Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)
Last week, the Speaker of the House of Commons welcomed Members, House staff and special guests to Speaker’s House to mark Black History Month.
This month offers an opportunity to unite in reflection but also to learn about the culture and history of those in the community, past and present. Thank you to the cast of ‘Just My Imagination’ – The Temptations tribute act, showcasing some of the best of British performing arts.
Source: United Nations (Video News)
Video message by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, for United Nations Day (24 October 2024).
—
“The United Nations was built by the world, for the world.
Since 1945, it has been the place for countries to unite behind global solutions to global problems.
Solutions that ease tensions, build bridges and forge peace.
Solutions to eradicate poverty, spur sustainable development, and stand up for the most vulnerable.
Solutions that deliver lifesaving relief to people living through conflicts, violence, economic hardship, and climate disasters.
Solutions that level the scales of justice and equality for women and girls.
Solutions that tackle issues that were unimaginable in 1945 — climate change, digital technology, artificial intelligence, and outer space.
In September, the General Assembly adopted the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations.
Together, these milestone agreements will help ensure that the United Nations system adapts, reforms and rejuvenates, so it is fit for the changes and challenges around us and delivers solutions for all.
But our work will always be rooted in the timeless values and principles of the UN Charter and international law, and in the dignity and human rights of every person.
In today’s troubled world, hope is not enough.
Hope requires determined action and multilateral solutions for peace, shared prosperity and a thriving planet.
Hope requires all countries working as one.
Hope requires the United Nations.
On United Nations Day, I call on all countries to keep this beacon for the world, and its ideals, shining”.
More info: un.org
Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)
Governance reforms can boost growth, reduce poverty and inequality, and accelerate a country’s transition to higher income status. Sustained efforts with high-level political support to strengthen the anti-corruption and governance frameworks are essential for success.
Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)
Foreign and Sovereign Wealth Funds’ investments are key drivers of the economic transformation in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), with a recent focus on services and renewable industries. These investments are pivotal in driving non-hydrocarbon growth, steering GCC toward a more diversified and sustainable economic future.
Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)
IMF programs often align with increased foreign aid to Low-Income Countries, as both occur during economic stress. We investigate how these programs catalyze aid from international donors, enhancing financial support during critical times.
Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)
This Analytical Corner focuses on how digital technologies are transforming social safety nets in various country settings such as Brazil, DRC, India, Pakistan, Togo, and Türkiye. Join us to discover innovative strategies to identify, verify, and pay social benefits to enhance support for vulnerable households, even in low-capacity settings. Related publication: Expanding and Improving Social Safety Nets Through Digitalization: Conceptual Framework and Review of Country Experiences (IMF Note, December 2023).
Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)
The US economy grew strongly after the Fed hiked rates in 2022. Was this because monetary policy was less effective than usual? Or did other factors just offset it? We show Fed policy was about 25% weaker than usual, but only temporarily.
Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)
This paper investigates the effects of climate shocks on inflation and monetary policy in the Middle East and Central Asia (ME&CA) region.
We first introduce a theoretical model to understand the impact of climate risks on headline and food inflation. In particular, the model shows how climate shocks could affect the path of policy rates through food prices.
We then use local projections to estimate the impact of climate shocks on headline and food inflation. The results show that price stability is more easily achievable under positive climate conditions.
Overall, our findings shed new light on the importance of considering climate-related supply shocks when designing monetary policy, particularly in countries where food makes up a significant part of the CPI-basket.
Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)
Sub-Saharan Africa urgently needs to create jobs for its growing population, especially in fragile and low-income countries. Three main challenges must be tackled: transforming informality, addressing firm growth barriers, and accelerating structural transformation.
Source: International Monetary Fund – IMF (video statements)
Sub-Saharan Africa needs to increase its electricity production. Leveraging renewable energy, supported by climate finance and policy reforms, can boost both power generation and GDP.
Source: United Nations (Video News)
Discover Midori’s inspiring journey as a Messenger of Peace, from her early focus on education to championing broader Sustainable Development Goals like environmental protection. In this video, she shares her firsthand experiences in the field and emphasizes how we are all connected, with everyone deserving a decent life and access to education.
Source: United Nations (Video News)
At the 2024 Global Citizen Festival, Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed encourages fans to act on the global goals. The festival unites artists, activists, world leaders and fans with the goal to end extreme poverty. Global Citizen Festival is more than just music – it’s a platform for social justice, environmental sustainability and empowering vulnerable communities.
Source: United Nations (Video News)
Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.
Highlights:
-BRICS
-Iraq
-Gaza/UNSCO
-Occupied Palestinian Territory
-Gaza/UN Development Programme
-The UN Interim Force in Lebanon
-Lebanon/Humanitarian
-Yemen
-Sudan
-Ukraine
-Security Council/Ukraine
-Cuba
-Haiti
-Democratic Republic of the Congo
BRICS
I can confirm that the Secretary-General is once again attending the BRICS summit, which this year takes place in Kazan, in the Russian Federation.
Iraq
In a statement issued today, the Secretary-General congratulates the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and its people on the holding of parliamentary elections on 20 October, which took place in a calm and peaceful manner. He further commends the efforts of the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC), supported by the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), in the preparations and conduct of these elections.
As the Kurdistan Region of Iraq awaits the final results, the Secretary-General encourages all political leaders and segments of society to continue to maintain a peaceful atmosphere and urges political actors to resolve any electoral disputes through established legal channels and to complete the electoral process by forming an inclusive government as soon as possible. He reiterates the commitment of the United Nations to support Iraq’s efforts to consolidate democratic gains and build a prosperous future for the people of Iraq.
Gaza/UNSCO
Tor Wennesland, the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, visited Gaza today, where he saw firsthand the continued immense destruction and profound suffering of the people.
He said he met with UN staff and Palestinian NGOs in Gaza, whose tireless efforts are admirable. He heard directly from them about the alarming security and humanitarian situation across the Strip, particularly in northern Gaza. The challenges faced by the people of Gaza, including serious violations of international humanitarian law, are enormous, with urgent needs for food, medical supplies, and protection.
Mr. Wennesland said that a significant increase in the entry of humanitarian assistance and an improvement in security is urgently required. He reiterated the Secretary-General’s repeated call for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas. He calls on all relevant parties to urgently pursue these goals.
Gaza/UN Development Programme
The UN Development Programme (UNDP) says that one year into the Gaza war, the humanitarian crisis has reached a catastrophic level – with unprecedented casualties, widespread destruction and severe food insecurity.
The war has had a severe impact on critical sectors such as education, healthcare, social services, the economy and the environment, UNDP says in a new report. Educational institutions have suffered significant losses, with numerous casualties among students and educators and the widespread destruction of schools. The healthcare system is nearing collapse, facing critical shortages in medical supplies and widespread malnutrition, particularly among children.
Economic projections indicate that the gross domestic product (GDP) of the State of Palestine contracted by 35.1 per cent in 2024 compared with a no-war scenario, with unemployment potentially rising to 49.9 per cent. By the end of 2024, the Human Development Index (HDI) in the State of Palestine may fall to 0.643, a level not seen since human development calculations began in 2004.
Poverty in the State of Palestine is projected to rise to 74.3 per cent in 2024, affecting 4.1 million people, including 2.61 million people who are newly impoverished. The full report is online.
Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/ossg/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=22+October+2024
Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)
The White House
Source: US Army (video statements)
: DMD
About the U.S. Army:
The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.
Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L
Connect with the U.S. Army online:
Web: https://www.army.mil
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
#USArmy #Soldiers #Military #Cadence
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
From bespoke gene editing to AI-powered healthcare, we are living in an age of breakthroughs propelled by advances in AI. What are the trade-offs societies and industries need to manage as AI adoption progresses?
Speaker:
Erik Brynjolfsson, Jerry Yang and Akiko Yamazaki Professor; Director, Digital Economy Lab, Stanford University
Host:
Zeina Soufan, Senior Anchor, Asharq News
This is the full audio from a session at the Annual Meeting of the Global Future Councils 2024 in Dubai on 16, Oct, 2024. Watch it here: https://www.weforum.org/events/annual-meeting-of-the-global-future-councils-2024/sessions/keeping-ai-on-track/
Links:
Article based on this session: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2024/10/ai-augment-rather-than-dictate-human-action/
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Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
While 2024 could be seen as a high point in the history of elections as a record number of people went to the polls, worrying trends are emerging with 64% of voters in advanced economies reporting dissatisfaction with the way democracy works in their country.
What actions are needed to restore trust in institutions and strengthen the world’s democracies?
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
In today’s polarized geopolitical landscape, balancing security concerns with the need for collaborative innovation is growing more complex, while the lack of policies that protect intellectual property and international security is increasingly clear.
How can businesses, governments and institutions foster safe yet open research environments essential for scientific advancement?
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
Intangible assets such as intellectual property rights, data and algorithms account for an increasing share of economic activity in many economies. But the rise of intangibles poses challenges, such as measurement and ensuring competition.
What innovative solutions can help overcome these challenges and drive economic growth and fairness?
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
Some 6 billion people live in middle-income countries yet growth in many of these economies is stagnating or slowing due to global disruptions.
How can leaders challenge the status quo to overcome a premature slowdown in development?
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
Neurotechnology extends the possibilities of our brains, autonomous systems take us where we need to go and robots are becoming a part of our daily life. These technologies are not just the backdrop of futuristic novels, they are creating a world previously confined to the imaginations of science-fiction writers.
What are the key future technologies that once seemed unbelievable and how are they poised to reshape everyday life in 2035?
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
With 40% of land degraded globally, the consequences are starting to be felt in industry: a fall in agricultural productivity, polluted waterways and increased frequency of droughts.
What measures can be taken now to reverse this trend and create resilient economies for the future?
Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)
Berlin, Germany
Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)
Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni delivers Keynote address at the Social Justice Summit at Cape Town.
Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)
Minister of Human Settlements Mmamoloko Kubayi, delivering her keynote address on the occasion of launch the department’s Strategy in Kempton Park, City of Ekurhuleni.
This landmark initiative aims to bolster the Human Settlements policy-making process by providing critical research support and direction, outlining long-term, medium-term, and short-term timelines for research activities. The strategy’s primary objective is to foster meaningful partnerships with esteemed research institutions specializing in the built environment and human settlements sector. Human Settlements Department/Thulani Hlophe, 07/10/2024
Source: US Army (video statements)
About the U.S. Army:
The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.
Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L
Connect with the U.S. Army online:
Web: https://www.army.mil Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/ X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
#USArmy #Soldiers #Military #Helicopter
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
This week’s top stories of the week include:
0:15 What is the informal economy? – Erika Kraemer-Mbula is an expert on alternative development paths. She says the informal economy is more prevalent than many think, two-thirds of overall employment. It touches many areas, from retail to transport, domestic care, and even creative and intellectual labour.
4:49 Sustainable space exploration – Alice Bunn is the former head of the UK’s space agency and now leads UKspace, its space trade association. Billionaire space missions may steal the headlines, Bunn says, but the majority of space programmes benefit everyday lives all over the world.
9:32 AI can help preserve languages – 7,168 languages are spoken in the world today. But one dies out every 40 days. 90% could fall silent forever in the next 100 years. One key problem is that generative AI is trained on just a few of the world’s languages.
14:06 How tech can bridge access to justice – Gerald Abila was raised in Uganda in the 1980s during a period of bloody civil conflict. Abila planned on becoming an engineer. But his studies prompted the question: What’s the most powerful tool we can use to engineer a peaceful society? His answer: the law.
_____________________________________________
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Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements-2)
The Minister of Basic Education Ms Siviwe Gwarube briefs members of the media on readiness to administer the 2024 NSC Examinations
Source: US Army (video statements)
About the U.S. Army:
The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.
Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L
Connect with the U.S. Army online:
Web: https://www.army.mil Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/ X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
#USArmy #Soldiers #Military #Shorts
Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)
Kuwait’s WTO Ambassador Nasser Abdullah Al-Hayen presented his country’s instrument of acceptance of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies to Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on 22 October. This brings to 86 the total number of WTO members that have formally accepted the Agreement.