WORLD AIDS DAY MARKED WITH CALLS FOR RENEWED LEADERSHIP TO FIGHT EPIDEMIC

WORLD AIDS DAY MARKED WITH CALLS FOR RENEWED LEADERSHIP TO FIGHT EPIDEMIC
New York, Dec 1 2007 12:00PM
Marking the 20th annual World AIDS Day, top United Nations officials have called for renewed leadership to tackle the global HIV and AIDS epidemic which has already claimed over 25 million lives worldwide.

Calling AIDS "a disease unlike any other," Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon <http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2007/sgsm11293.doc.htm>stressed the need for strong leadership in a number of areas, saying that "without it, we will never get ahead of the epidemic."

While "tangible and remarkable" progress has been made in a number of areas, including reducing infections and providing care, Mr. Ban emphasized the need to do more on several fronts.

"It is our crucial mission to ensure that everyone can access HIV prevention, treatment, care and support," he said, recalling the pledge made by all Governments last year to work towards universal access by 2010.

In addition, Mr. Ban called for renewed leadership in eradicating stigma associated with HIV, which he termed "the single biggest barrier to public action on AIDS" and one of the reasons why the epidemic continues to wreak its devastation around the world.

The Secretary-General also emphasized the need for leadership among Governments in fully understanding the epidemic, so that resources go where they are most needed. In addition he pledged to ensure that the UN becomes a model in responding to the virus.

"As Secretary General, I am determined to lead the United Nations family in this endeavour -- to ensure that we prioritize action on AIDS, to encourage Member States to keep the issue high on national and international agendas, and to work to make the UN a model of how the workplace should respond to AIDS," Mr. Ban said.

The Executive Director of the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) <"http://data.unaids.org/pub/PressStatement/2007/071201_pp_wad_statement_en.pdf">said the challenge now is to keep AIDS at the top of the agenda, and to accelera
slackening of leadership would be fatal."

"The epidemic reached global proportions precisely because it took so long for the world to act," stated Dr. Peter Piot. "And although we are beginning to make progress, there remains a long way to go."

Citing a serious shortfall in resources for AIDS, and prevailing stigma and discrimination around the disease, he noted that two-thirds of those who require anti-retroviral treatment are unable to access it. "Less than one in ten people at risk of HIV infection have the means to protect themselves," he said.

Dr. Piot stressed that sustaining leadership and accelerating action on AIDS isn't just an imperative for politicians. "It involves religious leaders, community, youth and council leaders, chief executives and trade union leaders. It involves people living with HIV, and their families and friends. It involves you, me -- each and every one of us -- taking the lead to eliminate stigma and discrimination, to advocate for more resources to tackle AIDS."

In her <http://www.unhchr.ch/huricane/huricane.nsf/view01/8039FBC3342E9605C12573A300599F74?opendocument>message to mark the Day, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights stressed that the first and primary leadership call is for Governments to step forward and provide the basic human rights guarantees necessary for HIV to be overcome.

The commitment by Governments to achieving universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support by 2010 is not only an ambitious goal, "it is also a human right," Louise Arbour stated.

To achieve this goal, she called for action on several fronts, including ending the discrimination against people living with HIV and supporting them to become strong, active players in determining policies and programmes that will prevent further infections and provide treatment.

In addition, she stressed the need for Governments to care for the most disaffected and marginalized groups, even those who engage in activities which may be illegal in some countries.

"Sex workers, prisone
men, and injecting drug users must have their human rights respected and protected, including rights to health, non-discrimination and freedom from violence," she stated. "These people are amongst the worst affected in the pandemic, yet their rights are disproportionately violated."
Highlighting the leadership role played by the General Assembly in raising awareness of the issues surrounding the epidemic, its President, Srgjan Kerim, <http://www.un.org/ga/president/62/statements/worldaidsday301107.shtml>noted that the 192-member body will hold a meeting next year to take stock of and accelerate the implementation of global commitments to combat HIV/AIDS.

Mr. Kerim also drew attention to the fact that the disease remains a major challenge for many countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. "Eight countries in Africa now account for almost one-third of all new HIV infections and AIDS deaths globally," he stated, adding that "every human life lost to AIDS is a tragedy when knowledge and resources have made it possible to prevent these deaths."

In the lead up to World AIDS Day, UNAIDS worked with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and the World Bank to produce "HIV and Prisons in sub-Saharan Africa: Opportunities for Action."

While it is well known that sub-Saharan Africa has been hardest hit by the epidemic, little is known about the prison community and HIV, the three agencies said in a <"http://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/press/releases/2007-11-28.html">joint communiqué.

The new document summarizes what is known, identifies gaps in information and proposes ways forward to address this underserved population within the context of the HIV/AIDS response in the region.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has <"http://www.unicef.org/aids/index_41926.html">announced that its Goodwill Ambassador and tennis great Roger Federer will star in a World AIDS Day public service announcement to raise awareness about the transmission of HIV from mothers to their children.

Mr. Federer is among several celebri
lending their voices to the Unite for Children, Unite against AIDS campaign, launched in October 2005 by UNICEF and UNAIDS to draw attention to the impact of the disease on children and young people.

2007-12-01 00:00:00.000

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SECRETARY-GENERAL CONVENES INFORMATION SESSION ON HIV IN UN WORKPLACE

SECRETARY-GENERAL CONVENES INFORMATION SESSION ON HIV IN UN WORKPLACE
New York, Nov 30 2007 7:00PM
On the eve of World AIDS Day, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today convened an orientation session on HIV in the United Nations workplace as part of his efforts to ensure that the world body becomes a model in responding to the virus.

Facilitated by one of the UN's coordinators on HIV in the workplace, the session was intended for all Under-Secretaries-General and Assistant Secretaries-General based at Headquarters, as well as the executive heads of New York-based UN agencies.

"The Secretary-General hopes the session will provide him and his senior leaders with important lessons and messages, while helping them set an example as managers and colleagues," Mr. Ban's spokesperson, Michele Montas, told reporters.

While sessions on HIV in the workplace have been offered to the Organization's staff on a voluntary basis in recent years, they are now becoming mandatory for all employees working at Headquarters and in the field. These sessions convey information on transmission, prevention, stigma and discrimination, care and treatment, as well as the UN's policies, initiatives and services.

Also today, Mr. Ban will address a World AIDS Day observance at St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church in Manhattan.

Ms. Montas said the Secretary-General would emphasize the need for Government and individual leadership to assure universal access to prevention, treatment, care and support, noting that "We all need to take responsibility for the response."
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT HEADING TOWARDS UNIVERSALITY, SAYS CHIEF JUDGE

INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT HEADING TOWARDS UNIVERSALITY, SAYS CHIEF JUDGE
New York, Nov 30 2007 7:00PM
The International Criminal Court (<" http://www.icc-cpi.int/home.html&l=en">ICC) is now over halfway towards achieving its goal of universal acceptance, the court's President, Judge Philippe Kirsch, told the Assembly of States Parties today, calling for ratifications and accessions by the world's countries to continue.

Judge Kirsch told the Assembly's sixth session, held at United Nations Headquarters in New York, that the Court has made "significant progress" as it nears the tenth anniversary of the adoption of the Rome Statute in July 1998, which led to the tribunal's founding.

"The Court is fully operational," he said. "Investigations and proceedings are ongoing in four situations. Victims are participating in proceedings and the Trust Fund for Victims is functioning.

"Most importantly, it is increasingly recognized that the Court is having the impact for which it was created by the States Parties by contributing to the deterrence of crimes and improving chances for sustainable peace."

Some 105 countries have become States Parties to the ICC, with Japan and Chad the latest to do so, and Judge Kirsch called for the number of accessions and ratifications to keep rising.

"Working together, we can ensure that the Court makes lasting and sustainable contributions to justice, peace and accountability around the world."

He also stressed that the Court, which is based in The Hague in the Netherlands, regards the establishment of permanent premises as a priority, and added that the Court has held fruitful dialogue on this issue with the Dutch Government.

In addition, he called for the world's countries to demonstrate greater support for the ICC, whether in practical cooperation measures such as the arrest of suspects or by advocating publicly on behalf of the Court.

ICC Prosecutor Luis Moreno-Ocampo used his address to detail the work of his office, particularly in the cases it is investigating concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the Central African Republic (CAR), northern Uganda and the Sudanese region of Darfur.

He urged States Parties to play their part to ensure the arrest of the men who have already been indicted by the Court: Joseph Kony and four other commanders of the rebel Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) in Uganda, and two figures from the Darfur conflict.

"In Rome, States created a new system of justice where the worst criminals would not be allowed in the sharing of power any longer [and] where the use of massive violence against civilians would neither be rewarded nor forgotten," he said.

"The Rome system was built upon the lessons learned from the last century when the international community failed, failed to protect entire populations," he added, cautioning that "the lack of arrest can affect the credibility and long-term deterrent impact of the Court."
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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MIDDLE EAST PEACE CONFERENCE A 'SIGNIFICANT BREAKTHROUGH,' SAYS TOP UN OFFICIAL

MIDDLE EAST PEACE CONFERENCE A 'SIGNIFICANT BREAKTHROUGH,' SAYS TOP UN OFFICIAL
New York, Nov 30 2007 6:00PM
This week's conference in the United States was "the most significant breakthrough" in the Middle East peace process in several years, but the difficult humanitarian and security situation on the ground should not be overlooked, the top United Nations political official <" http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2007/sc9184.doc.htm">told the Security Council today.

Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs B. Lynn Pascoe said violence continues to plague both Palestinians and Israelis and the humanitarian conditions in the occupied Palestinian territories, especially the Gaza Strip, were "a source of acute concern."

But Mr. Pascoe stressed that the conference, held in the city of Annapolis earlier this week, offered a "clear way forward" to end the conflict, with the leaders of the two sides having agreed to launch immediately good-faith negotiations to try to conclude a peace treaty by the end of next year that resolves all outstanding issues.

"For 60 years the Israeli State has feared for its survival and the survival of its people," he said. "For 60 years the Palestinian people have wandered and suffered in search of a State. It is time for the Palestinians to have a home of their own. It is time for the Israelis to feel at peace in their home. The time to act is now. Let us go forward and each play our part."

Reiterating the full support of the UN for the peace process, the Under-Secretary-General said more efforts have to be made to ease the situation on the ground, which remains tense.

Since his last briefing to the Council, Mr. Pascoe said 42 Palestinians had been killed, 133 others injured and at least 346 detained by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), while two Israelis were killed and six others injured as well. In Gaza, the Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit entered his eighteenth month of captivity, and Palestinian militants fired over 116 rockets and 121 mortars. Factional fighting among Palestinians also intensified.

Mr. Pascoe noted that Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has raised his strong concerns about the humanitarian situation inside the Gaza Strip, where the closure or restrictions of border crossing points into Israel have hurt the economy and made it difficult for local Palestinians to obtain vital health care and other services.

Turning to Lebanon, he said that the extensive diplomatic efforts to mediate between the parties – which have been divided for months over the appointment of a new president to succeed Emile Lahoud, whose term ended last week – are ongoing, aimed at bridging the political divide.

Meanwhile, the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unifil/index.html">UNIFIL) said it has observed a significant number of Israeli overflights in the past few days and is reporting these incidents to the Security Council via the Department of Peacekeeping Operations.

Gen. Claudio Graziano, the UNIFIL Force Commander, has also raised the issue with the Israeli army commander, voicing his serious concern and asking them to stop the violations.

In related news, the General Assembly today concluded a two-day <" http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2007/ga10664.doc.htm">debate on the Question of Palestine and also held a meeting on the situation in the Middle East.

The UN Bureau of the <" http://www.un.org/Depts/dpa/qpalnew/committee.htm">Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People also issued a statement welcoming the holding of the conference in Annapolis and the Joint Understanding that was reached by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli President Ehud Olmert.
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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ENDING VISIT TO TIMOR-LESTE, SECURITY COUNCIL TEAM PLEDGES ONGOING UN SUPPORT

ENDING VISIT TO TIMOR-LESTE, SECURITY COUNCIL TEAM PLEDGES ONGOING UN SUPPORT
New York, Nov 30 2007 6:00PM
Wrapping up a four-day mission to assess the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Timor-Leste, the Security Council today said the international community will provide ongoing support for the world body's efforts in the tiny nation which only gained independence in 2002.

During their visit, the Council team gained a first-hand view of the challenges the country faces, having met with many people across Timor-Leste.

"We went all over this country and our general impression is that this country is doing very well and the security appears to be very good, but this country still needs a lot of international assistance," South African Ambassador Dumisani Kumalo, who headed the Council delegation, said at a press conference today.

"I can assure you that there will be continued international support for the UN on the ground here to do its work, because we are very pleased with the work the UN has done," he added.

In the eastern district of Baucau, the team held talks with local authorities, political party representatives, UN officials and police officers, while in Dili, the national capital, the delegation met with civil society members and local representatives of political parties to gauge the views of the wider community about the work of the UN mission (<"http://www.unmiset.org/unmisetwebsite.nsf/MainFrame-EN.htm?OpenFrameset">UNMIT) and other UN entities and what challenges lie ahead.

The delegation also included Ambassador Liu Zhenmin from China, Luc Joseph Okio from the Republic of the Congo, Muhammad Anshor from Indonesia, Diana Eloeva from the Russian Federation, Ambassador Peter Burian from Slovakia and United States Ambassador Jackie Wolcott.

Atul Khare, the Secretary-General's Special Representative, noted that this visit is a manifestation of strong global support for the ongoing work in Timor-Leste and that the country is still a priority for assistance.

As part of his visit to Asia next month, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will visit Timor-Leste. He plans to visit UNMIT, meet with Government officials and address the National Parliament and will stop camps for internally displaced persons.
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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BURUNDI'S PEACE PROCESS HAMPERED BY POLITICAL CRISES - UN REPORT

BURUNDI'S PEACE PROCESS HAMPERED BY POLITICAL CRISES – UN REPORT
New York, Nov 30 2007 6:00PM
In recent months, efforts to bring a lasting peace to Burundi have been impeded by a deteriorating political situation, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says in a new report to the Security Council made public today.

In recent months, efforts to bring a lasting peace to Burundi have been impeded by a deteriorating political situation, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says in a new <" http://www.un.org/Docs/journal/asp/ws.asp?m=s/2007/682">report to the Security Council made public today.

"The peace consolidation process in Burundi has passed through a difficult period in the past six months," Mr. Ban says in a report on the work of the UN Integrated Office in Burundi (BINUB) covering the period since 17 May. "The political crises and institutional paralysis, along with the blockage in the peace process, underscores the fragility of the situation and the continued need for vigilance."

The small Great Lakes nation has been the victim of violent coups and political instability since gaining independence in 1962. Decades of ethnic conflict pit the Hutu majority against the Tutsi minority, and enormous challenges persist, the report states.

Mr. Ban also voices concern over the worsening overall security situation and ongoing human rights violations.

Welcoming the appointment of an inclusive Government earlier this month, he commended President Pierre Nkurunziza "for the leadership and the flexibility in ending the political crisis that had heightened tensions and delayed the implementation of key peace consolidation tasks."

To meet high expectations – both national and international – the new Government must endeavour to address the challenges Burundi faces in its reconstruction efforts, the report notes.

In July, the Palipehutu-FNL, the last major rebel hold-out group, withdrew from the Joint Verification and Monitoring Mechanism set up to monitor a ceasefire it signed with the Government last year.

"There is an urgent need for the resumption and early implementation of the comprehensive ceasefire agreement within an overall political framework that addresses the concerns of the Government and FNL," Mr. Ban says.

He expresses concern over the continuing stalemate between the sides, which has had humanitarian and security consequences, and urged the FNL to resume its participation in the Joint Verification and Monitoring Mechanism.

"I call upon the Government and FNL to meet the aspirations of all Burundians and seize this opportunity by engaging in good faith on the issues that have hindered progress to date," the Secretary-General adds.

The report urges a greater role for BINUB, which "should continue to provide political and technical support to help national actors address the root causes of the conflict, prevent a relapse into conflict and create an environment conducive to recovery and development."
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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BANGLADESH: UN AGENCIES TO RUSH AID TO CHILDREN DEVASTATED BY RECENT CYCLONE

BANGLADESH: UN AGENCIES TO RUSH AID TO CHILDREN DEVASTATED BY RECENT CYCLONE
New York, Nov 30 2007 5:00PM
United Nations agencies and their partners will begin distributing much-needed supplies to children and pregnant and lactating women living in areas recently devastated by Cyclone Sidr in Bangladesh.

The UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/media/media_41989.html">UNICEF), the UN World Food Programme (<"http://www.wfp.org/english/?n=3">WFP) and other partners are teaming up to deliver high-energy biscuits and family kits to children under three years of age, as well as pregnant and lactating women, in the six more severely impacted districts: Patuakhali, Barguna, Barisal, Bagerhat, Pirojpur and Jhalokathi.

UNICEF sounded the alarm today that an estimated 300,000 children under five years of age are living throughout the disaster zone in makeshift camps with their families, are living on meager food and water. They do not have proper shelter or access to basic amenities, leaving them at risk of diarrhoea, acute respiratory infection and other cold-related diseases.

"Children often bear the greatest brunt of natural disasters, needing the greatest assistance and care," said Louis-George Aresnault, UNICEF Representative in Bangladesh.

"Food alone is not enough to alleviate the disease burden," he added. "If they are not fed micronutrients quickly and are not protected by vitamins and iron, and if diarrhoeal diseases spread, they will die."

Media reports note that there have already been outbreaks of diseases such as diarrhea, pneumonia, fever and typhoid. Given the high prevalence of chronic and acute malnutrition among Bangladeshi children, they are now even more susceptible to illness following the cyclone, which the Government says has impacted 8.4 million people.

UNICEF is currently working to curb long-term malnutrition and tackle the expected rise in malnutrition rates by distributing supplementary feeding for some 340,000 children under five years of age and approximately 124,000 pregnant and lactating women.

The agency is also planning a Vitamin A campaign to bolster children's immune systems and curtail potential mortality from infectious diseases.
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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COLOMBIA MUST SUSTAIN RECENT STEPS ON HUMAN RIGHTS, DEVELOPMENT - BAN KI-MOON

COLOMBIA MUST SUSTAIN RECENT STEPS ON HUMAN RIGHTS, DEVELOPMENT – BAN KI-MOON
New York, Nov 30 2007 5:00PM
Colombia has taken encouraging steps towards establishing peace and security across the country but these measures must be sustained and reinforced over the next few years if they are to have any lasting effect in the Latin American country, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today.

In his <" http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=2884">message to the Third International Conference on Colombia, held in Bogotá, Mr. Ban said recent progress in both the human rights and development fields "signal Colombia's resurgence from years of conflict" and pledged to strengthen United Nations support of these efforts.

The demobilization of the United Self-Defence Forces of Colombia, a paramilitary group, had helped to dampen violence, while confessions by paramilitary leaders of crimes committed "have brought a degree of closure for victims," he noted.

"And the Government's ratification of the Ottawa Convention on landmines signalled a renewed push against such deadly and indiscriminate weapons."

The Secretary-General also welcomed the passage of legislation on the rights of internally displaced persons (<" http://www.unhcr.org/protect/3b84c7e23.html">IDPs), who are legion after decades of conflict between Government forces, paramilitary groups and rebels.

But he said that victims of paramilitary violence need greater security and protection so that they feel able to participate in the Justice and Peace Law process, which aims to bring a measure of reconciliation.

The country's ratification of the Ottawa Convention banning landmines "must be supported by real steps on the ground," he said, calling for a halt to their use by illegal armed groups.

Mr. Ban also called for Colombia's most vulnerable citizens, including its indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities, to receive more focus and resources so they can fully engage in society.

The message was delivered on Mr. Ban's behalf by Angela Kane, the Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs. Today's conference brings together members of the international community as well as Colombian society to map out to help the country.
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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ABDUCTIONS AND KILLINGS OF CHILDREN IN HAITI DENOUNCED BY UNICEF

ABDUCTIONS AND KILLINGS OF CHILDREN IN HAITI DENOUNCED BY UNICEF
New York, Nov 30 2007 5:00PM
Condemning a recent spate of kidnappings and assassinations carried out against children in Haiti, the United Nations Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org">UNICEF) has called for action to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The agency cited local authorities who reported at least 11 kidnappings of children in November alone.

According to UNICEF, the mutilated body of a seven-year-old boy was found two weeks after he was kidnapped in the city of Cabaret, north of Port-au-Prince. His family had been unable to pay the ransom of nearly $700.

The agency called on the Haitian authorities to do everything to ensure the protection of children and bring the perpetrators to justice.
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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SECURITY MUST IMPROVE BEFORE DISPLACED IN DARFUR CAN RETURN HOME - UN AID CHIEF

SECURITY MUST IMPROVE BEFORE DISPLACED IN DARFUR CAN RETURN HOME – UN AID CHIEF
New York, Nov 30 2007 4:00PM
Darfur's hundreds of thousands of internally displaced persons (<" http://www.unhcr.org/protect/3b84c7e23.html">IDPs) will only return to their home villages and areas once security conditions improve and basic services are operating, the top United Nations humanitarian official said today after visiting one of the war-wracked Sudanese region's biggest IDP camps.

Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator John Holmes met with IDP representatives at South Darfur state's Ed Daein camp, which is currently home to an estimated 50,000 people.

"Clearly, after living in camps – in some cases for over three years – they are frustrated," he said. "While they expressed a strong desire to return to their home areas, all the people I spoke with were unequivocal that they would only be able to do so when security conditions were right and services were in place."

In total, at least 2.2 million Darfurians are either internally displaced or live as refugees in neighbouring countries because of fighting between rebels, Government forces, allied militia and tribal groups since 2003. More than 200,000 others have been killed.

Mr. Holmes also met today with aid workers to discuss the continuing challenges they face in trying to bring relief in Darfur, where car hijackings, assaults and harassment have become increasingly common.

"Many organizations also expressed their frustration at bureaucratic impediments which continue to hamper an effective and efficient response," the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (<" http://ochaonline.un.org/News/OCHANewsCentre/PressReleases2007/tabid/1120/Default.aspx">OCHA) said in a media statement.

A combination of poor rainfall, infestations and birds mean there could be a poor harvest this season, and UN agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are warning about a serious food gap emerging, possibly as early as January next year.

While in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur, the Emergency Relief Coordinator held a short meeting with the Wali, or provincial governor, to discuss mutual concerns about the situation.

Tomorrow Mr. Holmes is scheduled to travel to El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur and the home of the planned hybrid UN-African Union peacekeeping mission (UNAMID), for talks with UN staff, partner organizations and local authorities.
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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IVORIAN SUPPLEMENTARY PEACE AGREEMENTS WELCOMED BY UN MISSION

IVORIAN SUPPLEMENTARY PEACE AGREEMENTS WELCOMED BY UN MISSION
New York, Nov 30 2007 4:00PM
The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Côte d'Ivoire has welcomed the signing by the country's political leaders of supplementary agreements to a major peace accord that is designed to end the prolonged national crisis and bring elections early next year.

The mission, known as <" http://www.un.org/depts/dpko/missions/unoci/">UNOCI, issued a statement yesterday in Abidjan describing the signing of the supplementary agreements as "an important step in the right direction… [that] shows the willingness of the parties to ensure that the peace process is irreversible.

"It is an encouraging sign to the international community which, on a number of occasions, has reasserted its availability to help Côte d'Ivoire put an end to the conflict which has torn it apart from more than five years."
Since 2002 the West African nation has been divided between the Government-controlled south and the rebel Forces Nouvelles-held north.

The new agreements – signed by President Laurent Gbagbo and Prime Minister Guillaume Soro – support the Ouagadougou Peace Agreement, which was reached in the capital of neighbouring Burkina Faso in March in a bid to end the ongoing stand-off.

That accord outlines a series of measures, including: the creation of a new transitional government; organizing free and fair presidential elections; the merging of the Forces Nouvelles and the national defence and security forces through the establishment of an integrated command centre; the dismantling of militias and disarming of ex-combatants; and the replacement of the so-called zone of confidence separating north and south with a green line to be monitored by UNOCI.

The mission added that it would continue to support the parties to implement their commitments under the Ouagadougou accord and the supplementary agreements.

Young-jin Choi, the recently appointed Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Cote d'Ivoire, also held consultations yesterday in Ouagadougou with Blaise Compaoré, Burkina Faso's President and the Facilitator of the Ivorian peace talks.
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM PLANNED FOR VENEZUELA ALARMS UN HUMAN RIGHTS EXPERTS

CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM PLANNED FOR VENEZUELA ALARMS UN HUMAN RIGHTS EXPERTS
New York, Nov 30 2007 4:00PM
Three independent United Nations human rights experts today voiced concern about planned constitutional reforms in Venezuela, saying the proposed changes could curb civil liberties and breach the South American country's international treaty commitments.

In a joint statement, the rapporteurs say that the proposals – which will go before Venezuelan voters in a referendum on Sunday – "will curtail a set of fundamental rights that should be enjoyed at all times, including during states of emergencies," citing the right to freedom of expression and the right of access to information as two examples.

They say the reforms could also limit the work of journalists and human rights defenders and harm the independence of the judiciary.

"We call upon the Venezuelan Government to firmly commit to the protection of the set of human rights, safeguarding the institutional guarantees that ensure that democracy and the rule of law will be upheld at all times," said the statement, issued by Ambeyi Ligabo, the Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression; Hina Jilani, the Secretary-General's Special Representative on Human Rights Defenders; and Leandro Despouy, the Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers.

Sunday's referendum comes a few weeks after Venezuela's National Assembly approved President Hugo Chavez's reform proposals, which include allowing the indefinite re-election of the president, extending the presidential term by one year and ending the autonomy of the country's central bank.

The rapporteurs expressed concern that some provisions regarding the declaration of a state of emergency would hinder citizens' civil liberties, while the elimination of the Supreme Court's authority to oversee and approve such declarations would be inconsistent with Venezuela's obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Amendments to three articles of the constitution also mean many "fundamental rights… [that are] stepping stones of all democratic societies" are no longer expressly guaranteed, according to the statement.

"We are also concerned about the situation of human rights defenders as the proposed reform establishes that associations with a political aim can only access funding at the national level. We fear that this definition might be selectively applied to human rights organizations to prevent them from accessing international funding," the experts said.

They also voiced concern about the situation facing human rights defenders and journalists "who have been subject to threats and attacks that not only affect their personal security, but generate a widespread atmosphere of intimidation that discourages them from engaging in their activities and from taking public stands for the defence of human rights."

Under the planned reforms the dismissal of Supreme Court judges can be decided a simple majority vote in the National Assembly, rather than the current two-thirds majority required, leading the rapporteurs to warn of the impact on judicial independence.
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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UGANDAN REBEL GROUP MEMBERS AGREE TO DISARM AND RETURN HOME - UN MISSION

UGANDAN REBEL GROUP MEMBERS AGREE TO DISARM AND RETURN HOME – UN MISSION
New York, Nov 30 2007 3:00PM
Seven members of the rebel Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), which has been fighting Ugandan Government forces for two decades, have surrendered to the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and agreed to enter a disarmament, repatriation and reintegration scheme.

The seven combatants were escorted on Wednesday by blue helmets from the UN mission (known by its French acronym <"http://www.monuc.org/Home.aspx?lang=en">MONUC) in Ituri district and flown to the city of Bunia a day later for repatriation to Uganda, the mission reported today.

"These LRA elements have pledged to inform their counterparts, still waiting in the bush, that it is safe to surrender to MONUC and repatriate to Uganda, once they are reassured as to the commitment of the Ugandan authorities to treat them according to the terms of the DDRRR programme," the mission said in a press statement,.

MONUC has set up a programme of disarmament, demobilization, repatriation, reintegration and reinsertion for LRA fighters living in the northeast of the DRC so that they can smoothly transfer back into Ugandan society.

Last month a senior LRA commander, Patrick Opiyo Mayasi, and his wife also gave themselves up, along with their weapons and ammunition, to Congolese border police.

The LRA, which has fought a civil war with the Ugandan Government since the mid-1980s, became notorious during the conflict for abducting as many as 25,000 children and using them as fighters and porters. The children were often subject to extreme violence shortly after abduction, with many girls allocated to officers in a form of institutional rape.

In October 2005 the International Criminal Court (<"http://www.un.org/law/icc/">ICC) issued its first-ever arrest warrants against five senior members of the LRA: the leader Joseph Kony, and the commanders Vincent Otti, Okot Odhiambo, Dominic Ongwen and Raska Lukwiya.
Last year, the Government and the LRA agreed to a cessation of hostilities, but disputes between the two sides had dampened hopes of a more comprehensive peace accord and many LRA members continue to hide out in southern Sudan or the northeast of the DRC.
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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MYANMAR: UN ENVOY DENOUNCES CLOSURE OF MONASTERY USED AS HIV/AIDS HOSPICE

MYANMAR: UN ENVOY DENOUNCES CLOSURE OF MONASTERY USED AS HIV/AIDS HOSPICE
New York, Nov 30 2007 3:00PM
The top United Nations envoy for Myanmar today spoke out against the closure in the South-East Asian nation of a monastery used as a hospice for those living with HIV and AIDS.

At a press conference in Phom Penh, Cambodia, Ibrahim Gambari said that "any action that runs counter to the spirit of national reconciliation in an all-inclusive manner, any ay action that will inflame passions, any actions that will undermine the dialogue between the Government and those who disagree with the policies of the Government should be avoided."

Mr. Gambari, the Secretary-General's Special Advisor, underscored that the UN has repeatedly called for the release of detained pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

He met yesterday with Cambodia officials to garner its support for the UN's efforts in Myanmar, which has been rocked recently by the Government's use of violence against peaceful protestors.

Having now arrived in Vientiane, Laos, the Special Advisor will meet with the country's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister tomorrow.

This is the last stop of Mr. Gambari's three-nation tour to consult with regional leaders, which also took him to Viet Nam.
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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HIV/AIDS THREATENING LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION, UN AGRICULTURE AGENCY WARNS

HIV/AIDS THREATENING LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION, UN AGRICULTURE AGENCY WARNS
New York, Nov 30 2007 2:00PM
HIV/AIDS is affecting not only humans but is also dramatically impeding livestock production, which is the main source of income for rural households, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) <" http://www.fao.org/newsroom/en/news/2007/1000717/index.html">cautioned today.

Livestock contribute greatly to the incomes and nutrition of some 70 per cent of rural households in developing countries. In East and Southern Africa, livestock account for 13 per cent of GNP, but proportionately more in terms of food security for households.

As more and more people of working age are now living with the virus – nearly two-thirds of all people between the ages of 15 and 49 worldwide living with HIV are in sub-Saharan Africa – fewer people are available to tend to livestock.

In addition to providing income and food, livestock are a source of draught power, manure for fertilizer and fuel. But once family savings are exhausted, animals are sold to cover medical expenses or funeral costs, surveys in sub-Saharan Africa indicate. Selling or slaughtering livestock reduces herd size, leading to fewer products – such as meat, milk, eggs and hides – to eat or sell.

"In Zambia, an FAO study showed that in the past it was fare for HIV-affected households to sell a heifer or milking cow, where now it is common place," said Simon Mack, Senior Officer in the agency's Livestock Production Group. "The short and long-term effects of this on family incomes and food security can be devastating."

FAO called for more research on how the pandemic is impacting livestock production to develop strategies to mitigate the consequences on vulnerable people as well as on the livestock sector.

The agency also pointed out that livestock – especially poultry, sheep and goats, which are easily managed, affordable and have short reproduction cycles – can play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of HIV/AIDS in affected communities by providing households with renewable assets, income and a chance to bolster diets.
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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UGANDA'S DEADLY EBOLA OUTBREAK CONFIRMED - UN

UGANDA'S DEADLY EBOLA OUTBREAK CONFIRMED – UN
New York, Nov 30 2007 2:00PM
Uganda's Ministry of Health has confirmed an outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus – with 16 reported dead – in the west of the landlocked country, the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) <" http://www.who.int/csr/don/2007_11_30a/en/index.html">announced today.

As of 28 November, there have been 51 suspected cases in Bundibugyo District, including three health care workers who were infected, with one fatality.

Those infected have been hospitalized in Kikyo and Bundibugyo.

The presence of a new species of the haemorrhagic virus in samples taken from cases associated with this outbreak has been confirmed by the United States National Reference Laboratories and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

WHO and the Ministry of Health report that the outbreak could have occurred this September, based on initial field investigations.

A national task force – comprising WHO, the Ministry of Health and international partners – is coordinating the response, and the WHO country office is aiding the Ministry's national field team and district health officials.

The <"http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs103/en/">Ebola virus is transmitted by direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected persons or animals such as chimpanzees, gorillas, monkeys and antelopes, and it has an incubation period of two to 21 days.

Sufferers can experience fever, intense weakness, muscle pain, headaches and sore throats, as well as vomiting, diarrhoea, rashes and impaired kidney and liver function. In the most severe cases, the virus can lead to both external and internal bleeding.
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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UN-BACKED GLOBAL FUND TREATS NEARLY 1.5 MILLION LIVING WITH HIV

UN-BACKED GLOBAL FUND TREATS NEARLY 1.5 MILLION LIVING WITH HIV
New York, Nov 30 2007 1:00PM
Almost doubling last year's results, the United Nations-backed Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria <" http://www.theglobalfund.org/en/media_center/press/pr_071130.asp">announced today that over 1.4 million people living with HIV have received antiretroviral (ARV) treatment through programmes it supports.

Progress has also been made in the fight against tuberculosis – the leading cause of death among those infected with HIV – with over 3.3 million people treated with effective drugs through schemes receiving Fund support.

Regarding malaria, the Fund announced earlier this week that programmes it supports have delivered 46 million bed nets, up from 18 million last year, to families at risk.

"These results are the living proof that Global Fund investments are working," said Rajat Gupta, Chairman of the Fund's Board. "These positive figures should be an incentive to all donors, partners and the many health professionals working in the field to continue to bring the fight against the three diseases to a new level in the years to come."

Along with the United States' President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, the Fund finances most major AIDS treatment and prevention initiatives in developing countries.

Earlier this month at a meeting in China, the Fund's Board approved funding for 73 new grants totaling $1.1 billion over two years, bringing the total to $9.8 billion for over 520 programmes in 136 countries.
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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TABLE SALT SEEN AS LIKELY CAUSE OF MASS BROMIDE POISONING IN ANGOLA - UN AGENCY

TABLE SALT SEEN AS LIKELY CAUSE OF MASS BROMIDE POISONING IN ANGOLA – UN AGENCY
New York, Nov 30 2007 1:00PM
Contaminated table salt has been identified as the most likely cause of nearly 500 cases of bromide poisoning that led to an outbreak of a mysterious neurological illness in Angola, the United Nations World Health Organization (<"http://www.who.int/csr/don/2007_11_30/en/index.html">WHO) reported today.

Toxicological tests conducted in Germany and the United Kingdom have detected "very high levels" of bromide, an industrial chemical, in the blood samples of patients, while separate tests in Germany and Switzerland have found similarly high levels of sodium bromide in samples of table salt from the households of patients. Table salt should contain sodium chloride.

Health authorities in Cacuaco municipality, where the outbreak was centred, had confirmed 468 cases of bromide poisoning as of yesterday. The municipality is located in the suburbs of the capital, Luanda.

Patients have reported symptoms that include extreme drowsiness, dizziness and a loss of muscle control. Although most patients recover slowly over a number of days, many remain unable to walk without assistance. Children suffer the strongest symptoms.

WHO has been helping Angolan health officials carry out further epidemiological studies, environmental tests, laboratory analysis, a public awareness campaign and a salt replacement scheme.

"It is still unknown how the salt samples were contaminated," the agency said in a media statement. "Additional food samples are currently being analyzed to identify any potential secondary source of exposure."
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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PRISON CONDITIONS ON THE AGENDA OF UN RIGHTS CHIEF'S FIRST VISIT TO BRAZIL

PRISON CONDITIONS ON THE AGENDA OF UN RIGHTS CHIEF'S FIRST VISIT TO BRAZIL
New York, Nov 30 2007 11:00AM
United Nations High Commissioner Louise Arbour is expected to address conditions in Brazil's prison system and the Government's efforts to promote and protect human rights during her first visit to the country next week.

Yvon Edoumou of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights told reporters in Geneva today that examining prison conditions for inmates is on agenda of Ms. Arbour's 3 to 5 December visit, which will take her to Brasilia, São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

The Office was aware of the case of two young women who were put into cells with male inmates and were repeatedly raped with the complicity of the police, he said, adding that Ms. Arbour would use that case as an example of a wider issue that plagued the penitentiary system in Brazil.

Also during the visit, the High Commissioner is expected to meet with President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva and a number of other senior Government officials, as well as representatives of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and members of the UN family.

In São Paulo, Ms. Arbour will visit the São Paulo Stock Exchange, including "The Environmental and Social Investment Exchange," an innovative programme initiative by the private sector aimed at supporting social responsibility and human rights projects.

While in Rio de Janeiro, she will attend the opening of the South American Human Rights Film Festival and will give a lecture on poverty and human rights at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro.
2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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UN AGENCY REPORTS DEATH OF 2 PALESTINIAN REFUGEE CHILDREN IN IRAQ

UN AGENCY REPORTS DEATH OF 2 PALESTINIAN REFUGEE CHILDREN IN IRAQ
New York, Nov 30 2007 8:00AM
Two sick Palestinian refugee children waiting for resettlement from Iraq died in the last two weeks, underscoring the precarious conditions faced by the group, a spokesperson for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said today.

One of the children died in Baghdad while another died in Al Waleed refugee camp at the Iraq-Syria border, where earlier this month a 50-year-old man awaiting resettlement also died earlier this month.

"So far seven people have died there, including three young children, since Palestinian refugees started to arrive at the border in March 2006 fleeing violent attacks against them," said William Spindler.

The 3-year-old Palestinian boy who died at the camp had been suffering from rickets, a bone disease caused by lack of vitamins and minerals, as well as pneumonia. The other Palestinian child, whose resettlement approval was pending, was a 14-year-old suffering from Hodgkin's disease.

The UN refugee agency has repeatedly sought to spotlight the problems faced by Palestinian refugees in Iraq, many of whom are stranded at the border, unable to cross into Syria. Earlier this year, the agency appealed for urgent medical resettlement for vulnerable and sick children in Al Waleed camp.

So far, the agency has helped resettle one family of eight with several sick children from this camp to Norway last August. Another 11 medical cases submitted for resettlement are awaiting approval. Meanwhile, UNHCR has continued to identify other Palestinian medical cases, such as cancer patients and children with birth defects, who need urgent care.

"UNHCR continues to urge resettlement countries to make rapid decisions and facilitate the departure of those most in need," Mr. Spindler said.

An estimated 2,000 Palestinians are living in severe conditions in refugee camps along the Iraq-Syria border, unable to cross into Syria. A steady flow of Palestinians have fled Baghdad since March 2006, w
intimidation, forced evictions and attacks against their community began mounting.

"UNHCR has sought solutions for the whole group since last year and has only received positive indications from Sudan and Chile," said Mr. Spindler. Earlier this year Brazil took 107 Palestinians who had been stuck in Jordan's Ruweished camp for four years.

Meanwhile, some refugees continue to return to Iraq. UNHCR staff in Syria noted an average of 600 Iraqis returning to their country daily over the past week. "Many of them said that they had run out of money and their visas had expired," the spokesman noted.

"We welcome any improvements in the security situation and stand ready to assist people who have decided or will decide to return voluntarily. Iraqis themselves are the best judges as to how secure they feel. However, we still do not believe that the time has come to promote, organize or encourage returns to Iraq. That would be possible only when proper conditions are in place -- including material and legal support and physical safety," he said.

According to government estimates, there are some 2.2 million Iraqi refugees -- including some 500,000 in Jordan and up to 1.5 million in Syria. An estimated 2.4 million are displaced inside Iraq.

2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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UNESCO CHIEF CONDEMNS MURDER OF PAKISTANI JOURNALIST

UNESCO CHIEF CONDEMNS MURDER OF PAKISTANI JOURNALIST
New York, Nov 30 2007 8:00AM
Speaking out against the murder of Pakistani journalist Zubair Ahmed Mujahid, the Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) today raised alarm about growing pressures on freedom of expression in the country.

"I condemn the murder of Zubair Ahmed Mujahid," Director-General Koïchiro Matsuura said in a statement.

He paid tribute to the columnist for Jang who was shot dead on 23 November in the southern province of Sindh as a journalist "who gave a voice to the poor showing how important the media can be in promoting transparency and rule of law."

Mr. Mujahid was the sixth Pakistani journalist to be killed since the start of this year.

"I am particularly concerned about the working condition of journalists in Pakistan in view of the double pressure posed by growing number of heinous crimes such as the killing of Mr Mujahid, and the proclamation of a state of emergency," said the UNESCO chief, repeating his call for the authorities "to do all they can to restore democracy and freedom of expression, its natural corollary."

2007-11-30 00:00:00.000

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COOPERATION BETWEEN UN AND OSCE STRONGER THAN EVER, SAYS BAN KI-MOON

COOPERATION BETWEEN UN AND OSCE STRONGER THAN EVER, SAYS BAN KI-MOON
New York, Nov 29 2007 6:00PM
Whether it is collaboration on Kosovo or cooperation to address common economic and security challenges, the ties between the United Nations and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) are stronger today than ever before, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told a high-level gathering of the group in Madrid.

"Whether in the security sector or in the human rights and economic fields, cooperation between our two institutions continues to set the standard that others aspire towards," Mr. Ban said in a <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2007/sgsm11303.doc.htm">message delivered on his behalf to the 15th Ministerial Council of the OSCE.

Mr. Ban noted that while over the past year some of the most important collaborations between the two institutions centred on Kosovo, they have also come together to tackle a wide range of other security challenges in Central Asia, the Balkans and beyond.

The combined resources and expertise of the UN and OSCE have supported the needs of tens of thousands of refugees and internally displaced persons (<"http://www.unhcr.org/protect/3b84c7e23.html">IDPs), as well as promoted human rights, good governance and the rule of law, noted the Secretary-General.

In addition, discussions are under way to establish closer ties between the UN Alliance of Civilizations and the OSCE to promote better understanding between different ethnic and religious groups, while growing ties with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (<"http://www.unodc.org/unodc/index.html">UNODC) have led to progress on crucial issues, including terrorism, drugs and human trafficking.

"Similarly, our economic and environmental cooperation has gone from strength to strength," Mr. Ban said, noting that the partnership between the OSCE and the UN Economic Commission for Europe (<"http://www.unece.org/Welcome.html">ECE), in particular, has become a model for linking conflict prevention to the underlying socio-economic drivers of unrest.

Stressing that cooperation between the two bodies is "grounded in the bedrock of shared values and a common vision," the Secretary-General highlighted the need to "identify better and more efficient ways to work together, to address existing as well as emerging needs, and to build better lives for people everywhere."
2007-11-29 00:00:00.000

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UNESCO REPORT PAINTS MIXED PICTURE ON PROGRESS TOWARDS 'EDUCATION FOR ALL' GOAL

UNESCO REPORT PAINTS MIXED PICTURE ON PROGRESS TOWARDS 'EDUCATION FOR ALL' GOAL
New York, Nov 29 2007 6:00PM
The number of children enrolled in primary school, the percentage of girls attending classes and the amount of money spent on education have all soared in the past decade, according to a United Nations report released today, but adult illiteracy levels remain stubbornly high and the cost of schooling in much of the world continues to limit access for millions of children.

The report by the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (<"http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL_ID=41371&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html">UNESCO) monitors the latest progress towards the goal of "education for all," which the world's governments agreed in 1999 in the Senegalese capital, Dakar, to try to achieve by 2015.

It shows that primary school enrolment jumped by 39 per cent in sub-Saharan Africa and 22 per cent in South and West Asia – the two regions struggling the most to achieve education for all – between 1999 and 2005.

Nicholas Burnett, UNESCO's Assistant Director-General for Education, told reporters at a press conference in New York that at least 11 of the 25 countries posting the most rapid enrolment gains during the period had abolished school fees.

Solid national policies and higher domestic spending were combining to drive primary school enrolment, he said, particularly in Ethiopia, Yemen, Mozambique and Tanzania. Aid from industrialized States to low-income countries also rose from $1.6 billion to $2.3 billion in six years.

In total, an estimated 72 million children of primary school age – or about 10 per cent of the world's children of that age group – do not attend any school at all, down from 96 million almost a decade ago.

Mr. Burnett noted that, since 1999, at least 17 nations had also achieved gender parity in primary school education (including Ghana, Senegal, Malawi, Mauritania and Uganda), and 19 at secondary level (including Bolivia, Peru and Viet Nam).

But he said the goal of education for all remains elusive for many countries, with UNESCO's development index on this question indicating that 25 nations are far from achieving it. He said this number was conservative given the index does not include nations, such as those in conflict, that do not have available data.

UNESCO Director-General Koïchiro Matsuura said in a statement that: "We are steering the right course, but as education systems expand, they face more complex and more specific challenges. The latest report clearly identifies these challenges: reaching the most vulnerable and disadvantaged, improving learning conditions, and increasing aid."

Adult illiteracy persists, despite increased spending, in part because of the high cost of education in some countries and the poor quality of schooling in much of the world. As many as 774 million adults, or almost one in five of the global population, lack basic literacy skills – and almost three-quarters of this category live in just 15 different nations.

Mr. Burnett called on wealthy nations to increase their spending to match earlier commitments, and to target their spending more at the primary school level, rather than post-secondary education.

Poor countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, should upgrade and professionalize their system for employing and training teachers so that the quality of education is improved and there are enough new teachers to meet the growing demand thanks to the rising enrolment rates.
2007-11-29 00:00:00.000

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ALMOST $100 MILLION NEEDED TO HELP FEED INDONESIA'S POOREST, SAYS UN AGENCY

ALMOST $100 MILLION NEEDED TO HELP FEED INDONESIA'S POOREST, SAYS UN AGENCY
New York, Nov 29 2007 6:00PM
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has <" http://www.wfp.org/english/?ModuleID=137&Key=2703">appealed for $98 million to run a three-year project to feed the hungry in Indonesia, where millions of poor children across the South-East Asian archipelago are malnourished.

Launching the initiative yesterday in the capital Jakarta, WFP's Asia Regional Director Tony Banbury said the agency's current assistance programmes in Indonesia will be at risk unless new funding is secured soon.

The planned three-year programme – which has not received any significant contributions or pledges so far – will provide 840,000 Indonesians with direct food aid, focusing on "the poorest of the poor" in West Timor, Lombok, Madura, East Java and Greater Jakarta.

The scheme will target mothers and children in particular, with the WFP working with the Government and private sector partners to also provide health, hygiene and nutrition information.

The most recent surveys indicate that an estimated 13 million children under the age of five are malnourished in Indonesia, and in some areas, such as the province of Nusa Tenggara Timor, 30 per cent of children in that age category are classed as severely malnourished.

"Hunger is still a very real threat for too many poor Indonesians," Mr. Banbury said. "Despite Indonesia's impressive economic gains of recent years, there are still millions of poor families who cannot provide enough food for their children."

As part of the launch, WFP has recruited two well-known Indonesians, the investor and businessman Edwin Soeryadjaya and the actress and model Luna Maya, to help promote the initiative and raise public awareness.

Mr. Soeryadjaya has become a member of the Asian Philanthropist Trust, which the WFP has established with some of the continent's most influential business figures, while Ms. Maya becomes a WFP Ambassador Against Hunger.
2007-11-29 00:00:00.000

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UN FORCE COMMANDER IN DR CONGO URGES PEACEFUL RESOLUTION TO CLASHES IN EAST

UN FORCE COMMANDER IN DR CONGO URGES PEACEFUL RESOLUTION TO CLASHES IN EAST
New York, Nov 29 2007 6:00PM
The Force Commander of the United Nations mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (<" http://www.monuc.org/Home.aspx?lang=en">MONUC) today urged a peaceful resolution of clashes in the country's troubled eastern region, but said his troops stood ready to support Government efforts to resolve the problem militarily if necessary.

"Always the best option is a peaceful solution," General Lieutenant General Babacar Gaye said when asked what MONUC was doing in support of the Government's plan for a major military operation in the east, where forces loyal to renegade General Laurent Nkunda have been clashing with the DRC's army (FARDC).

Speaking to reporters following a closed-door meeting of the Security Council, General Gaye recalled that MONUC had recently obtained the surrender of a commander loyal to General Nkunda as well as 14 troops through negotiation. "We hope this trend will continue," he said.

At the same time, the Force Commander said the UN had provided support to the FARDC and would continue to do so. "During the operation what we are going to do is to focus on the security of the population," he said, ensuring that there will be no retaliation against the civilian population.

The UN would also provide logistical support, helping with transport, including evacuations of the wounded and bringing in reinforcements.

He said Gen. Nkunda's forces "are in a crisis," numbering some 3,000 troops compared to the 20,000 the FARDC has in North Kivu.

Also briefing the press was Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's outgoing Special Representative Process for DRC, William Lacy Swing, who pointed to the progress that has been achieved in recent years. "For the first time in half a century the country has legitimate institutions that came out of an electoral process," he said.

"There are however, many leftovers from the past," he added, urging action in response to the rebel forces not participating in the peace process.

"There are great achievements, including historic elections, as well as enormous challenges," said the envoy. "I leave very encouraged by the process – there is nothing externally or internally which could in the long term derail it," he said.

Mr. Swing, whose term ends next month, will be replaced by Alan Doss, currently the senior UN envoy to Liberia, who will start work in the DRC in January.
2007-11-29 00:00:00.000

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TOP UN ENVOY MEETS WITH SOMALI PRESIDENT AND PRIME MINISTER

TOP UN ENVOY MEETS WITH SOMALI PRESIDENT AND PRIME MINISTER
New York, Nov 29 2007 6:00PM
The top United Nations envoy for Somalia today discussed the ongoing crisis in the Horn of Africa nation with the country's President and Prime Minister.

The Secretary-General's Special Representative Ahmedou Ould-Abdallah met with President Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed and recently-appointed Prime Minister Nur Hassan Hussein in the town of Baidoa in southern Somalia.

"I discussed with the President and Prime Minister the need to address the crisis in a peaceful manner by involving all Somalis in the future of their country," Mr. Ould-Abdallah said in a statement.

"The current situation is a good opportunity for Somalis and all their friends who would like to help join the UN in its work for peace."

Somalia, which has lacked a functioning government since 1991, has been wracked by violence in recent months which has displaced a total of 1 million people.

Mr. Ould-Abdallah's trip to Baidoa comes on the heels of his meetings last week with the Government of Djibouti, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and members of Somalia's opposition.

Since taking office this September, this is the Special Representative's second trip to Somalia.
2007-11-29 00:00:00.000

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UN RELIEF OFFICIAL URGES SUDAN TO ENSURE THAT AID WORKERS HAVE ACCESS TO DARFUR

UN RELIEF OFFICIAL URGES SUDAN TO ENSURE THAT AID WORKERS HAVE ACCESS TO DARFUR
New York, Nov 29 2007 5:00PM
The top United Nations relief official has begun his <" http://ochaonline.un.org/News/OCHANewsCentre/PressReleases2007/tabid/1120/Default.aspx">visit to Sudan by calling on the Government to ensure safe and unimpeded access for aid workers, particularly those providing vital humanitarian assistance to people affected by the conflict in the country's strife-torn Darfur region.

In his meeting with senior Sudanese officials in Khartoum, Emergency Relief Coordinator John Holmes stressed the ongoing need for a "safer and more conducive environment" for humanitarian workers.

"The key issue is safety so that we can continue to assist the Government to provide assistance to these most vulnerable communities," Mr. Holmes said following discussions with Ali Karti, the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Hassabo Abdel Rahman, the Commissioner General of the Humanitarian Aid Commission.

A key issue was the extension of the 2004 Moratorium enabling non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to continue to operate in Darfur, where more than 200,000 people have been killed and at least 2.2 million others displaced in the past four years due to violence. An estimated 4 million Darfuris now depend on humanitarian aid for survival.

"My discussions today with Government were useful, and clear assurances were given to me that there would be no problem with the extension of the Moratorium," said Mr. Holmes.

While in Khartoum, Mr. Holmes also met with Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's Special Representative, Ashraf Qazi, as well as Ameerah Haq, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Sudan.

In addition, Mr. Holmes, who is Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, also discussed pressing issues and challenges with representatives of UN agencies, NGOs and donors.

Mr. Holmes will travel on Friday to South Darfur where he will meet people directly affected by the conflict.

Sudan is the current stop on a three-nation trip that began in Ethiopia and will also take the UN humanitarian chief to Kenya in the coming days.
2007-11-29 00:00:00.000

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DAY OF SOLIDARITY WITH THE PALESTINIAN PEOPLE MARKED AT UN WITH CALLS FOR ACTION

DAY OF SOLIDARITY WITH THE PALESTINIAN PEOPLE MARKED AT UN WITH CALLS FOR ACTION
New York, Nov 29 2007 5:00PM
Marking the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, United Nations officials today called for steps to translate the promises of the peace process – most recently expressed at a major meeting in the United States city of Annapolis – into action to achieve a two-State solution to the conflict in the Middle East.

<" http://www.un.org/apps/news/infocus/sgspeeches/statments_full.asp?statID=156">Addressing a commemorative meeting in New York, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon noted that Palestinians "continue to suffer the indignities and violence of occupation and conflict" but called the recent talks in Annapolis "a new beginning in efforts to achieve a two-State solution."

The talks on 27 November, which brought together Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, meeting under the auspices of US President George Bush and before a wide cross-section of the international community, agreed to launch negotiations on all core issues without exception, to try to conclude a peace treaty resolving all outstanding issues in 2008.

"Implementation is now paramount," said Mr. Ban. "What we do tomorrow is more important than what we say today."

The Secretary-General said the process launched at Annapolis "must change the lives of Palestinians, and secure their independence and freedom," ending the occupation and creating an independent and viable State of Palestine, at peace with itself and its neighbours.

"It also must deliver on the vital interests of Israelis: a Palestinian State that is a true partner and not a source of terrorism, secure and recognized borders, and a permanent end to the conflict," he added.

The Secretary-General acknowledged the difficulties ahead. "We cannot close our eyes to the profound doubt and mistrust on either side about the will and capacity of the other to achieve these goals," he said. "The indignities, injustices, and fear on both sides make it difficult to build faith in the political process. But that is exactly what we have to do. We must abandon piecemeal approaches, and address all aspects of the conflict."

He also urged help for the Palestinian Authority to rebuild, reform and perform. "I hope a wide range of donors will step forward with political and financial support at the upcoming Paris conference and beyond," he said.

In addition, Mr. Ban urged humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza, while cautioning that this would not substitute for a functioning economy. "The time has come for concrete initiatives to ease their suffering."

Also addressing the <" http://www.un.org/Depts/dpa/qpalnew/committee.htm">Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, General Assembly President Srgjan Kerim hailed the outcome of the Annapolis conference as a "great opportunity for a permanent two-State solution" but echoed Mr. Ban by saying "the prerequisite for success requires a resolute commitment to boldly follow words with deeds."

The President cautioned that achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace requires continuous dialogue and compromise backed by a resolute commitment to achieve a permanent solution.

"Both Israelis and Palestinians are going to have to be honest with their own people about the price of peace. This will require difficult choices and sacrifice from both sides, as part of a shared vision for a better future," he said.

"The stakes are high, but the alternatives are worse," he declared, calling on all Member States to make every effort to support the peace process.

Looking ahead, Mr. Kerim said the Paris donors' conference to be held in December offers an important opportunity to fund key proposals and lay the foundation for a viable Palestinian State.

A commemorative meeting on the issue was also held today in Geneva, with speakers underscoring the international community's obligation to assist the Palestinians and voicing support for a two-State solution.
2007-11-29 00:00:00.000

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BAN KI-MOON TO PARTICIPATE IN NEXT MONTH'S CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE IN BALI

BAN KI-MOON TO PARTICIPATE IN NEXT MONTH'S CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE IN BALI
New York, Nov 29 2007 4:00PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is heading to the Indonesian island of Bali next month, where world leaders will gather for a major conference on climate change, to try to press for a breakthrough in the international negotiations on devising a comprehensive agreement on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Mr. Ban will take part in the Bali conference from 12 to 14 December, United Nations spokesperson Michele Montas told reporters today, saying he wants to maximize the opportunity provided by the summit to make progress on his signature issue.

"He feels we need a breakthrough in Bali as a critical first step," she said. "If we are to meet the challenge of global warming, we need a new and comprehensive agreement that all nations can embrace.

"We do not expect world leaders to walk away from the summit with a new global accord to succeed Kyoto," Ms. Montas added, referring to the internationally agreed Protocol for reducing emissions that is due to expire in 2012. "But the Secretary-General would expect them to agree to an agenda of issues and set a timetable for reaching such an accord."

During his time in Bali Mr. Ban will hold bilateral meetings with key heads of State and government who are also taking part in the conference, as well as with major players in the field of climate change.

The <"http://unfccc.int/meetings/cop_13/items/4049.php">Bali conference is one stop on a three-nation trip by the Secretary-General that will begin with an official visit to Thailand, where he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont and have an audience with King Bhumibol Adulyadej. While in Bangkok the Secretary-General will visit the headquarters of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (<"http://www.unescap.org/">ESCAP) and meet UN staff working in the region.

After attending the conference in Bali, Mr. Ban will head to Timor-Leste to visit the UN peacekeeping mission in the tiny nation (<"http://www.unmiset.org/unmisetwebsite.nsf/MainFrame-EN.htm?OpenFrameset">UNMIT), address the National Parliament, visit camps for internally displaced persons (<"http://www.unhcr.org/protect/3b84c7e23.html">IDPs) and hold talks with senior Government officials.

The Secretary-General will then fly to Jakarta, the Indonesian capital, before heading back to UN Headquarters in New York.

Ms. Montas confirmed that on 17 December in Paris Mr. Ban will also be attending the international donors' conference for the Palestinian territories, co-hosted by France, Norway, the European Commission and the Special Representative for the Middle East diplomatic Quartet, former British prime minister Tony Blair.
2007-11-29 00:00:00.000

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COUNTRIES MUST MAINTAIN VIGILANCE IN FIGHT AGAINST BIRD FLU, SAYS NEW UN REPORT

COUNTRIES MUST MAINTAIN VIGILANCE IN FIGHT AGAINST BIRD FLU, SAYS NEW UN REPORT
New York, Nov 29 2007 4:00PM
Despite significant advances to deal with the deadly H5N1 strain of avian flu in the past two years, countries must maintain their vigilance and cooperate in the face of a possible pandemic, according to a joint United Nations and World Bank <" http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2007/sag417.doc.htm"> report.

The new report concludes "that the capacity and understanding around communication about bird flu has greatly improved," <"http://www.undg.org/index.cfm?P=39">David Nabarro, Senior UN System Influenza Coordinator, said at a press briefing in New York.

A synopsis of "Responses to Avian Influenza and State of Pandemic Readiness" – based on data provided by 143 nations – was made public today in advance of the 4-6 December ministerial-level world conference on avian and pandemic influenza to be held in New Delhi, India.

In six countries, including Indonesia, the virus is still enzootic, which means it is continuously present and being passed between poultry.

Additionally, "we have some major anxieties about the extent to which countries' pandemic preparedness plans are really capable of being operationalized," Dr. Nabarro said.

"When the pandemic strikes, viruses will not understand borders and they will spread to all countries and all people of the world will be at risk."

Countries must bolster their readiness to respond to not just the health, but the economic and social consequences of a potential pandemic as well, Dr. Nabarro said, calling for global solidarity coordinated national strategies for dealing with pandemics.

The report called for a three to five year road map to be established urgently to "build on and strengthen efforts to date – and to drive inter-governmental action both for the control of avian influenza… and to ensure a better global readiness for future health crises."

It suggested that scientists share virus samples given the ongoing genetic evolution of H5N1 and others as part of a system managed by the UN World Health Organization (<" http://www.who.int/en/">WHO).
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2007-11-29 00:00:00.000

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SECRETARY-GENERAL NAMES ROBERT SERRY OF THE NETHERLANDS AS MIDDLE EAST ENVOY

SECRETARY-GENERAL NAMES ROBERT SERRY OF THE NETHERLANDS AS MIDDLE EAST ENVOY
New York, Nov 29 2007 4:00PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today announced his intention to appoint Robert H. Serry of the Netherlands as the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process and his Personal Representative to the Palestine Liberation Organization and the Palestinian Authority.

"In this capacity, Mr. Serry will be the Envoy of the Secretary-General to the Quartet," said UN spokesperson Michele Montas, referring to the diplomatic grouping which brings together the UN, European Union, Russian Federation and United States.

If approved as expected by the <"http://www.un.org/Docs/sc/index.html">Security Council, Mr. Serry would succeed Michael Williams of the United Kingdom.

The Dutch official brings to the job decades of experience, having served most recently as Ambassador to Ireland. Prior to that, he was Director and Deputy Assistant Secretary-General for Crisis Management and Operations at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, where among other functions he had informal contacts with Palestinian and Israeli security experts (including ex-IDF officers) on lessons learned by NATO in the Balkans.

Earlier in his career, from 1986 to 1992, he was Head, Middle East Section/Director, Africa and Middle East Department in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at The Hague. In that capacity, he helped to conduct a pre-Oslo quiet diplomacy initiative to promote dialogue between Israel and the Palestinians.

In the framework of the Netherlands European Community presidency, Mr. Serry participated in the events leading to the Middle East Peace Conference held in Madrid in November 1991. He has also published several articles on political and peacekeeping topics ranging from the Middle East to Eastern Europe.

"The appointment of a new Special Coordinator comes at a critical juncture, as the Annapolis conference has created renewed momentum for peace between Israelis and Palestinians," said Ms. Montas.

"Mr. Serry will play a pivotal role in coordinating all United Nations activities related to the Middle East peace process and in representing the Secretary-General in all arenas involving the parties and the international community."

In a separate action, Ms. Montas also announced the appointment, in compliance with the provisions of a General Assembly resolution on the matter, of <http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2007/sga1110.doc.htm>Vladimir Goryayev of the Russian Federation as Executive Director of the office of the UN Register of Damage caused by the Construction of the Wall in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

The office of the UN Register of Damage, based in Vienna, is a subsidiary organ of the General Assembly operating under the administrative authority of the Secretary-General.
Mr. Goryayev currently serves as Director a.i. for the Asia and the Pacific Division in the Department of Political Affairs, which he joined in 1988. Prior to that, Mr. Goryayev worked with the Foreign Ministry in Moscow.

In his new capacity, Mr. Goryayev will be responsible for overseeing and administrating the work of the office of the UN Register of Damage. As an ex-officio member of the Board of the Register of Damage, he will also be responsible for reviewing all the claim cases and presenting them to members of the Board for inclusion in the Register.
2007-11-29 00:00:00.000

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ONE-THIRD OF ADULTS IN RICH NATIONS ARE IGNORANT ABOUT AIDS, UN-BACKED STUDY FINDS

ONE-THIRD OF ADULTS IN RICH NATIONS ARE IGNORANT ABOUT AIDS, UN-BACKED STUDY FINDS
New York, Nov 29 2007 2:00PM
In what should serve as a wake-up call ahead of World AIDS Day, a new United Nations-backed survey shows that about one third of the people in seven wealthy nations admit they know little or nothing about the global HIV and AIDS crisis, and 25 per cent believe problems associated with the epidemic are "greatly exaggerated" by the media.

The Global AIDS Attitudes Survey, published by the non-governmental organization World Vision, reveals the awareness and attitudes of populations in Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States – all members of the "Group of Eight" industrialized nations – towards those affected by HIV and AIDS globally.

Speaking at the launch of the Survey at UN Headquarters, the Director of the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (<"http://www.unaids.org/en/">UNAIDS) in New York underlined that "the more we understand the epidemic, the better we can make policies, the better we can make programmes.

"The contribution from World Vision and [global polling firm] Ipsos provides the kind of insight that helps us to understand this epidemic in a way that makes the efforts that are required to be more effective," Bunmi Makinwa added.

Among the main findings of the Survey is that the more people know about HIV and AIDS globally, the more concerned they are about the issue and the more compassionate they are towards those directly affected by it.

The World Vision "Index of Concern," a tool for understanding the level of concern each country feels towards the issue, finds that Canada leads the seven nations surveyed for the highest level of empathy its residents feel toward those affected by HIV and AIDS globally, with Japan ranking last. The others in order are France, Germany, US, Italy and UK.

In addition, concern about HIV and AIDS globally is "on par" with the war in Iraq. At the same time, poverty and hunger, climate change, and terrorism are of greater concern to people than HIV and AIDS or the Iraq war.

"After more than 25 years – more than a quarter of a century – of news coverage, education and prevention work, about one third of the people that we surveyed in the seven countries from this report admit that they know little or nothing about AIDS – one in three in the wealthiest nations in the world," said Richard Stearns, President of World Vision US.

"In the United States that represents about 70 million adults that say they know little or nothing about HIV and AIDS or its impact," he added.

Noting that the Survey does contain "some element of hope," he pointed out that 80 per cent of people believed their governments should do much more to help children who are orphaned by AIDS and AIDS-related illnesses.

In addition, 44 per cent are willing to pay more in taxes to help fund prevention, treatment, research and care; that number was 50 per cent in the US.

Another "astounding" statistic is that 9 out of 10 people surveyed believed that the global community has a moral obligation to respond to the AIDS crisis, he said. "The vast majority of people think their governments and individuals globally should be responding decisively to turn the tide and come to the aid of people living with HIV and AIDS."

As to why so many people admit to knowing little or nothing about the problem, he said the answer is simple. "For those millions of people the disease HIV is simply not real. It's not personal. It is somebody else's problem and somebody else's disease, and very often in a place very, very far away and remote from their everyday lives."

In response, the challenge is to make HIV/AIDS more real to the public, "to put a face on the disease" that kills 2.1 million people every year.

"AIDS will only become real, it will only become important when we see past the statistics," he stated.
2007-11-29 00:00:00.000

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