NUMBER OF REFUGEES LEAVING THAILAND TO START NEW LIVES PASSES 10,000 - UN

NUMBER OF REFUGEES LEAVING THAILAND TO START NEW LIVES PASSES 10,000 – UN
New York, Jul 27 2007 5:00PM
Since the beginning of the United Nations refugee agency's programme to resolve one of Asia's most protracted refugee problems, over 10,000 refugees have left Thailand to begin new lives in third countries.

Most of the refugees are from neighbouring Myanmar, and fled fighting and oppression in their home country during the past 11 years. A total of 140,000 of the refugees reside in nine camps along the border between the two South-East Asian nations.

"After many years of living in closed camps with limited opportunities for education and no opportunities to work, finally refugees have hope for a new life filled with exciting opportunities in a new country," said Jeffrey Savage, Resettlement Officer in the Bangkok regional office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (<"http://www.unhcr.org/news/NEWS/46a9ef334.html">UNHCR).

Since UNHCR's resettlement scheme kicked off in January 2005, 10,078 refugees have left Thailand.

The United States, which made an open-ended offer in 2005 to receive ethnic Karen refugees from Thai camps, is the destination of choice for nearly half of the refugees. Others have departed Thailand for Australia, Canada, Finland, Great Britain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand and Sweden.

"We are very grateful to the US and other countries for offering these opportunities and for their commitment for durable solutions for these refugees, who do not have the option of settling in Thailand," Mr. Savage said.

"Obviously, most refugees would prefer to go home, but for those from Myanmar, this is unfortunately not a possibility either," he added. "So resettlement is their one durable option."

The number of refugees leaving Thailand is increasing weekly, UNHCR reported. "More than 3,800 Myanmar refugees are scheduled to depart Thailand between now and the beginning of October, and we expect this number to rise even further," the agency's spokesperson Jennifer Pagonis <"http://www.unhcr.org/news/NEWS/46a9c1554.html">told reporters in Geneva.

In addition to those from Myanmar, there is also a small number of refugees from places as far away as Africa who have also left to make new starts in third countries.
2007-07-27 00:00:00.000

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MONTENEGRO MELTS TANKS INTO SCRAP IN UN-BACKED DEMILITARIZATION INITIATIVE

MONTENEGRO MELTS TANKS INTO SCRAP IN UN-BACKED DEMILITARIZATION INITIATIVE
New York, Jul 27 2007 5:00PM
Montenegro, the United Nations' youngest member, has launched a new demilitarization initiative, ultimately aiming to slash nearly 12 thousand tons of heavy weaponry to 2,000 tonnes and cut the number of ammunition depots from 10 to three under a project co-sponsored by the world body.

As a first step, battle tanks used by the Yugoslav National Army (JNA) in the Balkan wars in Bosnia and Croatia in the early 1990s are being melted down for scrap under the Montenegro Demilitarization Programme (MONDEM), a joint project of the Montenegrin Ministry of Defence, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP).

"The Government of Montenegro is to be applauded for this gesture of peace and reconciliation destroying weaponry of the former JNA," UN Interagency Focal Point Garret Tankosic Kelly said.

"Congratulations also to the Ministry of Defence for recognizing that these tanks can better serve Montenegro's development by being melted down and recycled for new and more peaceful purposes."

Supported by the OSCE and UNDP, similar projects were realized in Armenia, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Georgia, Moldova, Tajikistan and Ukraine. Lessons learned from these processes will be integrated into the MONDEM programme with the technical support of the South Eastern and Eastern Europe Clearinghouse for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons.

"By ridding itself of these weapons, Montenegro is taking a crucial step in the reform of its defence forces into an efficient, modern and professional armed force to defend the country as part of a collective defence system," Montenegrin Defence Minister Boro Vucinic said.

The small Balkan country became the UN's 192nd member last year after voting to become independent from Serbia in what was the last unified remnant of Yugoslavia, the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro.
2007-07-27 00:00:00.000

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UN NUCLEAR AGENCY MARKS 50TH BIRTHDAY, MOVING ON MULTIPLE FRONTS

UN NUCLEAR AGENCY MARKS 50TH BIRTHDAY, MOVING ON MULTIPLE FRONTS
New York, Jul 27 2007 4:00PM
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations body whose tasks range from seeking to curb nuclear proliferation and keeping weapons of mass destruction out of terrorists' hands to advancing cancer treatments and searching for underground water, turns 50 this weekend, continually adding to its many exploits.

"Over the past half century of distinguished international service, the IAEA has strived to accelerate and expand its contributions to security and development," Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon said in a congratulatory letter to IAEA Director-General Mohamed ElBaradei. "I applaud the ceaseless efforts made by the IAEA towards this end."

The actual birthday falls on 29 July, marking the day when the IAEA's Statute officially entered into force, but a whole series of anniversary celebrations kicked off months ago in various countries around the world, including special events in the Republic of Korea, Japan, Hungary, and Bulgaria, as well as a pictorial history and a children's painting contest.

The agency is best know around the world for its strategic role in preventing nuclear proliferation, a role that has recently hit the headlines with its efforts in connection with the nuclear programmes of Iran and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

Lesser known, however, are its many other hats, including some which are quite new. Just this year, the IAEA helped an Austrian museum assess damage and identify ways to preserve a stolen Renaissance sculptural masterpiece that was recently recovered.

Acting as a nuclear detective in a little-known sphere, it loaned Vienna's Kunsthistorisches (Art History) Museum an instrument known as X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (or XRF) to examine and uncover hidden truths about a golden salt and pepper cellar (saliera) sculpted by Benvenuto Cellini, which was found buried deep in a forest after being stolen in 2003.

Not many people know that nuclear-based techniques like XRF are used for studying works of art, from Cellini's Saliera to Michelangelo's David. But they have proved their worth in fields ranging from art restoration to archaeology and the preservation of cultural artifacts.

The best feature is that the invisible rays do not destroy or harm the treasured art. Another is its portability. Since any movement to a work of art is potentially catastrophic, the goal of art restorers is to minimize disturbance. And XRF, about the size of an overhead projector mounted on a moveable chassis, can be brought right to the source.

In the field of medicine, the <"http://www.iaea.org/NewsCenter/News/2007/iaeabirhtday.html">IAEA in May put its expertise in nuclear science and radiation to use in Haiti to curtail infant malnutrition and bolster cancer treatment in the poorest country in the in the Western hemisphere.

The agency is using stable and non-radioactive isotopes to identify breastfeeding patterns with mother's milk, which the UN World Health Organization (WHO) recommends as an infant's exclusive food for six months, while at the same time helping to build a national cancer treatment centre equipped with the technology necessary to diagnose and treat the disease.

In other fields, the IAEA is using isotope hydrology as a tool in managing water resources in Africa. Because water contains different isotopes, isotopic dating can be used to estimate the origins and movement of water and determine the availability and capacity of underground aquifers.

In food security, one of the most challenging problems facing Africa, the agency is supporting pest control through the sterile insect technique (SIT), where radiation is used to sterilize otherwise healthy insects, which are then released to mate without producing offspring, thus controlling and gradually eradicating the pest population.

SIT is one of the methods being used to combat the tsetse fly. Trypanosomosis, also known as sleeping sickness, the parasitic disease carried by the fly, is considered a major constraint to sustainable development, affecting both humans and livestock.

But it is in the strategic domain that the agency still captures headlines. Just this month an IAEA inspection team confirmed that the DPRK had shut down five nuclear facilities as part of an agreement to end its atomic weapons programme.

At the same time it announced a forthcoming visit of inspectors to Iran, which the United States, European Union and other countries accuse of harbouring a nuclear weapons programme. Iran denies the charges in the continuing standoff.
2007-07-27 00:00:00.000

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US FIRM TO MANAGE PRECONSTRUCTION PHASE OF UN COMPLEX RENOVATION

US FIRM TO MANAGE PRECONSTRUCTION PHASE OF UN COMPLEX RENOVATION
New York, Jul 27 2007 4:00PM
The United Nations today signed a contract with an American firm which will oversee the preconstruction stage of the seven-year, $1.9 billion refurbishment of the world body's New York Headquarters.

Skanska USA Buildings "was selected in a competitive bidding process involving an extensive technical, contractual and commercial evaluation by the United Nations and independent outside senior industry experts," Alica Bárcena Ibarra, the Under-Secretary-General for Management, said at a press briefing.

Renovations under the UN Capital Master Plan are expected to make the main UN Headquarters buildings more energy efficient and eliminate safety and health risks.

"The signing of this agreement is a major step in making the UN Headquarters a safer and healthier, more secure and more energy efficient place for all of us who work here," including UN staff, diplomats, journalists and the hundreds of thousands of tourists who visit every year, Ms. Bárcena noted.

Characterizing the contract wit Skanska as "one of the most complex contracts ever to be negotiated in the UN," she expressed confidence that all necessary measures were taken to protect the world body's interests.

During the preconstruction phase, Skanska will assess existing design drawings, seek out potential means to save costs and provide detailed cost estimates. After being given the guaranteed maximum price for construction, the UN will come to a decision on awarding the final construction management agreement for the project.

"This will be an enormous project that will touch every one of us who work in this building for many years to come," the Under-Secretary-General noted, adding that it will be "both a headache and a blessing."

She also stressed the importance of safety, with several steps to bolster safety already having been taken, including improving signs throughout UN Headquarters, installing additional emergency lighting, replacing sprinkler heads on the existing sprinkler system and having fire guards patrolling the Secretariat building, among others.

Ms. Bárcena said she has been working closely with the New York City Fire Department and Marjorie Tiven, the city's Commissioner for the UN, to improve the safety of New York's first responders who would come to the aid of Headquarters in an emergency.

Introducing the new Executive Director of the Capital Master Plan, Michael Adlerstein of the United States, to the media, she said his expertise will be a "tremendous asset" to the project. Mr. Adlerstein, who will assume his new role on 30 July, has worked on renovation projects ranging from the New York Botanical Garden to Ellis Island to the Taj Mahal.

"I start next Monday with optimism and enthusiasm that we can execute this project within budget and on schedule," he said.
2007-07-27 00:00:00.000

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SECRETARY-GENERAL ISSUES STRONG CALL FOR ACTION TO COMBAT CLIMATE CHANGES

SECRETARY-GENERAL ISSUES STRONG CALL FOR ACTION TO COMBAT CLIMATE CHANGES
New York, Jul 27 2007 3:00PM
Warning that failure to act on climate change will have grave consequences for all countries, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today in San Francisco called for urgent international action to address the problem within the framework of the United Nations.

"I am not a scientist; I am not an economist, but if you ask any scientist or economist they will tell you the science is clear, the economics are clear," he told a breakfast meeting with staff of the San Francisco Chronicle. "They say action should have been taken yesterday, but it may not be too late if we take it today."

Mr. Ban said the international community has reached "almost the saturation point" on the issue, which the UN "takes very seriously."

The Secretary-General emphasized the toll that climate change is taking on developing countries, pointing out that they do not have the resources to cope that are available in developed States. "It is ironic that those people who have least [contributed] to this cause will have the brunt of serious responsibility [for its consequences]," he said, declaring: "The industrialized countries must help."

Mr. Ban laid out a clear timetable for action. The intergovernmental process includes a meeting of the General Assembly next week as well as the holding of a high-level meeting Mr. Ban will convene in New York on 24 September. Negotiations will begin in December in Bali.

The Kyoto Protocol, the international community's current framework for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, will expire in 2012, and Mr. Ban said a successor pact must be ready for ratification three years before that date to allow countries to make it law in time.

Asked about the role of the United States, Mr. Ban said he had a "very good meeting" on the issue 10 days ago with President George W. Bush, who "now realizes the seriousness" of the problem.

US leadership on climate change will be "very important," said Mr. Ban. The status quo "cannot be an option" for the US, which should, "look beyond its national situation."

All industrialized countries must show leadership on the issue, he said. "They should think about the future, not the present situation"
2007-07-27 00:00:00.000

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DR CONGO: UN REPORT DEPLORES EXCESSIVE USE OF DEADLY FORCE, IMPUNITY IN POLL CLASHES

DR CONGO: UN REPORT DEPLORES EXCESSIVE USE OF DEADLY FORCE, IMPUNITY IN POLL CLASHES
New York, Jul 27 2007 3:00PM
While both the security forces and protestors claiming electoral fraud shared responsibility for deadly violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) earlier this year, the high death toll pointed to an excessive use of lethal force by the army and police, who are now enjoying impunity, the United Nations reported today.

In a report on the clashes in the western Bas-Congo province between security forces and the political-religious group Bundi Dia Kongo (BDK), in which 105 people were killed and at least a further 100 injured, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour called on the authorities to bring to justice all those who had committed crimes.

The authorities should ensure that the trial in appeal of the civilian members of BDK are tried by civilian courts and take appropriate measures to equip the national police so that it could better deal with such events, Ms. Arbour added.

She deplored the impunity being enjoyed by the security forces and the fact that trials of civilians involved were being conducted before military tribunals, a clear violation of international human rights standards.

The violence followed the first democratic elections in the vast country in over four decades, the largest and most complex polls the UN has ever helped to organize, aimed at cementing the DRC's transition to stability after a brutal six-year civil war that cost 4 million lives through fighting and attendant hunger and disease, widely considered the most lethal conflict in the world since World War II.
2007-07-27 00:00:00.000

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UN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COUNCIL ENDS 2007 SUBSTANTIVE SESSION ON HOPEFUL NOTE

UN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COUNCIL ENDS 2007 SUBSTANTIVE SESSION ON HOPEFUL NOTE
New York, Jul 27 2007 2:00PM
The annual four-week substantive session of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (<" http://www.un.org/ecosoc">ECOSOC) – which has been tasked with two new functions this year – concluded in Geneva today, with its President welcoming the revitalized and reformed Council's progress.

ECOSOC's work during this session, which the body's President, Ambassador Dalius Cekuolis of Lithuania, characterized as "successful," will make it "more pragmatic, action-based and action-oriented."

Comprising 54 members elected by the General Assembly, ECOSOC is a UN body which meets yearly to further economic and social cooperation and development. Its mandate was enhanced during the <" http://www.un.org/ga/59/hl60_plenarymeeting.html">UN 2005 World Summit to improve the effectiveness of aid and monitor the implementation of targets – such as the Millennium Development Goals (<" http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals">MDGs), a series of antipoverty targets to be met by 2015 – agreed upon by Member States.

Two new ECOSOC functions – the Annual Ministerial Review and the Development Cooperation Forum – which resulted from the reform process kicked off at the 2005 World Summit were introduced at this year's session.

The 2007 session served as "the testing ground for these new functions," said Ambassador Cekuolis.

"I am very pleased that the general feeling among the Members States is that we had a successful start and we have quite a lot of material to build on."

The Annual Ministerial Review will allow states to share their experiences in overcoming the obstacles encountered in implementing national development strategies. This year, six developing countries made national presentations on their efforts to eradicate poverty and hunger.

Although launched during this year's ECOSOC session, the biennial <" http://www.un.org/ecosoc/newfunct/develop.shtml">Development Cooperation Forum will be convened for the first time in 2008 in New York. The Forum is designed to have a variety of voices – ranging from bilateral donors, UN agencies and bodies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the private sector and academia – heard in discussions on key policy issues affecting the quality and impact of development cooperation.

"ECOSOC remains a very important UN institution for the development agenda," said Ambassador Cekuolis, highlighting its power to convene and mobilize all stakeholders as one of its greatest strengths.

"I am very pleased that this session was marked by very good partnership between the different bodies," he said, adding that ECOSOC's role in promoting cohesion and coordination within the UN system was also vital.

The Council adopted a ministerial declaration by consensus, which signaled the its unanimity in addressing the obstacles to the achievement of the MDGs, especially concerning the eradication of extreme poverty and hunger, and the development of a global partnership for development.
2007-07-27 00:00:00.000

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BAN KI-MOON ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENTS OF THREE TOP UN OFFICIALS

BAN KI-MOON ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENTS OF THREE TOP UN OFFICIALS
New York, Jul 27 2007 2:00PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today announced his intention to appoint three new top officials, with two positions in the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO) and one as head of the world body's Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH).

Edmond Mulet of Guatemala, who currently serves as the Secretary-General's Special Representative in Haiti as well as head of MINUSTAH, will become the Assistant Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, effective 1 September.

Prior to his service to the UN, Mr. Mulet was both a diplomat – having been posted as Ambassador both to the European Union and the United States – and member of Guatemala's National Congress for 12 years.

He will replace Hédi Annabi of Tunisia, who in turn will assume Mr. Mulet's current position in Haiti.

Mr. Annabi, who joined the UN in 1981, has been Assistant Secretary-General for over a decade. Outside of DPKO, he has worked in the Office of Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs in South-East Asia. He was also actively involved in contributing to a comprehensive political settlement in Cambodia as well as the preparations for deploying the UN Transitional Authority (UNTAC) in the country.

The new Assistant Secretary-General for Rule of Law and Security Institutions in DPKO will be Dmitry Titov of Russia.

Since joining the world body in 1991, Mr. Titov has extensive experience in many facts of UN peacekeeping operations, including Angola, and Mozambique. He led the UN team in successful discussions with the Sudanese Government and the African Union on the creation of the Darfur heavy support package and the AU/UN hybrid operation.
2007-07-27 00:00:00.000

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BAN KI-MOON CALLS ON BURUNDIAN GOVERNMENT, REBELS TO AVOID RESUMING HOSTILITIES

BAN KI-MOON CALLS ON BURUNDIAN GOVERNMENT, REBELS TO AVOID RESUMING HOSTILITIES
New York, Jul 27 2007 2:00PM
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today voiced deep concern at the withdrawal of a rebel group in Burundi from arrangements to monitor the ceasefire it signed with the Government last year, calling on both sides to refrain from any actions that might lead to a resumption of hostilities.

In a <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=2686">statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban called on the Palipehutu- FNL, the last rebel hold-out from a peace agreement aimed at ending years of ethnic violence in the small Central African country, to resume its participation in the Joint Verification and Monitoring Mechanism (JVMM) without delay.

He commended the efforts by South Africa, the Regional Peace Initiative on Burundi and the African Union aimed at bringing the Burundi peace process to a successful conclusion and told his Executive Representative for Burundi to continue to work closely with these regional partners.

Last September, the Burundian Government and the Palipehutu-FNL signed an agreement in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania, designed to end 13 years of armed conflict between the Hutu majority and the Tutsi minority.
2007-07-27 00:00:00.000

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UN REPORT HIGHLIGHTS CHILDREN'S VULNERABILITY TO POLLUTION AT DIFFERENT AGES

UN REPORT HIGHLIGHTS CHILDREN'S VULNERABILITY TO POLLUTION AT DIFFERENT AGES
New York, Jul 27 2007 1:00PM
With over 30 per cent of the global burden of disease in children attributable to environmental factors, the United Nations health agency today <" http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/notes/2007/np27/en/index.html">released the first ever report highlighting youngsters' special susceptibility to harmful chemical exposures at different periods of their growth, and the potential effects later in life.

The stage in a child's development when exposure occurs may be just as important as the magnitude of the exposure, according to the UN World Health Organization's (WHO) Principles for Evaluating Health Risks in Children Associated with Exposure to Chemicals, the most comprehensive work yet undertaken on the scientific principles to be considered in assessing such health risks.

Emerging evidence suggests that an increased risk of certain diseases in adults such as cancer and heart disease can result in part from exposures to certain environmental chemicals during childhood.

"Children are not just small adults," WHO's team leader for the Interregional Research Unit Terri Damstra said. "Children are especially vulnerable and respond differently from adults when exposed to environmental factors, and this response may differ according to the different periods of development they are going through.

"For example, their lungs are not fully developed at birth, or even at the age of eight, and lung maturation may be altered by air pollutants that induce acute respiratory effects in childhood and may be the origin of chronic respiratory disease later in life."

Air and water contaminants, pesticides in food, lead in soil, as well many other environmental threats which alter the delicate organism of a growing child may cause or worsen disease and induce developmental problems. Children have different susceptibilities during different life stages, due to their dynamic growth and developmental processes.

Some examples of health effects resulting from developmental exposures prenatally and at birth include miscarriage, still birth, low birth weight and birth defects; in young children, infant mortality, asthma, neuron-behavioural and immune impairment; and in adolescents, precocious or delayed puberty.

The vulnerability of children is increased in degraded environments. Neglected and malnourished children suffer the most. For example, lead is known to be more toxic to children whose diets are deficient in calories, iron and calcium. One in five children in the poorest parts of the world will die before the age of five mainly because of environment-related diseases.
2007-07-27 00:00:00.000

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UN LAUNCHES $129 MILLION APPEAL TO EDUCATE IRAQI CHILDREN WHO HAVE FLED THEIR HOMELAND

UN LAUNCHES $129 MILLION APPEAL TO EDUCATE IRAQI CHILDREN WHO HAVE FLED THEIR HOMELAND
New York, Jul 27 2007 12:00PM
Warning that a generation of Iraqis could grow up uneducated and alienated, the United Nations today launched a $129 million appeal to ensure that tens of thousands of uprooted children who have fled their homeland can resume their education.

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (<"http://www.unhcr.org/cgi-bin/texis/vtx/home">UNHCR) and the UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/media/media_40417.html">UNICEF) jointly presented the plan to support host governments such as Syria, Jordan, Egypt and Lebanon in providing schooling for an additional 155,000 young Iraqi refugees during the 2007-2008 school year.

"These host countries have borne an enormous burden caring for millions of Iraqis," UNHCR's Assistant High Commissioner for Operations Judy Cheng-Hopkins told news conference at the United Nations in Geneva, noting that of the more than 2 million Iraqis have fled the continuing violence in their homeland, some 500,000 are of school age and most currently have limited or no access to education.

"The sheer number of uprooted Iraqis has outstripped the capacity of their infrastructure to cope, particularly in the area of education. So we are now asking for international support specifically aimed at assisting these generous host governments in getting Iraqi children back into school."

The praise for the host countries was echoed by Deputy Director of UNICEF's Office of Emergency Programmes Pierrette Vu. "UNICEF believes schooling is a primary concern in all emergency situations because it can help restore a sense of normalcy to the lives of children and can help them overcome psychological and other forms of distress," she said.

"The Jordanian and Syrian governments have done a tremendous job so far of welcoming Iraqis as guests. The children of Iraq have waited long enough. Action must be taken now so that children are ready to go to school when classes begin."

Activities envisaged in the appeal include providing pre-fabricated classrooms and buildings as soon as possible; identifying existing buildings that can be used as temporary schools; upgrading water and sanitation in schools; building new schools or additional classrooms; and rehabilitating existing schools. Double-shifting in existing schools will be an option.

Buses will be rented or purchased to transport children to school. The appeal estimates more than 4,000 new teachers will be required for the 155,000 additional children. The programme will cover salaries, other entitlements and training costs for the additional teachers.

Many children have already missed have already missed up to three years of schooling and remedial programmes and psycho-social support will be established for them and their families in hopes of reintegrating them in the school system. Training will be provided to school counsellors and teachers to deal with the special needs of Iraqi children, many of whom suffered traumatic experiences.

The appeal notes that of an estimated 300,000 Iraqi school-age children in Syria, only about 33,000 are currently enrolled, although the Government has given them full access to schools. In Jordan, the Government estimates 19,000 Iraqi girls and boys are in school, while at least 50,000 do not attend.

In a related development, the UN World Health Organization (<"http://www.who.int/en">WHO) is convening a meeting of officials from the Health Ministries of Egypt, Iraq, Jordan and Syria in Damascus, Syria, starting Sunday, to discuss how to ensure delivery of health care to the Iraqis who have fled their homeland to neighbouring countries.

"We need to work with all partners to address the key health needs of Iraqis," WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean Hussein A. Gezairy said, noting that the host countries' national health systems are being overwhelmed by the growing demand with thousands of people leaving Iraq every month.
2007-07-27 00:00:00.000

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UN HUMAN RIGHTS CHIEF PRAISES RWANDA'S ABOLITION OF DEATH PENALTY

UN HUMAN RIGHTS CHIEF PRAISES RWANDA'S ABOLITION OF DEATH PENALTY
New York, Jul 27 2007 11:00AM
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour today hailed Rwanda's abolition of capital punishment, calling the decision by a country that has suffered genocide an example for others to follow in the pursuit of justice while repudiating violence in all its forms.

"Abolition in Rwanda sends a very strong message," Ms Arbour <"http://www.ohchr.org/english/press/media.htm">said in a statement. "A country that has suffered the ultimate crime and whose people's thirst for justice is still far from quenched has decided to forego a sanction that should have no place in any society that claims to value human rights and the inviolability of the person. Rwanda is demonstrating leadership by action."

The decision should allow the extradition to Rwanda of persons accused of genocide in order to stand trial in the national courts for the massacres in 1994 of some 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus by Hutu extremists. Many countries refuse to hand over suspects to countries where they may face capital punishment.

"With the promulgation of the law banning the death penalty, Rwanda simultaneously takes an important step forward in ensuring respect for the right to life and makes further progress in bringing to justice those responsible for the heinous crimes of the 1994 genocide," Ms. Arbour said.
2007-07-27 00:00:00.000

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UN BEST-PLACED TO TACKLE GLOBAL PROBLEMS IN TODAY'S WORLD -- BAN KI-MOON

UN BEST-PLACED TO TACKLE GLOBAL PROBLEMS IN TODAY'S WORLD -- BAN KI-MOON
New York, Jul 27 2007 3:00AM
The United Nations is the best-placed organization for tackling problems in today's interconnected world, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today, pledging reform measures to strengthen it further.

"Global problems demand global solutions. And the United Nations is, truly, the world's only global institution," Mr. Ban said in an address to a Town Hall Meeting organized by the World Affairs Council.

He acknowledged polls showing a majority of United States citizens think the UN is "doing a poor job," but pointed out that "these same polls show that even larger majorities -- 74 per cent to be exact -- believe the United Nations should play a larger role in the world."

The Secretary-General, who took office in January, said he remains "very ambitious" in his goals for the world body. "Since day one I have set up my reform goals as my top priority, which includes putting this house in order to make the Organization more efficient, more effective and more relevant in the twenty-first century," he told the approximately 1,300 participants attending a Town Hall meeting at the Fairmont Hotel.

In addition to holding special significance for the UN, San Francisco is the first foreign city Mr. Ban visited in what would turn out to be a lifelong international career. Present in the audience was Mrs. Libba Patterson, who hosted the Secretary-General when he was a visiting student from the Republic of Korea.

"I'm still very moved by what Mrs. Patterson, her husband and their children did for me," he said. "They showered me with affection, love and kindness when I was just a very young Korean student who had never been in a foreign country."

For her part, Mrs. Patterson told the UN News Service that Mr. Ban "is as sincere now as he was when he was 18."

The Secretary-General's trip to San Francisco, cite of the UN's founding, is centered on not only honouring that significant past achievement but also highlighting th
address climate change.

Prior to his address, the Secretary-General visited the War Memorial's Opera House, site of the United Nations Conference on International Organization sessions, as well as the Herbst Theater, where the UN Charter was signed on 26 June 1945. There, he voiced hope that San Francisco's role in forging the UN could be built on by launching new momentum on climate change.

"San Francisco is the birthplace of the United Nations, which was created to save this world from the scourge of war. I'm here to discuss the future of our planet Earth, and this can become the birthplace of a new movement to save it for future generations," he said.

The issue of climate change is expected to feature prominently during meetings tomorrow that the Secretary-General will hold with California Governor Arnold Schwarzeneggar.

2007-07-26 00:00:00.000

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NEPAL: TOP UN ENVOY SAYS CONDUCIVE CLIMATE FOR UPCOMING ELECTIONS CRUCIAL

NEPAL: TOP UN ENVOY SAYS CONDUCIVE CLIMATE FOR UPCOMING ELECTIONS CRUCIAL
New York, Jul 26 2007 7:00PM
The senior United Nations envoy to Nepal said today that while the peace process in the Himalayan nation is on track, it is vital to create a conducive political and security climate for the holding of credible elections next month.

Preparations for the upcoming Constituent Assembly election – slated to be held on 22 November – are underway, but "considerable challenges" remain, Ban Ki-moon's Special Representative for Nepal Ian Martin told reporters in New York after briefing the Security Council.

Although the country's peace process started out focused primarily on ending the conflict between the Maoists and the State, it has become increasingly more complicated as traditionally marginalized groups ask for fair representation in the process, Mr. Martin noted.

"Dialogue with these groups needs to continue to ensure that there is a consensus so that the electoral system will operate fairly so far as all groups are concerned," he said.

While satisfying these groups' concerns will contribute to improving public security, cooperation among local political parties is also crucial.

"I don't believe that public security can be assured by policing alone," said Mr. Martin, who also heads the UN Mission in Nepal (UNMIN).

Since the Nepalese police are "significantly demoralized, political parties have to cooperate amongst themselves to create a situation in which they respect each other's rights to campaign and to avoid the intimidation of voters," he added.

Hoping to take full advantage of the international presence in the country both before and during the election, the Government and the Election Commission have invited as many international observers as possible, he said. <"http://www.un.org.np/unmin.php">UNMIN itself is also increasing its presence in Nepal.

Regarding the second stage of registration at Maoist cantonment sites, Mr. Martin noted that there have been difficulties. However, after discussions with Maoist Chairman Prachanda, there is now an "agreement in principle to proceed."

In a related development, the UN World Food Programme (<"http://www.wfp.org/english/?n=31">WFP) and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (<"http://www.fao.org/newsroom/en/news/2007/1000634/index.html">FAO) warned that over a million people in Nepal are in danger of food insecurity after a series of natural disasters have wreaked havoc on crop production.

According to a <"ftp://ftp.fao.org/docrep/fao/010/ah869e/ah869e00.pdf">joint report, prolonged drought, hail storms and flooding in the most agriculturally productive areas has led to a grain deficit 225,000 metric tons, with 42 of the country's 75 districts reported to be food deficient.

"This is particularly troubling during this highly sensitive post-conflict period," said Richard Ragan, WFP's representative in Nepal.

He added that those living in the remote areas of mid- and far-western Nepal are suffering as a result of consecutive years of drought and enduring impacts of the 11-year insurgency.

WFP hopes to reach 1.2 million people through a new $49 million Peace and Recovery Programme, and appeals to donors for support.

"The process of national reconciliation can only make headway if the whole country shares in improved access to food and markets, lower rates of malnutrition and a determined risk management strategy for food security," said Henri Josserand, Chief of the FAO Global Information and Early Warning System.

The report recommends bolstering irrigation availability, strengthening the Government's agricultural monitoring systems and providing immediate food support for drought and conflict-affected communities.
2007-07-26 00:00:00.000

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BAN KI-MOON TO MEET WITH LEADERS OF HAITI AND BARBADOS NEXT WEEK

BAN KI-MOON TO MEET WITH LEADERS OF HAITI AND BARBADOS NEXT WEEK
New York, Jul 26 2007 6:00PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will meet with Government officials, civic leaders and United Nations staff during official visits to Haiti and Barbados next week, a spokesperson for the world body announced today.

While in Haiti, Mr. Ban plans to meet with President René Préval and visit the Port-au-Prince headquarters of the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH), UN Spokesperson Marie Okabe said at a press briefing.

He is expected to travel to Cité Soleil, where he is scheduled to visit a water tower repaired by MINUSTAH and meet with the neighbourhood's mayor. Also on Mr. Ban's agenda are meetings with the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, as well as with leaders from civil society, political parties and the private sector. He is scheduled to hold discussions with the Commission of Justice Reform.

In Barbados, which holds the current chairmanship of the Caribbean regional cooperation body known as CARICOM, Mr. Ban will meet with the Prime Minister, Foreign Minister and the Governor General, as well as with the UN country team, Ms. Okabe said.
2007-07-26 00:00:00.000

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UN RUSHES AID TO FLOOD-HIT SOUTHERN SUDAN

UN RUSHES AID TO FLOOD-HIT SOUTHERN SUDAN
New York, Jul 26 2007 5:00PM
United Nations humanitarian agencies are rushing food and health kits to southern Sudan where heavy rainfall in recent days has affected nearly 10,000 people, some of whom have sought shelter in public buildings.

The UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF) has so far helped distribute 1,500 kits of non-food items, including anti-diarrhoea medicines and oral rehydration salt, along with 15-day supplies of food rations from the UN World Food Programme (<"http://www.wfp.org/english/">WFP), UN spokesperson Marie Okabe told a news briefing. An additional 600 survival kits are on their way to the area by barge.

UNICEF has also provided drugs for distribution by mobile clinics, and the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (<"http://ochaonline.un.org/">OCHA) is preparing a Flash Appeal, which it expects to launch next week.
2007-07-26 00:00:00.000

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TIMOR-LESTE: UN TO BOYCOTT TRUTH PANEL UNLESS IT BARS AMNESTY FOR GROSS ABUSES

TIMOR-LESTE: UN TO BOYCOTT TRUTH PANEL UNLESS IT BARS AMNESTY FOR GROSS ABUSES
New York, Jul 26 2007 4:00PM
United Nations officials will boycott a commission set up jointly by Indonesia and Timor-Leste to foster reconciliation after the latter's bloody struggle for independence, unless it is precluded from recommending amnesty for crimes against humanity and other gross violations of human rights.

UN policy "is that the Organization cannot endorse or condone amnesties for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes or gross violations of human rights, nor should it do anything that might foster them," Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's spokesperson <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2007/sgsm11101.doc.htm">said today. "It is the firm intention of the Secretary-General to uphold this position of principle."

Spokesperson Marie Okabe noted that the Commission of Truth and Friendship (CTF), established by the two countries in 2005, had on several occasions invited former staff members of the UN Mission in East Timor (UNAMET), including former Special Representative of the Secretary-General Ian Martin, to testify at its proceedings.

But the CTF's terms of reference into the bloodshed that followed Timor-Leste's vote for independence from Indonesia in 1999, and in which nine local UN personnel were killed, do not preclude it from recommending amnesty "in respect of acts that constitute a crime against humanity, a gross violation of human rights or a serious violation of international humanitarian law," she added.

"Unless the terms of reference are revised to comply with international standards, officials of the United Nations will, therefore, not testify at its proceedings or take any other steps that would support the work of the CTF and thereby further the possible grant of amnesties in respect of such acts," she said.

Today's statement follows a report to the Security Council last August from then-Secretary-General Kofi Annan in which he said that it "would be deeply regrettable, however, if the reconciliation process foreclosed the possibility of achieving accountability." Ms. Okabe said that report "clearly outlined" the UN's position.

"Though it will not take part in the process, the United Nations is informed about the ongoing proceedings of the CTF and wishes, therefore, to also take this opportunity to say that it stands unequivocally by the exemplary work of UNAMET during the popular consultation in 1999 and throughout the course of its mandate," she noted.
2007-07-26 00:00:00.000

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UN APPEALS TO PARTIES IN SIERRA LEONE TO AVOID INCITEMENT TO VIOLENCE AHEAD OF POLLS

UN APPEALS TO PARTIES IN SIERRA LEONE TO AVOID INCITEMENT TO VIOLENCE AHEAD OF POLLS
New York, Jul 26 2007 4:00PM
The United Nations today appealed to all political parties in Sierra Leone to avoid inflammatory or provocative remarks that could lead to disturbances ahead of next month's presidential and parliamentary elections, the second since the small West African country emerged from a disastrous decade-long civil war in 2002.

"You must all be aware of recent incidents of political violence," Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's Executive Representative, Victor Angelo, told the opening session of the National Youth Dialogue Conference.

"Continued occurrences of this nature are without doubt most unhelpful for the elections and I would like to use this forum to request political parties to dissociate themselves from all forms of political violence. The political leaders have a special responsibility and should guide their supporters," he added.

Mr. Angelo pledged that the UN and its international partners "will support all efforts to ensure that the elections are transparent, credible and free of any forms of violence.

"The support of the political parties, civil society, the media and all segments of the Sierra Leone society, particularly its youths, in achieving this goal is necessary," he added, noting that 55 per cent of the 2.6 million registered voters are between the ages of 18 and 32.

"Young people, who, as is often said, are the future, will have an enormous influence on the outcome of the elections," he declared, calling on the country's young people to contribute to the electoral process by ensuring that they vote and by "not allowing themselves to be manipulated by anybody."

"I urge all youths to avoid all forms of conduct that could result in a breach of the peace or a breakdown of law and order."

Sierra Leone is one of the first beneficiaries of the UN's new Peacebuilding Fund, launched last October to ensure that countries emerging from war and conflict do not relapse back into strife. Earlier this month the Fund approved four new projects to support the ongoing electoral process and improve the judiciary, water, sanitation and health facilities.
2007-07-26 00:00:00.000

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UN HELPS INDONESIA SET UP RAPID RESPONSE TEAMS TO CONTROL SPREAD OF BIRD FLU

UN HELPS INDONESIA SET UP RAPID RESPONSE TEAMS TO CONTROL SPREAD OF BIRD FLU
New York, Jul 26 2007 2:00PM
Without involving rural communities in the fight against bird flu, Indonesia will not be able to control the highly contagious disease, which has ravaged millions of poultry and already killed more humans in the archipelago than anywhere else in the world, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (<"http://www.fao.org/newsroom/en/news/2007/1000631/index.html">FAO) warned today.

In an effort to control the H5N1 virus, which experts fear could spark a lethal global human pandemic, FAO has helped to train teams of local veterinarians and para-veterinarians in participatory disease surveillance and response (PDS/R) techniques in a country that numbers 240 million people spread over 6,000 islands.

"Almost four years after the first outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Indonesia and more than 80 human deaths, there is still an urgent need for community members to be involved in the detection and reporting of sick and dead poultry," the agency said in an update.

Veterinarians and paravets are engaging community members, tapping into their local knowledge and involving them in control efforts. Villagers are also trained to detect and report bird flu cases in poultry and be responsible for their own safety and that of their families.
FAO is planning to extend the training of more PDS/R teams at local government level.
"We will be expanding PDS/R further to cover Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi and Papua," James McGrane, FAO Indonesia's Avian Influenza Team Leader, said.

"There is no room for complacency: as long as the virus continues to circulate in Indonesia the risk to humans remains," he added. "Indonesia still has a long way to go to control the H5N1 virus. But the country has taken a major step forward in promoting village disease surveillance and response.

"This could be a strategy that other affected countries might also want to consider. Working with local communities not only provides crucial data on how the disease is spreading but also mobilizes affected communities in Indonesia's control efforts."

Surveillance and response teams are currently operating in 168 out of the 444 districts. So far 1,200 officers have been trained. PDS/R capacity has been established in all districts of Java, and in the provinces of Bali, North Sumatra and Lampung, home to almost 70 per cent of the population. Provincial PDS/R capacity has also been established in all provinces of Kalimantan and Sulawesi.

"Villagers are like detectives in the field. They are directing us to areas where there are H5N1 outbreaks among poultry," Ibu Azmiyati, a veterinarian with Tangerang district Livestock Services Department, said. "Without the help of the communities, we would be lost. There are simply too many backyard farmers and village households," she said.

Around 60 per cent of all Indonesian households keep an estimated 300 million birds in their backyards.

To date, 319 people from a dozen countries have been infected with the virus, of whom 191 have died, nearly all of them believed to have been infected by poultry. But experts fear the virus could mutate to easy human-to-human transmission. The so-called Spanish flu pandemic of 1918-1920, which spread easily between humans, is estimated to have killed from 20 million to 40 million people.
2007-07-26 00:00:00.000

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UN REFUGEE AGENCY DEPLORES REPORTED FORCED RETURN OF IRAQIS BY TURKEY

UN REFUGEE AGENCY DEPLORES REPORTED FORCED RETURN OF IRAQIS BY TURKEY
New York, Jul 26 2007 2:00PM
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is seeking urgent clarification from Turkish authorities on reports that over 100 Iraqis – some of whom may have been seeking asylum – have been forcibly returned to their country this week.

Considering the current situation in Iraq, <"http://www.unhcr.org/news/NEWS/46a8aec30.html">UNHCR said it is extremely concerned for the safety of the 135 individuals, on whose whereabouts there is no information currently available.

Last December, UNHCR issued an advisory recommending that countries should not forcibly return any Iraqi from the centre or south of the country until there was a substantial improvement in security and human rights in the country. The agency also advised against returns to the three northern governorates of people not originating from there.

The 135 were apprehended in Urla, near the city of Izmir, earlier this month as part of a larger group of some 500 people – most of them Iraqis, Palestinians, Sri Lankans and Afghans – who were about to depart Turkey irregularly.

UNHCR said that it understood that some of those deported had made an asylum claim. "If this is confirmed, the deportations would be a clear violation of the principle of non-refoulement, under which no refugee or asylum seeker whose case has not yet been properly assessed, can be forcibly returned to a country where their life or liberty may be at risk," the agency said in a statement.

"Refoulement is explicitly prohibited by the 1951 UN Refugee Convention and it is also contrary to international customary law," it added.

UNHCR is seeking urgent clarification from the Government of Turkey on the events surrounding the deportation, and further information on the fate of the deportees. It also seeks assurances that in the future, those needing international protection will be treated in full respect of Turkey's international and national legal obligations.

At the same time, UNHCR requested that Turkey admit into the asylum procedure the claims of those in the remaining group who expressed fear to return to their country of origin.

The agency said it was pleased that Turkey has agreed to conduct a joint screening exercise with UNHCR to identify those in the group who wish to apply for asylum.

Last December, UNHCR issued an advisory on the international protection needs of Iraqis outside their country, which was shared with the Turkish Foreign Ministry. The agency noted the overall situation in Iraq was characterized by "generalized violence in which massive, targeted violations of human rights are prevalent."
2007-07-26 00:00:00.000

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SECRETARY-GENERAL VOICES SHOCK AND SADNESS OVER BOMB ATTACK ON IRAQI SOCCER FANS

SECRETARY-GENERAL VOICES SHOCK AND SADNESS OVER BOMB ATTACK ON IRAQI SOCCER FANS
New York, Jul 26 2007 2:00PM
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today said that he was "shocked and saddened" over two bomb attacks reportedly claiming the lives of over 50 innocent civilians celebrating the Iraqi national football team's "inspiring victory" in the Asian Games.

"The Secretary-General condemns this particularly reprehensible act which came at a moment when all of Iraq had joined together to celebrate the success of their nation," Mr. Ban's spokesperson said in a <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=2683">statement.

He also hopes that Iraqis will not be daunted by this "despicable act" and that they will come together in the spirit of national unity symbolized by their national football team."
2007-07-26 00:00:00.000

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ACTOR EWAN MCGREGOR ON UNICEF-BACKED MOTORCYCLE RIDE THROUGH AFRICA

ACTOR EWAN MCGREGOR ON UNICEF-BACKED MOTORCYCLE RIDE THROUGH AFRICA
New York, Jul 26 2007 11:00AM
United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Goodwill Ambassador and Scottish actor Ewan McGregor is riding his motorcycle from northern Scotland to the southernmost tip of Africa to raise awareness of the plight of vulnerable children.

Mr. McGregor and fellow actor Charley Boorman will <"http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/ethiopia_40390.html">make several stops, to countries such as Uganda and Malawi, as part of the Long Way Down journey.

This is not the first lengthy ride for the two friends: their first long-distance biking trip – called Long Way Round – was in 2004, where they rode from London to New York, stopping to participate in UNICEF projects in Mongolia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan along the way.

On this recent trip, Mr. McGregor and Mr. Boorman have met with children who have lost limbs to landmines in the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia. After a two-year displacement due to the 1998-2000 Ethiopia-Eritrea war, hundreds of thousands of people returned to Tigray to find their homes, lands and schools heavily mined.

"Educating children about landmines is so vital for children's futures," said Mr. McGregor. "With landmines and unexploded ordnance lying in homes, fields, rivers and schools in Ethiopia and other countries, I can really see how UNICEF's Mine Risk Education is an essential life-saving intervention."

Their next stop will be in Uganda, where they will meet children impacted by conflict and see firsthand UNICEF's work in aiding the displaced through the building of temporary schools, the provision of safe and clean water, the creation of child-friendly areas and the running of large-scale immunization campaigns.

Mr. McGregor and Mr. Boorman will also meet former child soldiers whom UNICEF is helping to return to civilian life and reconnect with their families.

In Malawi, where nearly one million adults are living with HIV/AIDS, the actors will visit Children's Corners, which are childcare centres which distribute food and provide basic education to children.

Since visiting several of these centres in 2005, Mr. McGregor has endeavoured to raise money for them, while Mr. Boorman has visited and raised funds for similar places in Swaziland in 2006.

More information on their trip can be found at <"http://www.unicef.org.uk/longwaydown/">http://www.unicef.org.uk/longwaydown.

2007-07-26 00:00:00.000

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FIRST ZAMBIAN DONATION TO UN FOOD AGENCY AVERTS CUTS IN FOOD AID

FIRST ZAMBIAN DONATION TO UN FOOD AGENCY AVERTS CUTS IN FOOD AID
New York, Jul 26 2007 11:00AM
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) today welcomed its first ever contribution of food from the Zambian Government -- a <"http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/RWB.NSF/db900SID/LSGZ-75GJ74?OpenDocument&rc=1&cc=zmb">donation of 10,000 metric tons of maize worth $2.5 million -- that will allow hundreds of thousands of vulnerable Zambians to keep receiving crucial food assistance beyond September.

"WFP is extremely grateful for this very generous and very timely donation from the Zambian Government, which will avert any immediate cuts to our assistance operations in Zambia," said David Stevenson, <"http://www.wfp.org/country_brief/indexcountry.asp?country=894">WFP Country Director in Zambia.

"The contribution provides a lifeline for vulnerable people across the country, including thousands of AIDS patients, orphans and their families," he added.

While Zambia has enjoyed good harvests for the past three years, a combination of localized crop failures, crippling poverty and the impact of HIV/AIDS has left hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people in need of food assistance.

Without this substantial donation, WFP would have been forced to halt its remaining food assistance programmes for 370,000 Zambians by the end of September.

Funding constraints already forced the agency to reduce the number of beneficiaries in Zambia from 500,000 to 370,000 in June.

Further cuts would have left patients on anti-retroviral therapy or enrolled in home-based care programmes without the food that they need to survive and left their families – as well as many households caring for orphans – with no way of providing enough food for themselves.

WFP would also have been unable to resume its critical school feeding operation when the new term kicks off in September, leaving 126,000 orphans and vulnerable children without access to sufficient food and with no extra incentive to turn up for class.

The agency noted, however, that it still needs another $10 million for its operations to continue until the end of 2007.

"The Zambian Government has always valued WFP's work and this donation will help to keep our food aid flowing for a couple more months," said Mr. Stevenson. "Together with the Zambian Government, we urge other donors to come forward urgently so WFP is not forced to make huge cuts later in the year."
2007-07-26 00:00:00.000

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BAN KI-MOON TRAVELS TO SAN FRANCISCO FOR VISIT TO HISTORIC UN SITES

BAN KI-MOON TRAVELS TO SAN FRANCISCO FOR VISIT TO HISTORIC UN SITES
New York, Jul 26 2007 11:00AM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is headed to San Francisco, California, today on a professional and personal visit to sites connected with the founding of the United Nations as well as the first home he stayed in outside of his native South Korea in what would eventually become a lifelong diplomatic career.

During his two-day stay in the city, the Secretary-General will hold official meetings focused on the issue of climate change -- a key priority of his administration -- but his first stop after landing is a town called Novato, where he will be reunited with 90-year old Lib Patterson, the woman who, in 1962, hosted the young Ban Ki-moon on his first trip overseas, as a visiting student.

Over the 45 years they have known each other, Mr. Ban and Mrs. Patterson have met on both sides of the Pacific. Their last encounter was in San Francisco in 2006, before Mr. Ban was elected Secretary-General.

From Novato, he is scheduled to return to San Francisco for a tour of the Ferry Building, a marketplace specializing in local, organic produce, before proceeding to the War Memorial's Opera House and Herbst Theater where the UN Charter was signed in 1945.

Gregory Ridenour, the site's Assistant Managing Director, said its roots in conflict and connection to peace hold special significance. "The War Memorial and Opera House were built to honour the San Franciscans who served in World War I, and then to have the UN delegates come here with the idea of forming an organization that would lessen the likelihood of repeating that war I think is a nice balance to the two purposes of the building," he told the UN News Service.

The Secretary-General will later attend a Town Hall Meeting and Reception organized by the World Affairs Council, where officials say his keynote address will focus on the importance of the United Nations in addressing today's global challenges.

Evan Morrisey, Program Coordinator of Global Policy Programmes of
Association of the United States of America (UNA-USA), said Mr. Ban's visit comes at a critical juncture. "It's a really important time for the UN and the Secretary-General himself and this new administration to come out and meet with the American people and spread knowledge not only of the UN but also of the Secretary-General's priorities here in San Francisco," he said.

Mr. Ban's Town Hall meeting speech, officials say, will address the issue of climate change, also the subject of his programme tomorrow with California Governor Arnold Schwarzeneggar.

2007-07-26 00:00:00.000

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UN WILL NOT TURN 'BLIND EYE' TO PEACEKEEPERS' MISCONDUCT, VOWS UN OFFICIAL

UN WILL NOT TURN 'BLIND EYE' TO PEACEKEEPERS' MISCONDUCT, VOWS UN OFFICIAL
New York, Jul 25 2007 7:00PM
A senior United Nations official today stressed that the world body is doing its utmost to get to the bottom of recent allegations of misconduct against peacekeepers in Côte d'Ivoire and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), pledging to hold all personnel to the highest standards of behaviour.

"We are not turning a blind eye to any activity anywhere," said Jane Holl Lute, who is Officer-in-Charge of the Department of Field Support, a new department created to work with the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO).

"When investigations are conducted and it is demonstrated that the allegations are founded, we will take action," she stated at a <"http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs/2007/070725_Lute.doc.htm">press conference in New York.

The world body has imposed a zero-tolerance policy against sexual abuse and exploitation in response to numerous allegations of misconduct by UN peacekeeping forces around the world. Ms. Lute emphasized that zero tolerance means "zero complacency" and "zero impunity."

Last week, the Moroccan contingent serving with the UN Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI) was suspended amid allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse involving the local population. A preliminary report, submitted by the <"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unoci/index.html">UNOCI Conduct and Discipline Team, had shown "a solid basis for investigation."

The UN Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) is finalizing its investigation into the matter and its report is expected to be finalized this week. In addition, a joint investigative team will arrive in Abidjan next week to conduct a detailed investigation into all of the allegations raised.

Various allegations of serious misconduct have also been levelled recently against UN personnel serving with the world body's mission in the DRC, known by its French acronym <"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/monuc/index.html">MONUC. The UN has deployed a management audit team to look into the matter and to evaluate management processes to ensure that the Mission is aware of the activities of all its various segments.

While the UN is determined to act on the findings of the investigations, she stressed that the world body is "limited" in the action it can take, adding that it relies "on our partners, the troop contributing countries."

She noted that the Government of Morocco has reaffirmed its support for the zero-tolerance policy to the UN and that it remains "committed to working with us, not only through this joint investigation but following through on enforcement action and future steps ahead."

"We cannot do this alone," she stressed. "We rely deeply on the troop contributing countries and the commitment of their national capitals to make this real and not just a theoretical exercise."

In that regard, she announced that an extraordinary meeting with those countries will be held tomorrow at which she would request the opportunity to visit their capitals to hear their ideas, to make sure that everyone was aware of what the standards were and that commanders where carrying out their responsibilities regarding order and discipline.

She stressed that the "vast majority" of peacekeeping personnel conducts themselves with dignity and respect, adding that "when one person misbehaves, it threatens the reputation of us all." The UN will work with troop contributing countries on that matter, she added.

Highlighting initiatives taken by the UN to address misconduct, she mentioned that Member States had recently approved the establishment of a Conduct and Discipline Unit at UN Headquarters in her Department.

In addition, a UN anti-prostitution campaign has been developed and is now ready for testing in Timor-Leste, while the General Assembly is considering a victim's assistance programme, she said.
2007-07-25 00:00:00.000

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LEBANON: UN BLUE HELMET KILLED WHILE CLEARING UNEXPLODED ORDNANCE

LEBANON: UN BLUE HELMET KILLED WHILE CLEARING UNEXPLODED ORDNANCE
New York, Jul 25 2007 6:00PM
A peacekeeper serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) died today from the explosion of ordnance, a spokesperson for the world body said.

The incident occurred when a <"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unifil/index.html">UNIFIL team was clearing unexploded ordnance in a valley south of Shama.

UN spokesperson Marie Okabe told reporters in New York that UNIFIL medical and explosives teams were sent to the location immediately, and an investigation is underway.
2007-07-25 00:00:00.000

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UN NUCLEAR WATCHDOG AGENCY ANNOUNCES UPCOMING VISIT TO IRAN

UN NUCLEAR WATCHDOG AGENCY ANNOUNCES UPCOMING VISIT TO IRAN
New York, Jul 25 2007 6:00PM
The United Nations International Atomic Energy Agency (<"http://www.iaea.org/NewsCenter/News/2007/arakvisit.html">IAEA) said that its inspectors will visit Iran's Arak reactor early next week, ahead of further talks planned for next month.

The announcement came yesterday in Vienna after discussions between senior IAEA officials and an Iranian delegation as part of efforts to resolve outstanding issues pertaining to the country's past nuclear programme and to clarify safeguards implementation issues.

IAEA Deputy Director General for Safeguards Olli Heinonen told reporters that during the August meeting, the agency will discuss plutonium contamination and other outstanding issues.

"In the weeks to come, we will then talk about other outstanding issues that are related to Iran's enrichment programme," he said.

Javad Vaeedi, head of the Iranian delegation and Under-Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Council, said that during yesterday's meeting, "good discussions were held and constructive progress was made."
2007-07-25 00:00:00.000

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PROSECUTOR FOR UN YUGOSLAV TRIBUNAL CALLS FOR APPREHENSION OF FUGITIVES

PROSECUTOR FOR UN YUGOSLAV TRIBUNAL CALLS FOR APPREHENSION OF FUGITIVES
New York, Jul 25 2007 6:00PM
On the 12th anniversary of the first indictment against two Bosnian Serb leaders charged with genocide and crimes against humanity, the Prosecutor of the United Nations International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) today reiterated her call for their apprehension.

The fact that Ratko Mladic and Radovan Karadžic remain at large is a "permanent shadow not only on the work of this Tribunal, but also on the international community as a whole," Prosecutor Carla Del Ponte said in a statement.

According to ICTY evidence, the two men were involved in the Srebrenica genocide, where nearly 8,000 men and boys were killed. They are also charged with inflicting terror on civilians during the Sarajevo siege and participated in torture and murders in detention camps.

"The fact that two of the most notorious war crimes indictees are still able to evade justice is simply unacceptable," Ms. Del Ponte stated.

She characterized their crimes as the worst "known to humanity" and the worst "committed in Europe since World War II."

Ms. Del Ponte urged Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina – especially the Republika Srpska entity – and Montenegro to expend full effort to locate and arrest Mr. Mladic, Mr. Karadžic and the remaining fugitives.

The Prosecutor also appealed to the international community and "all States who believe in the importance of international justice and the rule of law" to continue their support for the Tribunal.

"We must remain strong and vigilant in our pursuit because this is what we owe to the thousands upon thousands who perished at the hands of Karadžic, Mladic and their subordinates," she said.
2007-07-25 00:00:00.000

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MIDDLE EAST: UN ENVOY VOICES OPTIMISM ON RECENT POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS

MIDDLE EAST: UN ENVOY VOICES OPTIMISM ON RECENT POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS
New York, Jul 25 2007 5:00PM
The United Nations Middle East envoy today voiced optimism on recent political developments, most notably the re-engagement of the international community and Israel with the Government of Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad.

Such developments give "cause for hope," said UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Michael Williams, addressing an <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2007/sc9085.doc.htm">open meeting of the Security Council.

"There has been a promising start to the new relationship of Prime Minister [Ehud] Olmert, President [Mahmoud] Abbas and Prime Minister Fayyad," he said.

"Most encouraging is that on 16 July, President Abbas and Prime Minister Olmert had a very positive bilateral meeting which touched on final status issues, their first meeting in three months," Mr. Williams told the 15-member Council.

Also on 16 July, United States President George W. Bush announced, in a key speech, a series of measures and support for the Palestinian Government, which will culminate in a meeting this fall to be chaired by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

All parties must fulfil their Road Map commitments, which will "hopefully be an important step to begin bilateral negotiations for a just and lasting peace," he said.

While Israel must remove West Bank checkpoints, dismantle outposts and freeze settlement expansion, President Abbas should continue efforts to halt violence, disarm Palestinian militias and reform Palestinian institutions, Mr. Williams noted.

"Fulfilment of these commitments would constitute solid foundations for the international meeting this autumn, which will hopefully be an important step to begin bilateral negotiations for a just and lasting peace," he said.

Mr. Williams also mentioned last week's meeting of the diplomatic Quartet on the Middle East – comprising the UN, European Union, Russian Federation and United States – which marked its first gathering with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair as its special envoy.

However, in spite of the "impressive diplomatic momentum," such "positive developments are offset by a problematic and increasingly complex reality on the ground, where violence continues," he said.

In the current reporting period, Mr. Williams said there were over 20 incidents of Palestinian attacks against the Gaza crossings and into Israel, and noted that Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has continually condemned Palestinian rocket fire which causes injuries and damage to civilians and hampers the delivery of assistance to the people of Gaza.

He also told the Council that, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (<"http://ochaonline3.un.org/">OCHA), Israeli military actions continued during the reporting period. "The IDF [Israeli Defence Forces] continued targeted killings in Gaza," the envoy said. He encouraged Israel "to cease these operations, and to hand over security control of the West Bank to the Palestinian Authority."

Turning to the humanitarian situation, Mr. Williams said that "it is important that the people of Gaza are not punished for the Hamas takeover," and that re-opening the crossings to prevent the complete collapse of Gaza's economy is crucial.

Despite efforts to provide relief supplies, "it is clear that humanitarian assistance alone will not be sufficient to stop the decline in the economy that is currently unfolding due to the interruption of regular commercial flows to and from the Gaza Strip," he told the Council.

"A solution led by President Abbas is an urgent necessity," Mr. Williams said.

"In the longer-term, Gaza and the West Bank cannot remain separated," he added. "There is only one future Palestinian State, and it encompasses both the West Bank and the Gaza Strip."

He also highlighted the plight of the roughly 6,000 Palestinian refugees who are not able to move back to the Gaza Strip from Egypt, and called on all parties to act promptly to speed the return of the displaced.

On Lebanon, Mr. Williams said the county "continues to face a precarious political and security situation," with no concrete change in the positions of the parties leading to the political impasse remaining.

The fighting – which started on 20 May – is continuing in the Palestinian refugee camp of Nahr el-Bared in northern Lebanon.

The envoy also cited Israel's air violations of the Blue Line, and noted that they have "significantly increased" during this reporting period, with the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unifil/index.html">UNIFIL) recording 271 over-flights last month.

"These over-flights are a violation of Lebanese sovereignty," Mr. Williams said.

Meanwhile, in a related development, OCHA reported that Gaza's economy is being significantly damaged by the continued closure of the Karni Crossing.

There is a shortage of rice, vegetable oil and baby milk, and rising prices – especially for vegetables, meat and milk powder – are straining households' abilities to maintain a balanced diet.

The UN Relief and Works Agency (<"http://www.un.org/unrwa/news/index.html">UNRWA) and the UN World Food Programme (<"http://www.wfp.org/english/?n=31">WFP) are sending basic food supplies, animal feed and medicines through other crossings, but OCHA said that the agricultural sector is threatened, as the planting season is getting underway.
2007-07-25 00:00:00.000

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UN AND TIMOR-LESTE APPEAL FOR ADDITIONAL FUNDS TO AID DISPLACED

UN AND TIMOR-LESTE APPEAL FOR ADDITIONAL FUNDS TO AID DISPLACED
New York, Jul 25 2007 4:00PM
The United Nations and the Government of Timor-Leste have appealed for almost $18 million in additional funds to address the ongoing humanitarian needs of internally displaced people (IDPs) in the Southeast Asian nation for the rest of this year.

The UN's Deputy Special Representative in Timor-Leste, Finn Reske-Nielsen, and Prime Minister Estanislau da Silva officially launched the Consolidated Appeal (CAP) Mid-year Review for the country at a ceremony today in Dili.

"There is no short term solution to the internal displacement situation in Timor-Leste, therefore we need to design our assistance programs with a medium term perspective," said Mr. Reske-Nielsen, who is also the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in the small nation of the nation which the world body shepherded to independence in 2002.

Some $16 million had been requested in the original CAP for January to June 2007 which was launched at the beginning of this year. The revision brings the total appeal for humanitarian projects in Timor-Leste from January to December 2007 to $34.2 million. To date, 46 per cent of these requirements have been met.

The money will fund over 50 projects in ten sectors, namely, agriculture, camp management, coordination, economic recovery, education, food, health, protection, shelter, and water and sanitation.

The CAP is the international community's most important tool for raising resources for humanitarian action.

Last week, the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, John Holmes, launched the Mid-Year Review of the CAP for 2007 in Geneva. Six months after the launch of the global Humanitarian Appeal 2007, the UN, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and 220 non-governmental organisations (NGOs) still require $2.5 billion to respond to the world's most severe crises.
2007-07-25 00:00:00.000

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ASIAN-PACIFIC NATIONS CONFER ON CONSEQUENCES OF POPULATION AGEING AT UN-BACKED MEETING

ASIAN-PACIFIC NATIONS CONFER ON CONSEQUENCES OF POPULATION AGEING AT UN-BACKED MEETING
New York, Jul 25 2007 11:00AM
A United Nations-backed meeting – attended by participants from over one dozen Asian-Pacific countries – on the social, health and economic consequences of population ageing kicked off today in Bangkok, Thailand.

The two-day <"http://www.unescap.org/unis/press/2007/jul/n35.asp">seminar is being held by the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (<"http://www.unescap.org">UNESCAP), in collaboration with the UN Population Fund (<"http://www.unfpa.org">UNFPA) and the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (<"http://www.un.org/esa/desa">DESA).

Population ageing, due to declining fertility and increasing longevity, has increasingly come to pose a challenge to the Asia-Pacific region, with the number of older persons in the area to grow rapidly, surging 410 million in 2007 to 733 million in 2025 to an expected 1.3 billion in 2050.

Older persons, who currently comprise 10 per cent of the total population, will constitute over 15 per cent of the population in 2025 and 24.3 per cent in 2050. Such shifts in proportions will have tremendous social and economic impacts on income security, social welfare and medical services.

Adding to those challenges are other demographic changes reshaping family life in the Asian-Pacific area. There will be fewer caregivers to attend to older people's needs since the number of younger people is declining and the number of working women is increasing. Also, migration to urban areas is leaving many older persons behind in rural areas.

Participants – both experts and Government representatives – at the UN forum will confer on the causes and socio-economic and health consequences of population ageing, focusing on changing family structures and their impact on the provision of care and support for older persons. The region's existing programmes and policies will be discussed, as well recommendations for bolstering national programmes.

The outcomes from the seminar will be discussed at the High-Level Meeting on the Regional Review of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (MIPAA), scheduled to be held in Macao, China, this October.
2007-07-25 00:00:00.000

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UN ASSISTS LIBERIAN POLICE IN MEETING INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS STANDARDS

UN ASSISTS LIBERIAN POLICE IN MEETING INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS STANDARDS
New York, Jul 25 2007 11:00AM
The top United Nations envoy to Liberia today handed over to the National Police newly renovated detention facilities which are crucial to ensuring that the conditions under which detainees are held meet the most basic international human rights standards.

During the handover ceremony at National Police headquarters in Monrovia, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's Special Representative Alan Doss stressed that the UN Mission in Liberia (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unmil/index.html">UNMIL) will continue to support the National Police to become "a professionally managed and adequately equipped national police force." He urged the force to help safeguard human rights including those of prisoners.

Guiding Mr. Doss through the freshly-painted and renovated facilities, Inspector-General of Police Beatrice Monah Sieh expressed her appreciation to UNMIL and the Netherlands Government for the completion of the rehabilitation work on the cells.

"This project will enable the Liberia National Police to live up to international human rights standards when suspects are questioned and temporarily detained before they are referred to court," she stated.

Ms. Sieh further explained that it has been over 14 years since the sewers in the cells had been functioning properly and that for the first time detainees now have access to water provided directly inside their cells.

Inspecting the premises, the Acting UN Police Commissioner, General Maritz Du Toit, explained that the renovated facilities comprise of three different kinds of cells: the patrol cells, which will be used for suspects involved in minor offenses; the Criminal Service Department cells for suspects involved in capital offences; and the female cells for women exclusively.

The refurbished facility can hold approximately 75 suspects.
2007-07-25 00:00:00.000

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VIOLENCE IMPEDES RELIEF EFFORT IN DARFUR, UN FOOD AGENCY WARNS

VIOLENCE IMPEDES RELIEF EFFORT IN DARFUR, UN FOOD AGENCY WARNS
New York, Jul 25 2007 8:00AM
Condemning a sharp escalation in attacks on humanitarian staff and relief convoys in Sudan's Darfur region, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warned today that violence is hampering its ability to deliver assistance to millions of hungry people there.

"In the last two weeks, nine food convoys have been attacked by gunmen across Darfur," said Kenro Oshidari, WFP Sudan Representative. "WFP staff and contractors are being stopped at gunpoint, dragged out of their vehicles and robbed with alarming frequency."

Mr. Oshidari called on all parties to the conflict in Darfur to guarantee the safety of humanitarian workers so that the UN food agency and other aid organizations can continue helping Sudanese who rely on outside assistance for survival.

"These abhorrent attacks, which target the very people who are trying to help the most vulnerable in Darfur, must be brought under control," he added.

So far this year, 18 WFP food convoys have been attacked by gunmen and four of WFP's light vehicles carjacked. Six WFP vehicles, including trucks and light vehicles, have been stolen and 10 staff, including contractors, have been either detained or abducted.

The Darfur operation is the agency's biggest, employing some 790 staff who feed more than two million people every month. WFP, which also contracts commercial truck companies to haul food into the region, plans to distribute up to 450,000 metric tons of food in Darfur this year at a cost of about half a billion dollars.

A lack of security has prevented WFP from reaching 170,000 people in June in what the agency termed in a news release a "sizeable increase from the lowest point last March when 60,000 could not be reached."

As a result of convoy attacks in recent weeks, the road between Nyala, the capital of South Darfur state, and the town of Kass, has been declared a "no-go" area for UN staff, while in North Darfur, food dispatches to the town of Kabkabiya have bee

UN security personnel say attacks on vehicles are now the number one security concern for the aid community in Darfur, according to WFP, which cited a "recent and deeply troubling trend is that staff are being abducted when their vehicles are stolen, giving robbers time to get away before the alarm is raised."

To date, all WFP staff have been released, although some were injured and hospitalized.

2007-07-25 00:00:00.000

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