CULTURALLY SENSITIVE APPROACHES CRITICAL TO WOMEN’S DEVELOPMENT – UN REPORT

CULTURALLY SENSITIVE APPROACHES CRITICAL TO WOMEN'S DEVELOPMENT – UN REPORT
New York, Nov 12 2008 7:10PM
Development strategies should be more culturally sensitive to the promotion of human rights, especially women's rights, a new United Nations report finds, warning that otherwise many projects in poor countries are likely to fail.

The theme of cultural sensitivity is at the heart of this year's edition of <I>The State of the World Population</I>, an annual <"http://www.unfpa.org/swp/2008/en/index.html">report released by the United Nations Population Fund (<"http://www.unfpa.org/news/news.cfm?ID=1223&Language=1">UNFPA) which is this year subtitled "Reaching Common Ground: Culture, Gender and Human Rights."

"Our 2008 report is sharing our experience of many years of working within culture and engaging culture as an agent of change in order to advance gender equality," said Aminata Touré, Chief of the Culture, Gender and Human Rights Branch of UNFPA, told a press conference at UN Headquarters in New York.

"At UNFPA we use the term 'culturally sensitive.' In concrete term it means using the language of culture, leveraging the positive value of the cultures to bring about change… in the end to achieve and sustain human rights," she said.

With 2008 marking the 60th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the report is based on the concept that the international human rights framework has universal validity, expressing values common to all cultures and protecting groups as well as individuals.

The UNFPA report similarly reflects spirit of the commemoration, UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Obaid noted. "Cultures change, for better or worse, in good times and bad. The report is about promoting human rights in all circumstances," she said.

Despite many declarations and affirmations in support of women's rights, the report argues, gender inequality is widespread and deep-rooted in many cultures.

Drawing on the example of female genital mutilation (FGM), Ms. Touré acknowledged that while most of the 28 countries where FGM is practised have enacted laws banning the custom, populations still do not abandon the practice as it is so deeply entrenched in cultural practices such as marriage.

"If we are to be more effective and if we want to accelerate progress, we have to engage the community at a deeper level, in order to facility change in the life of the individual, the family and communities," she said.

Such a deeper level of engagement has included working with religious leaders on issues such as HIV/AIDS, women's health and gender-based violence.

The importance of culturally sensitive approaches are framed as essential throughout the report for reaching the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) aimed at promoting gender equality and the improvement of maternal health.

"Culture is not a wall to tear down. It is a window to see through, a door to open to make greater progress for human rights," said Ms. Obaid. "Human rights are everybody's work, and being culturally sensitive and understanding the context is everybody's business."
Nov 12 2008 7:10PM
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BAN VOICES DEEP CONCERN AT ‘SEVERE’ PRISON TERMS FOR MYANMAR DEMONSTRATORS

BAN VOICES DEEP CONCERN AT 'SEVERE' PRISON TERMS FOR MYANMAR DEMONSTRATORS
New York, Nov 12 2008 7:10PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today expressed his deep concern at reports this week that authorities in Myanmar have issued lengthy jail terms to some participants in last year's peaceful demonstrations in the Asian country.

Media reports say some pro-democracy advocates have been jailed for 65 years, and in a <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=3535">statement issued by his spokesperson Mr. Ban referred to "severe prison terms" imposed in Myanmar recently.

"He calls once again for all political prisoners to be released and for all citizens of Myanmar to be allowed to freely participate in their country's political future as part of an inclusive national reconciliation process," the statement noted.
Nov 12 2008 7:10PM
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URBAN AFRICAN POPULATION SET TO RISE SHARPLY IN NEXT TWO DECADES – UN REPORT

URBAN AFRICAN POPULATION SET TO RISE SHARPLY IN NEXT TWO DECADES – UN REPORT
New York, Nov 12 2008 7:10PM
Africa's urban population is projected to more than double by 2030, defying the global trend of slower growth in the number of residents of cities, a new report from the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (<"http://www.unhabitat.org/content.asp?cid=6041&catid=5&typeid=6&subMenuId=0">UN-HABITAT) indicates.

The report shows that there will be about 759 million urban inhabitants across Africa by 2030, compared to an estimated 373 million last year, according to a press release issued by UN-HABITAT yesterday from its Nairobi headquarters. That year is also projected to be when the number of Africans living in cities matches the number living in rural areas.

The continent is undergoing a broader demographic change, the report noted, as the number of city dwellers rises steadily and the greatest growth occurs not in Africa's largest urban agglomerations, but in the so-called "intermediate cities," which have fewer than 500,000 inhabitants each.

UN-HABITAT said the implications of this swift urban growth within intermediate cities should be clear to policymakers.

"African governments should start strengthening the governance capacities of their intermediate and smaller cities so that these fast-growing towns will be prepared for [a] rapid increase in new and additional demand for urban spatial planning, urban housing, urban services and urban livelihoods," the agency said.

Across the continent, the population distribution is uneven. East Africa remains the least urbanized region of the world, but its rates are growing rapidly than in any other part of Africa.

But everywhere the number of people is rising, including in the biggest cities. In 1950, Alexandria and Cairo, both in Egypt, were the only African cities with more than 1 million inhabitants. Today there are at least 43 such cities.

Meanwhile, in Bangkok, a UN official told a regional gathering on air quality management today that Asia-Pacific policymakers need to take a more integrated approach to managing urban growth to ensure that the region's rapidly expanding cities are economically and environmentally sustainable.

Shaoyi Li, a senior environment officer with the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), told participants at the meeting that all too often policies are designed in isolation and aim to tackle single issues rather than take a holistic approach.
Nov 12 2008 7:10PM
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ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN COMBATING CLIMATE CHANGE AND CYBERTHREATS LAUDED AT UN FORUM

ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN COMBATING CLIMATE CHANGE AND CYBERTHREATS LAUDED AT UN FORUM
New York, Nov 12 2008 6:10PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has joined with two of Africa's leaders in lauding the efforts of the United Nations telecommunications agency in promoting the use of information and communication technology (ICT) to tackle the challenges of climate change and cybersecurity.

Reiterating that climate change is "the defining challenge of our era," Mr. Ban said he was very pleased to learn of the initiatives by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) to make ICT climate neutral.

"Your work to cut greenhouse gas emissions, develop standards and use 'e-environment' systems can speed up the global shift to a low-carbon economy," he said in a video <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=3531">message to the ITU Governing Council, whose two-day <"http://www.itu.int/council/C2008/hls/index.html">high-level segment began today in Geneva.

The ITU is also playing an important role in helping developing countries adapt to the impact of climate by helping them obtain emergency telecommunications systems and other resources for disaster relief, the Secretary-General added.

ITU Secretary-General Hamadoun Touré pointed out that "redressing the damage already done and mitigating future impact will require concerted efforts on the part of everyone, including the information and communication technology sector."

He said ITU can play an active and valuable role in helping reduce carbon emissions, for example, through the development of technical standards that lower the power requirements of ICT equipment and services, and through helping pioneer new technologies that help reduce the carbon footprint of other industries, such as the automotive sector.

Blaise Compaoré, President of Burkina Faso, <"http://www.itu.int/newsroom/press_releases/2008/32.html">told the gathering that ICTs can open enormous possibilities to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce the emission of greenhouse gases by using energy-efficient means such as advanced web conferencing and telecommuting.

"The rational use of ICTs in the service of economic, social and environmental development requires the transfer of technologies and the adoption of policies and programmes aimed at helping developing countries, in particular those in Africa, at reducing the digital divide," he stressed.

During its two-day high-level meeting the ITU will also be launching its Child Online Protection (COP) initiative, which seeks to ensure that the online world remains a safe place to work and play, as part of its efforts to address the challenge of cybersecurity.

According to the ITU, in industrialized countries, as many as 60 per cent of children and teenagers use online chatrooms regularly, and evidence suggests that as many of three-quarters of these may be willing to share personal information in exchange for online goods and services.

In addition, in some countries, as many as one in five children may be targeted by a predator or paedophile each year.

"At ITU, we believe not just in connecting the world, but in connecting the world responsibly," noted Mr. Touré. "The Internet can be a great facilitator, but in the wrong hands it can also turn into a malevolent influence. Ensuring the online world is a safe and secure place to visit will be essential to promoting worldwide adoption of this powerful resource."

Mr. Ban welcomed the new initiative and urged all States to support it. "With more and more transactions being done online, predators, criminals and terrorists can take advantage. We have to protect against cyberthreats, especially when they target children," he noted in his message.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame also stressed the need to strengthen cybersecurity and online child protection. "We must draw on the success and experience of existing models to build global awareness and develop practical tools for governments, educators, and parents to minimize risks to young people.

"The youth are natural and enthusiastic adopters of technology, and many routinely surf the Web and participate in online chatrooms, network, and view all types of information and data – some of which are harmful. For this reason, protection of children and young people must be one of the central pillars of any efforts to ensure a safe online environment," he stated.
Nov 12 2008 6:10PM
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CHINESE CHILDREN PAINT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IN UN-SPONSORED COMPETITION

CHINESE CHILDREN PAINT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IN UN-SPONSORED COMPETITION
New York, Nov 12 2008 6:10PM
Children across China are taking part in a United Nations-backed painting competition launched today to depict the challenges the world faces in combating climate change.

The competition is being organized by the UN Environment Programme (<"http://www.unep.org/Documents.Multilingual/Default.asp?DocumentID=550&ArticleID=5977&l=en">UNEP) and the Luo Hong Foundation, and is held in conjunction with UNEP's International Children's Painting Competition on the Environment.

The first Chinese Children's Painting Competition organized for 2008 attracted an unprecedented 1.5 million entries from around the world's most populous country. 'Climate Change: Our Challenge' is the theme of the second competition.

"The colossal success of the Chinese Children's Painting Competition shows how much children around China care about the environment," UNEP Executive Director Achim Steiner told the launch ceremony in Beijing. "I would like to congratulate the Luo Hong Foundation for hosting this event for the second time, giving us the opportunity to reach millions of children and members of the public around China."

The first Chinese Children's Painting Competition – with the theme "Climate Change: What can we do to make our earth cool down?"– saw 620 paintings selected for prizes. The top three winners were announced on World Environment Day in June 2008, and participated in UNEP's Tunza International Children's Conference in Stavanger, Norway, later that month.

Twenty first-place winners flew to UNEP Headquarters in Nairobi where they received their awards from Mr. Steiner. Other laureates included 100 second-place winners and 500 third-place winners.
Nov 12 2008 6:10PM
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BINDING UN-BACKED TREATY AGAINST DOPING IN SPORT SIGNED BY 100 COUNTRIES

BINDING UN-BACKED TREATY AGAINST DOPING IN SPORT SIGNED BY 100 COUNTRIES
New York, Nov 12 2008 6:10PM
The United Nations today celebrated a new milestone in the battle to eliminate doping in sport when Paraguay became the 100 country to sign the first worldwide binding legal instrument that imposes uniform rules, tests and sanctions against the scourge.

"Never before have global anti-doping efforts been stronger or more focused on providing an honest and equitable playing environment for athletes," UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (<"http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL_ID=43962&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html">UNESCO) Director-General Koïchiro Matsuura said at a ceremony in Paris.

The International Convention Against Doping in Sport, which promotes no-advance-notice, out-of-competition and in-competition testing, was adopted unanimously by UNESCO's General Conference in October 2005 and came into force on 1 February 2007 following its 30th ratification.

The treaty, designed to ensure a consistent approach to anti-doping efforts and compel governments into action to restrict the supply of performance-enhancing substances and methods, curtail trafficking and regulate dietary and nutritional supplements, is UNESCO's most successful convention in terms of speed of development and implementation.

In just three years, more than half UNESCO's Member States from all regions of the world committed to fighting doping in sport.

"Recent high profile doping cases and investigations have shown how decisive Government action can be," World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Director-General David Howman said.

During this year's Beijing Olympics, the first to be held since the Convention entered into force, the largest ever testing programme was conducted, involving more than 4,770 doping controls. "The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is committed to doing all it can to eliminate doping from sport," International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge said in a written statement.

"WADA now looks forward to the ratification of the Convention by the remaining 93 Member States of UNESCO," WADA President John Fahey said in a written statement.
Nov 12 2008 6:10PM
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FIGHTING LESSENS IN DR CONGO BUT HUMANITARIAN SITUATION REMAINS WORRYING – UN

FIGHTING LESSENS IN DR CONGO BUT HUMANITARIAN SITUATION REMAINS WORRYING – UN
New York, Nov 12 2008 5:10PM
Fighting appears to have abated in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) but tension continues and the humanitarian situation remains very worrying, with 250,000 newly displaced people in urgent need of aid, United Nations officials said today.

The UN Mission in the DRC (<"http://www.monuc.org/News.aspx?newsID=19019">MONUC) reported that several parts of North Kivu province, the scene of a recent upsurge in the conflict between Government forces (FARDC) and a rebel militia (CNDP) led by renegade general Laurent Nkunda, were being hit by cholera, whooping cough and measles epidemics.

It cited Government data that eight people had died out of more than 150 reported cases in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps near Goma, the provincial capital. The UN World Health Organization (WHO) reported seven new cases of measles.

The number of both IDPs and camps has been on the rise since the start in August of current hostilities, people continue to flee their homes, and the overall humanitarian situation remains extremely precarious, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) told a news conference.

The UN refugee agency remains deeply concerned over the security of 65,000 IDPs at two camps in Kibaki due to its proximity to the front lines.

OCHA said new and large-scale looting by Government soldiers had erupted during the night of 10 November at Kanyabayonga, Kirumba and Kayna, putting the civilian population to flight.

"All populations affected by this crisis have the right to be assisted. And for that to happen, the parties to the conflict must ensure that humanitarian organizations have unconditional access to and [can] assist these vulnerable populations," OCHA said, reminding all sides to the conflict of their obligation to preserve and respect civilian infrastructure and property.

"Given the high levels of militarization in the region, the numerous lootings and death threats, it has become so difficult for humanitarian organisations to access vulnerable people, that some of these agencies have been obliged to withdraw from these areas preventively and temporarily."

Relief supplies continue to reach Goma, including 36 tons of goods delivered on Monday.

Hostilities have continued in eastern DRC despite stabilization in much of the rest of the vast country, which was torn by years of civil war that cost 4 million lives in fighting and attendant hunger and disease – widely considered the most lethal conflict in the world since World War II – before it ended earlier this decade.

Since then, the UN has helped to reinforce a return to relative calm – except in the east - resulting in the largest and most complex elections it has ever helped to run, with presidential, national and provincial polls two years ago.
Nov 12 2008 5:10PM
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OUTREACH CRUCIAL TO WORK OF UN’S COUNTER-TERRORISM BODIES, SECURITY COUNCIL TOLD

OUTREACH CRUCIAL TO WORK OF UN'S COUNTER-TERRORISM BODIES, SECURITY COUNCIL TOLD
New York, Nov 12 2008 5:10PM
The heads of the three subsidiary bodies set up under the Security Council to deal with counter-terrorism have stressed the vital role that outreach activities play as they seek to assist States in strengthening their responses to the global scourge of terrorism.

The Council's 1267 (1999) Committee concerning Al-Qaida and Taliban sanctions continues to "value greatly" its cooperation and interaction with Member States and international and regional organizations, its chairman, Ambassador Jan Grauls of Belgium, told the <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2008/sc9498.doc.htm">Council today.

"Enhancing the outreach efforts remains, therefore, an overall objective of the Committee," he stressed.

Over the last six months, the Committee's Monitoring Team has provided it with detailed reports on country visits, sanctions workshops and participation in several international seminars and other forums.

"Such trips offer an opportunity to explain in detail the work of the Committee and the Team, to answer questions concerning implementation and to discuss the objectives and mechanics of the sanctions regime and increase its impact," Mr. Grauls stated.

Ambassador Jorge Urbina of Costa Rica noted that the same is true in the case of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1540 (2004) on combating the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) by non-State actors, particularly terrorists.

"The Committee has continued to rely on outreach activities to encourage and promote full implementation of resolution 1540," he told the 15-member body.

Since May, the Committee's members and experts have participated in meetings on relevant subjects ranging from the legal aspects of international instruments for countering terrorist acts in the nuclear, chemical or biological areas, to more specific topics such as proliferation financing, export controls and illicit trafficking in nuclear materials.

The two Committees have also cooperated with and coordinated their activities with the Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC), chaired by Ambassador Neven Jurica of Croatia.

One tangible example of this cooperation is organizing, together with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), sub-regional workshops on the preparation of reports to the three counter-terrorism committees. The third such workshop will be held next week in Nairobi, Kenya.

With regard to the CTC's work, Mr. Jurica noted that "various activities in the past six months have shown that the Committee is a useful tool in the combat against terrorism." Among its activities in the coming months, the Committee expects to pursue contacts with relevant countries to facilitate the delivery of technical assistance.
Nov 12 2008 5:10PM
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UN BLUE HELMETS RESPOND TO SECOND SCHOOL COLLAPSE IN HAITI IN FIVE DAYS

UN BLUE HELMETS RESPOND TO SECOND SCHOOL COLLAPSE IN HAITI IN FIVE DAYS
New York, Nov 12 2008 5:10PM
The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) today rushed an emergency response team to the site of a collapsed school in the Haitian capital, Port-au-Prince, where eight people were injured and sent to hospital this morning.

MINUSTAH immediately deployed a specialist crowd control unit to enable rescue workers to dig through and clear the rubble, as several hundred anxious parents flocked to the Grace Divine school.

A spokesperson for MINUSTAH confirmed that seven students and a teacher sustained minor injuries after the two-storey building partially collapsed around 11 a.m. this morning during a break in classes.

"As far as we know there are no people trapped in the building," MINUSTAH Spokesperson Sophie Boutaud-de-la-Combe told the UN News Centre.

The religious school in the Canape Vert section of the capital is attended by some 135 children and looks similar in construction to the school that collapsed in the Pétionville suburb of Port-au-Prince last Friday, killing 89 people and hospitalizing 150.

Ms. Boutaud-de-la-Combe said a senior Haitian Government official told a local broadcaster that "this is not the time to say who is responsible – it's the time to take decisions and act."
Nov 12 2008 5:10PM
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DARFUR: BAN WELCOMES SUDANESE GOVERNMENT CEASEFIRE, PLAN TO DISARM MILITIAS

DARFUR: BAN WELCOMES SUDANESE GOVERNMENT CEASEFIRE, PLAN TO DISARM MILITIAS
New York, Nov 12 2008 4:10PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the Sudanese Government's declaration today of an immediate ceasefire between its forces and the rebel movements in Darfur and also Khartoum's stated plan to disarm allied militias operating in the war-torn region.

"The Secretary-General stresses that the effectiveness of any ceasefire depends upon all parties demonstrating their commitment to a cessation of hostilities, particularly since past efforts to uphold a ceasefire in Darfur were not successful," Mr. Ban's spokesperson said in a statement.

"He further emphasizes that the international community continues to have high expectations that the Government of Sudan and the rebel movements will make concrete progress towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict."

Rebel groups have been fighting Government forces in Darfur, an arid and impoverished region bordering Chad and the Central African Republic (CAR), since 2003. In those five years an estimated 300,000 people have been killed and 2.7 million others displaced from their homes.

The Government forces have been supported by militiamen, known as the Janjaweed, who have been accused of human rights abuses in their attacks on villages and other civilian targets.

Since the start of this year a joint United Nations-African Union peacekeeping mission (known as UNAMID) has been in place in Darfur to try to quell the violence and the humanitarian suffering.

When it reaches full strength, UNAMID should have about 26,000 uniformed personnel, including just below 20,000 troops. But it currently has only around 10,000 personnel deployed, and senior UN officials have repeatedly called on countries to supply the remaining troops and equipment that are needed.

An Egyptian heavy transport company, comprising 139 soldiers and 16 officers, arrived today in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur state, as part of UNAMID's efforts to bolster its forces. The arrivals join an advance group of seven from that company who were already on the ground.

The Egyptian company's main task will be to support the distribution of cargo between sector logistics bases, the movement of bulk cargo such as water and fuel tankers, and the provision of transport and engineering capabilities.
Nov 12 2008 4:10PM
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SENIOR MILITARY OFFICIAL IN CHAD FOR TALKS ON FUTURE OF UN MISSION

SENIOR MILITARY OFFICIAL IN CHAD FOR TALKS ON FUTURE OF UN MISSION
New York, Nov 12 2008 3:10PM
A top United Nations military official is in Chad today for consultations with Government officials on the next stage of operations to bring stability to strife-ridden eastern Chad and the northeast of the neighbouring Central African Republic (CAR).

Both countries have been beset by widespread fighting and civilian displacement in recent years owing to rebel activity and a spill-over from Sudan's Darfur conflict.

Lieutenant-General Chikadibia Isaac Obiakor, Military Adviser of the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO), is scheduled to discuss the future of the UN Mission in CAR and Chad (MINURCAT) after the withdrawal next March of EUFOR, the European military force now entrusted with protecting civilians and refugees in the area.

Gen. Obiakor is also expected to travel to Abeche and Farchana in north-eastern Chad to visit UN and EUFOR operations there. MINURCAT, which includes a multi-dimensional UN presence and EUFOR, was set up by the Security Council in September 2007 in response to the dire humanitarian situation in the two countries.

At present the UN component comprises some 270 uniformed personnel, including 45 military observers and 226 police officers, supported by 272 international civilian personnel, 139 local civilian staff and 70 UN Volunteers.
Nov 12 2008 3:10PM
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GAZA POWER PLANT WILL CLOSE BY WEEKEND WITHOUT MORE FUEL FROM ISRAEL – UN

GAZA POWER PLANT WILL CLOSE BY WEEKEND WITHOUT MORE FUEL FROM ISRAEL – UN
New York, Nov 12 2008 3:10PM
Israel opened its fuel crossing point with the Gaza Strip today but closed it again after less than 230,000 litres were delivered, citing ongoing clashes on the Gaza side, United Nations officials reported.

If no industrial fuel deliveries are allowed in tomorrow, Gaza's power plant will have to be switched off this weekend, the UN Office of the Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process (UNSCO) said.

Apart from the fuel crossing, all Gaza commercial crossings remained closed today for the seventh day in a row, with no humanitarian or commercial commodities being allowed in.

UNSCO said there were concerns in Gaza over the growing shortage of cooking gas and a number of bakeries have been forced to shut down, leading to worries over the availability of bread.

The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said the current blockade of Gaza is affecting its operations "as never before." Materials prevented from entering Gaza include linens for a centre for blind children, textbooks for young students, and fire extinguishers.

UNRWA said yesterday that food distributions to 750,000 people in the Strip, about half the total population there, would end on Thursday unless critical supplies, including wheat, powdered milk and oil, were allowed in.

Meanwhile the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has drawn up a blueprint for "after-care" strategy to retain and expand investment in the occupied Palestinian territory by tending to investors' immediate and long-term business development needs.

"With only $27 million in average annual inflows of foreign direct investment to the territory since 2002, there is a need to take care of existing investors – foreign and domestic – that could not be clearer," UNCTAD said.
Nov 12 2008 3:10PM
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STRONGER ACTION NEEDED TO RID WORLD OF LANDMINES, SECRETARY-GENERAL SAYS

STRONGER ACTION NEEDED TO RID WORLD OF LANDMINES, SECRETARY-GENERAL SAYS
New York, Nov 12 2008 3:10PM
More efforts are needed to eliminate landmines and other explosive devices, despite the great strides made in ridding the world of the deadly weapons, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today.

He told the tenth annual gathering of high contracting parties to the protocol of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons that calls for curbing the use of landmines, which convened in Geneva, that enhanced action is needed because "these weapons, silent and well-hidden, continue to kill and maim."

Amended Protocol II to the Convention bans the use of mines, booby-traps and other explosive devices against civilians. It entered into force in December 1998 and currently has 92 States parties.

"You must consider in particular how to make the Protocol even more effective, and in particular how to enhance the Protocol's implementation mechanism," the Secretary-General said, in a message delivered by Sergei Ordzhonikidze, Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva.

Mr. Ban called for membership to the Protocol to be expanded, particularly among developing countries, nations affected by landmines and States in conflict.
Nov 12 2008 3:10PM
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TOP UN OFFICIALS TELL WORLD LEADERS IT IS TIME FOR ACTION IN FIGHT AGAINST GLOBAL WOES

TOP UN OFFICIALS TELL WORLD LEADERS IT IS TIME FOR ACTION IN FIGHT AGAINST GLOBAL WOES
New York, Nov 12 2008 2:10PM
The General Assembly President today told global leaders the world is facing its most difficult period since the founding of the United Nations and urged them to use their "moral strength" in finding solutions to the problems plaguing the Earth, such as global hunger, poverty and climate change.

Speaking to over 70 heads of State and high-level officials at the "Culture of Peace" gathering, Miguel D'Escoto said that the world must choose between the values of consumerism and greed, or social responsibility and ethical behaviour, including the economic and political spheres.

"The United Nations has very appropriately elaborated a complex agenda for making the world a better place," Mr. D'Escoto said in his opening remarks to the two-day meeting in New York.

"But progress is too slow. We are running out of time, and do not seem to have the energy and conviction required to move any faster," he added.

The Assembly plenary meeting at UN Headquarters – attended by heads of State and senior officials from Israel, Palestine, the United States, Bahrain, the United Kingdom and more than 70 other countries – is an initiative put forward by Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah, aimed at hastening action on some of the most urgent challenges facing the world.

Mr. D'Escoto said that one of the most burning problems today is that half the world's population suffers levels of poverty, malnutrition and hunger that violate their human rights and basic dignity despite humankind having the collective knowledge and the financial and technological resources to cure these afflictions.

"This is not only shameful, it is – to use religious terminology – downright sinful," Mr. D'Escoto told delegates.

"We know that nothing short of heroic decisions and actions can awake us from our moral coma," he added.

Mr. D'Escoto noted that social responsibility is a basic law in each of the world's religions and in all ethical and philosophical traditions, but said that the dominant culture is guided by the spirit of selfishness and individualism.

Economic and political activity in this culture has no place for ethics and morals and the concepts of justice and fairness have no place within it, he said, adding that "the business of business is business."

"This is the reason why wealthy nations have not been able to muster the political will to comply with even the minimal commitment to give 0.7 per cent of their GDP [gross domestic product] to help eradicate hunger and poverty from the world," Mr. D'Escoto said.

The high-level conference in Doha, Qatar, on financing for development later this month is an opportunity to "translate these values into action," Mr. D'Escoto noted, highlighting issues such as the goal of decent work for all and the need for inclusive financial sectors and microfinance structures.

He also underscored the need to improve international cooperation in tax matters, noting that billions of dollars that could be used for development are lost annually because individuals and corporations fail to pay their taxes. He also called on the Doha meeting to take steps in the effort to combat corruption, promote the rule of law, human rights, inclusive democracy and good governance.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told the meeting that as economies merge and boundaries disappear as a result of globalization, extremist ideologies are on the rise, societies are more polarized, anti-Semitism persists and Islamophobia has emerged.

"One of the great challenges of our time must now surely be to ensure that our rich cultural diversity makes us more secure, not less," Mr. Ban said in his <"http://www.un.org/apps/news/infocus/sgspeeches/statments_full.asp?statID=366">remarks to the meeting promoting inter-religious and inter-cultural dialogue, understanding and cooperation for peace.

Mr. Ban outlined various UN initiatives aimed at promoting tolerance, understanding and cooperation among different peoples in an effort for greater global harmony, such as the UN Alliance of Civilizations, established at the initiative of Spain and Turkey.

Quoting Nobel Peace Prize laureate Ralph Bunche, the Secretary-General said: "I have a deep-seated bias against hate and intolerance. I have a bias against racial and religious bigotry. I have a bias against war and a bias for peace. I have a bias that leads me to believe in the essential goodness of my fellow men, which leads me to believe that no problem of human relations is ever insoluble."

Mr. Ban added his own words, saying "that is the only bias we can tolerate."

President Shimon Peres of Israel, Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah and Afghan President Hamid Karzai are among the dignitaries speaking to the Assembly this morning. President George W. Bush of the US and UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown are among more than 30 high-level officials slated to speak tomorrow.
Nov 12 2008 2:10PM
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FINANCIAL CRISIS THREATENS PUSH TO BOOST GLOBAL HEALTH, SAYS TOP UN OFFICIAL

FINANCIAL CRISIS THREATENS PUSH TO BOOST GLOBAL HEALTH, SAYS TOP UN OFFICIAL
New York, Nov 12 2008 2:10PM
The current financial turmoil, exposing the high level of interdependence among countries, could threaten to derail the momentum towards improving global health, the head of the United Nations World Health Organization (<"http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/statements/2008/s12/en/index.html">WHO) warned today.

"It is not yet clear what the current financial crisis will mean for low-income and emerging economies, but many predictions are highly pessimistic," Director-General Margaret Chan said in a statement. "In the face of a global recession, fiscal pressures in affluent countries may prompt cuts to official development assistance."

Further, the spectre looms of poorer nations potentially slashing social spending in areas such as health, education and social protection, she cautioned.

The current crisis comes amid efforts to reach the Millennium Development Goals (<"http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/">MDGs), eight anti-poverty targets with a 2015 deadline, which Dr. Chan characterized as "the most ambitious drive in history."

She noted that a 1978 drive to improve health to boost socioeconomic development was thwarted by a fuel crisis, soaring oil prices and a debt crisis.

"In the international response to these crises, mistakes were made when budgets were shifted away from investments in social sectors, most notably health and education," the statement said. "Many countries are still suffering the legacy of these errors."

Thus, it is essential to learn from previous mistakes and offset the current economic upheaval by enhancing investment in health and the social sector, the Director-General stressed.

Stepping up spending is crucial to protect the poor, promote economic recovery, encourage social stability, generate efficiency in health expenditure and building security, she said.

"We cannot afford, in this time of crisis, to squander our investments, to abandon our drive for greater balance in this world, which I firmly believe is a marker of civilized society," Dr. Chan said, calling on all governments to press ahead with efforts to improve their health systems.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who will attend the summit of the so-called Group of 20 (G-20) nations later this week, said he will press upon world leaders the need to protect the world's most vulnerable in the face of the turmoil shaking global financial markets.

"We must do everything we can to alleviate the impact of the crisis on the world's poorest and most vulnerable people," Mr. Ban told reporters yesterday at his monthly news conference in New York.
Nov 12 2008 2:10PM
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WORLD BANK PLEDGES UP TO $130 BILLION FOR POOR COUNTRIES IN FINANCIAL CRISIS

WORLD BANK PLEDGES UP TO $130 BILLION FOR POOR COUNTRIES IN FINANCIAL CRISIS
New York, Nov 12 2008 1:10PM
The World Bank Group is to substantially increase support for developing countries by as much as $130 billion over the next three years to help them weather the spreading global financial crisis.

"Leaders meeting on Saturday to discuss the global financial crisis must not lose sight of the human crisis," <"http://web.worldbank.org/WBSITE/EXTERNAL/NEWS/0,,contentMDK:21973077~menuPK:34463~pagePK:34370~piPK:34424~theSitePK:4607,00.html">World Bank Group President Robert B. Zoellick said, referring to this coming Saturday's Washington summit of G-20 countries, grouping the major industrial states and leading developing nations. "As always, it is the poorest and most vulnerable who are the hardest hit," he added.

The Bank said its International Bank for Reconstruction and Development could make new commitments of up to $100 billion over the next three years. This year, lending could almost triple to more than $35 billion compared to $13.5 billion in 2007. Plans include the launch or expansion of four facilities for the crisis-hit private sector that is critical to employment, recovery and growth.

In addition to helping cash-strapped governments, the Bank is ramping up support to the private sector through the launch or expansion of four initiatives by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), its private sector arm. Combining IFC funds and money mobilized from various sources including governments and other institutions, these facilities are expected to total around $30 billion over the next three years.

The Bank has lowered its growth forecast for developing country economies to 4.5 per cent for 2009, compared to a previous projection of 6.4 per cent, due to a combination of financial turmoil, slower exports and weaker commodity prices. It expects high income country economies to contract by 0.1 per cent next year while the world economy ekes out only 1 per cent growth.

"The response to this crisis must be global, coordinated, flexible and fast," Mr. Zoellick said. "While the challenges need to be addressed at the country level, it is more critical than ever that the international community acts in a coordinated and supportive way to make each country's task easier."

Sharply tighter credit conditions and weaker growth are likely to cut into government revenues and their ability to invest to meet education, health and gender goals, as well as the infrastructure expenditures needed to sustain growth. Current estimates suggest that a 1 per cent decline in developing country growth rates pushes an additional 20 million people into poverty. Already 100 million people have been driven into poverty as a result of high food and fuel prices.

Aside from expanded lending, the Bank is working to speed up grants and long-term, interest-free loans to the world's 78 poorest countries, 39 of which are in Africa. Donors last year pledged $42 billion for the International Development Association, the World Bank's fund for these countries.
Nov 12 2008 1:10PM
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UN SENDS TEAM TO HONDURAS TO IDENTIFY POTENTIAL LANDSLIDES AFTER DEADLY STORM

UN SENDS TEAM TO HONDURAS TO IDENTIFY POTENTIAL LANDSLIDES AFTER DEADLY STORM
New York, Nov 12 2008 1:10PM
The United Nations has deployed a team of geologists to Honduras to help authorities in the Central American country identify risk zones for landslides and mudslides in the wake of Tropical Storm Paloma, which has killed dozens of people and left an estimated 320,000 others in need of assistance.

The geological team was deployed by a joint unit of the UN Environment Programme (<"http://www.unep.org/">UNEP) and the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), in cooperation with the Swedish Rescue Services Agency, <"http://ochaonline.un.org/">OCHA reported today. The deployment follows a recommendation from a UN Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) team that visited the area.

OCHA added that the geologists will work closely with the UN Development Programme (<"http://www.undp.org/">UNDP) and the Permanent Commission for Contingencies (COPECO) in carrying out their work.

The fear of landslides and mudslides remains high after Paloma, which began as a lesser tropical depression, swept across the region and caused floods and destroyed cropland and infrastructure in northern and western Honduras and neighbouring Guatemala as well. At least 60 Hondurans have died while 17 Guatemalans were also killed following more than 15 consecutive days of rains as part of a separate tropical depression.

OCHA warned last week that it has so far received less than 10 per cent of the $17 million flash appeal launched by UN agencies and their non-governmental organization (NGO) partners to cover food, health, shelter, water and sanitation, and education needs for those affected for the next six months. The UN humanitarian wing also urged donors to support an appeal for assistance from the Guatemalan Government.

The UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF), the World Food Programme (<"http://www.wfp.org/english/">WFP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are among the UN agencies on the ground in Honduras providing relief to those affected by the floods that followed Paloma. The Pan-American Health Organization (<"http://devserver.paho.org/hq/index.php?lang=en">PAHO) and the International Organization for Migration (<"http://www.iom.int/jahia/jsp/index.jsp">IOM) are also providing support.
Nov 12 2008 1:10PM
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TOURISM MINISTERS SET UP UN COMMITTEE TO STRENGTHEN COOPERATION IN WAKE OF SLOWDOWN

TOURISM MINISTERS SET UP UN COMMITTEE TO STRENGTHEN COOPERATION IN WAKE OF SLOWDOWN
New York, Nov 12 2008 1:10PM
Tourism ministers from around the world have agreed to set up a new United Nations-backed committee to consider how to respond both to the downturn in international travel as a result of the global financial crisis and the impact of climate change.

At a summit in London yesterday, the ministers announced the establishment of a UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Resilience Committee after concluding the tourism sector needs increased collaboration, greater real-time market information and more innovation.

Enhanced public-private cooperation has also been identified as critical to the health of the tourism industry as it copes with the recent slowdown in international travel, according to a press release issued by <"http://www.unwto.org/media/news/en/press_det.php?id=3031&idioma=E">UNWTO today. Agency partners such as Microsoft, Visa and Amadeus have agreed to support the committee.

Egyptian Tourism Minister Zohair Garrana will chair the Resilience Committee, which is tasked with monitoring and analysing macroeconomic and tourism market trends and providing an information exchange for the sector on rapid and practical responses to challenges and problems.

UNWTO Secretary-General Francesco Frangialli said his Madrid-based agency would continue to help the tourism industry to weather the international downturn as best as possible.

"By the same token, we will not forget what tourism can contribute to poverty reduction in the world and to the fight against climate change," he said. "The poor countries, some of which were already severely hit several months ago by the food crisis, will need more than ever the wealth and jobs that tourism provides for them."

UNWTO reported this week in its regular barometer that international tourist arrival numbers slowed down during the northern summer this year – with growth slipping below 2 per cent in June, July and August – after averaging 5.7 per cent growth between January and April.

The agency added that its initial forecasts indicated that there will be an "even more modest performance" in the tourism sector in 2009 as the effects of the global financial crisis continue to take their toll, with many consumers finding that their travel budgets are being squeezed.

But overall growth for 2008 is still projected to reach about 2 per cent, thanks in part to ongoing robust growth in the Middle East and a better-than-expected performance in the Americas. Europe, the Asia-Pacific and Africa have recorded weaker results.

Between January and August this year, 642 million international arrivals were counted, a rise of 23 million on the same period last year.
Nov 12 2008 1:10PM
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AFRICAN ECONOMISTS MEET AT UN-BACKED CONFERENCE IN TUNIS

AFRICAN ECONOMISTS MEET AT UN-BACKED CONFERENCE IN TUNIS
New York, Nov 12 2008 11:10AM
Economists and policymakers from across Africa have gathered today in the Tunisian capital for the start of a three-day United Nations-backed conference designed to boost the continent's economic performance.

The Third African Economic Conference, jointly organized by the UN Economic Commission for Africa (<"http://www.uneca.org/">ECA) and the African Development Bank, will focus on the theme of "Globalization, Institutions and Economic Development of Africa."

The Tunis conference's aim is to allow participants to exchange ideas about the latest research and information on economic issues, particularly the impact of the current global financial crisis on Africa, according to a press release issued by ECA this week.

The commission's Executive Secretary Abdoulie Janneh is among the high-level figures scheduled to <"http://www.uneca.org/">address the joint opening session of the conference and the ministerial forum.

Africa has enjoyed higher economic growth this decade than it did in the 1980s and 1990s, thanks in part to high commodity prices, especially oil, better economic policies implemented by national governments across the continent and the end of hostilities in several countries.

But the global financial crisis, particularly its impact on international credit markets, means the economic outlook for Africa remains uncertain, ECA stressed.
Nov 12 2008 11:10AM
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UN-SUPPORTED MEETING WRAPS UP WITH CALL FOR ACTION TO FIGHT WHEAT-KILLING FUNGUS

UN-SUPPORTED MEETING WRAPS UP WITH CALL FOR ACTION TO FIGHT WHEAT-KILLING FUNGUS
New York, Nov 12 2008 11:10AM
A United Nations-backed conference of major wheat producing countries has concluded with a call for urgent international action prevent and control a dangerous fungus that can cause heavy damage to wheat crops and threatens food security.

Countries agreed in a declaration at the end of the 6-8 November gathering in New Delhi, India, on a roadmap to battle the wheat stem rust disease strain Ug99.

The virulent virus was discovered in Uganda in 1999 and has spread from East Africa to Yemen, Sudan and Iran. To date, there is no evidence that it has moved to other countries, with a recent field survey finding that it is not present in India, Pakistan, Egypt and China.

It is estimated that up to 80 per cent of all wheat varieties in Asia and Africa are susceptible to the strain, with spores of wheat rust carried by wind over long distances and across continents.

More than 130 participants from agricultural ministries' of 31 nations, as well as researchers, seed producers and plant production experts attended the meeting, organized by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (<"http://www.fao.org/news/story/en/item/8391/icode/">FAO), Indian Government and other partners.

They stressed the importance of stepping up plant breeding research and global collaboration to develop Ug99-resistant varieties of wheat to be distributed to needy farming communities.

"We will continue supporting countries in building national capacities for research, extension, plant protection and seed production and get the support of the international community for achieving our common goals in responding to the wheat rust global threat and improving livelihoods through enhanced food security," said Modibo Traore, FAO Assistant-General in the Agricultural and Consumer Protection Department.

The agency's Wheat Rust Disease Global Programme supports almost 30 countries in East and North Africa, the Near East and Central and South Asia which are either affected or are at risk of the disease and together account for over one-third of global wheat production.

In a related development, the former Director of FAO's Liaison Office in New York has been appointed Deputy Prime Minister of Swaziland.

Themba N. Masuku, who has also served as the South African nation's finance minister, worked with FAO for over a decade.

"He made thoughtful and informed contributions to the ongoing fight to reduce world hunger and increase investment in agriculture," said Jacques Diouf, the agency's Director-General, adding that he looks forward to continuing to work with his former colleague in his new capacity.
Nov 12 2008 11:10AM
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NUMBER OF HUNGRY PEOPLE IN IRAQ HAS DROPPED STEEPLY, SAYS UN-BACKED REPORT

NUMBER OF HUNGRY PEOPLE IN IRAQ HAS DROPPED STEEPLY, SAYS UN-BACKED REPORT
New York, Nov 12 2008 10:10AM
The number of people without adequate access to food in Iraq has been slashed by three-quarters, according to a new assessment conducted jointly by the war-torn nation's Government and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP).

The Comprehensive Food Security and Vulnerability Assessment (CFSVA) – carried out last year with support from the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) – found that the 930,000 people were hungry in 2007, down from some 4 million in 2005.

But Edward Kallon, WFP Country Director for Iraq, said that he could only give a "cautious welcome" to the figures "because 930,000 is still far too many for a relatively wealthy country."

He added that there are an additional 6.4 million people who would go hungry were it not for safety nets such as the Government-run Public Distribution System (PDS).

Under that mechanism, all Iraqis are entitled to a monthly food basket, but frequent shortfalls and distribution delays have hurt vulnerable families.

Mr. Kallon credited increased economic activity in Iraq, triggered by improved security conditions and the humanitarian efforts of the international community, to the reversal of food insecurity.

"But the situation remains volatile and any deterioration could undermine the whole process," he noted.

The Assessment surveyed the food security situation of 26,000 people across the country. It also looked closely at the nutritional status of children under the age of five, and found an improvement in national acute malnutrition rates, little change in chronic malnutrition rates and alarming stunting rates in five districts.

The new study called for continued food aid to those most in need and ongoing collaboration with the Government to reform the PDS.

It also urged bolstered nutrition and caring practices for mothers and children, as well as scaling up micronutrient programmes and providing food education in the poorest areas, focusing on girls' school enrollment and attendance
Nov 12 2008 10:10AM
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INTERNATIONAL TOURISM EXPERIENCING CLEAR SLOWDOWN, UN AGENCY FINDS

INTERNATIONAL TOURISM EXPERIENCING CLEAR SLOWDOWN, UN AGENCY FINDS
New York, Nov 11 2008 7:10PM
International tourism has started slowing rapidly since the middle of the year, reflecting consumer concern worldwide and rising inflation in many countries, the United Nations reports in its latest measure of the health of the global travel industry.

The regular barometer of the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), released yesterday, found that growth in the number of international tourist arrivals fell below 2 per cent in June, July, August after averaging 5.7 per cent between January and April.

UNWTO said its initial forecasts indicate there will be "an even more modest performance" in the tourism sector in 2009 as the effects of the global financial crisis continue to take their toll, with many consumers finding that their travel budgets are being squeezed.

But overall growth for 2008 is still projected to reach about 2 per cent, thanks in part to ongoing robust growth in the Middle East and a better-than-expected performance in the Americas. Europe, the Asia-Pacific and Africa have recorded weaker results.

Between January and August this year, 642 million international arrivals were counted, a rise of 23 million on the same period last year, according to <"http://www.unwto.org/media/news/en/press_det.php?id=3011&idioma=E">UNWTO.

The Madrid-based agency noted in a press release that tourism has so far resisted the global economic downturn better than many other sectors, such as construction or car manufacturing.

However, the average length of stay for many holiday-makers is set to shorten, cheaper destinations are becoming more popular, and many consumers are turning to destinations closer to their homes.

The barometer was released a day ahead of today's international gathering in London of government tourism ministers, and this meeting is itself being followed a series of regional response groups, starting with the Middle East later this month.
Nov 11 2008 7:10PM
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DR CONGO DISPLACED THREATENED BY CRIMINAL ABUSES AND SPREAD OF DISEASES, WARNS UN

DR CONGO DISPLACED THREATENED BY CRIMINAL ABUSES AND SPREAD OF DISEASES, WARNS UN
New York, Nov 11 2008 7:10PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today warned that the perpetrators of recent targeted killings of civilians, looting and rape in the war-torn east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) will face justice, as United Nations aid agencies combat the spread of diseases among people uprooted by the conflict.

Recent weeks have seen an escalation in hostilities in North Kivu between Government forces (FARDC) and a rebel militia (CNDP) led by renegade general Laurent Nkunda, resulting in as many as 252,000 displaced Congolese, on top of the existing 800,000 forced from their homes by previous hostilities.

"I want to remind all parties that when the laws of war are violated, personal criminal responsibility may ensue, particularly for those in positions of command and control," Mr. Ban <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/offthecuff.asp?nid=1228">told reporters in New York.

Mr. Ban said he was "somewhat encouraged" by the frank dialogue between the presidents of the DRC and Rwanda, Joseph Kabila and Paul Kagame, at the Nairobi summit last weekend, as well as the declaration urging all groups to observe an immediate ceasefire.

The Secretary-General reiterated the call for a ceasefire to allow humanitarian assistance to reach some 100,000 "increasingly desperate" internally displaced persons (IDPs) cut off by the fighting in Rutshuru and East Masisi, just north of Goma, the capital of North Kivu, and who have not been able to receive any aid.

"Despite the Nairobi declaration, there are continued reports of sporadic fighting," Mr. Ban said.

"First and foremost, we must stabilize the situation on the ground and end this needless violence and suffering. UN agencies are delivering food, medicine, fresh water and sanitation supplies to areas where they can operate, most particularly in Goma."

The UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC (<"http://www.monuc.org/News.aspx?newsID=18992">MONUC) has reconfigured its force deployment in response to the spiralling violence and the growing number of IDPs in the east of the country, Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations Alain Le Roy told reporters after briefing the Security Council on his trip to the region last week.

MONUC now has the vast majority of its 17,000 troops in the east of the DRC with over half of them stationed in North and South Kivu, which have a combined population of around 10 million people.

"We still consider that although we have almost 10,000 troops in the Kivus, it's still insufficient. It means we have 10 peacekeepers to protect [every] 10,000 civilians in the Kivus," said the Under-Secretary-General.

Mr. Le Roy said that he understood many Security Council members supported the reinforcement of the number of MONUC troops although he noted that it would take a minimum of two months for more troops to arrive on the ground even if the Council agreed to it.

"The troops are authorized to use any means to fulfil the mandate and protect civilians in case of imminent danger. The mandate is very clear," Mr. Le Roy said in response to media questions.

The UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/drcongo_46317.html">UNICEF) said it was continuing its vaccination programmes, but there still encounter inaccessible areas, such as Rutshuru. The agency also stressed it is doing everything possible to control a cholera epidemic, and reported that there were still cases of measles among the displaced.

One million water purification tablets and thousands of buckets and plastic tarpaulin sheets are now being packaged for distribution. The water purification tablets will provide clean drinking water to tens of thousands, the buckets will reduce the risk of contamination while carrying the water and the plastic will be used as emergency latrines.

"These supplies will help contain the spread of cholera and diarrhoea, both extremely contagious diseases on the rise in nearly all internally displaced persons' settlements in North Kivu," said UNICEF DRC Representative Pierrette Vu Thi.

Thousands of children have been sleeping out in the open under wet, cold conditions and are at high risk of contracting malaria and respiratory infections, which are the top two killers of children in the DRC. UNICEF is distributing plastic sheets to help provide emergency shelter to the children and their families.

"We are extremely thankful for these supplies and others that will arrive shortly. They are critical to help save and improve the lives of children affected in the conflict," Ms. Vu Thi explained.

The World Health Organization (<"http://www.who.int/en/">WHO) said there is an increase in the rate of cholera infections, with at least 1,000 cases reported in North Kivu since the start of October. The agency has requested $2.6 million for the next three months to strengthen disease surveillance, coordinate health interventions, identify and fill health gaps, strengthen health systems and build capacities.

WHO has 60 tons of medicines and other supplies to treat cholera and other diarrhoeal diseases in Uganda, ready for transport to North Kivu. In partnership with UNICEF and local authorities, the agency has started a five-day vaccination drive for 11,000 children aged under-five for measles, providing vitamin A supplementation and de-worming in the Kirotshe area.

With the recent influx of IDPs into the two Kibati camps, on the northern outskirts of Goma, swelling its numbers to 65,000 Congolese, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (<"http://www.unhcr.org/news/NEWS/4919b9d02.html">UNHCR) has erected six large portable warehouse tents as temporary shelter for some 1,200 people.

UNHCR has also reported that a plane carrying 36 tons of relief supplies from its emergency stockpile in Dubai has landed in neighbouring Uganda, and some 1,500 bales of plastic sheeting and three pre-fabricated warehouses will be flown to Goma.

The rest of the provisions, comprised of 3,000 jerry cans, 2,650 plastic sheets, 7,500 blankets and 1,500 kitchen sets, will be transported by road from Entebbe, Uganda to Bunia in the DRC. UNHCR has already sent non-food items for some 50,000 people from its regional warehouse in Tanzania by road to the eastern DRC.
Nov 11 2008 7:10PM
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STEADY PROGRESS BEING MADE IN CYPRUS REUNIFICATION TALKS, UN ENVOY SAYS

STEADY PROGRESS BEING MADE IN CYPRUS REUNIFICATION TALKS, UN ENVOY SAYS
New York, Nov 11 2008 6:10PM
Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders are making steady progress on the issue of governance as part of broader United Nations-sponsored negotiations aimed at reunifying the Mediterranean island, a top UN envoy said today.

"This is an enormously important negotiation for the people of Cyprus and inevitably it's going to take time. Inevitably the negotiations are going to be difficult negotiations, but they are making progress," Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's Special Adviser for Cyprus Alexander Downer told a news conference in Nicosia.

Representatives from both sides will have a further discussion on Friday on the question of the legislature to deal with some of the points of divergence between Greek Cypriot leader Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat.

In May, Mr. Christofias and Mr. Talat committed to a partnership that will comprise a Federal Government with a single international identity, along with a Turkish Cypriot Constituent State and a Greek Cypriot Constituent State, which will be of equal status.

The issues of governance and power-sharing are central to resolving the problem of Cyprus, where UN peacekeepers have been deployed since March 1964 to prevent further fighting between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities.

"Frankly an expectation that you can just suddenly solve all these problems overnight is unrealistic," Mr. Downer said. He is scheduled to meet separately with Mr. Christofias and Mr. Talat tomorrow.
Nov 11 2008 6:10PM
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GENERAL ASSEMBLY PRESIDENT VOICES HOPE THAT GLOBAL MEETING ON VALUES WILL SPUR ACTION

GENERAL ASSEMBLY PRESIDENT VOICES HOPE THAT GLOBAL MEETING ON VALUES WILL SPUR ACTION
New York, Nov 11 2008 6:10PM
The General Assembly President expressed optimism today that the high-level "<"http://www.un.org/ga/63/plenary/B_peace_culture.shtml">Culture of Peace" gathering, which kicks off tomorrow with the leaders and senior officials from dozens of nations, will hasten action on such global obstacles as hunger and poverty.

Speaking to reporters in New York, Miguel D'Escoto underscored that the two-day Assembly plenary meeting at United Nations Headquarters is not about religion, which he said can be a "very divisive subject."

Rather, "we're going to talk about something that is much more capable in uniting us all, which is our values, whether they be faith-based values or whether they come from different ethical, philosophical traditions."

Heads of State and senior government officials from Israel, Palestine, the United States, Bahrain, the United Kingdom and other countries, along with representatives from more than 70 countries will take part in the event, an initiative put forward by Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah.

"We're here to talk about… tapping our innermost values and putting them at the service of decision-making, of resolutions, of actions to help the world come out of the multiple converging crises of the moment," Mr. D'Escoto said, referring to issues including climate change, terrorism and the current economic turmoil.

Despite talk of the need for a Wall Street "bailout," it is humanity that needs assistance, he said, since it is "moral bankruptcy" that is preventing countries from fulfilling commitments to ending poverty.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed his "[wholehearted] support" for the gathering.

"The values it aims to promote are common to all the world's religions, and can help us fight extremism, prejudice and hatred," he said at his monthly press conference, adding that "the anticipated high-level turnout is testimony to its timeliness and importance."

Tonight, the Secretary-General will be hosting a dinner for participants, and said that it will be a "unique" opportunity, given that Israeli President Shimon Peres will be having a meal with the Saudi King and other leaders from the Arab world.

"This is quite encouraging and positive," he said. "In that regard, I sincerely hope that through their participation in the meetings and through this kind of a social, diplomatic gathering, that they will be able to promote further understanding."

Mr. Ban will be holding bilateral meetings with the leaders attending the "Culture of Peace" meeting, ahead of the summit on financial markets and the world economy of the so-called Group of 20 (G-20) nations – marking both the first time it will meet at the head of State level and the first time that the UN Secretary-General has been invited – scheduled for later this week.

Both the Secretary-General and Assembly President underscored the inclusive nature of the meeting, with invitations having been extended to all Member States by Mr. D'Escoto last month.

"This is an open-ended meeting," Mr. Ban said, while the Assembly President said that "no one has been sidelined."
Nov 11 2008 6:10PM
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SECRETARY-GENERAL APPLAUDS TSUNAMI EARLY WARNING SYSTEM IN INDONESIA

SECRETARY-GENERAL APPLAUDS TSUNAMI EARLY WARNING SYSTEM IN INDONESIA
New York, Nov 11 2008 5:10PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today welcomed the launch of the Indonesian Tsunami Early Warning System, congratulating the country's Government for its regional leadership by taking steps towards making its citizens less vulnerable to the effects of such a natural disaster.

In a <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2008/sgsm11913.doc.htm">speech delivered in Jakarta by United Nations Director of the Secretariat of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR) Sálvano Briceño, Mr. Ban acknowledged the terrible destruction of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.

"The tragedy was burned into the world's collective memory. But for people in coastal communities, the terrible after-effects and especially the fear of another catastrophe remain a daily reality. They are wondering, what if it happens again? How will we survive? Fortunately, governments from around the Indian Ocean heard their pleas."

With countries of the region forging partnerships in technology, sharing data, communicating in real time and helping communities to prepare, Mr. Ban has acknowledged such efforts will reduce risks to vulnerable communities in the region.

He further urged all participating countries to maintain such progress and commitment to working with the UN, not only in preparation for a possible tsunami but to deal with all natural hazards – "Even small disasters can keep poor communities trapped in poverty and underdevelopment."

"The United Nations, for its part, will continue to work with all partners to ensure that we are ready when disaster strikes. In that spirit, I offer my congratulations on this important achievement."

The launch of the Indonesian initiative follows in the footsteps of the UN-led staged tsunami drill, <i>Exercise Pacific Wave 08</i>, carried out by the Pacific Tsunami Warning and Mitigation Systems (PTWS) just last month with the aim of achieving rapid tsunami detection in that region.
Nov 11 2008 5:10PM
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BAN CALLS ON WASHINGTON ECONOMIC SUMMIT TO TACKLE GLOBAL WARMING AS WELL

BAN CALLS ON WASHINGTON ECONOMIC SUMMIT TO TACKLE GLOBAL WARMING AS WELL
New York, Nov 11 2008 5:10PM
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called for this weekend's Washington summit on the global financial crisis to seize the opportunity to tackle global warming as well, stressing that such action would create jobs and boost the world's economies.

"The global financial crisis is most immediate; the more existential is climate change. The urgency of the first is no excuse for neglecting the second. To the contrary, it is an opportunity to kill two birds with one stone," he wrote in a joint op-ed piece with Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen.

Indonesia was the site of last year's conference on climate change in Bali, while Poland is hosting further negotiations in Poznan in December and Denmark will host talks next year to draw up a successor agreement to the Kyoto Protocol on reducing greenhouse gases, which expires in 2012.

In the <"http://www.un.org/sg/articleFull.asp?TID=86&Type=Op-Ed">op-ed, first published in <i>The International Herald Tribune</i> yesterday, the four leaders stressed that a "green economy" is the answer to both the financial crisis and climate change, since the hottest growth industry in the world just now is renewable energy.

"That's where jobs of the future are already being created, and where much of the technological innovation is taking place that will usher in our next era of economic transformation," they wrote.

"The UN Environment Programme estimates that global investment in zero-greenhouse energy will reach $1.9 trillion by 2020 – a significant portion of global GDP. Worldwide, nearly 2 million people are employed in the new wind and solar power industries, half of them in China alone.

"Brazil's biofuels programme has been creating nearly a million jobs annually. In Germany, investment in environmental technology is expected to quadruple over the coming years, reaching 16 per cent of manufacturing output by 2030 and employing more workers than the automobile industry."

The four called for policies and financial incentives within a global framework to steer economic growth in a low-carbon direction, thus eliminating or greatly reducing the human-generated greenhouse gases that heat up the atmosphere and threaten the environment and biodiversity with disastrous consequences.

"With the right policies and the right incentives, we can be sure that developed and developing countries alike contribute to the cause of fighting global warming, each in their own way and without compromising every nation's right to development and the economic well-being of its citizens," they said.
Nov 11 2008 5:10PM
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UN WARNS OF DAMAGE FROM LEGAL RAVE DRUG

UN WARNS OF DAMAGE FROM LEGAL RAVE DRUG
New York, Nov 11 2008 4:10PM
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has warned that ketamine, a legal substance used to tranquilize horses, has taken the world's dance scene by storm, despite the risk it poses to the brain, kidneys and other internal organs.

Ketamine, which is also used as a general anaesthetic in some developing countries, is now the most abused drug in Hong Kong, according to a statement by <"http://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/frontpage/ketamine-sweeps-the-rave-scene.html">UNODC. It is gaining popularity across southern China, and its use is spreading throughout East Asia, Australia, Europe and North America. But because ketamine is a legal substance, and therefore not controlled, the true extent of its use is unclear and probably underestimated.

"It's a new candy for the youth," UNODC expert Jeremy Douglas said, adding that the drug was made more dangerous because people were often unaware that they were taking it. "Sometimes they know they're using ketamine, sometimes they don't," he said.

Ketamine, which is nicknamed 'Special K', can be taken in powder, liquid or tablet form and is often mixed with other drugs or alcohol. It is sometimes laced with synthetic drugs such as methamphetamine and sold as ecstasy, because it commands a higher price than straight ketamine.

With low doses, party-goers may feel euphoric, have psychedelic experiences and lots of energy. High doses might plunge the user into an out-of-body or near-death experience known as the "K-hole." "It's an anaesthetic, so it can put someone in a catatonic state, a different state of being," Mr. Douglas explained. "Perception of the body, time and reality is severely altered."

Experts say long-term use may impair the memory and cognitive functions, and damage the kidneys and other internal organs.

UNODC recently launched a programme called Global Synthetics Monitoring: Analysis, Reporting and Trends (SMART), to work with governments to develop, assess and report data and information on synthetic drugs.
Nov 11 2008 4:10PM
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SIX MONTHS AFTER DEVASTATING CHINESE QUAKE, UN CONTINUES TO ASSIST VICTIMS

SIX MONTHS AFTER DEVASTATING CHINESE QUAKE, UN CONTINUES TO ASSIST VICTIMS
New York, Nov 11 2008 4:10PM
The United Nations is pressing on with efforts to help survivors of the massive May earthquake centred in China's Sichuan province, which claimed some 70,000 lives and left millions of others homeless.

The world body is focusing on assisting the most vulnerable gain access to longer-term shelter, clean water, health care, employment and education.

"This period of recovery where people begin to rebuild their lives and communities is crucial," said Bernard Coquelin, UN Resident Coordinator in China ad interim and Representative of the UN Population Fund (UNFPA).

The UN system in China has mobilized nearly $40 million to help survivors of the 7.9-magnitude earthquake this fall and winter.

The UN Development Programme (UNDP) has launched an early recovery programme aimed at providing reconstruction support for 19 of the poorest villages in Sichuan, Gansu and Shaanxi province.

To help those who lost their jobs and businesses, the International Labour Organization (<"http://www.ilo.org/global/About_the_ILO/Media_and_public_information/Press_releases/lang--en/index.htm">ILO) is helping re-establish 1,000 destroyed small companies and set up 700 new ones. An estimated 1.5 million people in Sichuan became unemployed as a result of the tremors, with unemployment rates in the hardest-hit areas reaching over 80 per cent.

For its part, the World Health Organization (<"http://www.who.int/mediacentre/en/">WHO) is working with the United Kingdom and China's Health Ministry to conduct an ongoing survey to assess the changing health-care needs in earthquake-affected areas.

<"http://www.unfpa.org/">UNFPA has prepared nearly 50,000 hygiene kits for women to be distributed this month and is also working with the Government to provide psycho-social report to the most vulnerable, including the elderly.

Meanwhile, the Food and Agriculture Organization <"http://www.fao.org/">(FAO) is providing seeds and training to farmers in a bid to recover food production for 1,000 households.

The UN Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (<"http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL_ID=29008&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html">UNESCO) is also organizing training sessions for journalists in the region to find the best ways to cover long-term rebuilding.

In addition to setting up dozens of prefabricated classrooms for nearly 40 primary schools in remote areas of Gansu, the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) is taking part in a plan to boost measles vaccinations in earthquake-hit areas.

The Measles Initiative was launched in 2001 and comprises the UN Foundation, UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/media/media_46301.html">UNICEF), WHO, the American Red Cross and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The consortium is providing technical assistance and $4 million in financial support for activities, including a vaccination campaign in quake-impacted Chongqing province.

"Because measles has a high potential for outbreaks, mass vaccination of children against the disease is often a high priority for populations following a natural disaster," said Edward Hoekstra, UNICEF's Senior Health Specialist and Coordinator of the agency's Measles Programme.
Nov 11 2008 4:10PM
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NATO NAVY ESCORTS PROTECT UN-SHIPPED FOOD AID TO SOMALIA AGAINST PIRATES

NATO NAVY ESCORTS PROTECT UN-SHIPPED FOOD AID TO SOMALIA AGAINST PIRATES
New York, Nov 11 2008 4:10PM
Naval escorts from the Netherlands and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) are providing vital protection from pirate attacks off Somalia for United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) ships loaded with life-saving aid for the war-ravaged country.

"More than 2 million Somalis could go hungry without this protection," <"http://www.wfp.org/english/?ModuleID=137&Key=2988">WFP said in its latest update on the pirate-ridden waters off the coast of the Horn of Africa country, where the seizure of a weapons-laden Ukrainian ship made headlines earlier this year.

Chartered WFP ships have been a frequent target for ransom-seeking privateers but since the naval escort system began in November 2007, no pirate attacks have been launched against ships loaded with WFP food despite 2008 being the worst year ever for piracy off Somalia.

There have been more than 80 such attacks so far this year, including 32 hijackings, compared with 31 attacks in 2007, according to the London-based International Maritime Bureau. More than 500 crew members have been taken hostage so far this year.

Under the protection system, two vessels loaded with a total of 18,500 metric tons of WFP food arrived safely in Mogadishu from the Kenyan port of Mombasa on 26 October under the escort of the Dutch frigate HNLMS De Ruyter. HNLMS De Ruyter is due to escort WFP ships to Somalia into December.

On 28 October, the Greek frigate HS Themistokles, one of three vessels in a NATO task force off Somalia entrusted with escorting WFP ships and other anti-piracy missions, escorted a ship loaded with 2,700 tons of WFP food to the beach port of Merka, 100 kilometres southwest of the capital Mogadishu.

NATO and Dutch naval vessels are continuing their escort missions in November to Mogadishu and Merka. With three naval vessels available for escorts, WFP will have a succession of ships delivering food assistance to Somalia, which requires 40,000 metric tons of WFP food every month.

European Union foreign ministers agreed on 10 November to dispatch five to seven frigates and support aircraft to the Horn of Africa in December to protect merchant ships and WFP vessels bringing food to Somalia.
Nov 11 2008 4:10PM
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GAZA FOOD AID WILL BE CUT UNLESS CRITICAL SUPPLIES ALLOWED IN, WARNS UN AGENCY

GAZA FOOD AID WILL BE CUT UNLESS CRITICAL SUPPLIES ALLOWED IN, WARNS UN AGENCY
New York, Nov 11 2008 4:10PM
Food distributions to 750,000 people in the Gaza Strip will end on Thursday unless critical supplies, including wheat, powdered milk and oil, are allowed into the area, the United Nations agency tasked with assisting Palestinian refugees warned today.

The ongoing closure of crossings in and out of Gaza – which has a population of some 1.4 million people – is "both a physical as well as a mental punishment of the population," according to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

The closures have led to a prolonged humanitarian crisis in the territory, despite the continuing calm between Gaza and southern Israel. The UN World Food Programme (WFP) has also voiced concern about the situation there, noting that food prices are increasing due to limited stocks.

Meanwhile, the Office of the Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process (UNSCO) reported that the Nahal Oz fuel pipelines were briefly reopened today.

As a result, Gaza's power plant was able to get industrial gas. However, no other types of fuel, including petrol, diesel and cooking gas, were allowed in.

The fuel shortage is constraining water and sewage services and causing blackouts in Gaza, according to UN humanitarian agencies working to alleviate the plight of the affected population.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today repeated his concern at the "distressing conditions" in Gaza, during a news conference at UN Headquarters in New York.

"I call on Israel to ease the severe closure of Gaza by allowing sufficient and predictable supplies to reach the population, ensuring access for humanitarian workers, and facilitating stalled UN projects," Mr. Ban stated.

The Secretary-General has noted that the closures and the establishment of roadblocks, as well as ongoing settlement issues and the demolition of houses, do not help the ongoing peace process, a point he stressed on Sunday following a meeting in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, with the other members of the Middle East diplomatic Quartet, which also includes Russia, the United States and the European Union.
Nov 11 2008 4:10PM
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RUSSIA DONATES MOBILE HEALTH FACILITIES TO NEPAL, UN HEALTH AGENCY REPORTS

RUSSIA DONATES MOBILE HEALTH FACILITIES TO NEPAL, UN HEALTH AGENCY REPORTS
New York, Nov 11 2008 4:10PM
Russia has donated three huge multi-purpose tents for use as field hospitals in flood-ravaged areas of Nepal, the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) <"http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db900sid/SHIG-7LAGZF?OpenDocument&RSS20&RSS20=FS">reports as the agency continues to provide relief to flood victims.

Heavy rainfall in August, followed by severe flash floods in September, affected more than 200,000 people throughout the South Asian country and displaced at least 70,000. WHO has already sent mobile health teams and medical supplies to the affected areas, in collaboration with the Nepalese Ministry of Health and Population.

The three pneumatic tents will be used to support on-going health emergency response operations in Sunsari and Saptari, the districts most affected by the flooding, WHO said.
Nov 11 2008 4:10PM
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AS WINTER APPROACHES, UN ASSESSES URGENT NEEDS OF PAKISTANI EARTHQUAKE SURVIVORS

AS WINTER APPROACHES, UN ASSESSES URGENT NEEDS OF PAKISTANI EARTHQUAKE SURVIVORS
New York, Nov 11 2008 3:10PM
Survivors of a deadly earthquake that struck western Pakistan two weeks ago urgently need winterized tents, blankets, warm clothing, food, health services are restored drinking water supplies as already very low temperatures already very low are likely to plunge even lower as winter approaches, according to the latest United Nations assessment.

Six teams from the UN World Food Programme (<"http://www.wfp.org/english/?ModuleID=137&Key=2985">WFP), the UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/pakistan_46190.html">UNICEF) and the UN World Health Organisation (<"http://www.who.int/mediacentre/en/">WHO), along with the International Organization for Migration (<"http://www.iom.int/jahia/jsp/index.jsp">IOM), visited 63 villages over the past four days in south-western Baluchistan province, where the quake killed almost 200 people, injured hundreds more and left 20,000 others destitute among an already poor and vulnerable population in these areas.

WFP said it had almost completed distribution of food rations to 15,000 people in Ziarat and 5,000 in Pishin districts, with 5,000 others expected to receive agency aid by today. Some 300 tons of food has been distributed for a period of one month.

The next distribution is to take place in the first week of December, completing WFP's initial response of 700 tons to feed 20,000 people for two months. WFP has distributed fortified ready-to-eat biscuits to Ziarat, the worst-affected district, from its warehouses in Quetta, the provincial capital. The agency is also distributing wheat flour, pulses, vegetable oil and salt in ration packets in the worst-affected villages.
Nov 11 2008 3:10PM
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TOP UN HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICIAL URGES HALT TO AFGHAN EXECUTIONS

TOP UN HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICIAL URGES HALT TO AFGHAN EXECUTIONS
New York, Nov 11 2008 3:10PM
The United Nations human rights chief voiced her dismay today after several prisoners were put to death in Afghanistan in recent days and urged the Government to stop any further planned executions.

Five convicted prisoners are known to have been executed – on orders signed by President Hamid Karzai – over the past four days in the country, which had observed a de facto moratorium on the death penalty since 2004.

"While recognizing the severity of the crimes with which these prisoners were charged, I am very concerned that the law enforcement and judicial systems in Afghanistan fall short of internationally accepted standards guaranteeing due process and fair trial," <"http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db900sid/EGUA-7LAMA7?OpenDocument&RSS20&RSS20=FS">said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay.

"Under these circumstances, there is a grave risk that there will be miscarriages of justice and that innocent people may be executed. The serious shortcomings in the police and judiciary have been well documented, and the Government has recognized this and committed itself to reform both branches of law enforcement."

The latest killings are the first State-implemented executions in Afghanistan since October 2007, when the Government carried out death sentences on 15 prisoners. Two months later, in December 2007, the General Assembly passed a resolution calling for a global moratorium on the death penalty.

Ms. Pillay urged Mr. Karzai "to call a halt to any further executions and to rejoin the growing international consensus for a moratorium on the death penalty."

She also encouraged the Government to join the other 68 States that have acceded to the Additional Protocol II of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which requires the abolition of the death penalty.
Nov 11 2008 3:10PM
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UNITED STATES PROVIDES RECORD LEVEL OF SUPPORT FOR UN CAMPAIGN FIGHTING BIRD FLU

UNITED STATES PROVIDES RECORD LEVEL OF SUPPORT FOR UN CAMPAIGN FIGHTING BIRD FLU
New York, Nov 11 2008 1:10PM
The United States will provide more than $44 million in additional funding to the United Nations' campaign to combat the global outbreak of bird flu, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) announced today.

The <"http://www.fao.org/news/story/en/item/8341/icode/">FAO has now received almost $113 million from the new US Agency for International Development (USAID) in support of its avian influenza control and prevention campaign reaching more than 96 countries.

"Although many countries have successfully managed to get avian influenza under control, the virus remains present in 10 countries and is mainly entrenched in countries like Egypt, Indonesia and Viet Nam," said FAO Chief Veterinary Officer Joseph Domenech.

"The additional United States funds will enable FAO to continue its work in support of countries that are still struggling to get the virus under control," Mr. Domenech added.

Although Indonesia, Viet Nam and Egypt will be the main beneficiaries, funds are also earmarked for bird flu control programmes in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, South Asia, and West and Central Africa.

Avian flu, or H5N1, has impacted more than 60 countries since the epidemic began in 2003 in Asia. Most nations have eliminated it from their poultry populations and the virus has not spread as rapidly as feared. However, the threat of a human pandemic remains and urgent preparations for potential outbreaks are still critical.

FAO's avian influenza programme currently amounts to around $283 million and its main donors are Sweden, Australia, Japan, the European Commission, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, the World Bank, UN Development Programme (UNDP), the Asian Development Bank and France.
Nov 11 2008 1:10PM
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