UN FORUM SPOTLIGHTS SITUATION OF CHILDREN IN 11 COUNTRIES

UN FORUM SPOTLIGHTS SITUATION OF CHILDREN IN 11 COUNTRIES
New York, Jun 8 2007 7:00PM
A United Nations expert body today urged 11 countries to take steps to improve the situation of children and young people, noting continued discrimination and violation of their rights.

The Geneva-based Committee of the Rights of the Child monitors the implementation by States of the Convention on the Rights of the Child – the most widely ratified international human rights instrument, with 193 States parties.

Composed of 18 independent human rights experts, the Committee also monitors implementation of two optional protocols to the Convention: one on the involvement of children in armed conflict, and the other on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography.
During its just-concluded three-week session, the Committee examined the situation of children in Slovakia, Maldives, Uruguay, Kazakhstan, the Sudan, Guatemala, Ukraine, Bangladesh, Monaco, Norway and Sweden, based on national reports submitted to it.

In a set of conclusions issued today, experts expressed concern over several issues, including continued abductions of children for forced recruitment, forced labour and sexual exploitation in several countries, and especially in Darfur and South Sudan.

Among the other issues of concern to the Committee were high levels of violence against children, discrimination against children born out of wedlock and the plight of refugee children.

The Committee, which holds three sessions per year, will meet again in September to examine the situation of children in Sierra Leone, Venezuela, Bulgaria, France, Spain, Bulgaria, Croatia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Qatar and Syria.
2007-06-08 00:00:00.000

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UN ENVOY LAYS OUT ROAD MAP TOWARDS PEACE IN DARFUR

UN ENVOY LAYS OUT ROAD MAP TOWARDS PEACE IN DARFUR
New York, Jun 8 2007 7:00PM
The United Nations Special Envoy to Darfur today laid out "a road map towards peace" in the war-ravaged region of the Sudan, calling on all parties to cease hostilities and prepare for forthcoming negotiations.

There are three stages of the road map for the coming months, Jan Eliasson told reporters after briefing the Security Council.

Firstly, "there have been tendencies in the past of initiatives being conducted in parallel rather than in a converging pattern" so such efforts must be united, he said.

The second phase entails pre-negotiation, which will involve "shuttle diplomacy" to both the Government in the capital Khartoum and to non-signatories to last year's Darfur Peace Agreement (DPA).

Lastly, he said that he hoped invitations to peace negotiations will be issued "during the course of the summer."

Mr. Eliasson appealed to all sides to put an end to the fighting – including the cessation of bombings to create an atmosphere favourable to negotiations.

He also urged the parties to ready themselves for discussions. On the Government side, he noted that authorities have already begun conferring on such issues as compensation and wealth-sharing. Other topics which are more sensitive but need to be considered are power-sharing and security, which deals with the disarming of the Janjaweed militia.

Regarding the non-signatories, he observed that "they are fragmenting further," with their number growing to 12. "That is of course a great difficulty, not only politically but also physically and logistically," Mr. Eliasson said, underscoring the need for the non-signatories to coordinate their positions.

"I was met with great understanding by the Security Council today," he said to the press. He also thanked Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon for making Darfur a top priority. As a result, "we are now given the resources to beef up and strengthen our staff both in Khartoum and elsewhere to prepare for the negotiations."

He highlighted the importance of the political aspect of bringing peace to Darfur, noting "peacekeeping can never be effective if there is no peace to keep."

Mr. Eliasson welcomed recent regional initiatives to further the peace process, namely the efforts made by Eritrea, Chad and Libya, which will be converged with the UN-African Union (AU) effort.

When asked about the likelihood of all 12 non-signatories attending the planned negotiations, he responded that the parties are aware of the realities on the ground.

"There is a growing frustration, a growing weariness and tiredness for the situation," he said. "The tribal leaders, the leaders in the camps are very, very vocal and make very strongly the point that this conflict must come to an end."

Mr. Eliasson voiced hope in the role the AU and UN can play in serving as "a catalyst for bringing everyone on-board."

Yesterday, at the Security Council, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) called for the arrest of the two suspects – a militia leader and the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs – wanted to stand trial for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Darfur.

The UN and AU are expected to meet with Sudanese authorities in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa on 11 and 12 June regarding the planned hybrid force, and the Security Council will hear a briefing on the meeting's outcome prior to its departure for Africa on 14 June.

Last November, the Government, the UN and the AU agreed to the creation of a hybrid force in Darfur as the third phase of a three-step process to replace the existing but under-resourced AU Mission in the Sudan (AMIS), which has been unable to end the fighting.

More than 200,000 people have been killed and at least 2 million others displaced from their homes since clashes erupted in 2003 between Government forces, allied Janjaweed militias and rebel groups.
2007-06-08 00:00:00.000

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BAN KI-MOON MARKS 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF TREATIES PROTECTING CIVILIANS IN WAR

BAN KI-MOON MARKS 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF TREATIES PROTECTING CIVILIANS IN WAR
New York, Jun 8 2007 6:00PM
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today commemorated the 30th anniversary of two additional protocols to the landmark Geneva Conventions, calling on all States currently not party to the instruments to accede to them.

"The 1977 Additional Protocols supplement the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and provide very important legal protections for civilians and others in both international and internal armed conflicts," his spokesperson said in a <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2007/sgsm11033.doc.htm">statement.

Additional Protocol I balances both military and humanitarian needs by bringing two previously separate areas of law: the law regarding the conduct of hostilities and the law protecting civilians and those who are actively participating in hostilities.

It prohibits the use of weapons which can cause excessive injury or unnecessary suffering, and reminds parties that the methods and means of warfare are not unlimited.

Additional Protocol II is the first of its kind to deal with civil wars, and it prohibits attacks on civilians and materials necessary for their survival.

To date, 167 States are party to Additional Protocol I and 163 are party to Additional Protocol II.

In a related development, the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism – which aims to prevent such acts, bring perpetrators to justice and promote cooperation among countries – will enter into force 30 days from today.

Bangladesh became the 22nd State to accede to the Convention, which requires that many ratifications or accessions to enter into force.

"The Convention is expected to play a crucial role in preventing terrorists from gaining access to weapons of mass destruction," said UN Legal Counsel Nicholas Michel, welcoming the latest development.

The treaty will also "strengthen the international anti-terrorism legal framework by being a valuable addition to already existing universal counter-terrorism norms and obligations," he added.

With the addition of this Convention, there will be 13 anti-terrorism instruments covering such aces as hijackings, kidnappings, bombings and financing of terrorism.

Originally proposed by Russia, the Convention was adopted on 13 April 2005, and outlaws specific and concrete acts of nuclear terrorism. It is intended to protect against attacks on a range of targets, including nuclear power plants and reactors. It is also applicable to threats and attempts to commit such crimes.

The Convention – to which there are currently 115 signatories – also promotes cooperation among countries through the sharing of information and the providing of assistance for investigations and extraditions.
2007-06-08 00:00:00.000

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MORE FUNDS NEEDED FOR UN-BACKED COURT IN SIERRA LEONE, OFFICIAL SAYS

MORE FUNDS NEEDED FOR UN-BACKED COURT IN SIERRA LEONE, OFFICIAL SAYS
New York, Jun 8 2007 6:00PM
Deputy Secretary-General Asha-Rose Migiro joined officials from the United Nations-backed <"http://www.sc-sl.org/">Special Court for Sierra Leone today in appealing for an additional $60 million to complete the Court's work by the end of 2009.

"It is imperative that the international community continues to generously support the Special Court, ensuring that it has both the human and financial resources to conclude its mandate," Ms. Migiro told the 15-member Security Council, as it met to consider the Court's work.

The Special Court, established on 16 January 2002 by an agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and the UN, is mandated to try "those who bear greatest responsibility" for war crimes and crimes against community committed in the country after 30 November 1996.

The projected budget for completing the Court's work by the end of 2009 is $89 million. If the Court is to adhere to its completion strategy, it is vital to assure adequate financial support, particularly as available funds will be exhausted by November this year, according to Court officials.

Four trials are currently before the Special Court, three of which are taking place in Freetown, and the other – the war crimes trial of former Liberian president Charles Taylor – at The Hague.

Mr. Taylor is facing 11 counts of war crimes, crimes against humanity and other serious violations of international humanitarian law, including mass murder, mutilations, rape, sexual slavery and the use of child soldiers, for his role in the decade-long civil war that engulfed Sierra Leone, which borders Liberia.

The Special Court offers hope future generations "a hope that in the affairs of men and women of all nations, the rule of law may prevail and that those whose deeds offend the conscience of mankind shall not go unpunished," said Ms. Migiro.

The Taylor trial marks "a watershed event for international justice," the Court's Prosecutor, Stephen Rapp, told the Council.

It shows that "no matter how high the position of the person responsible, there will be a day of justice," he added.

Noting that the Court's importance goes beyond the completion of its legal proceedings, its President, Justice George Gelaga King, said its establishment represented a major contribution to long-term peace and security in Sierra Leone and the region.

"The Court has contributed greatly to the efforts being made in Sierra Leone to resurrect the rule of law and to end impunity," he stated.
2007-06-08 00:00:00.000

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UN-BACKED GLOBAL FUND LAUDS RICH NATIONS' PLEDGE ON UNIVERSAL AIDS TREATMENT

UN-BACKED GLOBAL FUND LAUDS RICH NATIONS' PLEDGE ON UNIVERSAL AIDS TREATMENT
New York, Jun 8 2007 6:00PM
The United Nations-backed <"http://www.theglobalfund.org/en/media_center/press/pr_070608.asp">Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria today welcomed the recommitment of the "Group of Eight" leading industrialized nations to universal access to HIV/AIDS treatment.

The endorsement by G8 leaders of $6 billion to $8 billion per year for the Global Fund, a three-fold increase from the current level as part of their recommitment to universal access to treatment is "very good news," said Dr. Michel Kazatchkine, the Fund's Executive Director.

The main UN agency dealing with AIDS had called on the leaders attending three-day summit in Heiligendamm, Germany, to step up their response to the disease.

In a statement released in advance of the summit, the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS had warned that in 2006, resources available for AIDS fell "dramatically short of the estimated needs by $6 billion."

It also cautioned that the 11 million people projected to need antiretroviral treatment by 2010 "may be underestimated by up to 50 per cent."

As such, UNAIDS urged the leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States to translate their previous commitments on AIDS – including their 2005 pledge to provide $60 billion to fight HIV and other illnesses in Africa – into tangible action.

"AIDS must be a top priority for the G8 this year and every year – in commitments and action," the agency said.

Set up in 2002 on the initiative of then Secretary-General Kofi Annan, the Global Fund is a public-private partnership that has committed $7.6 billion so far to fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria in 136 countries. The three diseases kill more than 6 million people a year, and that number is growing.
2007-06-08 00:00:00.000

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VISITING SOMALIA, UN'S TOP POLITICAL OFFICIAL URGES RECONCILIATION

VISITING SOMALIA, UN'S TOP POLITICAL OFFICIAL URGES RECONCILIATION
New York, Jun 8 2007 5:00PM
During an unannounced visit to Mogadishu today, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs expressed solidarity with the people of Somalia while encouraging the leaders of the Transitional Federal Government to reach out to their opponents for the sake of peace and reconciliation in the war-torn Horn of Africa country.

"The international community is willing to help Somalia in all areas as long as there is progress on the ground," Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs B. Lynn Pascoe told reporters at Mogadishu airport.

His comments came at the end of a four-hour visit in which he met at a heavily-guarded presidential compound in Mogadishu with President Abdullai Yusuf Ahmed and Prime Minister Mohamed Ali Gedi, along with members of his cabinet, a UN spokesperson reported.

Mr. Pascoe held a separate meeting with Ali Mahdi, the Chairman of an independent committee charged with organizing an upcoming National Reconciliation Conference intended to forge social and political compromise between the country's various clans and factions.
"The National Reconciliation Conference is critical to the political development of this country," Mr. Pascoe said.

During his meetings, Mr. Pascoe expressed concern about recent politically motivated arrests and the forced closure of three radio stations which had criticized the Government.

He also raised concerns about the treatment of humanitarian workers, insisting their neutrality be respected and they be allowed to work without interference.

While emphasizing the need for political progress, Mr. Pascoe said security improvements are required in tandem, according to the UN spokesperson.

The Under-Secretary-General also praised the work of African Union forces deployed in February in an effort to help stabilize the Transitional Government, while urging that more troops, financing and logistical support be provided to the roughly 12,000-strong force, known by its acronym AMISOM.

The Under-Secretary-General is on a weeklong trip aimed at shoring up peace and stabilization efforts in Somalia. He attended a meeting of the International Contact Group for Somalia in London on Wednesday and travelled from there to Kenya, where he met with diplomats, humanitarian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and UN aid agencies before his visit today to Mogadishu.

On Saturday he is scheduled to travel to Nairobi and proceed to Asmara, Cairo, Addis Ababa and Brussels before returning to New York where he will brief the Secretary-General and the Security Council on his findings.
2007-06-08 00:00:00.000

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CLIMATE CHANGE 'DEFINING ISSUE OF OUR ERA,' SAYS BAN KI-MOON, HAILING G8 ACTION

CLIMATE CHANGE 'DEFINING ISSUE OF OUR ERA,' SAYS BAN KI-MOON, HAILING G8 ACTION
New York, Jun 8 2007 3:00PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called climate change the "defining issue of our era," and welcomed the agreement by the world's richest nations to address the threat as an "important first step."

Speaking at a <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/offthecuff.asp?nid=1035">press conference in Heiligendamm, Germany, where the leaders of the "Group of Eight" leading industrialized nations met this week for their annual summit, Mr. Ban said climate change was "the main reason I came here."

The agreement by G8 leaders on "strong and early action" to combat climate change, and to pursue related negotiations under UN auspices, is "only a first step – a beginning, not an end," the Secretary-General stated.

Political will at the highest level is "desperately" needed now to make significant emissions reductions and to help countries adapt to climate change, Mr. Ban said. "On both, we will need leadership by the G8 countries."

To facilitate further discussion on the issue, Mr. Ban announced he will convene a special high-level meeting in New York on climate change on 24 September, just ahead of the opening of this year's annual debate of Heads of State and Government.

Also today, Yvo de Boer, Executive Secretary of the UN Climate Change Convention, <"http://unfccc.int/files/inc/graphics/image/pjpeg/070607_g8.jpg">welcomed the intention of leaders to conclude by 2009 negotiations on a replacement for the Convention's Kyoto Protocol, which contains legally binding targets for reducing emissions through 2012.

"The green light has been given for negotiations to begin on a comprehensive, flexible and fair agreement at the United Nations Climate Change Conference to be held in Bali in December this year," he stated.

"A negotiating agenda must now be mapped out, which needs to address how future climate change policies can green economic growth and assist societies, especially the most vulnerable societies, to adapt to climate change," Mr. de Boer added.
2007-06-08 00:00:00.000

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LIBERIAN WOMEN 'VANGUARDS OF PEACE,' NOT JUST VICTIMS OF WAR - UN ENVOY

LIBERIAN WOMEN 'VANGUARDS OF PEACE,' NOT JUST VICTIMS OF WAR – UN ENVOY
New York, Jun 8 2007 1:00PM
The senior United Nations envoy to Liberia has <"http://www.unmil.org/article.asp?id=2263">called for the mobilization and inclusion of all the post-conflict nation's women to realize lasting peace and reconciliation, saying they should not be looked on only as victims of war but as "vanguards of peace."

"Such inclusion can only be achieved through the strengthening of democratic institutions necessary to ensure peace, security, human rights and justice for all," Alan Doss, Special Representative of the Secretary-General Alan Doss and head of the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), told a recent conference in Monrovia.

He told members of the Women Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) Secretariat of Liberia – established in 2005 with UNMIL's support – that an inclusive approach would help towards the success of the ongoing recovery and reconstruction process.

Bringing together and supporting women NGOs and groups will "guarantee that women's voices are heard and heeded in all spheres of life," he emphasized.

In particular, he urged collective action by international and national organizations in the West African nation in the campaign against rape, which he described as "by far the most serious crime committed against women and girls in Liberia," stressing that more must be done to prevent and punish the perpetrators.

Since 2003, UNMIL has been assisting the peace process in Liberia, which has emerged from a civil war that claimed the lives of almost 150,000 people - mostly civilians - and led to a complete breakdown of law and order. A landmark vote two years brought the first woman President of an African nation - Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf - into office.
2007-06-08 00:00:00.000

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UNESCO CHIEF APPLAUDS REGIONAL COOPERATION IN SOUTH-EAST EUROPE

UNESCO CHIEF APPLAUDS REGIONAL COOPERATION IN SOUTH-EAST EUROPE
New York, Jun 8 2007 1:00PM
The head of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) today <" http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL_ID=38236&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html">welcomed the commitment of South-East European leaders to regional cooperation and dialogue.

At the opening of the fifth summit of heads of state of South-East Europe in Sibiu, Romania, UNESCO Director-General Koïchiro Matsuura said that underlying the annual meetings is the leaders' commitment to "dialogue, understanding, reconciliation and peace."

Organized by Romanian President Traian Basesc, five other leaders – of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia – are participating in the two-day meeting with the <"http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL_ID=38239&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html">theme "Cultural Diversity – a Bridge between Cultural Heritage and the Culture of the Future."

"Heritage is no longer understood solely as the built environment," Mr. Matsuura said, appealing for the ratification of the 2003 <" http://www.unesco.org/culture/ich/index.php">Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. "It is seen to encompass all aspects of human creativity."

He added, "Drawing on this heritage, human creativity can invent new forms of expression that will become, in turn, the legacy for the future."

Mr. Matsuura expressed satisfaction that each of the four previous summits have contributed to supported regional cooperation and "has chosen culture as the foundation for such an endeavour."

The meeting's participants have selected Greece as the site of next year's summit, and later today, they are expected to adopt a final declaration.
2007-06-08 00:00:00.000

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UN-BACKED PARTNERSHIP SAYS NEW VACCINE COULD END MENINGITIS MISERY IN AFRICA

UN-BACKED PARTNERSHIP SAYS NEW VACCINE COULD END MENINGITIS MISERY IN AFRICA
New York, Jun 8 2007 1:00PM
A new meningitis vaccine has proven effective in West African children, trumping any other vaccine currently on the market in the region and providing hope that the epidemic will eventually be eliminated, a United Nations-backed partnership announced today.

The preliminary results of the successful trial of the vaccine – expected initially to sell for 40 cents a dose – were <" http://www.meningvax.org/files/press-0706-improved-phase2.html">released by the Meningitis Vaccine Project (MVP), a UN World Health Organization (<"http://www.who.int/en">WHO) and United States-based nonprofit PATH partnership.

The 21 affected sub-Saharan African countries, collectively known as the 'meningitis belt,' could witness the slashing of the epidemic's incidence due to the vaccine, according to the results.

Last year over 41,500 cases were reported, while between 1 January and 6 May of this year, an additional almost 48,000 cases have been reported, raising concerns of a new epidemic wave in the region.

"This important study brings real hope that the lives of thousands of children, teenagers, and young adults will be saved by immunization and that widespread suffering, sickness and socioeconomic disruption can be avoided," said Dr. Margaret Chan, WHO Director-General.

Meningitis – one of the most dreaded infectious diseases worldwide – occurs when the thin lining that surrounds the brain and spinal cord becomes infected. Even with antibiotic treatment, at least 10 per cent of patients die and up to 20 per cent are left with permanent problems including mental retardation, deafness, epilepsy and necrosis which could lead to limb amputation.

The partnership's data shows how the vaccine could block serogroup A meningococcus, which could lead to the entire population, including those who are not vaccinated, to be protected as well in a phenomenon known as 'herd immunity.'

"When it becomes part of the public health arsenal, this vaccine will make a real difference in Africa," said F. Marc LaForce, MVP director. "The vaccine will allow elimination of the meningococcal epidemics that have afflicted the continent for more than 100 years."

The trial was conducted in 12 to 23-month-olds in Malia and Gambia, and results showed that the vaccine is safe and produces antibody levels nearly 20 times higher than those obtained with the polysaccharide vaccine which is being sold on the market, which means the protection the new vaccine provides can last for several years.

The next phase of trials will take place in Mali, Gambia and at least one other country in the region, and the vaccine will be tested in 2 to 29-year-olds, which is the population that will be mostly targeted by mass vaccination campaigns.
2007-06-08 00:00:00.000

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UNICEF RECOMMENDS HELPLINE TO PROTECT CHILDREN IN LESOTHO FROM ABUSE

UNICEF RECOMMENDS HELPLINE TO PROTECT CHILDREN IN LESOTHO FROM ABUSE
New York, Jun 8 2007 8:00AM
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has recommended the establishment of a telephone outreach line in Lesotho to help prevent abuse, violence and exploitation of the country's young people.

"A child helpline offers a tremendous opportunity to establish a long-lasting protective environment for children," said Anne-Marie Fonseka, Programme Coordinator, UNICEF Lesotho. "Abuse, neglect, HIV and AIDS, conflict with the law and social challenges facing children should be topics of ongoing discussion."

The impact of HIV and AIDS on the development of children in Lesotho is compounded by factors such as poverty, abuse, violence and exploitation, the agency said, citing the results of a study it conducted of 500 individuals, mainly children, throughout the country.

About 94 per cent of children interviewed in the study said they had felt sad because of such reasons as death or sickness of parents; being beaten; lack of empathy from parents including following rape and being neglected, insulted and scolded, UNICEF said. When asked whether children have problems, 91 per cent said yes, quoting not going to school, hunger, rape, death of loved ones, being abused, insulted, threatened and exploited.

Over 90 per cent of children said it is important to listen to children's opinions. UNICEF quoted one 16-year old female respondent as saying, "children are often raped and treated badly, especially orphans, so listening to our opinions is important to protect us from these problems."

A Child Helpline -- a phone and outreach service for children -- would provide emergency assistance and link children in need of care and protection to long term services and resources, UNICEF said.

"The child helpline will be linked to Social Welfare services, to the police and adolescent-friendly health services to provide a comprehensive and effective all-round protection for children" said Nafisa Binte-Shafique, UNICEF's Youth an
Specialist in Lesotho.

In the study, more than three quarters of all children said they would call a helpline and 81 per cent said they have used and have access to a phone, even in rural areas.

2007-06-08 00:00:00.000

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UN HUMAN RIGHTS EXPERTS CONDEMN MURDER OF SRI LANKAN AID WORKERS

UN HUMAN RIGHTS EXPERTS CONDEMN MURDER OF SRI LANKAN AID WORKERS
New York, Jun 8 2007 8:00AM
Two United Nations experts joined a growing chorus of voices from Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon down condemning the recent murder of two workers of the Sri Lankan Red Cross.

"This is another outrageous act in an apparent trend of deliberate targeting of aid workers, which severely jeopardizes and impedes their ability to deliver humanitarian assistance in a secure environment," said Special Representative of the Secretary-General on the situation of human rights defenders, Hina Jilani, and the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, Philip Alston.

In their statement on the 1 June abduction and murder, the experts urged the Government to expedite its investigation of the killings, pointing out that the 2006 killings of 17 aid workers from Action contre la Faim remain unsolved.

"We urge the Government, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and other armed groups to take all measures to protect aid workers and provide a secure and conducive environment to the functioning of humanitarian assistance," the experts said in their joint statement.

Earlier this week, Mr. Ban condemned the killings, voicing concern about the security of civilians and aid workers in Sri Lanka and reminding "all parties in the country that aid workers have a right to protection at all times," according to a statement by his spokesperson.

He was joined in this call by UN agencies and their partners working in Sri Lanka, who warned that the latest killings were "an ominous sign of an evolving situation in which aid workers are facing increasing difficulties in delivering assistance to needy populations."

2007-06-08 00:00:00.000

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UN REFUGEE AGENCY CONCERNED AT ATTACKS ON FOREIGNERS IN UKRAINE

UN REFUGEE AGENCY CONCERNED AT ATTACKS ON FOREIGNERS IN UKRAINE
New York, Jun 8 2007 8:00AM
Reacting to reports of attacks on foreigners in Ukraine, the United Nations refugee agency today acknowledged steps taken by the Government to address the problem while urging action to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

"We are extremely concerned at what seems to be an increasing trend in the number and seriousness of racist attacks against asylum seekers, refugees and other foreigners in Ukraine," William Spindler, a spokesman for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), told a press briefing in Geneva.

He noted that "a number of incidents of police violence against people seeking protection in Ukraine have been reported."

The agency cited the 3 June killing in Kiev of an Iraqi asylum seeker who was seeking protection in Ukraine. "The motives for this act are not yet known, and a police investigation is currently under way," said Mr. Spindler. "But the number of attacks and harassment against foreigners in Ukraine in the last few months make it necessary to investigate the motives of this murder carefully, including racist motivations."

The spokesman said that since 2001, when the agency first voiced concern after a refugee from Rwanda was beaten to death outside his home, UNHCR's office in Kiev "has been receiving on a regular basis, first-hand reports of racially motivated incidents, unprovoked attacks, beatings, verbal insults and other acts of xenophobia against refugees and asylum seekers in different regions of Ukraine."

UNHCR acknowledged the "important steps taken by the Ukrainian authorities to address this problem, including high-profile public statements by the Minister of the Interior," said Mr. Spindler, voicing appreciation for the "openness of the authorities in Kiev to discuss these problems."

The agency encouraged the Ukrainian authorities "to increase their efforts to put an end to these attacks and to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice, as a matter of

He noted that UNHCR is working with other UN agencies, the diplomatic community and human rights organizations in Ukraine to counteract xenophobia and racism, including through advocacy activities designed to promote tolerance and free legal aid to victims of xenophobia and racial violence.

2007-06-08 00:00:00.000

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AFRICAN SWINE FEVER HITS GEORGIA, THREATENS NEIGHBOURING STATES -- UN

AFRICAN SWINE FEVER HITS GEORGIA, THREATENS NEIGHBOURING STATES -- UN
New York, Jun 8 2007 8:00AM
A United Nations agency today warned that Georgia has been hit by the devastating pig disease African Swine Fever -- and neighbouring countries are also at risk.

"This is a dramatic development in the international distribution of African Swine Fever, which has been almost entirely confined to sub-Saharan Africa since 1990," said Jan Slingenbergh, Senior Animal Health Officer of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

The highly contagious viral disease of pigs causes fever and results in very high pig mortality but does not affect humans the agency said, warning that its effects on commercial and smallholder pig production can be "catastrophic."

There is no vaccine against the disease, which can only be stamped out, according to FAO.

Georgia reported that outbreaks have started at the end of April in 10 regions spread across the country, the agency warned in a news release. A total of 20,000 pigs in village and commercial farms have been slaughtered.

"Delayed detection of the virus has resulted in a long danger period where the disease has been unrecognized and the virus could have moved to neighbouring countries. Armenia, Azerbaidjan and the Russian Federation should be on high alert," said Mr. Slingenbergh.

FAO said the virus probably entered Georgia through imported frozen or processed pig meat.

The European Union, the World Organisation for Animal Health and FAO will send a joint team of experts to Georgia in the next days to assess the situation and advise the government on immediate control measures, according to the UN agency.

2007-06-08 00:00:00.000

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BAN KI-MOON SPEAKS OUT AGAINST IRANIAN PRESIDENT'S REMARKS ON ISRAEL

BAN KI-MOON SPEAKS OUT AGAINST IRANIAN PRESIDENT'S REMARKS ON ISRAEL
New York, Jun 8 2007 12:00AM
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today spoke out against a recent verbal attack on Israel by Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinajad, who repeatedly said that the world could soon witness the "destruction of the Zionist regime."

The Secretary-General was "shocked and dismayed" by the 3 June comments, his spokesperson said in a statement, pointing out that "the State of Israel is a full and long-standing member of the United Nations with the same rights and obligations as every other member."

Mr. Ban recalled that under the UN Charter, "all members have undertaken to refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State."

The statement also noted that Mr. Ban has repeatedly made his views on this issue clear.

2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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UN WAR CRIMES PROSECUTOR CALLS FOR ARREST OF FIRST DARFUR SUSPECTS

UN WAR CRIMES PROSECUTOR CALLS FOR ARREST OF FIRST DARFUR SUSPECTS
New York, Jun 7 2007 7:00PM
Briefing the Security Council today, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (<"http://www.icc-cpi.int/home.html&l=en">ICC) called for the arrest of the two suspects wanted to stand trial for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Sudan's conflict-wracked Darfur region.

Early last month, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Ahmad Muhammad Harun, former Minister of State for the Interior of the Government of Sudan and currently Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, and Janjaweed militia leader Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-Al-Rahman, also known as Ali Kushayb.

"Acting together, they committed crimes against humanity and war crimes," ICC Prosecutor Luis Moreno-Ocampo told the 15-member Council.

The ICC's investigation of the two men focuses primarily between 2003 and 2004 when the highest number of crimes were recorded.

Mr. Moreno-Ocampo <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2007/sc9036.doc.htm">underscored that the Council and regional organizations – such as the African Union (AU) and the Arab League – must lead the effort to encourage Sudan to arrest the two men and surrender them to the ICC.

"The territorial State, the Sudan, has the legal obligation and the ability" to arrest and surrender the suspects to the ICC, the Prosecutor said.

Although "a degree of cooperation has been forthcoming" from the Sudanese Government, to date, it has refused to allow for the questioning of Mr. Kushayb and Mr. Harun, he told the Council. He said that he hopes that the Council can bring the issue up when it visits Khartoum on 17 June as part of its weeklong mission to the region.

"Today, the Security Council recognized the need to emphasize and [remind] the Sudanese authorities about their responsibility," Mr. Moreno-Ocampo told reporters after the Council meeting.

A militia commander also known as the "colonel of colonels," Mr. Kushayb "personally led militia/Janjaweed during attacks" on four villages, "presiding over summary executions and massive rapes," Mr. Moreno-Ocampo told the Council.

Mr. Harun, who was appointed as Minister of State for the Interior and head of the "Darfur security desk" in 2003, "recruited militia/Janjaweed and incited them to violence with full knowledge that they, often in the course of joint attacks with the Sudanese Army, would commit crimes against the civilian population," Mr. Moreno-Ocampo said.

Given that Mr. Harun is currently his country's Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Moreno-Ocampo told reporters that it is "unacceptable" that "these people who were his victims are in his hands."

In its 27 April decision, the ICC determined that there are reasonable grounds to believe that the two suspects are criminally responsible for 51 counts of crimes against humanity, including persecution, murder, rape and other forms of sexual violence, torture and cruel treatment.

"The key is their arrest and surrender," Mr. Moreno-Ocampo said to the Council, adding that his Office is finalizing its preparations for pre-trial proceedings against the two men.

The Prosecutor said that, in addition to the Darfur investigation which has been going on for two years, his Office is also looking into current crimes committed by all sides.

He said that the Sudanese Government has launched "indiscriminate and disproportionate" air strikes in Darfur from January through April. The ICC has also heard reports that women who are internally displaced have been raped when venturing outside their camps. It has also heard about local clashes which in part have been allegedly motivated to reward people collaborating with the Militia/Janjaweed.

Outside Sudan, Mr. Moreno-Ocampo said the ICC is also looking into the spillover effects in neighbouring Chad and the Central African Republic (CAR).

In eastern Chad, he said that his Office has compiled information on reported attacks on refugee camps and in the villages of Tiero and Marena in March. There have been reported incursions by militia/Janjaweed from Sudan, as well as the presence of Sudanese rebels in Chad and Chadian rebels in Sudan.

Meanwhile in CAR, the ICC opened an investigation last month into crimes – including massive rapes – allegedly committed between 2002 and 2003.

Mr. Moreno-Ocampo voiced alarm that aid workers have been assaulted and beaten and their vehicles have been hijacked, stressing that attacks on humanitarian personnel are "prohibited under international humanitarian law and constitute a war crime within the jurisdiction of the ICC."

He also expressed concern for attacks on UN peacekeepers in Sudan and AU troops. In the period from early February to early May of this year alone, 11 AU peacekeepers and police officers have been killed and five seriously wounded.

In a related development, the UN Mission in Sudan (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unmis/">UNMIS) announced that the situation in Darfur last month was characterized by forced civilian movement given increasing insecurity, rising tensions in camps, surging numbers of the displaced and increasing targeted violence against aid operations.

Almost 140,000 people have become internally displaced since the start of the year, with at least 10,000 newly displaced in May, according to UNMIS.

The Mission also called attention to the rising use of physical and mental violence against non-governmental organizations' compounds and staff.

The Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Darfur Jan Eliasson is arriving in New York today and is scheduled to brief the Security Council tomorrow on his joint efforts with the AU to revive the peace process, according to Ban Ki-moon's spokesperson.

The UN and AU are expected to meet with Sudanese authorities in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa on 11 and 12 June regarding the planned hybrid force, and the Security Council will hear a briefing on the meeting's outcome prior to its departure for Africa on 14 June.
2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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'JUSTICE HAS BEEN DONE' SAYS BAN KI-MOON AFTER UN OFFICIAL FOUND GUILTY IN FRAUD CASE

'JUSTICE HAS BEEN DONE' SAYS BAN KI-MOON AFTER UN OFFICIAL FOUND GUILTY IN FRAUD CASE
New York, Jun 7 2007 7:00PM
Reacting to a guilty verdict against Sanjaya Bahel, a former senior United Nations procurement official, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today expressed satisfaction that justice has been done and noted that evidence gathered by the UN had been used in the case.

The Secretary-General said he "remains committed to actively pursuing any fraud and wrongdoing at the United Nations," in a <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2007/sgsm11031.doc.htm">statement released by his spokesperson.

Citing evidence presented at the trial, Robert Appleton, Chair of the UN Procurement Task Force, told a press briefing at Headquarters that, "There was $100 million in contracts at issue, it was a product of fraud."

Asked to specify a dollar figure of the cost of fraud to the UN, he said, "We've had several cases in which there has been significant loss and waste."

Mr. Ban, through his spokesperson, said, "Such acts tarnish the reputation of the organization, and the tens of thousands of UN employee who work honourably and honestly."

After an internal fact-finding investigation by the Organization's own Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) into allegations of misconduct, the UN formally charged Mr. Bahel, an Indian national, with misconduct on 31 August 2006 and suspended him without pay, providing its final report to United States and Indian authorities.

Following a request from United States authorities, then-Secretary-General Kofi Annan waived Mr. Bahel's immunity from legal process late last year, leading to the levying of criminal charges against him by the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York.

The spokesperson reaffirmed Mr. Ban's support for the work of the Task Force, whose 86-page report about Mr. Bahel's conduct was given to United States authorities last year.

"The evidence supporting this guilty verdict was based in large part on the extensive work done by the Task Force," the spokesperson said.

That evidence supported the criminal charges against Mr. Bahel and Nishan Kohli, a principal of a company that did business with the UN and who pleaded guilty to bribing Mr. Bahel and testified against him, according to the statement.

OIOS chief Inga-Britt Ahlenius told reporters that the Task Force currently had under review contracts worth around $1 billion, and had already found "significant amounts of fraud and waste," adding that "the UN is a victim of such fraud."

"In my view, and in the view of OIOS, there is a need for major overhaul of the procurement system in the Organization," she added.

Mr. Ban said he expects all vendors, contractors, and their representatives, to conduct their business with the UN with the "highest levels of integrity and honesty."

"Those who fail to do so will not be permitted to continue doing business with this organization," he stressed.
2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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UN AWARD RECOGNIZES POPULATION EFFORTS IN IRAN, US, ALGERIA, MALAYSIA

UN AWARD RECOGNIZES POPULATION EFFORTS IN IRAN, US, ALGERIA, MALAYSIA
New York, Jun 7 2007 7:00PM
Four laureates – from Iran, the United States, Algeria and Malaysia – today received the United Nations Population Award at a ceremony in New York.

"Today, we celebrate outstanding contributions to the awareness of population questions or to their solutions," Deputy Secretary-General Asha-Rose Migiro <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2007/dsgsm323.doc.htm">told participants.

"And we recognize individuals and institutions who, through their work and achievements, are at the forefront of human progress and development," she added.

Dr. Hossein Malek Afzail of Iran, Allan Rosenfield of the United States, Le Comité National de Population of Algeria, and the National Population and Family Development Board of Malaysia shared this year's Award.

Praising their accomplishments, Ms. Migiro noted that the awardees are "leaders not only on population issues, but also in our race to the Millennium Development Goals, especially the eradication of extreme poverty and hunger," referring to the eight global development targets to be achieved by 2015.

For the first time in its 17-year history, the Award is being bestowed upon four laureates – selected by the Population Award Committee, which is administered by the UN Population Fund (<"http://www.unfpa.org/">UNFPA) and comprises 10 Member States elected by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) – instead of two, one each in the individual and institutional categories.

Dr. Rosenfield, a Columbia University professor, co-wrote a seminal paper on maternal death and as a result, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation established the Averting Maternal Death and Disability programme which supports projects in 50 countries.

Dr. Afzali works in Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, and has helped design strategies to improve health procedures, particularly adolescent health, reproductive health and family planning.

In the institutional category, the Algerian National Population Committee was honoured for its advocacy for a strategic population policy in Algeria, and the National Population and Family Development Board of Malaysia has pushed for socio-demographic research and monitors population trends to create awareness among policymakers.

"Their work highlights the importance of empowering people in the most basic areas of their lives: planning or managing pregnancies, limiting unsafe abortions, practicing responsible sexual behaviour and reversing the deadly tide of AIDS," Ms. Migiro said at the ceremony. "These are the most crucial milestones on the road to prosperity. They remain the ultimate measures of human progress."

In another address, the Deputy Secretary-General underscored that much remains to be done to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

"Some progress has been made, and there are clear signs of hope," she said yesterday in New York, in an address to the 20th annual meeting of the Academic Council on the United Nations System.

"But we still have a long way to go to fulfil the vision underpinning the Millennium Development Goals – a vision of a world with less poverty, hunger and disease; with greater survival prospects for mothers and their infants; with better educated children; with equal opportunities for women; and with a healthier environment," she added.

She observed that Governments have already made "impressive commitments" to support the attainment of the MDGs, and she said that "concerted action now" is crucial in such areas as poverty, health, and education, among others, as this "may mean the difference between success and failure in achieving these critical targets."

Ms. Migiro stressed that rapid progress is a definite possibility when backed by "firm commitments, sound strategies and adequate financing."
2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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SECRETARY-GENERAL RECOMMENDS 6-MONTH EXTENSION OF UN MISSION IN CYPRUS

SECRETARY-GENERAL RECOMMENDS 6-MONTH EXTENSION OF UN MISSION IN CYPRUS
New York, Jun 7 2007 6:00PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has recommended a six-month extension of the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) while pointing out that some are questioning the value it adds in the absence of political progress.

"<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unficyp/index.html">UNFICYP has played an important role in maintaining peace and security in Cyprus," Mr. Ban said in his latest <"http://www.un.org/Docs/journal/asp/ws.asp?m=s/2007/328">report to the Security Council covering the past six months.

At the same, time he observed that, "After 43 years of presence in Cyprus, the value added of UNFICYP, particularly in the absence of significant progress on the political process, is increasingly being questioned by various actors in the international community."

The situation along the ceasefire lines has stayed "generally calm and stable," but he noted security concerns regarding civilians endeavouring to seek their property rights in the buffer zone, disregarding security considerations.

Mr. Ban underscored his "firm belief that the responsibility of finding a solution lies first and foremost with the Cypriots themselves," and said that "it is essential that the parties demonstrate their readiness to match words with deeds through sincere efforts to reach a comprehensive settlement."

Despite the lack of any significant advancement, "the parties have taken small but incremental steps in the right direction," he observed, welcoming the sustained dialogue between representatives of the two leaders regarding bicommunal working groups and technical committees.

He voiced regret that the atmosphere in which the two parties are allowed to engage in bicommunal contacts has not improved substantially, and said he believes an active civil society could aid the political process.
2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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UN HEALTH AGENCY CALLS FOR 'TRANS FAT-FREE AMERICAS'

UN HEALTH AGENCY CALLS FOR 'TRANS FAT-FREE AMERICAS'
New York, Jun 7 2007 6:00PM
The Pan American Health Organization (<"http://www.paho.org/English/DD/PIN/pr070607.htm">PAHO), a regional arm of the United Nations World Health Organization (<"http://www.who.int/en/">WHO), called today for the elimination of industrial trans fats from food supplies throughout the Americas in order to prevent heart attacks.

Citing "conclusive evidence" that consuming trans fats increases the risk of heart disease and possibly the risk of sudden cardiac death and diabetes, nutrition and public health experts convened by PAHO said reducing such consumption by just 2 per cent to 4 per cent of total calories would prevent an estimated 30,000 to 225,000 heart attacks in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The negative effects of trans fats "are completely avoidable through good education and information," said Dr. Ricardo Uauy, President of the International Union of Nutritional Sciences and chairman of a task force on the issue.

Trans fats are found primarily in foods that contain partially hydrogenated oils, whose texture and longer shelf-life make them attractive to food processors, but which have harmful effects on human health, according to the experts.

Research has shown that trans fats contribute to heart disease by raising levels of "bad cholesterol," lowering levels of "good cholesterol," and damaging the cells in the linings of blood vessels, contributing to inflammation and blockage and leading to heart attacks.

The PAHO task force suggested several measures to speed up the process of eliminating trans fats from food in the Americas, including eliminating industrial trans fat from food supplies and promoting unsaturated fats as an alternative.

It also recommended that governments consider mandatory labelling of trans fat content in foods, and that public health advocates work with industry to speed the phasing out of trans fats and to promote healthier oils and fats in foods.

The experts noted that several countries have begun to take action to reduce or eliminate industrially produced trans fats. Canada and the United States both require labelling of trans fat in processed foods and recommend that consumers reduce trans fat consumption to as little as possible. Meanwhile, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Paraguay and Uruguay are all considering proposals to reduce trans fat consumption by their populations.
2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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UN HUMANITARIAN OFFICIAL URGES ACTION TO ADDRESS DISASTERS

UN HUMANITARIAN OFFICIAL URGES ACTION TO ADDRESS DISASTERS
New York, Jun 7 2007 6:00PM
The United Nations Emergency Relief Coordinator today urged action on plans to cope with disasters as delegates from 120 nations meeting in Geneva wrapped up a conference which warned that some of the world's greatest cities are at risk.

"At least half of the countries of the world have started to implement the Hyogo Framework for Action agreed by 168 nations in Kobe, Japan in January 2005. But we want every country to take up the challenge," said John Holmes, Under-Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs, who chaired the Global Platform on Disaster Risk Reduction.

"There is still a huge amount to do," he said. "International effort must concentrate on those countries that are most vulnerable to natural hazards. But, too often, international funding for risk reduction is inadequate and uncoordinated."

Over the past 30 years the number of storms, droughts, and floods has increased threefold and the number of people affected by disasters has increased fivefold, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (<"http://ochaonline.un.org/webpage.asp?Page=873&Lang=en">OCHA).

It said that eight of the world's ten most populous cities are now prone to earthquakes while 1 billion people live in unstable, overcrowded slums. The effects of climate change are expected to increase the risks significantly, OCHA warned.

Tokyo, Mumbai, Shanghai, Jakarta and Dhaka are examples of rapidly-growing cities that are simultaneously vulnerable to earthquakes, cyclones, tsunamis and storm surges, the Office said.

The meeting brought together a wide range of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) involved in emergency relief, development and education. "For the first time," said Mr. Holmes, "everybody – the UN, the NGOs, the private sector, academic institutions, disaster experts and local authorities – are working together."

Among the initiatives launched at the Global Platform is an initiative which will unite three UN agencies and bring new expertise to help nations and communities confront disaster. A Forum for Cities was announced by four UN agencies to address natural hazards and urban vulnerability.

"Disaster risk reduction policies are urgent, necessary, efficient and effective. They are the best tools we have to save lives and assets and are the best investments countries, cities and local communities can make," said Mr. Holmes.
2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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DR CONGO: UN OFFICIAL URGES PROTECTION FOR CIVILIANS CAUGHT IN CONFLICT

DR CONGO: UN OFFICIAL URGES PROTECTION FOR CIVILIANS CAUGHT IN CONFLICT
New York, Jun 7 2007 5:00PM
At a conference of religious leaders in the troubled eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a United Nations humanitarian official has said dialogue among parties is a cornerstone for the protection of civilians caught in the conflict.

Andrew Wyllie, the acting head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (<"http://ochaonline.un.org/webpage.asp?Page=873&Lang=en">OCHA) in the Central African country, repeated his invitation "to those of you who are playing a central role in your communities, who have direct and privileged links with all their members and who have their confidence" to respect humanitarian principles and work towards improving the living conditions of all Congolese.

He spoke at the Conference of Church Leaders, Religious Denominations and Organizations for Peace, Security and Development in the Countries of the Great Lakes Region, which was held form 4 to 6 June in Bukavu, in South Kivu province.

The meeting was organized so participants could discuss the repatriation of armed groups and refugees, and also the sexual violence and other crimes perpetrated against the civilians of the African Great Lakes region.

Regarding the situation in North and South Kivu provinces in the DRC's volatile east, Mr. Wyllie stressed that humanitarian aid must be provided based on the principles of humanity, neutrality, independence, impartiality and in consideration of need. He added that all sides have a responsibility to protect civilians caught in the crossfire.

The worsening security situation caused by armed groups and continuing military operations is hampering the provision of aid to vulnerable populations, particularly those forced to flee their homes, he said.

Welcoming the work of churches in helping those in need, Mr. Wyllie voiced hope that they would partner with humanitarian agencies to advocate with the disagreeing parties.

The Conference was attended by representatives from churches and church associations from Burundi, Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania and the DRC, as well as the Secretary-General's Special Representative for the DRC, Ross Mountain, and the Representative of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (<"http://www.unhcr.org/cgi-bin/texis/vtx/news">UNHCR) in the DRC, Eusebe Hounsokou.
2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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NEARLY A QUARTER OF WORLD'S WORKFORCE CLOCKING 'EXCESSIVE' HOURS - UN REPORT

NEARLY A QUARTER OF WORLD'S WORKFORCE CLOCKING 'EXCESSIVE' HOURS – UN REPORT
New York, Jun 7 2007 5:00PM
A new study by the United Nations labour agency finds that more than one in five workers around the world – over 600 million people – are working "excessively" long hours.

The International Labour Organization (<"http://www.ilo.org/global/About_the_ILO/Media_and_public_information/Press_releases/lang--en/WCMS_082827">ILO) estimates that 22 per cent of the global workforce are still working more than 48 hours a week, "often merely to make ends meet."

The <"http://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---dgreports/---dcomm/documents/publication/wcms_082837.pdf">study, <i>Working Time Around the World: Trends in working hours, laws and policies in a global comparative perspective</i>, spotlights working time in over 50 countries, and for the first time explores the implications for working time policies in developing and transition countries.

"The good news is that progress has been made in regulating normal working hours in developing and transition countries, but overall the findings of this study are definitely worrying, especially the prevalence of excessively long hours," said Jon C. Messenger, Senior Research Officer for the ILO's Conditions of Work and Employment Programme and a co-author of the study.

In the period from 2004 to 2005, Peru topped the list with just over half of its workers (50.9 per cent) putting in long working hours – defined as more than 48 hours per week. Following close behind were the Republic of Korea at 49.5 per cent, Thailand at 46.7 per cent, and Pakistan at 44.4 per cent.

Among developed countries, where working hours are typically shorter, the United Kingdom stood at 25.7 per cent, Israel at 25.5 per cent, Australia at 20.4 per cent, Switzerland at 19.2 per cent, and the United States at 18.1 per cent.

The study points out the positive consequences of shorter hours, including benefits to workers' health and family lives, reduced accidents at the workplace, greater productivity and equality between the sexes.

The study highlights a "gender gap" in working time. It says men tend to work longer average hours than women worldwide, with women working shorter hours in almost every country studied. This is likely due to women bearing the primary responsibility for "unpaid" work in households and caring for family members, including children, the elderly and individuals suffering from diseases such as HIV/AIDS.

Among its recommendations, the study calls for measures that allow workers to devote more time to their families and to have more influence over their work schedules, in order to make formal jobs a possibility for more women.
2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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BAN KI-MOON WELCOMES CLIMATE DEAL STRUCK BY WORLD'S RICHEST NATIONS

BAN KI-MOON WELCOMES CLIMATE DEAL STRUCK BY WORLD'S RICHEST NATIONS
New York, Jun 7 2007 5:00PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon welcomed today's agreement by the "Group of Eight" leading industrialized nations to effectively tackle climate change, and to pursue related negotiations under United Nations auspices.

In a <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2007/sgsm11029.doc.htm">statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban "wholeheartedly welcomes that G8 leaders have agreed on a strong and early action to combat climate change."

As they began their three-day summit in Heiligendamm, Germany, leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States have agreed to seek "substantial" cuts in emissions in an effort to tackle climate change, according to media reports.

Earlier this week, in his <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=2601">message marking <"http://www.unep.org/wed/2007/english/">World Environment Day, Mr. Ban said that developed countries in particular can do more to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and encourage energy efficiency.

"The acceptance by the leaders of their responsibility to act on emission reductions and eventual cuts is to be commended," he said following today's agreement.

The Secretary-General had placed great diplomatic efforts in getting the G8 leaders to acknowledge the central role of the UN and its Framework Convention on Climate Change (<"http://unfccc.int/2860.php">UNFCCC) as the forum for climate change negotiations, his spokesperson said.

Prior to arriving in Germany, he told a <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/offthecuff.asp?nid=1034">press conference in Madrid that the UN, as the only global forum, is uniquely positioned to forge a common approach to combating climate change.

Mr. Ban also welcomed the G8's stated intention to conclude by 2009 negotiations on a replacement for the Convention's Kyoto Protocol, which contains legally binding targets for reducing emissions through 2012.
2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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UN AGENCIES SAY NEW APPROACH MAKING STRIDES IN TACKLING MALNUTRITION

UN AGENCIES SAY NEW APPROACH MAKING STRIDES IN TACKLING MALNUTRITION
New York, Jun 7 2007 2:00PM
An innovative approach to tackling severe acute malnutrition – affecting approximately 20 million children under the age of five globally – is boosting survival rates, United Nations agencies announced jointly today.

According to the UN World Health Organization (<"http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/releases/2007/pr27/en/index.html">WHO), the UN World Food Programme (<"http://www.wfp.org/english/?n=31">WFP), the UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/media/media_39936.html">UNICEF) and the UN Standing Committee on Nutrition, this method combines community-based care with traditional hospital treatment.

Severe acute malnutrition kills roughly one million children yearly, or an average of one child every thirty seconds, and such children are 20 times more likely to die than well-nourished children.

"The 20 million children under five in the world today who are suffering from severe acute malnutrition urgently need treatment," said Margaret Chan, Director-General of WHO. "This integrated approach should provide a new impetus."

The agencies said that three quarters of children with severe acute malnutrition who have good appetites and no medical complications can receive home treatment through highly fortified, ready-to-eat therapeutic foods, known as RUTFs.

Rich in nutrients and energy, RUTFs are tasty, soft and can be eaten by children over six months without adding water, thus reducing the risk of bacterial infection, the agencies said. They allow for severely malnourished youth to be treated at home, and do not require refrigeration. As a further benefit, the technology to produce this food is relatively simple and can be duplicated in countries with high severe acute malnutrition rates.

"Ready-to-use therapeutic foods have proven very effective in addressing severe acute malnutrition in children," said Ann M. Veneman, UNICEF's Executive Director.

On a large scale, this approach could save hundreds of thousands of lives annually and has already been shown to bolster survival rates for children in countries facing emergencies such as Ethiopia, Malawi, Niger and Sudan. It is hoped that the method will spread to severely malnourished children in non-emergency situations as well.

Many families, especially in the poorest countries where the majority of affected children live, do not have easy access to health facilities where children are traditionally referred for in-patient treatment to receive special milk-based diets.

Additionally, many families cannot leave their homes for weeks while their children are being treated in hospitals, and youth are also vulnerable to infections due to their weakened immune systems and also because of crowded hospital conditions.

"With this new approach, we have the right product composition to save millions of young lives – this is an example of the new technology and capacity which bring us closer to achieving the first Millennium Development Goal," WFP Executive Director Josette Sheeran said, referring to the aim of eradicating extreme hunger and poverty by 2015.

In another development, the Food and Agriculture Organization (<"http://www.fao.org/newsroom/en/news/2007/1000592/index.html">FAO) said today in its latest "<"http://www.fao.org/docrep/010/ah864e/ah864e00.htm">Food Outlook" report that, due in part to soaring biofuel demand, the price of food imports has surged, with the poorest countries bearing the brunt.

Marking a 5 per cent increase since last year, expenditures worldwide on imported food will likely exceed $400 billion in 2007, FAO observed.

"The food import basket for the least developed countries in 2007 is expected to cost roughly 90 per cent more than it did in 2000," said FAO economist Adam Prakash. "This is in stark contrast to the 22 per cent growth in developed country import bills over the same period."

The majority of the increase is a result of rising prices of imported coarse grains and vegetable oils, both of which are utilized heavily for biofuel production.

In addition, rising costs for feed ingredients will make meat and dairy products more expensive for import. Freight rates globally have climbed to a record high, further impacting import prices.

Economically vulnerable countries are expected to be hit hardest, with total import expenditures on food by low-income food-deficit nations and least developed countries (LDCs) predicted to soar by 10 per cent from last year.

Although world cereal production has increased at a rate higher than forecast by FAO, the agency warned that total supplies will be barely sufficient to meet the expected surge in demand, not just from food and feed sectors, but also from the biofuel industry.
2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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LEBANON: UN FOOD AGENCY HELPS RUSH AID TO PALESTINIANS DISPLACED BY CAMP VIOLENCE

LEBANON: UN FOOD AGENCY HELPS RUSH AID TO PALESTINIANS DISPLACED BY CAMP VIOLENCE
New York, Jun 7 2007 2:00PM
The United Nations World Food Programme (<"http://www.wfp.org/english/?n=31">WFP) today announced plans to support an emergency operation helping people displaced by clashes in two of the largest Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon.

WFP said in a <"http://www.wfp.org/english/?ModuleID=137&Key=2517">news release that it has deployed three staff to provide help in logistics, communications and coordination of assistance among partners involved in the current operation.

This action came in response to a request from the main UN agency tasked with aiding Palestinian refugees, known as UNRWA, which is seeking $12.7 million to assist an estimated 27,000 people displaced from the Nahr al-Bared camp.

The relief agency estimates that most of the camp's population has fled, seeking shelter with relatives, in <"http://www.un.org/unrwa/news/index.html">UNRWA schools or in the nearby Beddawi camp, where living conditions are now seriously threatened as the population has more than doubled – to 37,000, WFP said. Those still remaining in Beddawi camp are without adequate water and sanitation.

"We are concerned for the safety and welfare of thousands of refugees both inside Beddawi camp as well as those who have fled to other areas; many are still without power, medical help or supplies," said Naila Sabra, WFP's Regional Director for the Middle East, Central Asia and Eastern Europe.

"WFP is working closely with UNRWA and the UN country team to reach those in need," she added.

Since fighting broke out in Nahr al-Bared camp near the northern city of Tripoli on 20 May, thousands of civilians have fled the camp with only the belongings they could carry, according to WFP, which said clashes erupted earlier this week in a second camp, al-Hilwah, near the southern city of Sidon.
2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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BAN KI-MOON RECOMMENDS EXTENSION OF UN FORCE IN GOLAN HEIGHTS

BAN KI-MOON RECOMMENDS EXTENSION OF UN FORCE IN GOLAN HEIGHTS
New York, Jun 7 2007 2:00PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says another six-month extension of the United Nations force observing the ceasefire between Israel and Syria on the Golan Heights is essential given continuing tension in the region.

The situation in the Middle East is likely to remain that way "unless and until a comprehensive settlement covering all aspects of the Middle East problem can be reached," Mr. Ban states in his latest <"http://www.un.org/Docs/journal/asp/ws.asp?m=s/2007/331">report to the Security Council on the UN Disengagement Observer Force (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/undof/index.html">UNDOF), which has for the past 33 years supervised the disengagement accord between Syrian and Israeli forces after the 1973 war.

While acknowledging that the situation in the Israel-Syria sector has remained "generally quiet," he states that the continued presence of the Force "essential."

The Secretary-General recommends that the Council extend the through the end of this year the mandate of the Force, currently made up of just over 1,000 troops from Austria, Canada, India, Japan, Poland and Slovakia.

At the same time, the report draws attention to a funding shortfall facing the Force, with unpaid dues currently amounting to some $1.1 million owed to the Member States that contribute troops. He appeals to all countries to pay their assessments "promptly and in full" and to clear all remaining arrears.

In UNDOF's area of operation, especially in the area of separation, minefields continue to pose a threat to the Force's personnel and local inhabitants, the report notes, cautioning that this threat has increased, owing to the age of the mines and their deteriorating explosives. In addition to carrying out mine clearance, the Force supported the activities of the United Nations Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF) to promote mine awareness among the civilian population.
2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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UN-BACKED FORUM AIMS TO SPREAD TECHNOLOGY KNOW-HOW IN AFRICA

UN-BACKED FORUM AIMS TO SPREAD TECHNOLOGY KNOW-HOW IN AFRICA
New York, Jun 7 2007 11:00AM
A United Nations-backed forum aiming to spread the use of information and communication technology (ICT) in West and Central Africa kicked off today in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

The two-day meeting, called the ICT Best Practices Forum, was organized by the UN Economic Commission for Africa (<"http://www.uneca.org">ECA), the Government of Burkina Faso, the African Development Bank and Microsoft.

This forum is an element of the African Information Society Initiative, and will allow Governments, donors, institutions and other groups from the region to share their experiences.

Government leaders, as well as representatives from international financial organizations, donors, academia and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), are expected to attend.

According to a recent European Union meeting, if all of the innovations in ICT from all African countries were to be compiled in one country, it would be the 12th most technology advanced nation in the world. This finding highlights how African countries have much to learn from both each other and from nations worldwide.

It is hoped that by providing an opportunity to exchange experiences and share successes, the high level of interest in technology in addressed development issues in African can be harnessed.

The forum, which will be replicated in East and Southern Africa over a one-year period, also aims to enhance the effectiveness of Government institutions, as well as allow technology solutions to be diffused in the region.

Microsoft, in concert with its partners, will create a 'best practices' website tailored to Africa to underscore issues discussed at the forums.
2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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ZIMBABWE: UN-BACKED DRIVE AIMS TO VACCINATE 2 MILLION CHILDREN AGAINST POLIO

ZIMBABWE: UN-BACKED DRIVE AIMS TO VACCINATE 2 MILLION CHILDREN AGAINST POLIO
New York, Jun 7 2007 9:00AM
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and its partners are working to vaccinate 2 million children against polio in Zimbabwe, where most families are suffering from deteriorating economic conditions.

The campaign, which was launched on Monday, is "on track to meet its bold targets and is vital for child survival amid the challenges in Zimbabwe today," said UNICEF's Representative in Zimbabwe, Dr. Fest Kavishe. Children will also receive Vitamin A supplements.

UNICEF said in a news release that families in Zimbabwe "are under ever-greater pressure from record high inflation, unemployment and orphan numbers, and severe economic stresses." The country had been declared polio free in 1999 following a massive effort, but Dr. Kavishe warns that now, "the threat of polio remains very real, with recent cases in Botswana and Namibia."

The agency's Head of Health in Zimbabwe, Dr. Colleta Kibassa, said nationwide immunization campaigns are the single most important support towards reducing child illnesses and deaths in Zimbabwe, but cautioned that "past successes have to be maintained and built upon. Our aim must remain to reach all of Zimbabwe's children."

2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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UN REFUGEE AGENCY SPOTLIGHTS PLIGHT OF IRAQI CHRISTIAN COUPLE IN EUROPEAN LIMBO

UN REFUGEE AGENCY SPOTLIGHTS PLIGHT OF IRAQI CHRISTIAN COUPLE IN EUROPEAN LIMBO
New York, Jun 7 2007 9:00AM
The United Nations refugee agency is calling attention to the plight of an Iraqi Christian couple that has been bounced back and forth between European countries while trying to reconnect with their son and other relatives.

While not releasing names in order to protect them, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said in a news release that the pair, who are members of Iraq's embattled Chaldean Christian community, have been in and out of detention centres in Greece and Belgium, where their relatives live with refugee status.

"They are currently being held in the Steenokkerzeel Detention Centre 127-bis near Brussels Airport, unable to communicate with staff, confused about the reasons for their four-month detention and angry about their treatment as asylum seekers," the agency said.

UNHCR, which has called on the Belgian authorities to allow the couple to remain, said their case reflects the problems that many asylum seekers, especially Iraqis, are facing under the European Union's (EU) 2003 Dublin Regulation, which identifies the EU member state responsible for examining an asylum claim.

In practice, the clause often leads to people being held in detention in one European country prior to being sent to another European country considered responsible for their claim. The Iraqi couple have been going back and forth between Greece and Belgium at a time when returning home is not an option.

Originally from Zakho in northern Iraq, the couple lived for 30 years in Baghdad, running a grocery store and raising their four children, according to UNHCR, which said Christians in the capital faced increasing difficulties after the fall of Saddam Hussein. The family fled after armed men raided their home in December 2004 and threatened to kill them if they did not produce $50,000 within 10 days.

In Greece, they were detained for three months on the grounds of illegal entry. They applied for asylum during
in the first instance decision -- as has been the case for the majority of asylum applicants in Greece in recent years, UNHCR said.

Asylum seekers who are served with a negative first instance decision in Greece can usually appeal within 30 days, but this was not possible for the couple because the Mediterranean nation has suspended all decision-making on Iraqi cases at the appeal level since 2003.

In November 2005, the couple paid a human trafficker to bring them to Belgium, where their son is about to become a Belgian citizen. On arrival, they asked for asylum. Again, they were detained and were sent back to Greece, where they were held for two weeks at the airport.

Belgium argued that Greece was responsible for their asylum claim under the Dublin rule. But the regulation also states that a member state can take over processing of a case for humanitarian reasons, particularly those based on family considerations, the refugee agency said.

The Greek authorities again issued an order for the couple to leave the territory -- on the grounds that their case had been ruled on and was now closed. With the help of a local priest, they tried to apply for asylum again. They were told they had only been freed because of their age and must leave the country immediately, even though they had nowhere to go.

Earlier this year, they paid another "agent" to get them back into Belgium and they were detained on arrival at Brussels Airport on 7 February. "They are now hoping that a hearing into their case due on Thursday will end their ordeal and reunite the family," said UNHCR.

The agency estimates that some 2.2 million Iraqis have fled their country since 2003, with most finding refuge in Syria, Jordan and elsewhere in the Middle East. A few have made their way to Europe. Last year, 20,000 Iraqis applied for asylum in EU countries, nearly half of them in Sweden. In Belgium, there were just 695 applications from Iraqis in 2006, and 233 during the first four months of this year.

2007-06-07 00:00:00.000

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SECRETARY-GENERAL TRANSMITS REPORT TO SECURITY COUNCIL ON DARFUR HYBRID FORCE

SECRETARY-GENERAL TRANSMITS REPORT TO SECURITY COUNCIL ON DARFUR HYBRID FORCE
New York, Jun 6 2007 7:00PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has transmitted his revised report to the Security Council regarding the planned hybrid United Nations-African Union (AU) peacekeeping mission for the violence-wracked Darfur region of Sudan.

In his letter to the 15-member Council's President, Mr. Ban wrote that the AU had requested some additional clarifications and revisions to the report, his spokesperson told reporters in New York today.

Based on further consultations with the AU Commission Chairperson Alpha Oumar Konaré, these changes are reflected in the text, she added.

Mr. Konaré will take steps to submit the revised report to the AU Peace and Security Council.

Last November, the Government, the UN and the AU agreed to the creation of a hybrid force in Darfur as the third phase of a three-step process to replace the existing but under-resourced AU Mission in the Sudan (AMIS), which has been unable to end the fighting.

More than 200,000 people have been killed and at least 2 million others displaced from their homes since clashes erupted in 2003 between Government forces, allied Janjaweed militias and rebel groups.

In another development, the number of displaced Sudanese helped by the UN to return home has topped 100,000, according to the UN Mission in Sudan (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unmis/">UNMIS), the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (<"http://www.unhcr.org/cgi-bin/texis/vtx/news">UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (<"http://www.iom.int/jahia/jsp/index.jsp">IOM).

Since last January, more than 55,000 refugees and almost 50,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) have been transported to their places of origin – a remarkable achievement, given that just two years ago flying or even driving between most towns in southern Sudan was impossible.

This milestone represents a significant step towards implementing the January 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement, which ended the decades-long north-south civil war – which is separate from the conflict in the Darfur region.

UNHCR has led all of the refugee operations in the region and has participated in monitoring efforts to ensure that the returnees' concerns have been addressed. In addition, the agency also works with its partners in implementing reintegration programmes involving health, education, water and sanitation, as well as income-generating projects in the main areas where Sudanese are returning.

IOM has provided transportation for all IDPs and many refugees from abroad, while UNMIS has supplied coordination services.

Other UN agencies, including the UN World Food Programme (<"http://www.wfp.org/english/?n=31">WFP) and the UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF), and numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have also contributed to the effort.

Sudan poses challenges to aid workers, with most of the south of the country inaccessible during the June-December rainy season, and IOM has utilized air, river, rail and road corridors to return Sudanese to their homes areas.

However, the UN reported that much remains to be done. Basic services such as the supply of clean water, health care and education are not keeping pace with demand, in spite of assistance from the Government and the international community.

The number of Sudanese refugees in neighbouring countries has dropped significantly since 2004, falling from 515,000 to 270,000. Repatriation operations from the Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have ended. Large-scale returns continue from Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda, with fewer numbers repatriating from Libya and Egypt.
2007-06-06 00:00:00.000

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