UN RUSHES FOOD TO GEORGIAN TOWN OF GORI, WHERE SITUATION IS 'DESPERATE'

UN RUSHES FOOD TO GEORGIAN TOWN OF GORI, WHERE SITUATION IS 'DESPERATE' New York, Aug 16 2008 12:10PM Responding to an urgent request from the Georgian Government, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has sent a truckload of food to the town of Gori, which the agency has not been able to reach due to insecurity.

"We understand the food situation in Gori has now become desperate," said Lola Castro, WFP's Georgia Country Director.

The agency is supplying high-energy biscuits (HEBs) and sugar, while the non-governmental organization World Vision International is sending canned meat, buckwheat, pasta and tea.

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) estimates that close to 115,000 people have been uprooted from their homes since heavy fighting began over one week ago in South Ossetia between Georgian and South Ossetian forces. Russian forces have also become involved there and in the separate region of Abkhazia in north-western Georgia.

Last Wednesday, WFP airlifted 34 metric tons of HEBs -- donated by the European Union -- from the UN Humanitarian Response Depot (UNHRD) in Brindisi, Italy, and they have already reached some 18,000 people in and around the capital Tbilisi. A further 58 tons of HEBs arrived at the city today.

The agency has located bakeries situated close to where internally displace persons (IDPs) have concentrated and is supplying wheat flour to make bread to be distributed to the hungry. WFP, which has so far sent food assistance for 34,000 people forced from their homes, is also providing supplies for soup kitchens to enable people to eat hot food.

The agency is leading the coordination of food assistance and plans to offer logistical support to other aid partners. Prior to the start of the conflict, the agency was providing food to over 212,000 people, mainly in poor rural communities, as well as to schoolchildren, tuberculosis patients and people living with HIV/AIDS.

Approximately 30,000 South Ossetians are believed to have crossed the border into North Ossetia, part of Russia, and WFP is monitoring the situation from its office in the North Ossetian capital of Vladikavkaz.

2008-08-16 00:00:00.000

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UN NUCLEAR AGENCY SEEKS WAYS TO BOOST NUTRITION AMONG WORLD'S POOR

UN NUCLEAR AGENCY SEEKS WAYS TO BOOST NUTRITION AMONG WORLD'S POOR New York, Aug 15 2008 3:10PM The United Nations International Atomic Energy Agency (<"http://www.iaea.org/NewsCenter/News/2008/biofortification.html">IAEA) has been exploring avenues to tackle the issue of nutritional deficiencies in the world's poor.

Biofortification – a fairly new tactic to improve nutrition through conventional plant breeding techniques – was the focus of an IAEA meeting held this week with a group of scientists and institutions called HarvestPlus.

IAEA "uses nuclear techniques to evaluate bioavailability and efficacy in humans," said Lena Davidsson, who heads the Agency's Nutritional and Health-related Environmental Studies Section.

Unlike traditional means to add nutrients to food in the processing stages, biofortification seeks to do this while staple plants are being grown, and these new crops could reach those who lack access to centrally processed fortified foods.

"With our biofortification strategy, we try to put more vitamins and minerals into the foods staples that the poor are already eating in large amounts, said Howarth Bouis, Director of HarvestPlus.

IAEA has teamed up with the scientists in a four-year project in Asia and Latin America: HarvestPlus develops biofortified foods, while IAEA tests the body's ability to use the nutrient-packed crops.

Under this scheme, some women in Bangladesh have replaced the typical white-coloured sweet potato with a biofortified orange one that is higher in beta-carotene. A sophisticated stable isotope technique will measure their vitamin A levels to determine how the biofortified products could combat nutritional deficiencies.

Compared to more traditional tests, stable isotope techniques allow more sensitivity and specificity in their measurements.
2008-08-15 00:00:00.000

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GENEVA-BASED UN HUMAN RIGHTS ADVISORY BODY WINDS UP FIRST SESSION

GENEVA-BASED UN HUMAN RIGHTS ADVISORY BODY WINDS UP FIRST SESSION New York, Aug 15 2008 3:10PM After making recommendations on the rights of refugees and on the right to food, the United Nations Human Rights Council's Advisory Committee concluded its first session in Geneva today.

Among the 13 recommendations adopted by consensus, the Advisory Committee suggested that the <"http://www2.ohchr.org/english/bodies/hrcouncil/">Human Rights Council and the Secretary-General use their good offices to extend the right of non-refoulement to hunger refugees – which would protect them from being sent back to their home countries against their will.

It also recommended that the Council launch an urgent appeal to Member States to increase their voluntary contributions substantially and as soon as possible to support the work of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other UN agencies.

In addition, the Committee set up a working group charged with making recommendations on the right to the food and the current global food crisis, and another group to prepare a declaration on human rights education and training.

"The first session marked a significant step forward in realizing and completing the Council's institution-building process," the Acting UN High-Commissioner for Human Rights Kyung-Wha Kang told members of the Committee.

"It is also an important moment for the international community as this new human rights mechanism charts its future course within the United Nations' comprehensive human rights system," she added.

The 18-member Advisory Committee will hold its second session from 26 to 30 January 2009.
2008-08-15 00:00:00.000

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UN ENVOY DEPARTS FOR FIVE-DAY VISIT TO MYANMAR

UN ENVOY DEPARTS FOR FIVE-DAY VISIT TO MYANMAR New York, Aug 15 2008 2:10PM The United Nations Special Adviser on Myanmar, Ibrahim Gambari, is departing today for a five-day visit to the South-East Asian nation starting on 18 August, at the invitation of the Government.

Mr. Gambari said that he looked forward to returning to Myanmar and continuing his consultations with the Government and other relevant parties in the implementation of the good offices mandate entrusted to Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon by the General Assembly.

It will be Mr. Gambari's fourth visit to the country over the past year.

On previous visits, the Special Adviser met with senior Government officials, as well as the detained pro-democracy leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.
2008-08-15 00:00:00.000

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NEPAL: BAN CONGRATULATES NEWLY-ELECTED PRIME MINISTER

NEPAL: BAN CONGRATULATES NEWLY-ELECTED PRIME MINISTER New York, Aug 15 2008 2:10PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today warmly congratulated Pushpa Kamal Dahal – who goes by the name Prachanda – on his election as Nepal's first Prime Minister since the South Asian nation abolished the monarchy and declared itself a republic.

"He calls on all parties to cooperate with the new Government in order to carry forward Nepal's peace process," according to a <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=3360">statement.

The country – which in 2006 emerged from a decade-long civil war between Government and Maoist forces claiming 13,000 lives – abolished its 240-year-old monarchy in May and is now the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal.

Prachanda, who is chairman of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist), was elected by the Constituent Assembly, which also elected the country's first President, Ram Baran Yadav, last month.

The Secretary-General has characterized the April polls for the Constituent Assembly as historic, but warned in a report in May that those elections are "only a milestone in the peace process," noting that "the real work of addressing the nation's deeper socio-economic difficulties and drafting a constitution that reflects the will of the entire nation only begins now."

Last month, the Security Council extended the mandate by six months of the UN peacekeeping mission in Nepal, known as UNMIN, so that it can complete its monitoring and management of the arms and personnel of Nepal's army and the former Maoist combatants from the civil war.
2008-08-15 00:00:00.000

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IN CHINA, UN OFFICIALS HAIL SPORT'S CONTRIBUTION TO DEVELOPMENT AND PEACE

IN CHINA, UN OFFICIALS HAIL SPORT'S CONTRIBUTION TO DEVELOPMENT AND PEACE New York, Aug 15 2008 12:10PM Sport is increasingly recognized as an important tool in helping countries achieve their development goals, the United Nations envoy for sport said today in Beijing, where athletes from around the world are currently competing in the 2008 Summer Olympics.

"Sport has an important role in improving the lives of people around the world. It builds bridges between individuals and across communities, providing a fertile ground for sowing the seeds of development and peace," Wilfried Lemke, Special Adviser to UN Secretary General on Sport for Development and Peace, said in a statement marking the mid-point of the Olympic Games.

The Office of the UN Resident Coordinator in China added that sport can catalyse advances in poverty reduction, universal education, gender equality, prevention of HIV/AIDS and other diseases, environmental sustainability, as well as peacebuilding and conflict resolution.

The Office cited Chinese basketball star Yao Ming and former Olympians such as swimmer Luo Xuejuan, ping pong player Deng Yaping, diver Gao Min, long-distance runner Wang Junxia and skater Yang Yang as athletes who have collaborated with the UN to promote poverty alleviation, public awareness on HIV/AIDS and environmental protection.

The UN Resident Coordinator in China, Khalid Malik, also praised the Chinese authorities' efforts to create an Olympic Games with an emphasis on environmental sustainability.
2008-08-15 00:00:00.000

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UN AGENCY LAUNCHES DATABASE ON WORLD TRADE IN CREATIVE PRODUCTS

UN AGENCY LAUNCHES DATABASE ON WORLD TRADE IN CREATIVE PRODUCTS New York, Aug 15 2008 12:10PM A new public database in creative products – such as music, audiovisuals, newspapers and electronic publishing – has been launched today by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

Currently the site shows global trade flows for 1996-2006. Selected products are listed along with the major exporters and importers in major markets for such creative products as art and crafts, music CDs and video and films. Statistics on some 235 products can be found at http://stats.unctad.org/creative.

UNCTAD says that traditional statistical methods are being updated to reflect accurately the rapidly growing international exchange of digitalized products such as music, films, videos, advertising, news, and all creative content that travel via the Internet and mobile phones.

The Creative Economy Report 2008, released by UNCTAD and the UN Development Programme (UNDP) in April, showed that global trade in creative goods and services grew by 8.7 per cent annually from 2000-2005, making it one of the most vibrant sectors in world commerce.

The value of exports of creative goods reached $335.5 billion in 2005, according to figures reported by over 130 countries, while exports of creative services totaled $89 billion.

Trade in creative products is dominated by developed countries – they account for about 90 per cent of exports of music and audiovisuals, for example – although the world's poorer nations have achieved rapid growth in the creative sector recently.

One noteworthy trend is that printed media are facing challenges because of the growing influence of electronic publishing. In Europe, which has the world's highest rate of broadband Internet penetration, circulation of printed newspapers is declining.

By contrast, in developing countries where competition from electronic publishing is less of a factor because of expensive and limited Internet access, the circulation of printed newspapers seems less affected.

Worldwide, the database shows, global sales of published material and printed media – a range of news circulated as newspapers, magazines and books – had a growth rate of 3 per cent for 2000-2005, with exports amounting to $15.3 billion in 2005.
2008-08-15 00:00:00.000

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UN EXPERT CALLS FOR END TO IMPUNITY FOR ATTACKS ON EDUCATORS AFTER AFGHAN AMBUSH

UN EXPERT CALLS FOR END TO IMPUNITY FOR ATTACKS ON EDUCATORS AFTER AFGHAN AMBUSH New York, Aug 15 2008 11:10AM The perpetrators of this week's brutal murder of four aid workers supporting education projects in Afghanistan must not go unpunished, an independent United Nations human rights expert said today.

"There must be an end to impunity for those who attack schools, students and educators," the Special Rapporteur on the right to education, Vernor Muñoz Villalobos, said in a statement issued in Geneva.

Three female international aid workers and their Afghan colleague were killed after their vehicle, belonging to the United States-based International Rescue Committee, was attacked by gunmen while travelling from Kabul to Logar.

Mr. Villalobos said the incident "highlights starkly the extreme risks faced by all those promoting the right to education in conflict areas and the urgent need for the international community, and all those involved in this and similar conflicts, to put a stop to such attacks."

The Taliban, which has claimed responsibility for the attack, "do not simply fail to value education: they deliberately target it," the Special Rapporteur noted.

"Their attacks on schools, teachers and others working on education are systematic, not random. They are part of a deliberate attack on human rights, on equality for women and on any attempt by their fellow citizens to control their own destiny," he stated.

Mr. Villalobos paid tribute to Jackie Kirk, whom he called "a friend, a colleague and a great champion of the right to education" and her IRC colleagues – Shirley Case, Nicole Dial and Mohammad Aimal – who were "dedicated human rights workers, trying to ensure that this generation of Afghan children would not be denied an education, like so many of their parents."

"The murder of Jackie Kirk and her colleagues is a crime, a tragedy and a terrible loss for Afghanistan," he stressed.

Wednesday's incident was the latest and most deadly single attack against the Afghan aid community this year, according to the UN. Already 19 aid workers have been killed in 2008, surpassing the total number of lives lost in 2007.
2008-08-15 00:00:00.000

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GEORGIA: UN CONTINUES TO PRESS FOR HUMANITARIAN ACCESS TO VICTIMS

GEORGIA: UN CONTINUES TO PRESS FOR HUMANITARIAN ACCESS TO VICTIMS New York, Aug 15 2008 10:10AM As urgent supplies continue to arrive for those affected by the conflict in Georgia, the United Nations refugee agency has repeated its call for free and unhindered humanitarian access and safe passage for uprooted civilians and the aid workers trying to help them.

Many people have been killed and wounded, and large numbers have been uprooted from their homes since heavy fighting began last Thursday in South Ossetia between Georgian and South Ossetian forces. Russian forces have also become involved there and in the separate region of Abkhazia in north-western Georgia.

In a statement issued yesterday, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon voiced his deep concern at the impact of the fighting on civilians, and called for "safe and unimpeded access for humanitarian actors to all conflict-affected areas."

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) estimates that the total number of people uprooted in the conflict is approaching 115,000, according to the latest figures provided by the Georgian and Russian Governments.

Russian officials in North Ossetia say some 30,000 people from South Ossetia are still in Russia. Meanwhile, Georgian officials report that up to 15,000 people have fled south into other parts of Georgia from South Ossetia. In addition, some 68,000 people are displaced in the rest of Georgia, including most of the population of the town of Gori.

UNHCR announced that its chief, António Guterres, will travel to Georgia and Russia next week to assess the agency's humanitarian operations in both countries and to discuss with the two governments any further support they may require.

"Mr. Guterres will continue to press for the protection of the civilian population, particularly the displaced, and for access by humanitarian agencies," UNHCR spokesperson Ron Redmond <"http://www.unhcr.org/news/NEWS/48a5301f4.html">told reporters in Geneva.

Meanwhile, UNHCR's third humanitarian airlift this week to Georgia is expected to arrive in Tbilisi today, bringing more than 38 tonnes of jerry cans, blankets, kitchen sets and telecommunications equipment. With today's flight, UNHCR will have delivered more than 100 tonnes of relief supplies so far this week – enough for more than 50,000 people.

It has already distributed aid to some 2,000 people, including 1,500 internally displaced persons (IDPs) from South Ossetia who are now living in a former hospital building in Tbilisi.

In addition, UNHCR is scheduling two flights to Vladikavkaz in Russia next week to bring mattresses, kitchen sets, water tanks, blankets, jerry cans and soap for displaced South Ossetians.

Two of UNHCR's vehicles were hijacked at gunpoint yesterday by people in unmarked uniforms on the outskirts of Gori. The vehicles were later recovered and the two UNHCR staff members made it safely back to Tbilisi.

Despite this incident, UNHCR is pressing ahead with field assessment missions and the distribution of assistance.

"The needs are great, especially for the most vulnerable such as children, women and the sick," the agency said in a news release. "There are newborn babies and women in advanced pregnancy among the displaced. Immediate needs include medications for people suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. Sanitation and hygienic items as well beds and mattresses are in great demand."
2008-08-15 00:00:00.000

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CÔTE D'IVOIRE: '1,000 MICRO-PROJECTS' INITIATIVE LAUNCHED BY UN MISSION

CÔTE D'IVOIRE: '1,000 MICRO-PROJECTS' INITIATIVE LAUNCHED BY UN MISSION New York, Aug 14 2008 6:10PM The United Nations mission in Côte d'Ivoire (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unoci/index.html">UNOCI) today launched a $5 million project to speed the reintegration of ex-combatants from the country's civil war, as well as young people at risk.

The "1,000 micro-projects" initiative was launched in Bouaké by the UN's top envoy in the West Africa nation, Y.J. Choi.

The projects seek to support ex-combatants, ex-militias and young people at risk, along with children and women associated with the Ivorian conflict.

The projects cover a range of activities, including technical training, agriculture, market-gardening, cattle rearing, fishing, forestry, construction, transportation, motor mechanics, public works and catering.

The aim of the micro-projects is to reduce poverty and youth unemployment. In addition, it is hoped that they will help provide a secure and stable environment for free and fair elections while reintegrating ex-combatants into their former communities.

Mr. Choi will also visit Séguéla, Korhogo, Odienné, Guiglo, Issia and San Pedro for a sensitisation and information tour on the micro-projects initiative.

Last month the Security Council extended UNOCI's mandate by six months, stressing the importance that much-delayed presidential elections, now slated for November, are conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner.
2008-08-14 00:00:00.000

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BAN WELCOMES OUTCOME OF LEBANON-SYRIA TALKS

BAN WELCOMES OUTCOME OF LEBANON-SYRIA TALKS New York, Aug 14 2008 5:10PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today welcomed the results of the summit between Lebanese President Michel Suleiman and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad which was held in Damascus.

In a <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2008/sgsm11749.doc.htm">statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban "notes positively the decisions to begin the process to establish diplomatic relations through an exchange of ambassadors, and to take steps towards the delineation and control of the borders between the two countries."

He encouraged both parties to begin implementing these decisions as soon as possible, in keeping with Security Council resolutions 1680 and 1701, both from 2006.

Yesterday, both the Secretary-General and the Security Council condemned a deadly bombing in the northern Lebanese city of Tripoli, voicing hope that it will not impede recent political progress in the Middle Eastern nation.

Mr. Ban "believes this attack should not hinder the positive steps that have been taken to return the country to normalcy," according to a statement.
2008-08-14 00:00:00.000

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ZIMBABWE MUST LIFT AID AGENCY RESTRICTIONS TO AVOID HUMANITARIAN CRISIS - BAN

ZIMBABWE MUST LIFT AID AGENCY RESTRICTIONS TO AVOID HUMANITARIAN CRISIS – BAN New York, Aug 14 2008 4:10PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has urged Zimbabwe to immediately lift the restrictions it has imposed on aid agencies since June, warning that not doing so could worsen the already dire humanitarian situation in the southern African nation.

"I call on the Government of Zimbabwe to fully respect humanitarian principles and the impartiality and neutrality of voluntary and non-governmental organizations, allowing them to operate freely and with unrestricted access to those in need," Mr. Ban <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=3358">said in a statement issued today.

The Secretary-General said he remains deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation in Zimbabwe where, despite requests made by the UN Country Team and other humanitarian partners, operations of voluntary and non-governmental organizations remain restricted.

He stressed that these groups have a vital role in the delivery of humanitarian aid, including much needed food assistance.

Due to the inability of these agencies to operate, only 280,000 people of the 1.5 million in need of food assistance are being reached with distributions.

"This ban must be lifted immediately so that aid organizations can carry out their relief work and avert a catastrophic humanitarian crisis," Mr. Ban stated.

Prior to the imposition of the ban, many Zimbabweans were already suffering from food shortages and rampant inflation, a situation made worse by the violence that plagued the country ahead of the June presidential run-off election.
2008-08-14 00:00:00.000

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BAN: NIGERIA-CAMEROON PENINSULA TRANSFER EXEMPLIFIES 'GOOD NEIGHBOURLINESS'

BAN: NIGERIA-CAMEROON PENINSULA TRANSFER EXEMPLIFIES 'GOOD NEIGHBOURLINESS' New York, Aug 14 2008 3:10PM The transfer of authority from Nigeria to Cameroon of a once-disputed peninsula is a result of the resolve of the neighbouring African nations to bring a peaceful end to the issue, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today.

"The case of the Bakassi Peninsula has proven the viability of a peaceful and legal settlement of border disputes, when it is done with the full support of the international community and in a spirit of mutual respect, good neighbourliness and cooperation," Mr. Ban said in a <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2008/sgsm11745.doc.htm">message to the handover ceremony.

He paid tribute to both countries for their "patience and perseverance," adding that they serve as an example to the world on how to peacefully resolve sensitive problems.

The International Court of Justice resolved the "potentially dangerous" dispute between the two countries, and the event marks "a triumph for the rule of law, which lies at the very core of the mission and work of the United Nations," Mr. Ban said in the message, which was delivered on his behalf by Kieran Prendergast, who chaired the follow-up committee on the implementation of the 2006 Greentree agreement.

Under that historic pact – signed under the auspices of former Secretary-General Kofi Annan – Nigeria recognized Cameroonian sovereignty over the Bakassi Peninsula, an oil-rich region on the Gulf of Guinea that had been the subject of intense and sometimes violent disputes between the African neighbours for decades.

The agreement was "a testimony to the determination and resolve of both countries to move beyond a difficult past," Mr. Ban noted, calling it "the embodiment of an innovative approach to conflict resolution."

Also in attendance at today's ceremony in Calabar, Nigeria, was the Secretary-General's Special Representative for West Africa, Said Djinnit.
2008-08-14 00:00:00.000

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SOUTH AFRICA: FOREIGNERS DISPLACED BY XENOPHOBIC ATTACKS ANXIOUS OVER FUTURE - UN

SOUTH AFRICA: FOREIGNERS DISPLACED BY XENOPHOBIC ATTACKS ANXIOUS OVER FUTURE – UN New York, Aug 14 2008 3:10PM The United Nations refugee agency is assisting foreigners – mostly Zimbabweans – forced to flee their homes in South Africa by xenophobic violence, as the deadline looms for tomorrow's closure by the Gauteng provincial government of all six temporary shelters, housing 6,000 people.

Gloria, a Zimbabwean asylum-seeker who spoke on the condition that her real name not be used, has made her home for the past two months in a Johannesburg facility that will be shut down tomorrow.

"I have sleepless nights thinking about this," the mother of two boys and a girl who also cares for her HIV-positive mother said.

Back home in Zimbabwe, she lived an affluent lifestyle thanks to the well-paying job of her husband, who had two university degrees. But her life was turned upside down when he was murdered in 2005 for his work as an activist for the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC).

"Having to start (life) over in a new country, with no place to stay, moving to a shelter when I was the madam of my own house back in Zimbabwe, is like losing everything including my identity," Gloria said.

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (<"http://www.unhcr.org/news/NEWS/48a2eb422.html">UNHCR) in Pretoria, along with its partner the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS), is helping all asylum-seekers and undocumented Zimbabweans seeking to reintegrate into local communities.

"The assistance is for a period of two months, after which we expect people to be on the road to re-establishing themselves and their livelihoods," said Irfan Adil, Associate Programme Officer with the agency.

He added, however, that the most vulnerable can have their cases re-evaluated and possibly receive further help.

Gloria, expressing appreciation for UNHCR's support, said that she understands the temporary nature of the shelters, which the Government made clear when they were set up in the wake of xenophobic violence in May.

"It is time to move on but I just need a little more time [to] get my plan in place," she said.
2008-08-14 00:00:00.000

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FIVE VIDEOS FOCUS ON HUNGER FOR UN AGENCY'S ONLINE COMPETITION

FIVE VIDEOS FOCUS ON HUNGER FOR UN AGENCY'S ONLINE COMPETITION New York, Aug 14 2008 1:11PM The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has selected five finalists in its competition for a short video to raise public awareness about global hunger.

Last November <"http://www.wfp.org/english/?Key=2903&ModuleID=137">WFP called on students and would-be filmmakers to draw attention to hunger by creating short videos that would be hosted on YouTube online. Some 70 videos were submitted from countries including Brazil, Canada, China, the Czech Republic, France, Greece, Italy, Lithuania, Poland, and the United States.

A jury from the fields of film, journalism and humanitarian aid selected the finalists.

"We absolutely need the YouTube generation if we are going to get ahead of the hunger curve," said juror and WFP's Director of Communications and Public Policy Strategy, Nancy Roman, adding that a child dies of hunger somewhere in the world every six seconds.

The five finalists include a video of a man struggling to open a tin can without tools, a woman miming cooking a meal without food, and a well-to-do family sitting down to dinner and choosing which one of them is to eat that night.

The entrants can be seen at <"http://www.youtube.com/hungerbytes">www.youtube.com/hungerbytes and <"http://www.wfp.org/newsroom/hungerbytes.asp">www.wfp.org/hungerbytes.

The video which draws the most viewers by World Food Day on 16 October will win a trip for its producer to shoot a video at a relief operation operated by WFP.

Juror Edward Zwick, Director of "Blood Diamond" and "The Last Samurai," applauded the talent represented in several entries, noting that leading submissions "not only demonstrated a strong graphic sense as well as a strong theatrical sense, they also were able to present a simple idea clearly and – perhaps just as important – with wit and power."
2008-08-14 00:00:00.000

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UN MISSION COMPLETES MILITARY TRAINING FOR MORE CONGOLESE TROOPS

UN MISSION COMPLETES MILITARY TRAINING FOR MORE CONGOLESE TROOPS New York, Aug 14 2008 1:11PM Two more battalions of national troops in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have completed training on military tactics, weapons handling, logistics and professional ethics, provided by the United Nations peacekeeping force in the vast African nation.

Some 1,800 soldiers serving with the national armed forces, known as FARDC, received the three-month training which was conducted in South Kivu province by members of the Pakistani contingent with the UN mission in the DRC (MONUC).

"This training contributes to the progressive improvement of the professional capacities of the FARDC, with greater cohesion in its units, a marked republican ethos, as well as the example given by its officers," Alan Doss, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in the DRC, <"http://www.monuc.org/News.aspx?newsID=17909">said at a ceremony to mark the completion of the programme.

"The implication of MONUC in the training of the FARDC constitutes a major advance of the United Nations in the reform of the DRC security sector," he added.

Mr. Doss, who is also head of the UN mission, also remarked on the "profitable collaboration between the chiefs of staff of the MONUC military and of the Congolese Armed Forces," before congratulating the soldiers, who also received training in human rights, child protection, the Geneva conventions and MONUC's mandate.

So far MONUC has trained 12 FARDC integrated battalions, and it continues to support the efforts of the Congolese Government in the creation of a professional army, with the goal of training 28 FARDC integrated battalions by September 2009.

The UN mission is authorized by the Security Council to work closely with the Congolese Government in the reform of the security sector, in order to consolidate the peace process and the economic development of the country.
2008-08-14 00:00:00.000

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WORLD BANK BACKS CASH-FOR-WORK SCHEME TO HELP HUNGRY SIERRA LEONEANS

WORLD BANK BACKS CASH-FOR-WORK SCHEME TO HELP HUNGRY SIERRA LEONEANS New York, Aug 14 2008 1:10PM The <"http://www.worldbank.org/">World Bank has approved funds to support an emergency cash-for-work programme to help the poorest in Sierra Leone who are facing food insecurity due to the current global food crisis.

The $4 million grant approved yesterday follows a $3 million influx supported by the agency earlier this month to help boost incomes lost from the spike in food prices.

The project will help boost temporary employment to help people pay for their basic needs.

"The Bank is happy to be able to contribute to the Government of Sierra Leone's efforts to protect the most vulnerable from the impact of the price increases," said Mirey Ovadiya, Senior Operations Officer in Social Protection.

According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (<"http://www.fao.org/">FAO), the West African nation is one of the eight most vulnerable countries in the midst of the food crisis.

Two-thirds of Sierra Leone's population lives below the poverty line and over 20 per cent of people are unable to meet minimum daily caloric requirements.

The average household spends more than half of its income on food. Nearly one quarter of the population lives in or near the capital Freetown, away from the major production areas, and is thus dependent on imported food.
2008-08-14 00:00:00.000

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PEACE PROCESS 'FRAGILE' IN SUDAN, CAUTIONS UN ENVOY

PEACE PROCESS 'FRAGILE' IN SUDAN, CAUTIONS UN ENVOY New York, Aug 14 2008 12:10PM The top United Nations envoy to Sudan says that recent violent clashes in the town of Abyei as well as the attack by a rebel group on the city of Omdurman have put the country's 2005 peace agreement to the test and created challenges over the past months.

"Each points up the fragility of the peace process. Each serves as a cautionary reminder of the potential consequences for Sudan and its people should the peace process unravel or derail," Ashraf Qazi, the Secretary-General's Special Representative for Sudan, told reporters in the capital, Khartoum, today.

After violence in May, tens of thousands of residents fled from Abyei, which lies in an oil-rich area close to the boundary between northern and southern Sudan. Also in May, members of the Darfur rebel group, the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM), launched an attack on Omdurman, near Khartoum.

Mr. Qazi, who also heads the UN Mission in Sudan (UNMIS), said there were also reasons for optimism, noting that the implementation of a recent agreement to settle the conflict over Abyei provided a strong indication of the parties' commitment to peace.

"I hope that the appointment of a Chief and Deputy Administrator will soon be followed by the full establishment of the interim administration and move us all closer to the day when those displaced by May's fighting can return in safety and dignity to resume their lives in a secure environment," he said.

The UN envoy added that the results of the national census, which was carried out earlier this year, would provide a vital planning tool for development and public services and assist with delineation of electoral constituencies. He also noted that Sudan had passed an electoral law and work was under way to set up a National Electoral Commission.

Mr. Qazi is to due to brief the Security Council on the work of UNMIS next week.
2008-08-14 00:00:00.000

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NEPAL MUST KEEP UP GOOD WORK TO END DISCRIMINATION, SAYS UN RIGHTS OFFICIAL

NEPAL MUST KEEP UP GOOD WORK TO END DISCRIMINATION, SAYS UN RIGHTS OFFICIAL New York, Aug 14 2008 11:10AM While Nepal has come a long way in tackling discrimination and the marginalization of certain communities, more can be done to ensure that all of the country's citizens can enjoy their fundamental rights and freedoms, a top United Nations human rights official said today.

Richard Bennett, Representative of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in Nepal, stressed that Nepal had taken "significant steps" to address some of the worst examples of discrimination, including caste-based discrimination.

He cited the Legislature's declaration of the elimination of untouchability in 2006 and the election of a large number of Dalits – or so-called "untouchables" – and members of other marginalized communities to the Constituent Assembly, which will be tasked with drafting a new constitution for the post-conflict nation.

"However much more should and can be done," he said, speaking in Kathmandu at the launch of Achhut ("Untouchable"), a new documentary film that draws attention to human rights violations against Dalits in the country's Terai region.

Mr. Bennett said research done by his office found that law enforcement agencies must more effectively enforce existing legislation, including by filing First Information Reports (FIRs). Also, communities must be educated about their existing rights to justice and non-discrimination.

"The election of the Constituent Assembly and soon the drafting of a constitution that will reflect the aspirations and recognize the human rights of all members of each community in this very multicultural society are signal events in Nepal's peace process," said Mr. Bennett.

But he cautioned that while strong laws are necessary, they are, on their own, insufficient to end discrimination. "Effective implementation and access to justice for victims of discrimination are essential. Additionally, recognition at the highest level that discrimination exists, and the political will to confront it, are vital steps.

"States, working with national and international partners, should take the lead in promoting non-discrimination and equality in the wider society, including through education and the media," he stated.

"We at OHCHR look forward to seeing the new Government rise to the challenge of effectively addressing long-standing marginalization of certain communities, none of which has been more excluded than Dalits living in the Terai," Mr. Bennett said.
2008-08-14 00:00:00.000

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TWO YEARS ON FROM WAR IN LEBANON, PROGRESS ON CLUSTER MUNITIONS - UN AGENCY

TWO YEARS ON FROM WAR IN LEBANON, PROGRESS ON CLUSTER MUNITIONS – UN AGENCY New York, Aug 14 2008 10:10AM Two years after the end of fighting in Lebanon between Hizbollah and the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), the threat of cluster munitions has been reduced but not eliminated in the south of the country, according to a United Nations agency in charge of clearing mines from the area.

The UN Mine Action Coordination Centre of South Lebanon says that during the 34-day conflict in 2006 the area was blanketed by cluster munitions. An estimated 40 square kilometers of land became contaminated with hundreds of thousands of unexploded cluster munitions, which have so far killed 20 people and maimed 194 others.

Commenting on the village of Kafer Sir, one of dozens affected in the area, the head of the Centre, Christopher Clark, said, "This whole village was covered with unexploded cluster munitions. They were on people's rooftops, hanging from trees, even in playgrounds.

"We've managed to clean up about half of the known cluster munition strike sites in this village. We hope to have the whole village completely cleared by the end of the year," he added.

To date, cluster munitions have been cleared from the surface of about half of South Lebanon's known contaminated land. About 150,000 munitions have been found and destroyed.

"I'm optimistic about the situation," Mr. Clark stressed. "Our goal is to address the worst of the problem by the end of this year. I don't want even one more civilian to have to fall victim to these horrible weapons. We'll do everything we can to make the area safe and let people resume their normal lives."

Since clearance operations and measures to educate the public about the dangers of cluster munitions began two years ago, the civilian accident rate has dropped from about 57 a month in 2006 to about two a month today.

"There's been a huge human toll, but the economic toll has also been very high. Most people in South Lebanon earn a living from agriculture. People can't farm when the land is full of cluster munitions," Mr. Clark said.

With support from the UN Trust Fund for Human Security, the Centre has provided livestock to the most vulnerable individuals and families in the village of Kafer Sir.

The Centre coordinates the operations of about 950 clearance personnel as well as mine action personnel of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and of the Lebanese Army.
2008-08-14 00:00:00.000

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UN AGENCY WORRIED AT IMPACT OF GEORGIA CONFLICT ON CHILDREN

UN AGENCY WORRIED AT IMPACT OF GEORGIA CONFLICT ON CHILDREN New York, Aug 14 2008 10:10AM The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has voiced its concern about the impact of the heavy fighting in Georgia on young people in the area, and stressed the need to ensure they receive adequate protection and basic services.

"We need to be able to respond very rapidly to ensure a resumption of normal childhood activities for children and ensure that protection mechanisms and health standards are in place for them," ""http://www.unicef.org/emerg/index_45197.html">said Benjamin Perks, Deputy Representative of UNICEF in Georgia.

Heavy fighting began last Thursday in South Ossetia between Georgian and South Ossetian forces, with Russian forces becoming involved there and in the separate region of Abkhazia in north-western Georgia over the past several days.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon yesterday welcomed the acceptance by Georgia and Russia of a proposed peace plan to end the conflict, and urged the parties to move quickly to halt the fighting.

Many have been killed and wounded, and large numbers of people have been uprooted from their homes. According to the UN refugee agency (UNHCR), around 100,000 people have been displaced by the conflict, with some having fled to other parts of Georgia while others moved to North Ossetia in Russia.

Mr. Perks said the agency is working to ensure that all children have basic health and hygiene needs taken care of.

"We have a particular problem… with institutionalized children and children with disabilities who have also been affected by the conflict and we're making sure that social services are able to provide support for the especially vulnerable children who do not have the protection of a family," he said.

He is also concerned about the psychological impact on children of the escalation in violence.

"Aerial bombardments, snipers, tanks – these are devastating for children and this is a number one concern that the huge escalation in violence and conflict will have a psychological impact not only on children but on their parents as well," he stated.

Even once people are able to return to their homes, they could face the threat of unexploded ordnance, Mr. Perks added. "The context of the conflict, the pace of the conflict and the military hardware and capability that has been deployed have huge impacts on children."

UNICEF reports that most people are being housed in collective centres while others are being housed with their families or other host families. According to UN assessments, there are 48 newly registered centres for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the capital, Tbilisi, and nearby areas, but the number is expected to grow as the influx of people continues.

In recent days UN agencies have been rushing humanitarian relief supplies to those most in need. UNHCR has airlifted some 34 tons of tents, jerry cans, blankets and kitchen sets into Georgia, while the UN World Food Programme (WFP) has begun distributing food rations to thousands of the displaced.

Meanwhile, the Secretary-General's Representative on the Human Rights of IDPs, Walter Kälin, has expressed his alarm at reports that humanitarian access is still blocked and by allegations of widespread looting of property left behind by the displaced.

He "urges all parties to the conflict to ensure that persons who wish to do so can leave areas affected by violence, that property left behind be protected, and that unimpeded access for humanitarian organizations to conflict areas be granted," according to a news release issued in Geneva.

Mr. Kälin, an independent expert who reports to the UN Human Rights Council, also welcomed the signing of a ceasefire and called on Georgia and Russia to refrain from all actions that would cause further displacement.

"He also urges both governments to include in the envisaged peace plan provisions allowing the displaced to voluntarily return to their homes in safety and dignity and to have their property returned to them and compensation paid for damages. Those who cannot or do not want to return should be given the opportunity to integrate elsewhere in the country," the release added.
2008-08-14 00:00:00.000

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SECRETARY-GENERAL APPOINTS NEW UN CONTROLLER

SECRETARY-GENERAL APPOINTS NEW UN CONTROLLER New York, Aug 13 2008 5:10PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon announced today that he is appointed Japan's Jun Yamazaki as Assistant Secretary-General, Office of Programme Planning, Budgets and Accounts, and Controller.

Mr. Yamazaki replaces Warren Sach, who now assumes the role of Assistant Secretary-General for Central Support Services, where he will be responsible for procurement, among other functions. He will also remain the Secretary-General's Representative for Pension Fund investments.

In a note accompanying the announcement, Mr. Ban <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2008/sga1150.doc.htm">praised Mr. Sach for his dedicated service as Assistant Secretary-General and Controller and said he "appreciates the strong sense of commitment and professionalism shown consistently by Mr. Sach in the fulfilment of his responsibilities."

Mr. Yamazaki has extensive experience in the UN budget process, having been a member of the UN Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions (ACABQ) from 2003 to 2007.

He is also familiar with broad management-related issues at the UN through his service with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Japan, where he has worked for many years in a series of posts, including one that dealt with the dispatch of Japanese contingents to UN peacekeeping missions.

Mr. Ban said Mr. Yamazaki is "expected to effect budget preparation in a comprehensive and cost-effective manner." Born in 1956, the Japanese national holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from the University of Tokyo.
2008-08-13 00:00:00.000

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SIX MISSING AFTER ATTEMPTED SEA CROSSING FROM SOMALIA TO YEMEN - UN AGENCY

SIX MISSING AFTER ATTEMPTED SEA CROSSING FROM SOMALIA TO YEMEN – UN AGENCY New York, Aug 13 2008 5:10PM Six people are missing after a smuggler's boat transporting 175 people from Somalia to Yemen ran into difficulties in heavy seas this weekend, the United Nations refugee agency reported today.

On Saturday a fishing boat carrying about 175 people was stranded in deep water when it broke down while approaching Yemen's Mayfa'a Hager coast after setting off from Marera village near Bossaso on the northern tip of Somalia, according to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (<"http://www.unhcr.org/news/NEWS/48a2e2e84.html">UNHCR).

Some were rescued by fishermen while another group managed to leave on a smaller boat and reach the coast through heavy storms and choppy seas. Upon arrival they alerted UNHCR's local partner, the Society for Humanitarian Solidarity (SHS).

The Yemeni Coast Guard and SHS deployed three boats to rescue the stranded passengers. The first attempt took place late on Saturday night, but was not successful because of the atrocious weather. A second attempt at dawn on Sunday led to the rescue of more people. Survivors reported that six passengers were still missing.

All rescued people were transferred to Mayfa'a reception centre, where they are being assisted by UNHCR and its partners, and provided with food, blankets, shelter and medical care.

UNHCR says the weekend incident marks the end of a brief lull over the summer, when bad weather traditionally prevents human smugglers from operating in the gulf. In the last week alone, nine boats have brought more than 458 people, mainly Somalis and Ethiopians, to the coast of Yemen.

"This is a steep increase from 2007 and the numbers will continue to rise," said Myra Sabongi, UNHCR's Protection Officer in Aden, Yemen. "We are not even half-way through August, but the number of arrivals is already significantly higher than for the entire month of August 2007. Similarly, this July, more than 233 people arrived to the shore, compared to 57 during the same month in 2007."

So far this year, more than 22,532 people have made the perilous Gulf of Aden crossing aboard smugglers' boats. More than 165 people have died trying to make the voyage this year and 220 are missing.

Over the past year, the refugee agency has stepped up its work in Yemen and appealed for over $17 million to provide for additional staff, better assistance, more shelter for refugees and training programmes for the coastguard. UNHCR has also enhanced its presence along the coast and opened an additional reception centre earlier this year.

In April, a regional conference was convened by UNHCR in cooperation with the Mixed Migration Task Force for Somalia to establish a regional mechanism and long-term plan of action on refugee protection and mixed migration in the Gulf of Aden. The flow of people across the Gulf of Yemen includes a significant number of refugees.

"Yemen has carried a major burden in dealing with irregular migratory movements in the region, yet has maintained an open-door policy to refugees," said Claire Bourgeois, UNHCR's Representative in Yemen. "Support from the international community however remains an absolute necessity."
2008-08-13 00:00:00.000

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TRIBUTES BY UN OFFICIALS MARK PASSING OF PALESTINIAN POET

TRIBUTES BY UN OFFICIALS MARK PASSING OF PALESTINIAN POET New York, Aug 13 2008 4:10PM Senior United Nations officials in the Middle East have joined their voices to those paying tribute to the late Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish, who was laid to rest today.

The UN's Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process (UNSCO), Robert Serry, sent his condolences to the Palestinian people following the death of the 67-year-old writer who died on Saturday.

Mr. Darwish passionately voiced the aspirations of the Palestinian people for justice, freedom and statehood with eloquence and artistry, <"http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL_ID=43252&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html">said Mr. Serry.

The Commissioner-General of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said that with Mr. Darwish's passing, "the world has lost a uniquely compelling voice and a passionate advocate against dispossession and the pain it engenders."

Karen AbuZayd added that Mr. Darwish was the poet of exile, the refugees' poet, whose universal language of dislocation and alienation will be heard for many years to come.

2008-08-13 00:00:00.000

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BAN SPEAKS OUT AGAINST ATTACK IN NORTHERN LEBANON

BAN SPEAKS OUT AGAINST ATTACK IN NORTHERN LEBANON New York, Aug 13 2008 3:10PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today condemned this morning's bombing in the northern Lebanese city of Tripoli, voicing hope that it will not impede progress in the Middle Eastern nation.

According to a <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=3354">statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban "believes this attack should not hinder the positive steps that have been taken to return the country to normalcy."

He extended his condolences and sympathies to the Lebanese Government and to the victims and their families, including members of the Lebanese Armed Forces.

According to media reports, the bombing has claimed at least 10 lives, including those of soldiers.

Last month, the Secretary-General welcomed the announcement of the formation of a national unity Government in Lebanon, a key step called for in the agreement reached in late May ending the protracted political stand-off in the country.

Mr. Ban "believes that this important event reflects Lebanon's continuing emergence from the political crisis and the revitalization of its constitutional institutions," his spokesperson said in a statement.
2008-08-13 00:00:00.000

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SENIOR UN ENVOY IN SOMALIA WELCOMES PLAN TO HOLD KEY MEETINGS ON PEACE DEAL

SENIOR UN ENVOY IN SOMALIA WELCOMES PLAN TO HOLD KEY MEETINGS ON PEACE DEAL New York, Aug 13 2008 3:10PM The top United Nations envoy to Somalia said today he was encouraged that two key committees set up as a part of a June accord aiming to bring peace to the war-torn country are set to convene this weekend.

Ahmedou Ould-Abdallah, the Secretary-General's Special Representative, said in a press release that the Joint Security Committee and the High Level Committee will meet in neighbouring Djibouti for three days starting this Saturday.

Under the Djibouti Agreement, reached by the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) and the opposition Alliance for the Re-Liberation of Somalia (ARS) on 9 June, the Joint Security Committee is tasked with implementing security arrangements while the High Level Committee deals with political cooperation, justice and reconciliation.

The TFG and the ARS agreed to end their conflict under the deal, which is trying to resolve the long-standing issues that have left Somalia without a functioning national government since 1991.

Mr. Ould-Abdallah said the two sides will have delegations participating in both committee meetings, while many representatives of the international community will also attend. Somali Prime Minister Nur Hassan Hussein and opposition leaders Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and Sharif Hassan Sheikh Adan are among those slated to participate.

The Special Representative called on the Somali Parliament to suspend its work on certain issues over the next week so that some of its members can attend the committee meetings in Djibouti.

"I would like the parliamentarians to show their full support for the peace process and for the plight of the Somali population," he said.
2008-08-13 00:00:00.000

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UN-BACKED EXPERT GROUP TAKES STEPS TO ESTABLISH NEW BIOFUEL STANDARD

UN-BACKED EXPERT GROUP TAKES STEPS TO ESTABLISH NEW BIOFUEL STANDARD New York, Aug 13 2008 2:10PM A United Nations-backed group of international experts has endorsed a first draft of a new global sustainability standard for biofuels to assess their economic, social and environmental effects.

The Steering Board of the Roundtable on Sustainable Biofuels (RSB), which includes an expert from the UN Environment Programme (<"http://www.unep.org/">UNEP), today signed off on the draft criteria, called "Version Zero," which is based on a comprehensive "land to tank" analysis spanning the entire chain of biofuel production.

It is hoped that the new standard will be used by investors, governments, corporations and civil society to analyze the sustainability of different types of biofuels.

Version Zero contains input – submitted during teleconferences, over an innovative Wiki online format and at various meetings held worldwide – from over 300 experts from dozens of countries.

It addressed such concerns as biofuels' potential contribution to mitigating the effects of climate change, the protection of land and labour rights, soil pollution, water availability and food security.

It is hoped that all feedback on the draft standard will be submitted by February 2009.
2008-08-13 00:00:00.000

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UN HANDS OVER COLD CHAIN FACILITIES TO PRESERVE VACCINES IN MYANMAR

UN HANDS OVER COLD CHAIN FACILITIES TO PRESERVE VACCINES IN MYANMAR New York, Aug 13 2008 1:10PM The United Nations Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (<"http://www.who.int/mediacentre/en/">WHO) have handed over a cold chain facility, which can preserve an eight-month supply of six types of vaccinations for all of Myanmar, to the country's Ministry of Health.

The $440,000 facility, comprising three cooler rooms and four freezer rooms, provides much-needed storage capacity as the number of health campaigns increases in the wake of May's devastating Cyclone Nargis.

It will store vaccines for mass campaigns, including polio and measles, as well as those for measles and hepatitis B.

"Immunization is vital in the survival of Myanmar's children, especially in areas affected by disaster, where diseases easily spread," said Osamu Kunii, Health and Nutrition Chief with UNICEF in Myanmar.

He stressed the importance of cold chain facilities to protect life-saving vaccines in ensuring that immunization campaigns are successful.

In a related development, UNICEF has pledged to continue assisting victims of the Cyclone Nargis until their lives have been rebuilt.

More than 4,000 schools and 600 health centres were destroyed or damaged by the storm, which separated hundreds of children from their families. The agency is focusing restoring a sense of normalcy for children and stressing the importance of returning to school.

"This operation will last at least one year and depends on continued access to the affected areas," said Ramesh Shrestha, UNICEF Representative in Myanmar.

He said that much remains to be done, including distributing family kits, providing clean water and immunizing children.

Last month, the agency's Director of Emergency Programs visited the South-East Asian nation, and found that while the recovery operation is going well, many challenges remain.

"It's a very difficult environment," said Louis-George Arsenault, who travelled to Bogalay in the Ayeyarwady division, one of the hardest-hit areas.

"But the catastrophe has opened several doors," he said, citing the example of education, where he believes UNICEF can make a positive difference.

The agency hopes to boost social services for children and their families through such means as building child-friendly spaces which an also be used as community centres.

Mr. Arsenault expressed his amazement at the victims' resilience. "Communities have begun remarkable recovery efforts n the face of enormous difficulties."
2008-08-13 00:00:00.000

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BBC TO BROADCAST UN-FUNDED DOCUMENTARY ON INDIA'S PREFERENCE FOR SONS

BBC TO BROADCAST UN-FUNDED DOCUMENTARY ON INDIA'S PREFERENCE FOR SONS New York, Aug 13 2008 12:10PM A new documentary, funded in part by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), airs this week on BBC, spotlighting the issue of 700,000 missing girls in India as a result of the country's drive to have male children.

"No country for young girls" explores issues such as illegal sex determination and consequent elimination, and its consequences for vast Asian nation in the years to come. It portrays a young Indian woman who has to choose between staying with a husband who does not want girl children, or to make it on her own.

According to a series of studies commissioned by UNFPA last year, prenatal son selection in several Asian countries – including India, China and Viet Nam – is likely to have severe social consequences in coming years. The agency has been working to address the issue for many years.

The documentary is part of a nine-part series – entitled Life on the Edge – which examines the tough personal choices facing ordinary people as countries struggle to fulfil the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), the set of anti-poverty targets that world leaders have pledged to try to achieve by 2015.

"Films about developing countries often portray people as victims faced by terrible obstacles. In this series we show they're also people trying to make tough decisions that may change lives," says Steve Bradshaw, the editor of the series.

"Each film is about ordinary people having to make extraordinary choices – tough economic, political and moral dilemmas. It's never clear to them what the right answer is, and yet the cumulative effect will affect whether the MDGs are achieved," he stated.
2008-08-13 00:00:00.000

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SUPPORT FOR UPCOMING POLLS FOCUS OF TALKS BETWEEN UN AND IVORIAN OFFICIALS

SUPPORT FOR UPCOMING POLLS FOCUS OF TALKS BETWEEN UN AND IVORIAN OFFICIALS New York, Aug 13 2008 11:10AM The head of the United Nations peacekeeping operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI) has pledged the world body's support and assistance for the holding of the West African country's presidential election, slated for November.

Y. J. Choi, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Côte d'Ivoire, and Robert Mambé Beugré, the President of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), discussed the latest developments in the Ivorian electoral process during a meeting held yesterday at UNOCI's headquarters in Abidjan.

They also focused on UNOCI's support for the electoral process during the meeting, which was also attended by the Chief of the mission's Electoral Assistance Division, Ahmedou El Becaye Seck.

Mr. Beugré thanked UNOCI for its help last weekend in airlifting equipment for the identification and registration of the population, a key stage in the electoral process.

UNOCI will also assist in the recruitment and training of identification agents, as well as the rehabilitation of some 70 identification centres across the country.

Mr. Choi underlined the importance of respecting the deadline of 30 November 2008, for the holding of presidential elections, which were supposed to have been held in 2005.

He also assured the President of the Independent Electoral Commission of UNOCI's availability to provide all the assistance possible within its mandate to the Ivorian institutions and authorities.
2008-08-13 00:00:00.000

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LANDMARK COOPERATION DEAL SIGNED BETWEEN UN AND IRAQI GOVERNMENT

LANDMARK COOPERATION DEAL SIGNED BETWEEN UN AND IRAQI GOVERNMENT New York, Aug 13 2008 11:10AM The United Nations today signed a landmark agreement with the Government of Iraq which lays down a three-year blueprint for the world body's work in reconstruction, development and humanitarian assistance.

"The Strategy signals a real moment of opportunity in Iraq, with greater stability, a clear will to recover, a growing UN presence and better access to many areas," <"http://www.uniraq.org/newsroom/getarticle.asp?ArticleID=758">said David Shearer, the UN's Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq.

"We will now be able to consolidate achievements and shift focus – helping Iraq to mobilize its substantial capacity and resources while we work to meet outstanding humanitarian needs," he added.

Ali Baban, Iraq's Minister of Planning and Development Cooperation, welcomed the agreement, saying it represents "an important step" in Iraq's recovery process.

"It brings the whole UN organization together in partnership with Iraq and its people, to reduce poverty, foster growth and consolidate democracy in our country," he stated.

The agreement sets out how UN agencies will cooperate to help Iraq achieve its key economic and social goals, as reflected in the International Compact for Iraq. It contains development and humanitarian solutions for better essential social services such as education and water, and protection for highly vulnerable groups. It also focuses on boosting Iraq's private sector to create more jobs, and stronger, more accountable systems for governance.

Mr. Shearer noted that the announcement marks the UN's commemoration of the August 2003 Canal Hotel bombing, which claimed the lives of 22 staff members, including the top UN envoy in Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello, and wounded more than 150.

"Five years later, we are now in a position to strengthen our international presence across Iraq," he said. "We plan to see faster implementation on the ground and stronger policy guidance in Baghdad."

The new strategy aims to ensure that projects are results-orientated and accountable, as required under the Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness, which was recently endorsed by Iraq.

Projects will be funded through three primary mechanisms: substantial cost-sharing by Iraq's Government, international support through the Iraq Trust Fund, and the Humanitarian Appeal.
2008-08-13 00:00:00.000

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UN AGENCY AIRLIFTS FOOD AID TO GEORGIA FOR CONFLICT VICTIMS

UN AGENCY AIRLIFTS FOOD AID TO GEORGIA FOR CONFLICT VICTIMS New York, Aug 13 2008 11:10AM Two cargo aircraft chartered by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) set off this morning for Tbilisi, Georgia, with 34 tons of high energy biscuits to assist thousands of people displaced by the recent conflict.

UN officials say some 100,000 people have been displaced since heavy fighting began last Thursday between Georgian and South Ossetian forces, with some having fled to other parts of the country while others to North Ossetia in Russia. Russian forces have become involved in South Ossetia, and in the separate region of Abkhazia in north-western Georgia, in recent days.

WFP <"http://www.wfp.org/english/?ModuleID=137&Key=2902">said two Antonov 12 aircraft departed from the UN Humanitarian Response Depot in Brindisi, Italy. The biscuits will augment in-country food stocks which WFP started distributing over the weekend to thousands of people.

"The number of people in need of food assistance continues to escalate," said WFP Georgia Country Director Lola Castro, adding that more than 10,000 people were now registered as displaced.

Many of the displaced people have no access to cooking facilities, and the high energy
biscuits require no preparation.

WFP will distribute 2,300 rations today, with more planned for the following days. The agency has been providing 10-day food rations to more than 4,500 displaced people living in shelters in the capital, Tbilisi.

It has also identified bakeries near areas where internally displaced persons (IDPs) have concentrated, and the agency will supply wheat flour to make bread for distribution to the displaced.

In addition, WFP is coordinating food assistance and offering logistical support to other humanitarian organisations, drawing on capacity from its existing operation in the country.

Before the crisis erupted, WFP was providing food to more than 212,000 people, mainly poor rural communities, as well as primary schoolchildren, tuberculosis patients and people living with HIV/AIDS.

Yesterday a humanitarian airlift – chartered by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) – arrived in Georgia, bringing 34 tons of tents, jerry cans, blankets and kitchen sets for those in need. A second UNHCR flight is scheduled for today.
2008-08-13 00:00:00.000

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TOP UN ENVOY SPEAKS OUT AFTER AID WORKERS KILLED IN AFGHAN ATTACK

TOP UN ENVOY SPEAKS OUT AFTER AID WORKERS KILLED IN AFGHAN ATTACK New York, Aug 13 2008 10:10AM The top United Nations official in Afghanistan has voiced his outrage at the deaths of three female international aid workers and their Afghan colleague after their vehicle was attacked.

The vehicle, belonging to the United States-based International Rescue Committee, was travelling from Kabul to Logar when it was fired on by unknown gunmen this morning.

"I condemn this cowardly attack in the strongest possible terms and urge the authorities to leave no stone unturned in the search for the perpetrators," Kai Eide, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan, <"http://www.unama-afg.org/news/_statement/SRSG/2008/08aug12-IRC-staff.html">said in a statement.

"The IRC provides life saving humanitarian assistance to those most affected by the conflict and it is reprehensible that such selfless individuals working for the most vulnerable communities should be deliberately targeted in this way," he added.

Mr. Eide, who is also head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), pointed to a "growing humanitarian challenge" in the strife-torn nation, and urged all parties to recognise and respect the neutrality and independence of the humanitarian assistance being provided to the Afghan people.

Afghanistan this year has witnessed some of the worst violence since the ouster of the Taliban six years ago, with humanitarian aid workers and their vehicles coming under increasing attack.

Just last month, a UN World Food Programme (WFP) convoy transporting more than 320 tons of vital food aid was attacked in the western province of Farah. Two trucks were torched, and another eight were stolen.
2008-08-13 00:00:00.000

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REBEL GROUPS MUST UNITE TO REACH LASTING SOLUTION FOR DARFUR - UN MILITARY OFFICIAL

REBEL GROUPS MUST UNITE TO REACH LASTING SOLUTION FOR DARFUR – UN MILITARY OFFICIAL New York, Aug 12 2008 8:10PM Darfur's splintered rebel movements must unite at the negotiating table if there is to be a lasting solution to the conflict in the Sudanese region, the military chief of the joint United Nations-African Union peacekeeping mission in Darfur (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unamid/index.html">UNAMID) said today.

General Martin Luther Agwai, the Force Commander of UNAMID, <"http://www.un.org/News/briefings/docs//2008/080812_Agwai.doc.htm">told reporters in New York that the international community needs to put as much pressure on the rebels as it has on the Government, with which they have been fighting since 2003, to end the conflict.

"I want to say it again and again – that it takes two to tango," Gen. Agwai said. "Let's not put too much searchlight on one party; let's also put enough searchlight on the other party."

Gen. Agwai noted that four rebel groups took part in talks preceding the signing of the Darfur Peace Agreement in Abuja, Nigeria, in 2006, and yet now they have fractured into around 30 groups on the ground, nearly all of them without cohesive command and control.

"I am not in any way saying that the Government is clean. But what I am saying is that also the other side cannot be said to be saints. So my appeal is that the pressure, especially now that we have a joint mediator, should be exerted on both sides.

The Force Commander said too many of the rebel groups had shown no interest in negotiations.

"They will have to end on the negotiation table because militarily it's clear no side will win the war in Darfur."

As many as 300,000 people are estimated to have died over the past five years in Darfur, either through direct combat or disease, malnutrition and reduced life expectancy. Another 2.7 million people have had to flee their homes.

In his press conference, Gen. Agwai also urged the international community to provide the mission with the requisite troops and equipment – particularly helicopters – to carry out its mandate.

UNAMID is supposed to have 26,000 troops and police officers at full deployment, but currently has only about 10,000 in place.
2008-08-12 00:00:00.000

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CHILDREN ARE MAIN VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE IN CHAD, BAN SAYS IN NEW REPORT

CHILDREN ARE MAIN VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE IN CHAD, BAN SAYS IN NEW REPORT New York, Aug 12 2008 6:10PM Children continue to be the primary victims of the conflict in Chad, whether they are recruited as soldiers, killed or hurt by landmines or denied humanitarian access, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon writes in a <"http://www.un.org/Docs/journal/asp/ws.asp?m=s/2008/532">report made public today.

"The political, military and security situation remains highly volatile," he said, due to the ongoing violence between Chadian armed forces and rebel groups, the presence of foreign rebels in the country's east, cross-border raids by allied militiamen known as the Janjaweed and continuing tensions, mainly between Arab and non-Arab communities. As a result, children are made to suffer.

"All parties to the conflict reportedly continue to use and recruit children," the Secretary-General said, adding that the problem is exacerbated by the fact that only 10 per cent of child births are registered in Chad.

Further, he stated that there are "cultural issues related to the concepts of boyhood and manhood" which aggravate the issue.

While indiscriminate killings in eastern Chad are relatively rare, unexploded ordnance and landmines are cause for concern, the report said. Nearly 50 children died as a result of the devices last year, with more than double that number being maimed.

Girls are the main victims of rape and other types of sexual violence, which are "common" in Chad, Mr. Ban wrote. "Both armed groups and community members are being reported as perpetrators of such violations," with perpetrators acting in a climate of near impunity and the Government being unable or unwilling to protect children from such acts.

The report also highlighted the attacks on schools and abductions of children by armed groups.

It characterized the start of disarmament, demobilization and reintegration activities in the landlocked Central African nation are a "very positive step in addressing violations of child rights."

The UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the Chadian Government entered an agreement on 9 May to guarantee the release and reintegration of all children associated with armed forces and groups.

The Secretary-General estimated that 2,500 child soldiers – out of a total of 7,000 to 10,000 – will be released over the coming months.

"Ending grave violations against children will not be possible unless significant progress is made in the political dimension," he said, noting that outbreaks of violence earlier this year have intensified mistrust and curtailed hopes for progress.

Mr. Ban called on all parties to the Chadian conflict to immediately comply with Security Council resolutions on bringing an end to the serious child rights abuses for which they have been cited.

He also urged the Government to fully cooperate with the UN to conduct verification in detention centres and other facilities, and to criminalize the recruitment and use of child soldiers and bring those responsible for such acts to justice.

"As a matter of priority, the Chadian authorities should also increase security and protection of the civilian populations in and around refugee camps and internally displaced person sites," the report said.

In June, Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict Radhika Coomaraswamy wrapped up a visit to Chad, where she said she had received assurances from the Government that it would release all former child combatants held in detention.

However, she pointed out that there have still not been any commitments on child recruitment by non-government armed groups who "recruit a great many children."
2008-08-12 00:00:00.000

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PLANT MUTATION COULD BOOST CROP YIELDS AND HELP TACKLE FOOD CRISIS - UN OFFICIAL

PLANT MUTATION COULD BOOST CROP YIELDS AND HELP TACKLE FOOD CRISIS – UN OFFICIAL New York, Aug 12 2008 5:10PM Plant mutation, a scientific technique that dramatically improves crop productivity, could be part of the solution to the current food and energy crisis that threatens to plunge millions worldwide into hunger, according to a United Nations expert on the subject.

"At a time when the world is facing a food and energy crisis of unprecedented proportions, plant mutation breeding can be a catalyst in developing improved, higher-yield, saline-resistant, sturdier crop varieties," Werner Burkart, Deputy Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (<"http://www.iaea.org/index.html">IAEA), told a conference that opened at the Agency's headquarters in Vienna today.

The International Symposium on Induced Mutations in Plants brings together over 600 scientists, researchers and plant breeders from around the world to discuss the latest innovations and how they can improve crop varieties in the future.

Mr. Burkart, who is Head of the Agency's Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications, said 2008 will be remembered as the year in which the world understood the realities of climate change, the food crisis and the energy debate in its link to hunger.

"These big issues are intimately interlinked, and translate in the agronomy field into a competition between food, feed and fuel for soil, water, human and financial resources," he noted.

He pointed out that plant mutation has been used for more than 80 years, with mutagens such as X-rays, gamma radiation and chemicals having been used to produce plant varieties that are disease-resistant or best suited to conditions such as high altitude or saline soil.

One success story is mutant barley varieties that thrive at altitudes of up to 5,000 metres in the highlands of Peru and which led to a 52 per cent increase in yields between 1978 and 2002.

The IAEA has worked with radiation technology to induce mutation in plants since the 1960s and today the technology is being used worldwide.

"Mutation induction has proven flexible, workable, and ready to use on any crop," said Mr. Burkart, adding that it is a non-hazardous and low-cost technology that has the ability to address current challenges in agriculture.

"The breeding of new mutant varieties – with a higher yield potential, more productive biomass for energy use, better nutrient composition for human health, better adaptation to climate change and variability, or a heightened potential to sequester carbon – will be the driving force to meet the challenges of the 21st century," he stated.

The four-day conference is a joint collaboration by the IAEA and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (<"http://www.fao.org/">FAO), and the eighth of its kind. The first was held in 1969.
2008-08-12 00:00:00.000

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EGYPTIAN ENGINEERS JOIN UN-AFRICAN UNION PEACEKEEPING MISSION IN DARFUR

EGYPTIAN ENGINEERS JOIN UN-AFRICAN UNION PEACEKEEPING MISSION IN DARFUR New York, Aug 12 2008 5:10PM The joint United Nations-African Union peacekeeping mission in Darfur (UNAMID) reports that 129 Egyptian engineering personnel arrived today in the western Sudanese region to join the force that is trying to quell the deadly fighting and humanitarian suffering that has raged since 2003.

Today's arrival at the airport in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state and the headquarters of UNAMID, completes the full deployment of the Egyptian engineering company, which consists of 335 personnel.

The mission said today that the next major deployment will be of the Ethiopian battalion, which is expected to take place this weekend.

<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unamid/">UNAMID is supposed to have more than 26,000 uniformed personnel, including peacekeepers and police officers, when it reaches full deployment. But currently only about 10,000 blue helmets have arrived.

The mission said it hopes it will soon reach the capacity it needs to fulfil its mandate and meet the expectations of both the people of Darfur and the international community.

Meanwhile, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (<"http://ochaonline.un.org/">OCHA) reported that UN agencies continue to deliver aid to all accessible areas of Darfur, despite targeted attacks against relief workers, restrictions by the Sudanese Government and aerial bombings by the Government.

Last month the number of targeted attacks against humanitarian groups reached alarming levels, with one guard for a non-governmental organization (NGO) being killed, six aid workers wounded and 21 vehicles stolen or hijacked. Armed men also broke into 33 premises belonging to humanitarian operations.
2008-08-12 00:00:00.000

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BAN 'DEEPLY TROUBLED' BY EVIDENCE OF ABUSE BY BLUE HELMETS IN DR CONGO

BAN 'DEEPLY TROUBLED' BY EVIDENCE OF ABUSE BY BLUE HELMETS IN DR CONGO New York, Aug 12 2008 4:10PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today he was "deeply troubled" by the outcome of a probe that has revealed prima facie evidence that a number of Indian peacekeepers, previously assigned to one of the units with the United Nations mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), may have engaged in sexual exploitation and abuse.

"He reiterates, in the strongest possible terms, that such behaviour, if substantiated, is wholly unacceptable and that disciplinary action to the maximum degree permitted by Indian law should be taken as soon as possible against those found to be involved in such misconduct," he said in a <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2008/sgsm11741.doc.htm">statement released by his spokesperson.

Mr. Ban said that the Indian Government had assured the UN that the allegations into conduct by peacekeepers for the mission, known as MONUC, would be promptly and thoroughly investigated and, if proven, strict and exemplary action would be taken as per the law.

Stressing that he highly valued India's long-standing and valuable support for UN peacekeeping, the Secretary-General expressed his respect for all those peacekeepers from India and other troop-contributing countries who served with honour and commitment.

He added that the misconduct of a few should not diminish the enormous contribution and sacrifice of the large number of blue helmets who serve the cause of peace.

The UN has imposed a zero-tolerance policy against sexual abuse and exploitation by its peacekeepers, and senior officials have reiterated in recent years that this means there is no impunity for blue helmets who engage in such practices.

MONUC, which was established in late 1999, is one of the largest UN peacekeeping missions in the world.
2008-08-12 00:00:00.000

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UN HUMAN RIGHTS EXPERT WELCOMES NEW CONSTITUTION IN THE MALDIVES

UN HUMAN RIGHTS EXPERT WELCOMES NEW CONSTITUTION IN THE MALDIVES New York, Aug 12 2008 4:10PM A United Nations human rights expert today welcomed the approval of a new constitution in the Maldives, saying it demonstrated the country's progress towards upholding democratic principles and ensuring the independence of the judiciary.

Leandro Despouy, Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, said in a <"http://www.unhchr.ch/huricane/huricane.nsf/view01/31038DFB3F06E2B7C12574A3005B1F62?opendocument">statement issued in Geneva that the ratification of the constitution by Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom last Thursday was in line with recommendations he made after a visit to the Indian Ocean island chain in February last year.

Mr. Despouy "expresses his satisfaction and calls on the Government to effectively implement the constitution," according to the statement.

The new constitution, the culmination of nearly four years of work by the Special Majlis or constitutional assembly, establishes the separation of powers and recognizes the independence of the judiciary.

It contains provisions for the creation of a Supreme Court and the post of Prosecutor General, as well as for the setting up of a judicial service commission, an independent body that will decide on the appointment, dismissal and discipline for judges.

Special Rapporteurs such as Mr. Despouy serve in an independent and unpaid capacity and report to the UN Human Rights Council.
2008-08-12 00:00:00.000

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TOP UN ENVOY CALLS FOR SPEEDY RETURN TO CONSTITUTIONAL RULE IN MAURITANIA

TOP UN ENVOY CALLS FOR SPEEDY RETURN TO CONSTITUTIONAL RULE IN MAURITANIA New York, Aug 12 2008 3:10PM The top United Nations envoy to West Africa has called for an immediate return to constitutional rule in Mauritania after wrapping up a three-day visit to the country, where military leaders last week overthrew the Government.

The Secretary-General's Special Representative, Said Djinnit, met with General Mohamed Ould Abdelaziz, the new head of the High State Council.

During those talks, the envoy voiced regret that the 6 August coup had taken place and stressed the international community has unanimously condemned the move.

Mr. Djinnit urged authorities to respect international obligations, such as those on human rights, and appealed to the General to release President Sidi Mohamed Ould Cheikh Abdallahi, who remains under arrest, as well as other detained persons, who have since been released.

While in Mauritania, Mr. Djinnit held consultations with members of the Government, various political parties and representatives of civil society and labour unions. He also met with visiting officials of the African Union and the League of Arab States.

In a statement issued on 6 August, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon noted that the recently toppled Government was democratically elected last June, and "called for respect for the rule of law and for the immediate restoration of constitutional order in the country."
2008-08-12 00:00:00.000

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MORE TALKS ON FORMER YUGOSLAV REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA NAME ISSUE - UN

MORE TALKS ON FORMER YUGOSLAV REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA NAME ISSUE – UN New York, Aug 12 2008 3:10PM The United Nations envoy tasked with mediating the long-running dispute between Greece and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia over the name of the latter country is to hold separate meetings tomorrow in New York with representatives of both sides.

Matthew Nimetz announced today that he would meet tomorrow morning with a delegation from the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, including Martin Protoger, the Prime Minister's Chief of Staff, and Ambassador Nikola Dimitrov, the country's principal negotiator for the name issue.

In the afternoon, Mr. Nimetz will meet Greece's main negotiator, Ambassador Adamantios Vassilakis.

In June, Mr. Nimetz met with officials from the two sides, part of frequent meetings he has held in recent months to try to reach a deal. He reported in March that there had been no progress on the issue, despite an acknowledgement by both sides that a solution was in their best interests.

The Interim Accord of 13 September 1995, which was brokered by the UN, details the difference between Athens and Skopje on the name issue. It obliges the two sides to continue negotiations under the Secretary-General's auspices in a bid to reach agreement.
2008-08-12 00:00:00.000

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THREE MONTHS AFTER CHINESE EARTHQUAKE, UN CONTINUES TO ASSIST RECOVERY

THREE MONTHS AFTER CHINESE EARTHQUAKE, UN CONTINUES TO ASSIST RECOVERY New York, Aug 12 2008 3:10PM United Nations agencies are continuing to help millions of people rebuild their lives in south-western China, three months after the region was devastated by an earthquake that left more than 80,000 people dead or missing.

The Wenchuan earthquake not only devastated lives and livelihoods, but also destroyed basic services and infrastructure when it struck on 12 May. In Sichuan and neighbouring Gansu and Shaanxi provinces, an estimated 5 million buildings collapsed, 21 million buildings were damaged and over 40 million people were affected. The area also continues to be jolted by strong aftershocks.

According to the Chinese Government, reconstruction could take as long as three years. Permanent structures need to be rebuilt, livelihoods and basic services need to be restored and collapsed schools need to be constructed.

UN agencies, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (<"http://www.fao.org/">FAO), the World Health Organization (<"http://www.who.int/en/">WHO), the International Labour Organization (<"http://www.ilo.org/global/lang--en/index.htm">ILO), the UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF), the UN Development Programme (<"http://www.undp.org/">UNDP), the UN Population Fund (<"http://www.unfpa.org/">UNFPA) and the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (<"http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL_ID=29008&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html">UNESCO) all have continuing operations in China.

"Our message today is that the United Nations will continue to support the Chinese people in recovering from this disaster," the UN Resident Coordinator in China, Khalid Malik, said. "The relief phase has come to a close but the medium and long-term needs are immense and it is our hope that the international community will further support the Chinese authorities as they work on helping the people in the quake-hit areas to restore their livelihoods."

FAO is working with local authorities and the local media to provide useful information and technology for the recovery of agricultural activities with the emphasis on building back better.

ILO launched a "Start and Improve Your Business" project in cooperation with the United Kingdom, aimed at helping small entrepreneurs and workers whose businesses were damaged or destroyed. This project aims to assist vulnerable groups in rural areas by providing small grants, especially to women, to help them restore their livelihoods.

UNICEF announced last week that it will work with the Chinese Government to set up 30 child-friendly spaces for the long-term psychological recovery of children and families affected by the earthquake. These spaces will offer social activities and will help experts identify children showing initial signs of more serious trauma.

UNDP is helping conduct a legal assessment aimed at the post-disaster relief and reconstruction process, looking at issues such as property rights, adoption, inheritance and insurance. It is also supporting the creation of a long-term strategy for disaster risk management and backing a rural recovery project in some of the poorest villages.

UNESCO is providing assistance to the two earthquake-affected World Heritage sites in south-western Sichuan province, namely the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries and Mount Qingcheng and Dujiangyan Irrigation System. The agency is also providing equipment and skills training to staff at the Maer'kang television and radio station, which was destroyed by the earthquake.

UNFPA is providing $1.2 million for early relief and recovery of health services. The funds will mainly be used to provide hygiene kits, equipment and supplies for essential health services, as well as training in psycho-social support.

WHO is providing advice and technical support in planning the reconstruction of the health-care system. The agency brought in international experts on post-disaster reconstruction in response to a request from the Chinese Government for international best practices. WHO is also designing a training programme in psycho-social support and the prevention and control of communicable diseases.
2008-08-12 00:00:00.000

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