes and behaviours between men.
UN study finds increase in women managers, urges greater efforts for workforce equality
The last 20 years has seen a surge in the number of women employed in senior and middle management positions, according to a new United Nations report, which notes that although all-male company boards are decreasing in number, more must be done to achieve gender parity.
In India, Ban pledges UN commitment to Gandhi’s vision of peace, tolerance, dignity for all
Growing radicalization, fundamentalism and extremism demand a renewed emphasis of Mahatma Gandhi's ideals – both spiritual and political, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in Gujarat today, pledging the ongoing commitment of the United Nations to promote tolerance, and ensure justice and dignity for all.
GalleryUN General Assembly President to convene high-level climate change event on 29 June
The President of the General Assembly will convene a high-level event next summer at UN Headquarters with the goal of helping countries reach a climate change agreement at the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP) in Paris in December 2015.
Gallery2015 can and must be time for global action,’ Ban declares, briefing UN Assembly on year’s priorities
8 January 2015 – Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon looked forward to a “year of opportunity,” as he briefed the 193-Member United Nations General Assembly on his priorities for 2015, and called for transformative global action that would ensure sustainable development and human dignity for all.
On International Day, Ban urges human solidarity to build new sustainability agenda
20 December 2014 – United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon marked Human Solidarity Day today by calling for joint action to craft and take forward a new, inlcusive development agenda that eradicates poverty, protects the planet and ensures dignity for all.
GalleryWith accomplishments in Peru, ‘the stars are aligned’ for action on climate change
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon praised the outcome of the climate meeting that ended last Sunday in Lima, Peru, as one that advanced the effort to stem global warming on several fronts.
Road to Dignity by 2030: UN chief launches blueprint towards sustainable development
Calling for inclusive, agile and coordinated action to usher in an era of sustainable development for all, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today presented the United Nations General Assembly with an advance version of his so-called “synthesis report,” which will guide negotiations for a new global agenda centred on people and the planet, and underpinned by human rights.
Every dollar invested in water, sanitation brings four-fold return in costs – UN
For every dollar invested in water and sanitation, there is a $4.3 return in the form of reduced health care costs for individuals and society around the world, where 2.5 billion people still lack access to basic sanitation services, with 1 billion practicing open defection, the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) said today.
Ensuring women’s access to safe toilets is ‘moral’ imperative, says Ban marking World Day
With one out of three women worldwide lacking access to safe toilets, it is a moral imperative to end open defecation to ensure women and girls are not at risk of assault and rape simply because they lack a sanitation facility, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged today on World Toilet Day.
Erasing infrastructure deficit key to Africa’s growth, development – UN official
Africa’s continued progress on growth and development targets will hinge on concerted efforts – from partnerships inside and outside the continent – to enhance infrastructure, a vital area that will facilitate diversification of African economies […]