Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
The 73rd plenary session of the Conference of European Statisticians (CES) will take place on 16-18 June 2025 in Palais des Nations, Geneva. Simultaneous interpretation in English, French and Russian will be provided.
Click on session titles to view documents.
Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping
The security situation in South Sudan has significantly deteriorated amidst rising tensions between the country’s two main political parties, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), led by President Salva Kiir Mayardit, and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SLPM-IO), headed by First Vice President, Riek Machar. This has left the peace agreement in shambles, caused a humanitarian nightmare, and put the already-fragile country at serious risk of a relapse into civil war. This has left the peace agreement in shambles, caused a humanitarian nightmare, and put the already-fragile country at serious risk of a relapse into civil war.
On March 4th, a youth militia known as the White Army took over barracks previously occupied by the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), the armed forces of the SPLM. In retaliation, civilian areas across the Upper Nile region were subjected to aerial bombardments using devices alleged to contain a highly flammable accelerant. These indiscriminate attacks on civilians have led to multiple deaths and horrific injuries, as well as the displacement of an estimated 100,000 people.
Fears that the violence will escalate in Upper Nile are being fuelled by reports of further mobilization of the White Army and SSPDF, including the alleged recruitment of children into their ranks.
On 24 March, the escalating tensions spilled over to the capital Juba when the SSPDF and forces affiliated with the SPLM-IO’s Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO) clashed at locations to the south and west of the city. This is creating fear and anxiety among communities that the conflict will become widespread, as it did when civil wars erupted in 2013 and 2016. The UN has also warned that it is putting the country’s 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement at risk.
On the political front, several SPLM-IO military and civilian officials have been removed from their positions, detained, or gone into hiding. On March 26, the First Vice President, Riek Machar, was also reportedly placed under house arrest.
“South Sudan is teetering on the edge of a relapse into civil war,” warned Nicholas Haysom, head of the UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), during remarks to the press. “The collective message of the region and the international community is the same. We remain convinced that there is only one way out of the cycle of conflict, and that is to return to the Revitalized Peace Agreement, in letter and spirit.”
The UN is engaged in diplomatic efforts alongside international and regional partners to try to pull the country back from the brink of a war that would devastate South Sudan and the entire region. UNMISS, the African Union (AU), East Africa’s Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC) – a South Sudanese group responsible for overseeing the implementation of the peace agreement – are working tirelessly to prevent the loss of all the hard-won gains made since the peace agreement was signed.
However, these efforts can only succeed if the parties are willing to engage in peace efforts.
“Now more than ever, the leaders of South Sudan must hear a clear, unified and resounding message:
Put down the weapons,” said the UN Secretary General on Friday. “Put all the people of South Sudan first.”
South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011, marking the end of a decades-long war between the Government of Sudan and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM). However, peace was short-lived.
Political tensions arose within South Sudan’s leadership, with civil war erupting just two years later between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those aligned with First Vice President Riek Machar.
The ensuing war was marked by ethnic violence, mass atrocities, and a widespread humanitarian crisis. A peace deal signed in 2018, the Revitalized Peace Agreement, brought hope of a better future. However, the implementation of the agreement has stagnated, leading to several extensions of the transitional period and delays in holding the country’s first democratic elections. Recently, tensions escalated between the country’s two main parties, leaving the peace deal on the verge of collapse and the country at risk of sliding back into war. This is exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the country, where over nine million people need humanitarian assistance this year, around 75% of the population. It also comes at a time when scarce humanitarian resources are stretched to breaking point by the influx of an additional 1.1 million returnees and refugees seeking sanctuary from the war in neighbouring Sudan. Cholera is breaking out, and with oil revenue plummeting and inflation skyrocketing 300%, the country is facing an economic meltdown.
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) was established in 2011 to help the new country consolidate peace and security and lay the foundations for development. The mission’s mandate is now focused on advancing a multiyear strategy to prevent a return to civil war, enable the self-reliance of South Sudan, and address critical gaps towards building durable peace to support inclusive and accountable governance and free and fair, peaceful elections.
Source: United Nations – Geneva
The Human Rights Committee today closed its one hundred and forty-third session after adopting concluding observations on the reports of Albania, Burkina Faso, Mongolia, Montenegro and Zimbabwe.
Changrok Soh, Committee Chairperson, said the Committee had come to the end of a productive session and commended the Commitete members for their commitment and professionalism. The Committee had held constructive dialogues with Albania, Burkina Faso, Mongolia, Montenegro and Zimbabwe and the concluding observations would be posted on the Committee’s webpage later today. The review of Haiti was postponed upon the request of the State party due to the difficult human rights situation. The Committee expressed solidarity with the people of Haiti and looked forward to engaging with the State in the next session in July.
During the session, the Committee adopted a list of issues on Chad and lists of issues prior to reporting on Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominican Republic, Jordan, Mauritius, New Zealand and Samoa, which would serve as important tools to guide dialogues with these States.
On individual communications, the Committee considered 19 drafts, including one draft prepared in accordance with the simplified format adopted by the Committee at its one hundred and fortieth session. The drafts related to 66 communications: 38 were decided on the merits, five communications were declared inadmissible, and 23 communications were discontinued. Regarding the communications decided on the merits, the Committee found violations in 37 of them.
The Committee also adopted its annual report reflecting its work undertaken during its one hundred and forty-first, one hundred and forty-second and one hundred and forty-third sessions.
At its next one hundred and forty-fourth session, the Committee would review the initial and periodic reports of Guinea Bissau, Haiti, Kazakhstan, Latvia, North Macedonia, Spain and Viet Nam. The Committee would also adopt the lists of issues prior to reporting on Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Denmark, Ghana, Liechtenstein, Morocco, Rwanda, Sweden and Switzerland. It would evaluate the reports of Armenia and Germany under its follow-up procedure to concluding observations.
In closing, Mr. Soh expressed appreciation to members of the bureau as well as the members of the Secretariat, the Petitions Section, United Nations entities, civil society and all those who made the session possible.
Before the meeting closed, several Committee Members took the floor, congratulating the five new Committee members and paying tribute to the Chair’s leadership throughout the session. The Committee was going through challenging times, and it was vital that it continued to work as a united body promoting and protecting human rights around the world.
The Committee’s next session will be held from 23 June to 18 July 2025, during which it will review the reports of Guinea Bissau, Haiti, Kazakhstan, Latvia, North Macedonia, Spain and Viet Nam.
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Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media;
not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.
CCPR25.008E
Source: United Nations 4
(Note: Full coverage of today’s Economic and Social Council meetings will be made available after their conclusion.)
Speakers stressed the need for stronger global action to harness the power of taxation as a catalyst for sustainable development at today’s Economic and Social Council special meeting on international cooperation in tax matters.
As the United Nations framework convention on this topic moves into the negotiating stage, the special meeting brings together Member States, members of the UN Committee of Experts on International Tax Cooperation (UN Tax Committee) and other stakeholders. This year’s meeting addressed two themes: inclusive and effective international tax cooperation and gender inclusivity through tax policy.
In his opening remarks, Robert Rae (Canada), President of the Economic and Social Council, highlighted the 20 years of dialogue between the Council and the UN Tax Committee — comprising 25 members nominated by Governments and appointed by the UN Secretary-General — as “an effective model of how the United Nations system can mainstream specialized policy areas” across the broader development agenda. “Fair tax systems and effective fiscal policies are powerful tools to mobilize resources [and] reduce inequalities,” he said.
Echoing that, Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, noted that developing countries continue to lose significant resources through tax avoidance and evasion. Stronger domestic tax administration and effective international engagement are necessary to address this. It is further important to address systemic gender disparities by revealing hidden biases in tax policies, he added.
Liselott Kana, Co-Chairperson of the UN Tax Committee, outlined the work of the expert body, including its updates to the UN Model Tax Convention and the Manual for the Negotiation of Bilateral Tax Treaties. These updates “have significantly increased the UN Model’s profile and its influence in bilateral tax treaty negotiations”, she said. The Committee’s work has expanded beyond traditional international tax issues to address domestic resource mobilization, she said, adding: “This is the real world in which tax policymakers and decision makers have to operate.”
Maria José Garde, Director-General of Taxation at the Ministry of Finance of Spain, highlighted that country’s experience with a highly digitalized tax administration. Digitalization makes it possible for tax administration to become more efficient, facilitate compliance and simplify processes. It also facilitates the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data to fight fraud and tax evasion. However, it has also opened the door for tax evasion and avoidance, she pointed out. Taxation does not only mean collecting taxes — “it’s also a powerful instrument to make progress and against inequality” through progressive policies that tax major fortunes or corporations, she pointed out.
In a panel discussion moderated by Mathew Gbonjubola, Co-Chairperson of the UN Tax Committee, speakers examined challenges and opportunities to strengthen domestic resource mobilization.
Ramesh Narain Parbat, Head of Tax Policy Division, Central Board of Direct Taxes at the Ministry of Finance of India, shared lessons from his country’s pathway towards a double-digit growth rate in direct tax collection. He highlighted two financial social-welfare schemes — both linked to a unique identification number, enabling digitalization and obliteration of leakages. The Government has also encouraged mobile-based digital payment platforms, which vegetable vendors now use to deposit and save money more efficiently, he said.
The global tax system today reflects old economic realities, he said, noting that taxing rights have historically been tied to physical presence, which is outdated in today’s digital economy. Digital businesses can make a lot of money in different countries, but pay little or no taxes. Further, a fair allocation of tax rights must recognize the interconnected global supply chain value creation, he stressed.
Chenai Mukumba, Executive Director of Tax Justice Network Africa, noted that Africa loses $88.6 billion to $100 billion annually due to illicit financial flows — “resources that should be funding public services”. Multinational corporations exploit gaps in transfer pricing rules, tax treaties and secrecy jurisdictions, reducing the continent’s tax base. This has caused many African Governments to revert to regressive tax systems. Kenya’s July 2024 protests over tax hikes illustrate this, she pointed out, adding: “Overreliance on consumption taxes disproportionately affects lower-income populations, while high-net-worth individuals and large corporations remain undertaxed.” “The current international tax system is fragmented,” and dominated by exclusive decision-making bodies, she said. A UN tax convention could establish binding rules on corporate taxation, transparency and exchange of information, ensuring all countries have equal decision-making power. African countries need a greater share of taxing rights to reflect the economic activities occurring within their borders. “This looks like redesigning tax treaties to prevent excessive revenue losses and ensuring a fair allocation of profits,” she said.
“Tax is a jealously guarded sovereign right,” said Ben Dickinson, Deputy Director of Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Centre for Tax Policy and Administration. Countries choose to collaborate on taxation only where international collaboration is important for their domestic policy goals. Also drawing attention to United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) partnership with Tax Inspectors Without Borders, he said it has helped countries realize over $2.4 billion in additional revenues.
While there has been important progress in international corporate taxation, “no one area of tax policy will suffice to mobilize the scale of revenues required”, he warned. Therefore, it is crucial to look at all policy areas, including value added tax, personal income tax, social security contributions and property taxation.
The second part of the same panel discussion focused on “Taxation of Cross-Border Services — a multi-faceted approach” and featured the following panellists: Thulani Shongwe, Head, African Multilateral Cooperation, African Tax Administration Forum; Marcio Ferreira Verdi, Executive Secretary of the Inter-American Center of Tax Administrations; and John Connors, Chair, Global Tax Commission, International Chamber of Commerce.
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Source: United Nations 2-b
The UN human rights chief sounded the alarm on Thursday over the rapidly deteriorating situation in Haiti, calling it a “catastrophe” fuelled by gang violence, widespread impunity and a political process that is hanging by a thread.
Volker Türk told the Human Rights Council in Geneva that the country had reached “yet another crisis point,” with heavily armed gangs expanding their control, public institutions in ruins and a humanitarian emergency deepening by the day.
“I am not sure the usual description of gang violence captures the amount of unbearable suffering that has been inflicted on the Haitian people,” Mr. Türk said.
Between July 2024 and February 2025, 4,239 people were killed and 1,356 injured, with 92 per cent of casualties attributed to gun violence.
Gangs, armed with increasingly sophisticated weapons mostly trafficked from abroad, are killing civilians, destroying schools and healthcare facilities, and using sexual violence and mass kidnappings to terrorise communities.
The rights chief warned that gangs are no longer just operating in pockets of Port-au-Prince – they are implementing their own rule across wider parts of the capital and beyond.
The Viv Ansanm gang coalition and others have launched coordinated attacks, often outnumbering police, and have destroyed or taken over schools, orphanages, courts, media outlets and hospitals.
In one December incident alone, at least 207 people were killed over five days in Cité Soleil.
Sexual violence is being used deliberately to assert control, Mr. Türk said, citing gang rapes in public spaces and even the execution of victims after assault.
The forced recruitment and trafficking of children is also on the rise.
Meanwhile, more than 700 kidnappings were documented during the reporting period. “Those who attempted to resist abduction were often shot dead,” Mr. Türk said.
Despite efforts by the Haitian National Police and the Security Council-mandated Multinational Security Support Mission, the State is losing ground.
Law enforcement operations against gangs have resulted in over 2,000 people killed or injured – a 60 per cent increase – with nearly a third of those victims not involved in any violence.
OHCHR documented at least 219 extrajudicial executions by specialised police units during the reporting period, up from just 33 the year before.
There has also been a rise in mob lynchings and self-defence groups, sometimes with police complicity.
Mr. Türk stressed the urgent need to accelerate the deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission and ensure full human rights compliance mechanisms are in place.
The human toll of the violence is staggering. More than one million people are now displaced, 40,000 in recent weeks alone.
Half of all Haitians – 5.5 million people – face acute food insecurity and two million have been reduced to emergency hunger levels.
Nearly 6,000 people are living in famine-like conditions, while 500,000 children are displaced – a quarter suffering stunted growth due to malnutrition.
Only half of health facilities in the capital are fully operational, and 31 per cent have shut down due to insecurity.
“The impact on children is particularly devastating,” said Mr. Türk. “[This] will impact them for life.”
The High Commissioner welcomed Haiti’s recent decision to establish two specialised judicial units to tackle human rights violations and financial crimes but said much more must be done.
“The most crucial first step here is to stop the illicit flow of arms into the country,” he said, stressing the need to fully implement the Security Council’s arms embargo, travel bans and asset freezes.
Mr. Türk emphasised that “there is a way out”, but only with political will, international support and urgent action to end the cycle of corruption, impunity and senseless violence.
“I call on each and every one of you, including the media, to put the spotlight on this crisis,” he said. “The Haitian people cannot be forgotten.”
Source: United Nations MIL OSI b
As the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has intensified in recent months, the UN peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, has been working to protect civilians – including in areas under the control of the Rwandan-backed M23 armed group in North Kivu province.
That’s according to the head of MONUSCO, Bintou Keita, speaking exclusively to UN News ahead of briefing members of the UN Security Council in New York on Thursday.
The meeting between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame last week in Qatar – where they called for a ceasefire – presents “a positive image” since the two men had not met physically for a very long time, she said.
The head of MONUSCO added that the UN mission has invested in mediation efforts led by Angola, providing “physical knowledge of the terrain”, underscoring that it stands ready to support “the observation of a real ceasefire” in the east of the country.
MONUSCO peacekeepers, who withdrew from South Kivu province in June 2024, are still deployed in North Kivu and Ituri.
Prior to the escalation of the conflict in January, MONUSCO and the Congolese Government were continuing discussions on a “gradual and responsible disengagement” from the UN peace mission and were expected to outline how this disengagement would be carried out in North Kivu and Ituri in the Security Council this week, based on lessons learned from the disengagement from South Kivu.
But with the M23 offensive, “the urgency was to manage the crisis,” explained Ms. Keita, which has, in effect, shelved discussions on disengagement.
“The Council will receive a letter from the Secretary-General who will admit that it has not been possible in the context of current developments to be able to go further in refining the disengagement methodology,” Ms. Keita told us.
The escalation of the conflict in eastern DRC has not prevented peacekeepers from continuing to fulfil their mandate to protect civilians, despite the difficult environment in areas under M23 control in North Kivu.
Although its ability to conduct patrols is limited, MONUSCO welcomes thousands of people who have sought refuge in its bases, offering them physical protection.
“There are three ways to protect civilians. There are political commitments, there is physical security – physical protection through physical presence – and then there are the conditions for people to feel good,” the UN envoy said.
In its bases in Goma, MONUSCO offers protection to people who have come to take refuge there. “Are they soldiers or are they civilians? From the moment they are in our bases, they are all considered non-combatants because they are unarmed and therefore they are civilians,” she said.
“Our role in protecting civilians is to respond to requests for individual protection. In the context of the areas under the control of the M23, we have a strong demand from individuals, groups, who want to come to our bases to be protected.”
“At the moment, the protection of civilians is not about patrolling the environment, it is about being able to welcome those who are looking for refuge in MONUSCO bases,” she adds.
Soundcloud
Regarding the impact of the freeze on US funding for humanitarian aid in the DRC, the UN envoy believes that it may be time to invent other models of humanitarian response, suggesting priority should be given to NGOs and local associations.
She recalled that 70 per cent of humanitarian aid funding in the DRC was dependent on funding through the now gutted United States overseas development agency, USAID.
“Maybe it’s time to ask the question: how do we operate in an environment where resources are rather declining and maybe invent other models of humanitarian response?“
“And in this context, I think that national non-governmental organizations, local associations, should be privileged because they, whatever the security situation, remain on the ground, continue to be able to have access to the populations.”
Referring to the upsurge in conflict-related sexual violence, she deplores the fact that regular calls to combat this scourge ave not been heeded.
“What should be done differently? In my opinion…it’s medium and long term. In the immediate future, it is to provide a holistic response to those who are the survivors of sexual violence, to provide both a response on a traumatic level, on a psychological level – medical care – but also legal support,” she said.
She notes that the Congolese Government is inclined towards reparations, but she wonders if the response is quick enough for the victims and commensurate with “the magnitude of the violence.”
Asked about the alarming reports of recruitment of children into the ranks of the M23, she deplored the fact that despite all the advocacy work, armed groups continue to recruit children to swell their ranks.
“To try to change the situation”, it will be necessary to work with communities to raise awareness of this issue, she said, because these armed groups “come from communities, have families”.
Source: United Nations 2
Sharply declining aid could force tens of millions across the globe who rely on food aid into extreme hunger and starvation, the World Food Program (WFP) warned on Friday.
The United Nations agency has received only $1.57 billion of the $21.1 billion required to sustain its operations this year, with donations slashed by 40 per cent after cuts from major donors like the United States.
“WFP is prioritizing countries with the greatest needs and stretching food rations at the frontlines. While we are doing everything possible to reduce operational costs, make no mistake, we are facing a funding cliff with life-threatening consequences,” said Rania Dagash-Kamara, WFP Assistant Executive Director for Partnerships and Innovation.
“Emergency feeding programmes not only save lives and alleviate human suffering – they bring greatly needed stability to fragile communities, which can spiral downwards when faced with extreme hunger.”
The drastic reductions are threatening the organization’s global programs in 28 regions, including Gaza, Sudan, Syria, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
With the rainy season looming in fighting-stricken South Sudan, two-thirds of its estimated 12.7 million people facing acute food insecurity could go even hungrier.
WFP delivers food and nutrition aid to 2.3 million people in the east African country who have escaped war, extreme climate events, and economic downturn. More than one million people have fled to the impoverished nation from neighboring Sudan.
Meanwhile, shortages in medical supplies are likely to worsen the crisis in conflict-torn eastern DRC, with the public health system on the brink of collapse and spikes in viral outbreaks, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned on Friday.
After recent clashes in Walikale, in the western part of the city of Goma, nearly 700 people are seeking treatment in a hospital, but funding cuts, disease outbreaks and blocked aid are hampering their access to healthcare.
“There is no possibility for access – no partner, nobody can really join that place,” said Dr. Thierno Baldé, WHO Incident Manager for Eastern DRC.
Some 2,000 people have already died, Dr. Baldé stressed, adding that the crisis is also affecting neighboring countries such as Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda and Tanzania.
One in 10 infected people is currently dying of cholera in a major outbreak near the Congolese border with Burundi, he said.
The region is seeing a surge in outbreaks of infectious diseases, including cholera and mpox, and the dire humanitarian situation is driving spikes in mortality rates, Dr. Baldé reported.
Emergency medical teams are “doing the best they can”, mobilizing local people for additional support in providing care. The World Health Organization was recently able to ship 20 tons of medical supplies on roads all the way from Uganda over Kenya and Tanzania into Goma, providing some relief, but as Mr. Baldé highlighted, all of this was just a “drop in the ocean” in the country where 50 million people are affected by the crisis.
Funding cuts in humanitarian aid directly threaten half of the 4 million people living in North Kivu. “Vaccines for routine immunization are almost out of stock in Goma,” Mr. Baldé warned.
In the imminent danger of vaccines running out, Ms. Margaret Harris, spokesperson for the World Health Organization added, that this concerns the whole world.
“Infectious diseases don’t care about borders; they don’t care about elections and governments. If you don’t vaccinate everywhere, you’re going to be affected everywhere,” she said.
Amidst the US government announcing to suspend financing the Alliance for Vaccine (GAVI), a driving force in providing children vaccinations in poor countries, a out that an estimated 154 million lives have been saved over the past 50 years thanks to global immunization drives. “It’s madness not to invest in vaccination,” she concluded.
Providing further proof of the health threats caused by funding cuts, Allen Maina, Public Health Chief of the UN Refugee agency (UNHCR) stated, that nearly 13 million displaced people, including six million children are “at risk of not being able to access lifesaving health and nutrition care.”
Echoing that infectious diseases such as cholera, hepatitis, malaria are more likely to break out, Mr. Maina stressed that the problem doesn’t only stem from“overwhelmed hospitals and health systems”, but also in disrupted water supply systems, sanitation facilities and waste management.
“This situation is devastating, but it’s coming on top of longstanding shortfalls in humanitarian assistance,” Mr. Maina reminded, highlighting that in Ethiopia’s Gambela region, operations in four out of seven refugee sites have recently been closed due to the funding cuts. “99 severely malnourished children had to be discharged immediately because programs had to close”, he said, maintaining that for 980 acutely malnourished children, there were only two staff members available.
“We’re talking about people here. We talk about men and women. We talk about children, worried whether their parents will live to see another day, Mr. Maina stressed.
Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council
Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message for the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, observed on 4 April:
Around the world, more than 100 million people are at risk from landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices.
From Afghanistan to Myanmar, from Sudan to Ukraine, Syria, the Occupied Palestinian Territory and beyond, these deadly devices litter rural and urban communities, indiscriminately killing civilians and blocking vital humanitarian and development efforts.
Even when the guns fall silent, these remnants of war remain, lurking in fields and on pathways and roadways, threatening the lives of innocent civilians and the livelihoods of communities.
Year in and year out, the brave mine action personnel of the United Nations work with partners to locate and remove these weapons, provide education and threat assessments, and ensure people can live, work and travel safely. They do so at great risk — as demonstrated most recently in Gaza.
This year’s theme for the International Day of Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action — Safe Futures Start Here — reminds us of the critical role of mine action in rebuilding shattered communities, supporting survivors and forging peace.
I appeal to all States that have not yet done so to ratify and fully implement the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, the Convention on Cluster Munitions and the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons. The humanitarian norms and principles enshrined in these treaties must be upheld and preserved.
And I urge States to uphold the global commitments in the recently adopted Pact for the Future to restrict or refrain from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, and to support all efforts to end the threat of explosive ordnances.
Mine action works. Together, let’s commit to build safe futures — starting here and now.
Source: United Nations MIL OSI b
The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Christina Markus Lassen (Denmark):
The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the cowardly terrorist attack by Islamic State in the Greater Sahara in Kokorou, Niger, on 21 March, which resulted in the deaths of at least 44 civilians and 13 severely injured.
The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and to the authorities and the people of Niger, and they wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured.
The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.
The members of the Security Council underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice. They underscored the importance for all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate with the authorities of Niger as well as all other relevant authorities in this regard.
The members of the Security Council reiterated that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed. They reaffirmed the need for all States to combat by all means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and other obligations under international law, including international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts.
Source: United Nations MIL-OSI 2
nited Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced today the appointment of James Swan of the United States as his Special Representative for Somalia and Head of the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS). The Secretary-General expresses his gratitude to Mr. Swan for acting as Special Representative for Somalia and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM)/UNTMIS since May 2024, and is pleased that Mr. Swan accepted to continue to lead the United Nations in Somalia during this critical period.
Mr. Swan is an experienced diplomat with a long career in African countries facing complex political transitions. Prior to serving as acting Special Representative for Somalia and Head of UNSOM/UNTMIS as well as Special Representative for Somalia and Head of UNSOM (2019-2022), he worked in the United States Government as Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (2013-2016), Special Representative for Somalia (2011-2013) and Ambassador to Djibouti (2008-2011).
In his earlier career, Mr. Swan was Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs (2006-2008) and Director of African Analysis in the US State Department’s Bureau of Intelligence and Research (2005-2006). Before assuming these positions, Mr. Swan held various assignments in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Cameroon, Nicaragua and Haiti.
Mr. Swan holds a B.Sc. degree from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, an M.A. from Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies, and a Master’s degree in Security Studies from the National War College, all in the United States. He is fluent in English and French.
Source: United Nations MIL OSI b
Secretary-General António Guterres warned on Friday of a rapidly deteriorating crisis in South Sudan, calling for urgent dialogue, the immediate release of detained officials and renewed commitment to the 2018 peace agreement.
“All the dark clouds of a perfect storm have descended upon the people of the world’s newest country – and one of the poorest,” Mr. Guterres told reporters at UN Headquarters in New York.
After finally gaining independence from neighbouring Sudan in July 2011, civil war broke out in South Sudan in December 2013 between troops loyal to President Salva Kiir and opposition forces led by his rival Riek Machar, resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths.
In 2018, a peace agreement ended the fighting and established a unity government.
However, the arrest of First Vice President and main opposition leader Mr. Machar on Wednesday – alongside mounting military clashes and reported attacks on civilian populations – signals a severe unravelling of the peace process and a direct threat to millions, the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan explained on Thursday.
Combined with growing regional spillover from the conflict in neighbouring Sudan, Mr. Guterres painted a dire picture of a country on the edge.
“Let’s not mince words,” he said. “What we are seeing is darkly reminiscent of the 2013 and 2016 civil wars, which killed 400,000 people.”
South Sudan is now facing what the Secretary-General described as a security emergency, political upheaval, humanitarian catastrophe, displacement crisis, economic collapse and a severe funding shortfall – all at once.
Half the population is severely food insecure, he warned, while three out of four people require humanitarian assistance.
Meanwhile, over one million people have fled across the border from Sudan since fighting broke out there last year between rival militaries – and cholera has been reported, compounding the crisis.
“South Sudan may have fallen off the world’s radar,” Mr. Guterres said, “but we cannot let the situation fall over the abyss.”
Mr. Guterres urged South Sudanese leaders to “put down the weapons” and “put all the people of South Sudan first.”
He called for the restoration of the Government of National Unity and the full implementation of the peace agreement, which remains the only legal path to free and fair elections in December 2026.
He also appealed to the regional and international community to speak with one voice in support of peace.
“We fully support the initiative to deploy the [African Union] Panel of the Wise,” he said, adding that he had spoken with the Chairperson of the AU Commission earlier in the day.
The Secretary-General described his long-standing connection to the people of South Sudan, recalling his first mission as High Commissioner for Refugees and his time spent with returnees.
“They had such enormous hopes and aspirations. But unfortunately, not the leadership they deserve.”
Source: United Nations secretary general
[Opening remarks below; full transcript to follow shortly]
Let me begin by addressing some breaking news – the terrible earthquake that hit parts of Southeast Asia today.
We send our condolences to the government and peoples of the region.
The United Nations system is mobilizing to help those in need.
Ladies and gentlemen of the press,
I want to focus today on the dramatic and dire situation that is unfolding in South Sudan.
All the dark clouds of a perfect storm have descended upon the people of the world’s newest country – and one of the poorest.
A security emergency – with intensifying clashes; aerial bombing of civilians — including women and children; the presence of external forces; and an ever-growing regional dimension to the conflict.
Political upheaval – culminating most recently with the arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar. The peace agreement is in shambles.
A humanitarian nightmare – with about three out of four South Sudanese needing assistance, half the population severely food insecure, and cholera breaking out.
A displacement crisis – with more than one million people crossing the border from Sudan since fighting began there.
An economic meltdown – with oil revenue plummeting and inflation skyrocketing 300%.
Finally, a funding crisis – with much of the already limited humanitarian and development aid drying up.
Meanwhile, ethnic and political targeting by security forces – coupled with the spread of misinformation on social media – is lighting the fuse for even worse.
Let’s not mince words: what we are seeing is darkly reminiscent of the 2013 and 2016 civil wars, which killed 400,000 people.
Our UN Mission in South Sudan is working around the clock to ease tensions – engaging all parties and boosting protection of civilians. But we face operational limitations.
For the sake of the long-suffering people of South Sudan, it is time for dialogue and de-escalation.
The Horn of Africa is already in turmoil and cannot afford another conflict. Nor can the people of South Sudan.
To the leaders of that country, I say:
End the politics of confrontation. Release detained military and civilian officials now. Fully restore the Government of National Unity.
And vigorously implement the promises you made through your commitments to the peace agreement – which is the only legal framework to peaceful, free and fair elections in December 2026.
I also urge the regional and international community, as guarantors of the peace agreement, to speak with one voice in support of the peace process and against any attempts to undermine it.
I just spoke with the Chairperson of the African Union Commission this morning.
We fully support the AU initiative to deploy the Panel of the Wise – as well as the efforts of the Special Envoy of President Ruto of Kenya.
We will be working in close cooperation with the AU and with IGAD.
The people of South Sudan are close to my heart.
On my very first visit as High Commissioner for Refugees, I was several days with South Sudanese refugees – and years later accompanied them across the border finally on their way home.
I will never forget the decency at their very core.
They had such enormous hopes and aspirations.
But unfortunately, not the leadership they deserve.
At this critical hour, the people of South Sudan need an infusion of support.
Diplomatic and political support for peace.
And financial support for lifesaving aid.
South Sudan may have fallen off the world’s radar, but we cannot let the situation fall over the abyss.
Now more than ever, the leaders of South Sudan must hear a clear, unified and resounding message:
Put down the weapons. Put all the people of South Sudan first.
Thank you.
Source: United Nations MIL OSI
The Second WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health co-hosted by the World Health Organization and Colombia, in the city of Cartagena, brought together over 700 participants from 100 countries – including heads of state, ministers, scientists, and civil society groups — to accelerate action to curb what’s increasingly described as a full-scale health emergency.
“It is time to move from commitments to bold actions,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.
“To achieve clean air, we need urgent actions on all fronts: financial investment in sustainable solutions, such as in clean energy and sustainable transport, technical enforcement of WHO global air quality guidelines, and social commitment to protect the most vulnerable in our most polluted regions.”
The shared goal? A 50 per cent reduction in the health impacts of air pollution by 2040.
Countries including Brazil, Spain, China, and the United Kingdom laid out national roadmaps, while the Clean Air Fund pledged an additional $90 million for climate and health programmes.
Cities which are part of the C40 network, including London, vowed to strengthen air quality monitoring and push for greater investment in clean air strategies.
According to WHO, air pollution is responsible for seven million premature deaths annually and is now the second leading global risk factor for disease, after hypertension.
“Today air pollution is the first risk factor for disease burden,” said Maria Neira, WHO’s Director of Environment, Climate Change and Health. “It’s the number one risk factor for getting sick.”
The burden is heaviest in countries with fast-growing cities and weak regulatory frameworks. But Neira pointed out that the economic costs and health toll are rising globally. “Those chronic diseases are costing us well – to our health system and to our hospitals,” she said.
Despite the grim statistics, WHO leaders say solutions are at hand. Neira cited China’s progress in cutting emissions while continuing to grow economically. “At one point they demonstrated that you can reduce air pollution while still maintaining economic growth,” she said. “This argument that in order to tackle the causes of climate change, air pollution and environmental health, you need to invest and you don’t obtain benefits immediately – that’s not correct.”
Indeed, air pollution is not just a public health issue but a key driver and symptom of the climate crisis. The burning of fossil fuels which feeds air pollution also releases greenhouse gases – adding to global warming.
“Climate change causes and air pollution causes overlap,” said Neira. “We have a lot to gain for health, for the economy, and for society, sustainable development, if we accelerate this transition.”
She emphasized that clean air solutions – including renewable energy, better urban design, and phasing out fossil fuels – also serve as climate mitigation strategies.
“This pollution, this particulate matter we are breathing every day…is coming from different sources, but fundamentally from the combustion of fossil fuels,” she said. “This can be avoided only by accelerating the transition to more renewables; cleaner sources of energy.”
© UNICEF/Aliraza Khatri
Hosts Colombia presented a slate of national initiatives, including cleaner fuels, zero-emission public transit, and a target to reduce carbon emissions 40 per cent by 2030.
“Air pollution claims more victims than violence itself. Poisoning our air costs lives in silence – this conference reinforces our determination to implement policies for both the environment and the health of our people,” said Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro.
He stressed the importance of smarter regulation and bridging the inequality gap with indigenous peoples, local and rural communities.
In Europe, where air pollution still causes 300,000 premature deaths annually, lawmakers are moving toward stricter regulation. “Pollution is an invisible pandemic. It is a slow-motion pandemic,” underscored Javier López, Vice President of the European Parliament’s Environment Committee.
The European Union recently adopted a new Air Quality Directive, halving legal air pollution thresholds and aiming to reduce pollution-related deaths by 30 per cent by 2030. “We have decided to come up with the air quality directive, which is part of the European Green Package,” Mr. López said.
Officials from the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) also took part in Cartagena, highlighting the Convention on Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution as one of the most successful multilateral environmental agreements to date.
“The Air Convention…is a multilateral environmental agreement that was adopted in 1979 to address air pollution that crosses national borders,” said policy officer Carolin Sanz Noriega.
Since its adoption, the convention has expanded to 51 parties and achieved deep emissions cuts across the region. “Reducing emissions of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides by 40 to 80% from 1990 levels in the UNECE region, and for more than 30% for particulate matter,” Ms. Sanz Noriega said.
She emphasized that the agreement’s success lies in its binding commitments, robust science, and long-standing trust-building mechanisms. “Countries implement the convention because it really brings benefits. It brings health benefits, environmental benefits, crop benefits. It has co-benefits for climate.”
Through the Forum for International Cooperation on Air Pollution, UNECE is now working with countries in Latin America, Africa, and Asia to share scientific tools and regulatory approaches.
But a major challenge, especially in the Global South, remains technical capacity.
“We need to make sure that the countries are able to monitor air quality. That’s the first step,” Neira said. “In Africa, unfortunately, we are still missing a lot of monitoring capacity…You cannot manage what you cannot measure.”
The health sector provided one of the key takeaways of the conference. With millions of medical professionals and individuals already backing the WHO campaign, delegates emphasized that clean air must be recognized as central to disease prevention.
“We have 47 million signatures from health professionals, from patients, from advocates, from institutions, saying ‘I want to prescribe clean air’,” Neira said.
“I don’t want to treat the patients with diseases caused by exposure to toxic air. I want to make sure that my patients will not be exposed and therefore they will not develop those diseases.”
As the conference wrapped up, delegates left Cartagena emboldened with new partnerships, data, and policy options – but also a resounding moral imperative.
Source: United Nations MIL OSI b
Lifesaving supplies in Gaza continue to run dangerously low, nearly four weeks into the total aid blockade and deadly bombardment of the enclave by Israel, UN humanitarians said on Friday.
According to local health authorities in Gaza, 830 people were killed between 18-23 March, including 174 women and 322 children. A further 1,787 were injured.
“The acts of war that we see bear the hallmarks of atrocity crimes,” said Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the UN aid coordination office, OCHA. “Hundreds of children and other civilians have been killed in health and Israeli airstrikes. Intensely populated areas hospitals are once again battlegrounds; patients killed in their beds, ambulances shot at, and first responders killed.”
It has been 10 days since Gazans woke up to renewed Israel bombing, abruptly ending the two-month ceasefire.
“It has been 10 days of witnessing – because the UN remains on the ground in Gaza – a callous disregard for human life and dignity,” Mr. Laerke maintained.
Maryse Guimond, UN Women Representative for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, relayed testimonies of Palestinians in Gaza who say they will not heed new evacuation orders issued by the Israeli military, on the grounds that “there are no safe places anyway”.
Speaking from Amman, she added: “It is a situation of pure survival and survival of their families because, as they say, there is simply nowhere to go…”
“As a woman recently said to us from Deir al Balah, ‘My mother says death is the same whether in Gaza City, or in Deir al Balah; we just want to return to Gaza.’”
Echoing those concerns, Dr. Margaret Harris, spokesperson for the UN World Health Organization (WHO) said that the situation “is as bad as it ever was”. A new ceasefire is needed immediately for the sake of all Gazans, she insisted.
“We knew it was bad before the ceasefire, when we were constantly begging to be allowed to do our job just to help the ordinary people. No, they can’t keep going.”
Healthcare in the enclave is also suffering from the aid blockade, with supplies dwindling dangerously low since the cut-off began on 2 March.
“The key supplies now for safe labour and delivery…will be running out soon,” said Dr Rik Peeperkorn, WHO representative in the OPT.
A dozen ambulances have also been put out of action through lack of fuel, the veteran humanitarian medic said, speaking from Jerusalem.
Sparked by Hamas-led terror attacks in Israel, the war in Gaza has devastated the enclave and prompted widespread international condemnation over its impact on civilians, who should be spared from violence in times of war.
“Nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people,” OCHA’s Mr. Laerke insisted.
“International law is clear, it prohibits indiscriminate attacks, obstruction of life saving aid, destruction of infrastructure indispensable for civilian survival and hostage-taking.
“The International Court of Justice’s provisional measures on the application of the Genocide Convention remain in place; yet the alerts that we issue in report after report reveal an utter lack of respect for the most basic principles of humanity.”
Source: United Nations 2
Amid reports of hundreds dead or missing following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake with its epicentre in central Myanmar, UN teams in the region are “responding fast”, said UN relief chief Tom Fletcher on Friday.
The Emergency Relief Coordinator tweeted that UN teams are being “supported by expertise across our global network” and the UN Central Emergency Relief Fund would be mobilised as needed.
News reports quoting sources in the Burmese city of Mandalay, close to the epicentre of the quake, indicate that hundreds have died. In neighbouring Thailand more than 80 construction workers are missing, according to the Thai deputy prime minister, with a search and rescue operation underway.
The UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in Myanmar told UN News in a statement that reports indicate “significant damage” has occurred in Mandalay state, as well as Nay Pyi Taw, Bago, Magway, Sagaing, Shan “and possibly other areas”.
” Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by this event…We are gathering information about the people impacted, infrastructure damage, and immediate humanitarian needs to guide a response and will share more updates as information becomes available.”
Speaking from Myanmar’s largest city of Yangon, Marie Manrique, Programme Coordinator for the Myanmar country team of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), told journalists at the UN in Geneva that the quake had also been felt in China, Thailand, and India.
She said that beyond damage to buildings and infrastructure, there was concern over potential dam bursts. Electricity and communications have been cut off in parts of the country.
She said the Myanmar Red Cross Society had launched an emergency operation to help people in need and assess the situation.
Myanmar has been in the grip of an increasingly brutal civil war since a military coup more than four years ago. Around 20 million people – a third of the population are expected to need humanitarian assistance this year. Around 15 million are projected to face acute food insecurity during 2025.
Fighting between junta forces and opposition armed groups has displaced more than 3.5 million people within the country.
© UNICEF
People gather in front of collapsed buildings in the Mandalay region of central Myanmar, following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake.
Speaking for the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva, Dr. Margaret Harris said relief efforts were underway in coordination with country offices in Myanmar and Thailand.
She said the agency had activated its logistics hub in Dubai to primarily provide trauma supplies and a health needs assessment is underway.
Babar Baloch, for the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, said that the central and northwest parts of Myanmar had the highest number of internally displaced people (IDPs) due to the conflict.
Some 1.6 million IDPs out of the total 3.5 million live in these areas and the catastrophe will only exacerbate hardships, he told journalists.
Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
The inaugural meeting of the Task Force on the improved modalities for reporting and assessment of forest disturbance/damage in the UNECE region held online on 10 February 2025.
Contact: Secretariat
This meeting is exclusively for Task Force members. As such, it is closed to the public.
Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
In response to the request by of the UNECE Committee on Forests and the Forest Industry (COFFI) and the FAO European Forestry Commission (EFC) to develop the improved modalities for reporting and assessment of forest disturbance/damage in the UNECE region, the UNECE/FAO Team of Specialists on Monitoring Sustainable Forest Management has initiated work on this topic.
A Task Force within the ToS has led the preparatory process, which includes the series of consultations to address key issues such as the purpose of reporting, the types of damage to prioritize, relevant metrics, the distinction between damage and disturbance, cause attribution, event timing, monitoring frequency, thresholds, and the integration of new technologies.
The 1st consultation aimed at establishing the work and focused on the first two issues:
The results of the consultation set the scene for the second consultation, scheduled for 27 March 2025 (online)
Contact: Secretariat
This meeting is exclusively for Team of Specialists and Task Force members. As such, it is closed to the public.
Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
In response to the request by of the UNECE Committee on Forests and the Forest Industry (COFFI) and the FAO European Forestry Commission (EFC) to develop the improved modalities for reporting and assessment of forest disturbance/damage in the UNECE region, the UNECE/FAO Team of Specialists on Monitoring Sustainable Forest Management has initiated work on this topic.
A Task Force within the ToS has led the preparatory process, which includes the series of consultations to address key issues such as the purpose of reporting, the types of damage to prioritize, relevant metrics, the distinction between damage and disturbance, cause attribution, event timing, monitoring frequency, thresholds, and the integration of new technologies.
The 2nd consultation based on the results of the 1st consultation (held on 25 February 2025), and focused on the following issues:
The results of the consultation set the scene for the second consultation, scheduled for 5 My 2025 (online)
Contact: Secretariat
This meeting is exclusively for Team of Specialists and Task Force members. As such, it is closed to the public.
Source: United Nations 2-b
Extreme weather and climate impacts had a damaging toll on Latin America and the Caribbean last year, resulting in dying glaciers, record-breaking hurricanes, debilitating drought and deadly floods, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said in a new report on Friday.
The study also highlights positive developments amid the bleak news, such as the growing role of renewable energy in the region and the power of early warning systems to save lives.
“In 2024, weather and climate impacts cascaded from the Andes to the Amazon, from crowded cities to coastal communities, causing major economic and environmental disruptions,” said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo.
“Drought and extreme heat fuelled devastating wildfires. Exceptional rainfall triggered unprecedented flooding, and we saw the earliest Category 5 hurricane on record,” she added.
The State of the Climate for Latin America and the Caribbean report reveals that 2024 was the warmest or second warmest year on record, depending on the dataset used.
Rising temperatures led to the disappearance of the Humboldt Glacier, the last one standing in Venezuela, which became the second country in the world after Slovenia to lose all its glaciers in the modern era.
Meanwhile, El Niño conditions in the first half of the year influenced rain patterns. For example, areas across the Amazonia and Pantanal regions in Brazil experienced widespread drought, where rainfall was 30 to 40 per cent below normal.
Wildfires in the Amazon and Pantanal, as well as in central Chile, Mexico and Belize, were driven by drought and extreme heatwaves, breaking records in many countries. Wildfires in Chile resulted in over 130 deaths – the country’s worst disaster since the February 2010 earthquake.
Floods triggered by heavy rainfall in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul became Brazil’s worst climate related disaster, causing billions in economic losses to the agricultural sector.
While timely warnings and evacuations helped mitigate the impacts of the flooding, WMO said more than 180 fatalities were reported, thus highlighting the need to improve understanding around disaster risks among both authorities and the general public.
“But there is also hope,” Ms. Saulo insisted, pointing to bright spots in the report.
“Early warnings and climate services from National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) are saving lives and increasing resilience throughout Latin America and the Caribbean,” she said.
Moreover, renewable energy accounts for nearly 69 per cent of the energy mix. Solar and wind energy experienced a remarkable 30 per cent increase in capacity and generation compared to 2023, WMO said.
The UN weather agency and partners are also assisting national meteorological and hydrological services to support renewable energy development and integration through artificial intelligence-based wind forecasting, and other measures.
The State of the Climate for Latin America and the Caribbean report was issued at a WMO Regional Association meeting hosted by El Salvador to inform decisions on climate change mitigation, adaptation and risk management at the regional level.
It complements the State of the Global Climate flagship report, released last week.
Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe
The Yashil Makon Initiative is a nationwide program launched by the Government of Uzbekistan to transform environments across the country through sustainable development practices. This initiative seeks to expand and enhance green spaces, promote environmental stewardship, and improve the overall quality of life for citizens. It aligns with Uzbekistan’s broader commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and its national strategy for environmental sustainability.
Uzbekistan’s Yashil Makon Initiative has been supported through a collaborative project by the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
The project objectives included tools and activities to support the effective and efficient implementation of the Initiative:
The final workshop, held on 24 March 2025 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan at Central Asian University of Environmental and Climate Change Studies (Green University). The workshop concluded the project and shared its results. It also consolidated inputs from national and international experts and discussed implementation mechanisms, including technical guidance, financial models, and community-based approaches.
More information at: https://gov.uz/en/eco/news/view/42131
Photo credit: UNDP Uzbekistan
Source: World Health Organisation
Sarah Wambui Chege monitors a patient in active labour and listens to the baby’s activity at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, a government county referral hospital serving the residents of Nairobi’s populous Eastlands area. Photo credit: WHO/Khadija Farah
Globally each year 287,000 women die in pregnancy or childbirth. Most maternal deaths are caused by severe bleeding, high blood pressure, pregnancy-related infections, complications from unsafe abortion, and underlying conditions that can be aggravated by pregnancy (such as HIV/AIDS and malaria).
Most maternal deaths are preventable with access to high quality healthcare. Ending preventable maternal death must remain at the top of the global agenda.
WHO works with a range of partners and national health authorities across its six Regions to strengthen maternal health services for all pregnant women. Read below powerful stories about a wide range of WHO activities, with many women’s lives being saved, thanks to donors’ support.
In Mozambique, a protracted civil war had a devastating impact on public health services and infrastructure. In 2000, Mozambique had one of the world’s highest rates of maternal mortality, with roughly 1 in 160 women dying from pregnancy or childbirth complications.
The country has since made significant strides by making maternal health one of its top priorities. In 2023, Mozambique’s maternal mortality ratio was 223 deaths per 100 000 live births; a 53% drop in maternal mortality since 2000.
Several critical interventions have contributed to this. Between 2017 and 2021, 106 new health facilities opened across the country, increasing access to health services, and the number of human resources for health and health technicians increased by around 15%.
WHO supported the country to establish a maternal death surveillance and response system, provided technical and financial support to the Ministry of Health to update the training package on Emergency Obstetric and Neonatal Care, and trained 40 national trainers across all 11 of Mozambique’s provinces. In 2021, WHO collaborated with health authorities to shape a comprehensive community health strategy.
Read the full story
A nurse is assisting a mother breastfeeding in a referral provincial hospital in Cambodia. WHO/Yoshi Shimizu
In early 2000’s, Cambodia faced alarming maternal, newborn and child health indicators. The maternal mortality ratio stood at 437 per 100 000 live births, while newborn and child mortality rate accounted for 37 and 124 per 1000 live births respectively.
Today, skilled birth attendance is near universal, with 98.7% of births attended by trained health professionals and 97.5% of women giving birth in a health facility. Between 2014 and 2021-2022, neonatal and under-five mortality rates declined by 54%, from 18 to 8 and from 35 to 16 per 1000 live births respectively. Cambodia achieved its SDG targets for reducing neonatal and under-five mortality eight years ahead of schedule.
The strong leadership of the Ministry of Health provided clear strategies for advancing maternal and newborn health. Two coordination platforms were established and convened regularly to align efforts within the Ministry and with health partners. With technical dsupport from WHO and funding from the Korea Foundation for International Healthcare, the Early Essential Newborn Care Coordination Committee plays a crucial role in harmonizing national and sub-national efforts, monitoring progress through regular reviews, mobilizing resources to scale up practices, and ensure consistency in care delivery.
Read more on Cambodia’s way forward
Mercedes Panamantamba, traditional birth attendant from Otavalo, Ecuador, receives training provided by PAHO on the use of biomedical tools to complement ancestral practices. Photo credit: PAHO/WHO
In rural and remote communities of Latin America, ancestral practices such as traditional midwifery have been passed down from generation to generation. In these areas, where geographical barriers and cultural differences can hinder access to healthcare centres, the practical and spiritual support of traditional birth attendants can make the difference between life and death.
The WHO Region for the Americas (Pan American Health Organization – PAHO), with support from the Government of Canada, has been working with over a thousand traditional birth attendants in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Honduras, and Peru since 2021 to provide them with knowledge of warning signs to help prevent maternal and neonatal deaths.
PAHO conducted training sessions and knowledge dialogues on topics such as family planning, prenatal care, identification of warning signs, and childbirth care. Meetings have yielded results that can benefit the entire region, such as the development of the tool for promoting culturally safe childbirth.
These activities are part of ‘Improved health of women and adolescent girls in situations of vulnerability’, a joint project between PAHO and Global Affairs Canada.
Read about the success of combining knowledge of ancestral and modern medicine.
Dorcas Simon, an informal trader in Kigoma region, Tanzania, who said it took the timely transportation of her newborn child and her to the hospital to save their lives. Photo credit: WHO/Clemence Eliah
In Kigoma region, Tanzania, maternal mortality was on the rise due to difficult access to health facilities and other factors. The region had limited capacity in terms of a referral system and diagnostic capacity.
“Looking at the year 2020, we had 119 maternal deaths. In 2021, they dropped to 75 but in 2022 there were 102 deaths.” Dr Jesca Leba, Regional Medical Officer, Ministry of Health, Kigoma Region, Tanzania.
The Government of Tanzania with support from WHO and partners set out to address this problem. With funding from the Norwegian Embassy, WHO procured ambulances for easy transportation of pregnant women. The ambulances have so far served over 2000 women from various districts across the region. Additionally, 15 ultrasound machines were provided for health facilities and 300 health workers were trained how to use them.
The Chief Medical Officer in Buhigwe District Health Centre appreciates the donor support with ultrasound equipment that expanded the centre’s capacity to provide services. Photo credit: WHO/Clemence Eliah
Today, the Kigoma region has since witnessed a sharp decline in maternal mortality from 119 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births in 2020 to just 26 in 2024.
See this photo story.
Ms Konaté followed the entire process of the birth plan. Her baby was born in good conditions at the urban health center in the Belleville district, in Bouaké. She is congratulated by the midwife who gives her the baby. Photo credit: WHO Côte d’Ivoire
In Cote d’Ivoire, in 2017, the maternal mortality rate was 614 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births, (Demographic Health Survey 2012) far from the target of 140 maternal deaths per 100 000 live births expected by 2030. In 2021, WHO, with support from the Swedish Government and the French MUSKOKA fund, targeted the Gbeke region, which has one of the highest mortality rates in the country, through the “Gbeke Là-Haut Là” initiative.
The initiative included implementation of a childbirth preparation or delivery plan, starting with first prenatal consultations, an emergency trolley in the delivery room and capacity-building for midwives in the management of risk factors during pregnancy and childbirth.
By 2022, 46% of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics benefited from a childbirth preparation plan, compared to none previously. 181 midwives from 18 health facilities were trained in key life-saving clinical skills.
Between 2019 and 2022, the proportion of maternal deaths at Bouake University Hospital from the 3 urban health districts of Gbeke fell from 93% to 36%, a reduction of 57%. The proportion of maternal deaths due to post-partum haemorrhage fell by 27%, from 56% to 29%.
Read how birth plan helps reduce maternal deaths in Cote d’Ivoire
Close patient monitoring by nurses in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Gatot Soebroto Army Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia. As one of the SMART recommendations for mortality review. Photo credit: WHO/IndoXplore
WHO and European Union supported the Ministry of Health and partners to conduct crucial research on the impact of COVID-19 on maternal and newborn health and to better understand disruptions to essential health services, with the aim of building a stronger, more resilient health system.
Researchers analyzed the medical records of 4 945 pregnant women and their newborns and interviewed programme managers and health workers from eight selected hospitals in four provinces of Java Island.
WHO and the Ministry of Health will use the findings to inform the development of national guidelines aimed at strengthening the health system’s capacity to better respond to acute public health events and minimize disruptions to essential services, including for maternal and newborn health.
Read the full story on how WHO, Ministry of Health and partners analysed the impact of COVID-19 on maternal and newborn health
The maternity ward at the Eliazar Germain Hospital. Photo credit: PAHO/WHO
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and PAHO/WHO are jointly supporting 3 hospitals in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area to provide maternal health services. This is to support the emergency response of the Ministry of Health and Population and improve access to health care, made increasingly difficult by the current security situation.
Support includes the supply of essential medical equipment and products, and the installation of a reliable power supply system, ensuring constant availability of electricity. Support beyond maternity services responds to urgent needs in sexual and reproductive health. Kits for the management of abortion complications and kits for the management of sexual violence have been distributed for this purpose.
Since the partnership was set up, 62 physiological deliveries and 45 caesarean sections have been recorded in the 3 beneficiary hospitals. These activities were made possible with the financial support of the European Commission Humanitarian Aid (ECHO), the Central Emergency Response Fund (UN CERF) and WHO’s Contingency Fund for Emergencies.
Find out more about PAHO/WHO and UNFPA joint support to Haitian health authorities.
WHO Representative to Somalia Dr Reinhilde Van de Weerdt (left) met with H.E. Mr OKANIWA Ken, Ambassador of Japan to Somalia, to express appreciation for Japan’s support. Photo credit: WHO Somalia/M. Saydahmat
A 12-month project led by the WHO Country Office in Somalia over the course of 2023 reached over 3 million people affected by drought or flood. The Government of Japan supported the project with a grant of over US$ 700 000. Working with the Ministry of Health and Human Services, WHO aims to mitigate the health impacts of recurrent climate shocks, food insecurity and disease outbreaks, especially cholera, while strengthening health system resilience.
Thanks to Japan’s funding, WHO was able to deploy 369 community health workers and 121 mobile outreach teams in drought-affected areas. These provided essential health and immunization services to local population with a special focus on children and pregnant and lactating women. The project aims to provide help to about 900 000 flood- and drought-affected people in Somalia.
Read more about Japan and WHO’s new project on the WHO Somalia.
Meeting the health needs of Malians displaced by security crisis. Photo credit: WHO AFRO
In 2023, more than 72 500 people were displaced in Mali because of clashes between rival armed groups, inter-community conflicts and military operations by the Malian armed forces against non-state armed groups.
To help Mali maintain delivery of quality health services in areas impacted by insecurity, WHO, supported by UN CERF is providing medicines and other consumables to the Health Ministry, and helping to upskill health workers on the ground. WHO is also supporting mobile clinics to reach isolated populations in the centre of Menaka and the two districts worst impacted by the insecurity, Tidermane and Anderamboukane.
Thanks to the mobile clinics, Aissata, a displaced person in Ménaka city centre, was able to receive the care she needed. She was monitored throughout her pregnancy, which saved her life and that of her baby. “If it wasn’t for the free consultation that day, I don’t know what I would have done,” the young mother says.
Read more about WHO support for meeting the health needs of Malians displaced by security crisis.
Shakila, midwife, measuring height of the fundus on a pregnant woman at the mobile clinic organized by WHO at the Garm Abak of Waras district in Bamiyan, Afghanistan. Photo credit: WHO/Rada Akbar
Strengthening midwives’ role in maternity and newborn care services would save millions of lives each year while significantly enhancing women’s overall experience of care, according to a new publication released by WHO and partners.
The publication, transitioning to midwifery models of care: A global position paper, outlines the benefits and key components of midwifery care models, where midwives serve, within broader teams, as the main healthcare provider for women and babies during pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period.
Recent modelling shows that universal access to midwifery care could avert more than 60% of all maternal and newborn deaths and stillbirths – amounting to 4.3 million lives saved annually by 2035.
The position paper on midwifery models of care was prepared by WHO together with a coalition of leading health professional associations, UN agencies, non-governmental organizations and women’s group, including the Burnet Institute, Collectif interassociatif autour de la naissance, the Council of International Neonatal Nurses, the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), the International Pediatric Association, Jhpiego, the UNFPA, and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), with financial assistance from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Listen to WHO Director-General’s message on Linkedin thanking everyone who contributed for the development of the position paper.
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WHO’s work is made possible through all contributions of our Member States and partners. WHO thanks all donor countries, governments, organizations and individuals who are contributing to the Organization’s work, with special appreciation for those who provide fully flexible contributions to maintain a strong, independent WHO.
This feature reveals support of partners and donors from Burnet Institute (Collectif intersasociatif autour de la naissance), Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Canada, CERF, the Council of International Neonatal Nurses, the European Union, International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), the International Pediatric Association, Japan, Jhpiego, French MUSKOKA, Norway, Sweden, the UNFPA, and UNICEF.
Source: World Health Organisation
Individuals wishing to attend the Open Session in person are invited to register by Monday 21 April 2025, using the following link:
rn
Individuals or organizations wishing to make a presentation or statement during the open Session are required to register their interest to do so via email to the EML Secretariat by Monday 21 April 2025, providing the following information:
While every effort will be made to accommodate all requests for attendance and presentations/statements, this may not be possible due to capacity and time constraints.
All agenda documents to be considered by the Expert Committee can be found on the meeting webpage (see ‘Related’). The agenda for the Open Session will be posted on the meeting webpage once it is finalized.
Please note that any expenses incurred for attending the Open Session will be the responsibility of the attendee(s).
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Source: World Health Organisation
Vaccination accounts for 40% of the worldwide improvement in infant survival over these 50 years, and more children now live to see their first birthday and beyond than at any other time in human history. Much of this success is a result of the investments entrusted to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, founded in 2000.
Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which includes WHO, UNICEF and the Gates Foundation as core founding members, was created to widen the benefits of EPI by helping the poorest countries in the world benefit from new, life-saving vaccines, and increase the coverage of EPI vaccines. These two goals, one to expand the scope of protection and one to expand the scale of protection, have resulted in a greater breadth of protection against an increasing number of vaccine-preventable diseases. This intensified effort, including in the most vulnerable parts of the world, has helped to save more lives and further vaccine equity – ensuring children who never receive a single vaccine are reached.
Since 2000, Gavi has protected an entire generation – over 1 billion children – against infectious diseases, helping to cut by half child mortality in 78 lower-income countries. From 2000-2023, Gavi supported 637 vaccine introductions and vaccination campaigns to protect children around the world against 16 life-threatening infectious diseases. Not only are vaccines delivering protection and high impact, immunization is a ‘best buy’ in health with a return on investment of $54 for every dollar invested.
Decades of progress have made many vaccine-preventable diseases a rarity in the lives of families. Cuts in the investments to Gavi pose a massive threat to unravel this progress. Infectious diseases do not stop at borders. Where there are pockets of un- and under-immunized children and adults, measles and other diseases can easily spread, as we’re seeing in the U.S. and around the world. This puts all lives at risk, costs individuals and governments substantial resources to respond to outbreaks and stretches already scarce health system resources. This says nothing about the long-term harms and even deaths that occur to what should have been healthy lives.
Gavi has been the front line to help keep deadly vaccine-preventable diseases at bay, working hand in hand with WHO, UNICEF and other public and private sector partners, most notably, community health workers and families eager to protect their loved ones. Through routine immunization, Gavi has been critical to maintaining vaccine stockpiles for outbreak-prone diseases such as Ebola, yellow fever and meningitis.
In the next 5 years, Gavi will protect at least 500 million children from preventable disease and in so doing save an additional 8-9 million lives. Without continued support by the U.S. and other donors, the world is at risk of a dangerous backsliding in immunization coverage – meaning more zero-dose children, more disease outbreaks, more diseases crossing borders, more threats to health and more children who never reach even their 5th birthday.
Every child has the right to health. Our best defense against infectious diseases is continued investment in life-saving immunizations for all. We cannot turn our backs on protecting all children and all communities from these diseases. Nobody should be mistaken that reversing the gains of the past 25 years of immunization is anything other than a grave threat to us all. It is critical to continue investment in Gavi so that life-saving immunizations can continue to reach all children.
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Source: World Health Organisation
The Second WHO Global Conference on Air Pollution and Health has concluded with major commitments from over 50 countries, cities and organizations ready to tackle air pollution and safeguard health.
Jointly organized with the Government of Colombia, it brought together more than 700 participants from 100 countries, including government representatives, UN agencies, civil society, scientists, and health societies, to accelerate action on air pollution and public health.
A shared goal to reduce the health impacts by 50% by 2040 was agreed upon to save millions of lives every year. Furthermore, new funding pledges and policies were proposed as commitments.
At the high-level session, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, urged leaders to respond to a global call to action: “It is time to move from commitments to bold commitments. To achieve clean air, we need urgent actions on all fronts: financial investment in sustainable solutions, such as in clean energy and sustainable transport; technical enforcement of WHO global air quality guidelines; and social commitment to protect the most vulnerable in our most polluted regions.”
Gustavo Petro, President of Colombia, attended the high-level day of the Conference, emphasizing Colombia’s determination in the fight against air pollution: “Air pollution claims more victims than violence itself. Poisoning our air costs lives in silence – this conference reinforces our determination to implement policies for both the environment and the health of our people.”
Among the pledges made during the Conference, countries, UN agencies and civil society organizations demonstrated commitment towards the right path.
On behalf of the co-chairs of C40 cities, representing almost 100 of the world’s biggest cities, the Deputy Mayor of London, Mete Coban, committed to reducing air pollution, and supporting WHO’s 2040 target and roadmap, and called on other national governments to expand investments in clean air solutions, strengthen air quality monitoring systems, and recognize cities as key partners in developing and implementing clean air strategies.
The Clean Air Fund (CAF) committed to continuing to support WHO in demonstrating the benefits of life-saving clean air actions. It also committed to allocate an additional US$ 90 million over the next two years for climate and health efforts.
Pledges from health associations and civil society organizations included support for the integration of air pollution and the health of the planet into medical education and equipping health-care professionals with the knowledge and tools to address its health impacts.
“The commitments made at this Conference demonstrate the global momentum to address air pollution as a critical public health issue,” said Dr Maria Neira, Director, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health at the World Health Organization. “WHO remains dedicated to supporting countries in translating these commitments into concrete actions that protect lives and promote well-being.”
With a strong foundation of commitments and partnerships, the global community is now better positioned to drive meaningful change in the coming years.
More information about the Conference and videos of sessions
Source: World Food Programme
Photo: WFP/WFP/Jerry Ally Kahashi. WFP food distribution in Goma, DRC.
ROME – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warned today that 58 million people risk losing life-saving assistance in the agency’s 28 most critical crisis response operations unless new funding is received urgently.
Despite the generosity of many governments and individual donors, WFP is experiencing a steep decline in funding across its major donors. The severity of these cuts, combined with record levels of people in need, have led to an unprecedented crisis for tens of millions across the globe reliant on food aid.
Right now, the organization is facing an alarming 40 percent drop in funding for 2025, as compared to last year. This is having severe repercussions for its food aid efforts globally, particularly emergency feeding programs that support the most vulnerable.
“WFP is prioritizing countries with the greatest needs and stretching food rations at the frontlines. While we are doing everything possible to reduce operational costs, make no mistake, we are facing a funding cliff with life-threatening consequences,” said Rania Dagash-Kamara, WFP Assistant Executive Director for Partnerships and Innovation. “Emergency feeding programmes not only save lives and alleviate human suffering, they bring greatly needed stability to fragile communities, which can spiral downwards when faced with extreme hunger.”
WFP on the Frontlines
Today, global hunger is skyrocketing as 343 million people face severe food insecurity, driven by an unrelenting wave of global crises including conflict, economic instability, and climate-related emergencies. In 2025, WFP’s operations are focused on supporting just over one-third of those in need – roughly 123 million of the world’s hungriest people – nearly half of whom (58 million) are at imminent risk of losing access to food assistance.
Last year, WFP teams helped feed more than 120 million people in 80 countries, delivering urgent food aid to hunger hot spots and frontline crises around the world.
Imminent Pipeline Breaks
As WFP works to quickly adapt its operations to current low funding levels, it is alerting donors that its 28 most critical crisis response operations are facing severe funding constraints and dangerously low food supplies through August.
The 28 programs span: Lebanon, Sudan, Syria, South Sudan, Chad, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Uganda, Niger, Burkina Faso, DRC, Yemen, Mali, Bangladesh, Venezuela, Haiti, Mozambique, Nigeria, Somalia, Kenya, Ukraine, Malawi, Burundi, Ethiopia, Palestine, Central African Republic, Jordan, and Egypt.
Below are a few examples of these programmes.
# # #
The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.
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Source: United Nations MIL OSI b
Every month, the UN trade and development agency (UNCTAD) provides an update on what’s happening in the world of global trade. In March, the focus was on tariffs, and the report revealed that, whilst global trade reached a record $33 trillion last year, the outlook for 2025 remains uncertain, with mounting tensions, protectionist policies and trade disputes signalling likely disruption in the coming months.
Luz Maria de la Mora, the Director of the International Trade Division at UNCTAD, is responsible for producing the Global Trade Update. Earlier in her career, she was part of Mexico’s negotiating team that brokered the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1992, the legacy of which is still disputed to this day.
She explained to UN News that tariffs themselves are not necessarily a problem: the issue is the uncertainty that results from big economic players ripping up the playbook of international trade rules.
Luz Maria de la Mora: Tariffs, which are essentially a tax on imports, have been part of an international trading system that has been in place for almost eight decades.
First, there was the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, also known as GATT, in 1948, and this was replaced by the World Trade Organization (WTO), in 1995. These organizations basically created a set of rules, giving certainty to producers, investors and exporters that tariffs wouldn’t change every year.
Tariffs are used widely, but they are imposed following rules that have been negotiated within the WTO or regional organizations.
UN News: The biggest tariffs are between developing countries. Why?
Luz Maria de la Mora: Developing countries normally tend to have higher levels of protection, and there are several reasons. One is that you may want to develop a certain industry in the automotive or chemical sector. One way of helping an industry develop and grow is by protecting it, through tariffs, from foreign competition. The downside is that production of those goods for the domestic market is more expensive, and you may also deter competition.
© ILO/BMF Media
Workers sort through peppers in a processing plant in Mexico.
A second reason why developing countries apply tariffs is that there are instances in which governments need revenue. Tariffs are a tax, and a tax is income that a government can spend on social spending, health, education or infrastructure. But again, this means higher costs on imported goods for consumers.
UN News: You were heavily involved in the North American Free Trade Agreement [between the United States, Canada and Mexico]. What did it achieve and why was it controversial?
Luz Maria de la Mora: NAFTA was a very daring proposition at the time for several reasons. It was the first free trade agreement between developing and developed countries, an experiment that had never been tried before. Practically all tariffs between the three nations were eliminated.
NAFTA transformed Mexico’s economy. There was more investment in the manufacturing sector, and many jobs were created. Today it is a world-class sector, and Mexico became the fourth largest producer of automobiles worldwide. It proved that integration can make your economy more efficient and it can create more opportunities.
UN News: Those who criticize NAFTA say that the reduction in tariffs meant a reduction in protection for certain sectors and there were workers who lost out. Are you saying that ultimately workers benefited in each country?
Luz Maria de la Mora: Of course, in every free trade area, there are always winners and losers. I’m not saying that everything was rosy, and some sectors and companies ceased to exist. But the transformation that you see in those regions and areas of the country that were able to integrate into the North American supply chain has really been very, very encouraging. In the big picture, you can see that there has been a positive effect.
But trade policy has to go hand-in-hand with policies that ensure those who lose out can be trained. You need to have some kind of government intervention to be able to maintain people in the workforce.
© ILO
A worker at a factory in Zhejiang, China prepares wood for export.
In Mexico, for example, there were a lot of support programmes in the agricultural sector, to help producers face competition from the United States and from Canada.
They also started producing more in the fruit and vegetable sector, which basically Mexico did not exist before, and today the country is the number one exporter of tomatoes, avocados, berries and some other fresh produce to the United States. This has helped the U.S. consumer to have a more balanced and healthy diet as a result. Conversely, Mexico benefits from easy access to grains, wheat, corn, sorghum and also some kind of beef, pork and poultry.
UN News: We’re talking at a time when many international trade agreements are being questioned. Do you think that we’re on the verge of a global trade war?
Luz Maria de la Mora: Many important actors in global trade, such as the United States, the European Union and China, are imposing tariffs or measures that are not always in line with their commitments in the WTO.
That is creating uncertainty and uneasiness on the part of the private sector, because when the big actors start making their own rules, instead of following the rules of WTO, questions are asked: why are they doing this? Why are they not using the system and the rules that we have in place to address their problems?
There have always been differences among countries, with certain sectors more affected by changes than others, and economic conditions can require certain kind of interventions.
When Member States make unilateral decisions, without going through the WTO or UN System, it can create uncertainty, which may end up creating a slowdown in investment decisions in the private sector, in trade, economic growth and job creation.
UN News/Daniel Dickinson
Communities in developing countries like Madagascar rely on exports, such as lobster, to survive.
UN News: If we do see a slowdown in the global economy, who is likely to suffer the most?
Luz Maria de la Mora: Developing countries. Ninety-five developing countries depend on their exports, which puts them at the mercy of international pricing trends and on the growth of the global economy.
These countries need an international trading system that works, that offers certainty, where they know which regulations they face and where the rules are not changed without notice, without negotiation, without any previous warning of what is coming.
That is why it is so important that multilateralism remains in place.
Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping
In preparation for the scheduled arrival of a mobile court in Leer, 20 national police officers have been trained to improve their investigative skills. Photo by Jacob Ruai/UNMISS.
UNITY – Residents of Leer County are keenly looking forward to catching a rare glimpse of justice in action in their remote part of the country. With a mobile court scheduled to arrive at some point in May, their wait is almost over, but first local law enforcement personnel must be equipped with the necessary skills to set the judicial proceedings in motion.“We are preparing investigators in the county so that they know how to collect evidence and compile cases that the incoming court can work with,” said John Malieth, a senior state police investigator who facilitates parts of a just concluded, intensive ten-day training of 20 local police officers.“Without justice and accountability, we can’t expect to achieve the lasting peace that everyone wants,” he added.The training is an initiative by the state police, with its organization being supported by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), the Multi-Partner Trust Fund and the Norwegian Embassy in Juba.“We want police officers to become good at handling the kind of cases that are common here, like sexual and gender-based violence and other conflict-related human rights violations. Their thorough investigations will lay the groundwork for the upcoming mobile court to hear and judge cases,” explains John Bhudha, a Justice Advisor serving with UNMISS. Trainees were pleased with the sessions they attended.”We have definitely improved and learnt new skills, and this knowledge will help us do a much better job,” said Kuong Baliu Deng, one of the course graduates who feels ready for the arrival of the long-awaited mobile court.
Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping
Peacekeeping today is facing unprecedented challenges. Wars have become more deadly and more complex. They last longer, and political settlements have become harder to reach. Peacekeeping missions are being tasked with bigger, more complex mandates, while peacekeepers face new threats like terrorism and the weaponization of new technologies.
Over peacekeeping’s history, we have had to adapt to new challenges to remain the effective, cost-efficient tool for peace we have proven to be. In remarks to the Security Council on Monday, the UN Secretary General noted that this evolution has allowed us “to mount tailored responses that have saved lives, reduced violence, prevented the expansion of and spillover of deadly conflicts, and stopped atrocities.”
This progress has been made possible through our partnerships with UN Member States, and continues today, showing that peacekeeping can remain a unifying force for peace even amidst growing geopolitical divisions.
This March 28th marks the seventh anniversary of the Action for Peacekeeping (A4P) initiative, a global partnership between UN Peacekeeping, UN Member States and others launched in 2018 to strengthen peacekeeping operations. It has been successful in helping to upgrade peacekeeping operations in the face of evolving conflict environments.
Peace does not last unless the root causes of conflict are addressed. This is why we work to find durable political solutions to conflict. These efforts are most effective when backed by Member States, including the UN Security Council and States with an influence in the areas where peacekeeping missions are operating. Through A4P, Member States recommitted this critical political support, which is having a positive impact.
In 2019, the peace deal signed in the Central African Republic was reached with the support of the peacekeeping mission, MINUSCA, with critical efforts from the African Union and Economic Community of Central African States. Similar diplomatic engagement will be needed from Member States to help peacekeeping missions maintain ceasefires, prevent fragile peace agreements from collapsing, and start laying the groundwork for sustainable peace. Their support will be particularly critical in places like the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan and the Middle East.
Missions carry out a wide range of activities: they monitor ceasefires, conduct military operations to protect populations against armed groups, help governments build the capacity to deliver basic services like security and rule of law, support democratic elections, build infrastructure, and much more. To be effective, military, police and civilian peacekeepers need to have specialized skills, must be exceptionally well-coordinated, and need to be able to leverage strategic communications to engage communities, fight misinformation and build momentum towards peace.
For instance, A4P has helped peacekeeping advance in all these areas. Member State support has enabled initiatives like the Triangular Partnership Programme (TPP), which is providing training in areas such as engineering, medical services, and camp security technologies.
Peacekeepers are expected to meet the highest standards of accountability to the global community whose flag they serve under, the communities they are working to protect, and to the environments they operate in. Through A4P and A4P+, Member States and peacekeeping are combatting sexual exploitation and abuse committed by UN personnel, strengthening performance measurement for peacekeepers, and minimizing missions’ environmental footprints.
Just as peacekeepers are accountable to the people they serve, so too must the global community be accountable to them and keep them as safe as possible as we ask them to risk their lives for peace. Despite facing increasing security threats, the overall number of fatalities of peacekeepers is falling, helped by initiatives to strengthen the safety and security of peacekeepers, like improving bunkers and access to live-saving medical care.
Member States are also helping peacekeeping missions leverage data and technology to more effectively and efficiently deliver mandates and keep peacekeepers safe. Member State support has enabled the development and deployment of tools like the Comprehensive Planning and Performance Assessment System (CPAS), which is enabling missions to use data and analysis to assess their impact and inform operations.
Similarly, monitoring of progress implementing A4P and A4P+ is letting us assess achievements and gaps in our endeavours to strengthen peacekeeping.
Across all of A4P’s efforts, Member States are working with us to ensure women are engaged in peace initiatives and in peacekeeping missions themselves. This recognizes the fundamental right of women to participate in peace processes, and the evidence that shows peace agreements are less likely to fail when women are involved.
The UN Secretary General has acknowledged that “geopolitical divisions are undermining peace,” making this Member State-backed progress even more important and remarkable. However there remains a persistent mismatch between what missions have been asked to accomplish and the resources they are given. Continued support for A4P and A4P+, including at the upcoming Peacekeeping Ministerial in Berlin, are opportunities for Member States to help chart the difficult path towards a more peaceful future.
#COVID19 is not just a health crisis; the effects will be felt for years to come. The Action for Peacekeeping initiative was born to take on challenges just like this one. By working together, we can expedite the concrete, measurable impact of peacekeeping on the ground. #A4P pic.twitter.com/rBN76mOruv
— UN Peacekeeping (@UNPeacekeeping) June 17, 2020
Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council
An increasingly volatile situation — driven by resurgent incursions by rebel militia groups — is killing and displacing civilians in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Head of the United Nations Mission in that country warned the Security Council today.
“The political and security context remains very tense,” said Bintou Keita, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative in that country and Head of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). In the country’s east, the Congo River Alliance and M23 — supported by the Rwanda Defence Force — are consolidating control over the province of South Kivu, threatening to expand into the provinces of Tshopo and Maniema and installing a parallel administration. All parties must “honour their stated commitment to silence the guns and pursue a peaceful solution”, she stressed.
Meanwhile, the overall security situation in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri — where over 60 per cent of MONUSCO forces are deployed — remains volatile. The Allied Democratic Forces have exploited the security vacuum created by the redeployment of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to launch attacks killing hundreds of civilians. Further, clashes between the Coalition of Congolese Democrats and Zaïre armed groups have escalated in Ituri. The human-rights situation is also deteriorating, with abuses against civilians — including summary executions — and the 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan is only 8.2 per cent funded.
In this challenging context, she said, MONUSCO remains fully committed to its mandate, protecting civilians and facilitating Government-led consultations with armed groups. However, the dramatic deterioration of the security situation has seriously impacted discussions between MONUSCO and Congolese authorities on the gradual disengagement of the Mission and the transition in South Kivu. Reiterating that lasting peace in the east can only be achieved through a political solution, she called for the urgent reopening of Goma and Kavumu airports — lifelines for humanitarian efforts and key to the rotation of MONUSCO troops.
Also addressing the Council was Charlotte Slente, Secretary General of the Danish Refugee Council, who said that her organization has been “racing to respond to the erratic and constant movement of internally displaced persons seeking safety” since the end of January. The recent explosion of violence in and around Goma has exacerbated the already-dire humanitarian situation in the east and led to 660,000 people being forcibly displaced — in addition to the 6.7 million already displaced across the country at the end of 2024. “With little notice, families were kicked out of their shelters, forced to leave with nothing but the clothes they were wearing,” she said.
Detailing the appalling living conditions in makeshift camps, churches and schools, she noted widespread looting, shootings, rampant sexual violence, arbitrary arrests and reports of boys and men being forced to join armed groups. “One person told us they wake each morning to find new dead bodies on the streets,” she recalled, adding that 98 per cent of her organization’s case management for human-rights violations has been for rape. And, while humanitarian work is under extreme pressure due to recent funding cuts, the displacement crisis will only worsen. Stressing the need to ensure safe and voluntary return for internally displaced persons, she also called on the Council to ensure humanitarian access across the country.
Kinshasa, Kigali Spar Over Causes of Conflict
In the ensuing discussion, representatives of Kinshasa and Kigali sparred over the causes and culprits driving the worsening conflict, with the representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo citing the “chaotic” humanitarian situation in east. He highlighted a series of atrocities perpetrated by the Rwanda Defence Force and M23, including killings, torture, massive destruction and numerous lootings. The alarming situation underscores the urgent need to implement — “to the letter” — the provisions of resolution 2773 (2025) to end the violence and protect civilians.
He added that the extent of the violence suggests that “we can no longer allow this crisis to drag out for eternity, claiming that an African problem requires an African solution”. Doing so, he stressed, would betray international solidarity. To date, no Rwandan soldier has withdrawn from Congolese territory, and Kigali has shown blatant disregard for the peace process to which Kinshasa has been committed. Increased pressure — including more robust sanctions — are needed against M23 and its Rwandan allies, he underscored, stating that Rwanda has no right to deploy its army on a sovereign country’s territory.
However, Olivier Nduhungirehe, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Rwanda, stressed that the conflict in the eastern region “was not started by Rwanda” — despite burden for the same being placed “squarely” on its shoulders. The root cause of the violence is the continued preservation of the genocidal militia known as the Democratic Liberation Forces of Rwanda — or FDLR — despite its record of ethnic massacres, child recruitment and destabilization of both the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda. In that context, he underscored that “the defensive measures we have put in place will remain until there is a credible framework for long-term security guarantees along our border with the DRC”.
Calling the case of MONUSCO “particularly troubling”, he said that while today’s report accurately cites abusive armed groups, it shows a clear pattern of bias. Alarmingly, “MONUSCO provided direct support to the military operation of the DRC coalition, placing itself in a situation of belligerence — even sometimes fighting alongside the same groups it was created to neutralize,” he stressed, adding that the Mission has wildly exaggerated claims of civilian casualties. Nonetheless, MONUSCO can still play a positive role if it abides by its mandate, he said.
Council Members Urge End to Violence
As for Council members, the representative of Sierra Leone — also speaking for Algeria, Guyana and Somalia — expressed concern over the “catastrophic” humanitarian situation in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which is inflicting a severe toll on the Congolese people. While urging an immediate cessation of hostilities, he nevertheless welcomed recent steps towards de-escalation, particularly the ceasefire announcement by M23.
He further welcomed the joint road map to peace adopted by the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), as well as commitments made by both Kinshasa and Kigali in Doha to remain fully engaged in the Luanda and Nairobi processes. Stressing that all processes for peace and security in the Democratic Republic of the Congo should align with African-led processes, he stated that external mercenary forces risk exacerbating the situation.
Multiple speakers today, among them the representative of the United States, denounced the hostilities and the increasingly antagonistic rhetoric coming from Rwandan Government officials and M23 — including threats against senior MONUSCO leadership and false claims that MONUSCO supports the FDLR. Panama’s delegate pointed to reports of M23’s indiscriminate attacks against hospitals, abductions of civilians and gang rapes.
“There is no military solution to this conflict,” affirmed Pakistan’s representative, calling all sides — particularly M23 — to engage in all relevant African-led processes to reach a peace agreement. The United Kingdom’s delegate, condemning the capture of the town of Walikale, stressed that the Rwanda Defence Force must withdraw from sovereign Congolese territory. He also said that M23’s continued restrictions on MONUSCO have hampered the Mission’s ability to deliver key tasks.
However, the Russian Federation’s delegate pushed back on the “highly dubious” hospitality extended by MONUSCO to members of European private military companies — as the Mission’s mandate to disarm, demobilize and reintegrate former combatants “bears no relation to the events we witnessed thanks to media reporting”. Given the potential further transition of MONUSCO, the Council must act without allowing the situation to deteriorate due to changes in the configuration of the peacekeeping presence in the country, she stressed.
On the humanitarian situation, the representatives of France and Slovenia condemned M23’s unacceptable restrictions on MONUSCO and humanitarian actors in Goma and occupied areas of North Kivu. On that, the representative of Denmark — Council President for March — spoke in her national capacity to call for the immediate reopening of the Goma and Kavumu airports. Further, she voiced concern over threats and reprisals against human-rights defenders, journalists, civil society and judicial authorities.
On the diplomatic front, China’s representative welcomed recent direct talks in Qatar between Kinshasa and Kigali, as well as the former’s decision to engage in direct dialogue with M23. “China always supports African countries in solving African problems in African ways,” he stated. Greece’s delegate agreed, urging leaders of both countries to re-engage immediately in political dialogue, while the representative of the Republic of Korea called on armed groups to engage in Kinshasa’s “Disarmament, Demobilization, Community Recovery and Stabilization Programme”.
Also on diplomatic engagement, Angola’s representative noted that, in 2022, the African Union mandated that his country’s President mediate the crisis. However, he recalled that the relevant summit, scheduled for 15 December 2024, did not occur as Rwanda insisted that the M23 issue be addressed, while the Democratic Republic of the Congo held that it did not fit into the framework of the Luanda Process. Despite impediments, including some foreign to an African solution, the understandings reached within the framework of the Luanda Process constitute a solid political basis for further efforts, he emphasized.
Burundi’s delegate, for his part, affirmed that only a comprehensive regional solution will put an end to the current crisis and achieve lasting peace. He also urged the Council to ensure implementation of resolution 2773 (2025), observing: “Non-compliance with these resolutions risks weakening the authority of this Council.” He added that failure to respect the territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo could set a “dangerous precedent, which some States could make use of to nibble at portions of the territory of other sovereign States”.
Source: United Nations MIL OSI b
Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the General Assembly event on the International Day of Zero Waste, in New York today:
The waste crisis is an issue that goes to the heart of how we produce, and how we consume. And one that requires action at every level ‑ local, national and global.
This year’s International Day focuses on fashion and textiles. And rightly so. Unless we accelerate action, dressing to kill could kill the planet.
Textile production often uses thousands of chemicals ‑ many of them harmful to people and the environment. It devours resources like land and water — putting pressure on ecosystems. And it belches out greenhouse gases — inflaming the climate crisis.
Clothes are being produced and discarded at a staggering rate — driven by business models that prioritize newness, speed and disposability. Every second, the equivalent of one garbage truck full of clothing is incinerated or sent to landfill.
Fashion is just the tip of a toxic iceberg. Waste is an issue in every sector.
Every year, humanity produces over 2 billion tons of garbage. If you pack all that into shipping containers stacked end to end, they would stretch to the moon and back.
Here on Earth, toxin-filled waste is seeping into our soil, our water and our air. And ultimately into us. As usual, the poorest pay the highest price. More than 1 billion people live in slums and informal urban settlements, where waste management is non-existent and disease runs rampant.
The rich world is flooding the Global South with garbage, from obsolete computers to single-use plastic and more. Many nations do not have the infrastructure to process even a fraction of what is dumped on their shores.
As a result, materials that could be recycled are burned or sent to landfill. And waste-pickers are exposed to toxic chemicals as they sift through potentially hazardous materials, including broken electronics, in appalling conditions.
We need a different approach: one that delivers on the commitment in the Sustainable Development Goals for sustainable production and consumption.
And there are signs of hope. Change is possible. And it presents exciting opportunities. In fashion, for example, designers are experimenting with recycled materials. Consumers are increasingly demanding sustainability. In many countries, resale markets are booming.
And important initiatives are bringing together large and small businesses, industry associations, civil society and many others to drive sustainability across the sector. They include the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action, and the Fashion Pact.
We must celebrate the power of these innovations to transform the industry. But, we need more, and we need change in every sector.
I welcome the work of the Chair and the First Lady and members of the United Nations Advisory Board on Zero Waste to raise awareness and help meet the Sustainable Development Goals. The fight against waste requires us all.
Governments must act: through policies, regulations and subsidies. That promote sustainability and zero-waste initiatives. That encourage businesses to adopt positive practices. That provide decent jobs. And that empower everyone ‑ not just the wealthy ‑ to afford products that last.
The current negotiations for a legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution — due in August this year — are a key opportunity for Governments to drive progress. I urge them to take it. And to translate any treaty into action to support consumers to make environmentally friendly choices, and into a clear roadmap across industries.
Addressing plastic pollution must be at the core of corporate responsibility. There is no space for greenwashing. Businesses must increase circularity, waste reduction and resource efficiency across their supply chains.
We need accountability for corporate sustainability commitments. We need transparency for customers. And we need consumers to use their purchasing power to encourage change.
Reducing excessive consumption, valuing products that last and embracing exchanges and resales. And we need young people and civil society to keep using their voices and power to demand change through advocacy.
We must build on progress, to end the waste practices wasting our planet. On this International Day, let us commit to do our part to clean up our act, and build a healthier, more sustainable world for us all.