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01 December 2024
UNAIDS leads World AIDS Day call to ‘Take the Rights Path’
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30 November 2024
Statement by the President of the General Assembly, H.E Philemon Yang on Israeli legislation on UNRWA
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29 November 2024
Message on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian people
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The Sustainable Development Goals in India
India is critical in determining the success of the SDGs, globally. At the UN Sustainable Development Summit in 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted, “Sustainable development of one-sixth of humanity will be of great consequence to the world and our beautiful planet. It will be a world of fewer challenges and greater hope; and, more confident of its success”. NITI Aayog, the Government of India’s premier think tank, has been entrusted with the task of coordinating the SDGs, mapping schemes related to the SDGs and their targets, and identifying lead and supporting ministries for each target. In addition, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has been leading discussions for developing national indicators for the SDGs. State governments are key to India’s progress on the SDGs as they are best placed to ‘put people first’ and to ensuring that ‘no one is left behind’. The UN Country Team in India supports NITI Aayog, Union ministries and state governments in their efforts to address the interconnectedness of the goals, to ensure that no one is left behind and to advocate for adequate financing to achieve the SDGs.
Publication
12 November 2024
UN in India Digest November 2024
WHO lauds India's elimination of trachoma, eight new resolutions adopted at the ITU World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly, glimpses of the UN Day celebrations in New Delhi and more updates from the 26 entities of the UN country team in this special edition of the United Nations in India newsletter.
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01 October 2024
World leaders pledge action on humanity’s biggest challenges
India has joined the world’s countries in adopting the Pact for the Future, a landmark declaration pledging concrete actions towards a safer, more peaceful, sustainable and inclusive world for future generations. Meeting at UN Headquarters in New York on 22 September for the Summit of the Future, world leaders adopted the Pact – along with the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations – by consensus.By endorsing the Pact, UN Member States agreed to turbo-charge efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fulfil the terms of the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change. Leaders pledged to listen more to young people and include them in decision-making, while also building stronger relationships with civil society, the private sector, and local and regional authorities. They further committed to intensifying efforts to protect civilians in armed conflict and address the root causes of these conflicts.The Pact has five broad focus areas: sustainable development; international peace and security; science and technology; youth and future generations; and transforming global governance. The Global Digital Compact outlines commitments to ensure that digital technologies contribute to sustainable development and human rights, while addressing risks like digital divides, cybersecurity, and the misuse of technology. Governments are now obligated to form an impartial worldwide Scientific Panel on AI and start an international conversation about AI governance inside the UN. The Declaration on Future Generations focuses on securing the well-being of future generations and highlighting the need to include their interests in decision-making. These three documents were adopted following months of intergovernmental negotiations. Speaking afterwards, Philémon Yang, President of the General Assembly, urged countries to move forward in a spirit of solidarity.“The path we choose must lead to a future where human dignity is respected and human rights are upheld,” he said. “A future where peace transcends the mere absence of conflict and is grounded in justice, inclusion, and equity.” UN Secretary-General António Guterres stressed that “people everywhere are hoping for a future of peace, dignity and prosperity. They are crying out for global action to solve the climate crisis, tackle inequality, and address new and emerging risks that threaten everyone.”He added that people “see the United Nations as essential to solving these challenges.” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the Summit of the Future, said that “global action must match global ambition” when it comes to tackling emerging sources of threat such as the cyber, maritime and space fields.“The success of humanity lies in our collective strength, not in the battlefield,” he said. “And for global peace and development, reforms in global institutions are essential.”
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16 October 2024
Global conference begins on future of digital tech standards
Thousands of tech experts, industry leaders, policymakers, researchers and government officials have gathered in New Delhi for a global United Nations-run conference on the future of technology standards. The World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) formally opened on 15 October in the capital’s Bharat Mandapam venue with an opening ceremony featuring Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. WTSA, taking place in the Asia-Pacific region for the first time, runs until 24 October. It is being held alongside the India Mobile Congress. Held every four years, WTSA sets out priorities for experts around the world who work year-round to develop the standards established by the UN’s International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The assembly’s opening heard calls for universal connectivity, the need for ethical artificial intelligence (AI) and how digital inclusion can make a meaningful difference to people’s lives.
In his remarks, Mr. Modi stressed that “security, dignity and equity” are the principles on which discussions at the assembly and congress should be based.
“Our objective should be that no country, no region and no community should be left behind the in this digital era,” he said.
ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin said the world had a lot to learn from what India has already accomplished with its digital public infrastructure. “This global gathering calls for bold, collective action. In the next 10 days, we can strengthen the role of international standards as the bedrock of global digital governance,” she said.
ITU's standardization work is driven by the contributions and consensus decisions of the agency’s membership, which includes 194 Member States and more than 1,000 member companies, universities, and international and regional organizations.
WTSA reviews the strategy, structure and working methods of ITU's standardization arm every four years. It also approves the mandates and appoints the leadership teams of expert groups for international standardization.
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In his remarks, Mr. Modi stressed that “security, dignity and equity” are the principles on which discussions at the assembly and congress should be based.
“Our objective should be that no country, no region and no community should be left behind the in this digital era,” he said.
ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin said the world had a lot to learn from what India has already accomplished with its digital public infrastructure. “This global gathering calls for bold, collective action. In the next 10 days, we can strengthen the role of international standards as the bedrock of global digital governance,” she said.
ITU's standardization work is driven by the contributions and consensus decisions of the agency’s membership, which includes 194 Member States and more than 1,000 member companies, universities, and international and regional organizations.
WTSA reviews the strategy, structure and working methods of ITU's standardization arm every four years. It also approves the mandates and appoints the leadership teams of expert groups for international standardization.
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01 October 2024
Global leaders gather at time of ‘powder keg’
World leaders gathered at UN Headquarters in New York for the General Assembly’s high-level meeting amid warnings that the planet is becoming “a powder keg” on an unsustainable course.UN Secretary-General António Guterres, delivering his annual report on the UN’s work, noted the many raging conflicts around the world, including those in Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan. “Our world is a whirlwind,” he said. “We are in an era of epic transformation, facing challenges unlike any we have ever seen – challenges that demand global solutions.”The Secretary-General added that climate change, poverty and artificial intelligence were among the many other challenges facing the world today.“We are edging towards the unimaginable – a powder keg that risks engulfing the world,” he said.Mr. Guterres emphasized the need to tackle three main drivers of unsustainability in the world: impunity, inequality, and uncertainty.“These worlds of impunity, inequality and uncertainty are connected and colliding,” he said, adding that nevertheless the challenges are solvable if humanity is willing to ensure that “the mechanisms of international problem-solving actually solve problems.” General Assembly President Philémon Yang used his address to underline that the 193-member General Assembly remained “one of the world’s most inclusive, represented, representative and authoritative platforms for global reflection of collective action.”Mr. Yang said that “if we act together,” the world can still overcome its greatest challenges, including the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals by their 2030 target date. Fewer than 17% of the SDG targets are currently on track, just six years before the deadline.He also underscored the threats posed by the climate crisis, which is impacting ecosystems and livelihoods worldwide. “The urgency of our task cannot be overstated.”
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03 August 2022
UN News Hindi website
Visit the UN News Hindi site for news, stories, opinions, interviews, videos and audio stories from across the UN system in Hindi: https://news.un.org/hi/
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01 December 2024
UNAIDS leads World AIDS Day call to ‘Take the Rights Path’
On the occasion of World AIDS Day 2024, UNAIDS India Country Office highlights the crucial role of key communities in the HIV response, emphasizing their leadership in shaping policies, dismantling barriers, and paving the way towards ending AIDS by 2030. This year’s theme, “Take the Right Path,” underscores the importance of inclusive, people-centered action, with a focus on empowering those most affected by HIV to take charge of their futures.As part of this year’s commemoration, UNAIDS India amplifies the voices and stories of people living with HIV (PLHIV), sex workers (SWs), transgender persons (TGs), young key populations (YKPs), people who inject drugs (PWID), and the LGBTQ+ community. These voices, often marginalized, are integral in understanding the barriers that hinder access to care and in designing solutions that ensure a more inclusive and equitable response.
UNAIDS has long advocated for placing the voices of communities at the heart of decision-making. Communities have not only mobilized to demand better access to services but have also worked tirelessly to shape attitudes, change laws, and influence political will. Their resilience forms the foundation of a movement that has made significant strides in combating the HIV epidemic. "Sometimes it’s better to disclose in a small circle; it makes us feel comfortable," said one of the young people living with HIV. Through peer-led prevention efforts and open conversations around HIV status, she is helping others find their voice in the fight against stigma. This example, among many others, reflects the heart of UNAIDS India's efforts to ensure that these communities are not only heard but also actively involved in creating solutions for the HIV response. The Global AIDS strategy calls for the 80% of prevention services to be delivered by community–led organizations which are the best places to reach key populations at risk.UNAIDS India is also committed towards working for the rights of people living with HIV or are at the risk of HIV. UNAIDS this year voices examples from around the world of proven policies and programmes that are succeeding in protecting health and HIV services by protecting rights. These voices highlight mutual understanding and collaborative efforts toward overcoming barriers, whether they be legal, social, or economic.
As UNAIDS continues to promote the integration of community-led approaches in the HIV response, UNAIDS India aims to achieve the following key milestones:Mainstreaming Voices: Amplifying and channeling the stories of key communities at the national, regional, and global levels.Strengthening Dialogue: Enhancing communication and partnership between communities, institutions, and key stakeholders.Public Awareness: Increasing public awareness about the need for an inclusive HIV response and the pivotal role that key communities play in it.
This World AIDS Day, UNAIDS India calls on everyone to take the right path—by standing alongside those who are most affected by HIV and advocating for an AIDS-free future. Together, we can ensure that the journey toward ending AIDS is not just a goal but a reality.About UNAIDS: UNAIDS is the leading global organization advocating for an end to the AIDS epidemic. Through its strategic partnerships and grassroots efforts, UNAIDS works to promote HIV prevention, increase access to care, and ensure the human rights of people living with HIV are respected.
UNAIDS has long advocated for placing the voices of communities at the heart of decision-making. Communities have not only mobilized to demand better access to services but have also worked tirelessly to shape attitudes, change laws, and influence political will. Their resilience forms the foundation of a movement that has made significant strides in combating the HIV epidemic. "Sometimes it’s better to disclose in a small circle; it makes us feel comfortable," said one of the young people living with HIV. Through peer-led prevention efforts and open conversations around HIV status, she is helping others find their voice in the fight against stigma. This example, among many others, reflects the heart of UNAIDS India's efforts to ensure that these communities are not only heard but also actively involved in creating solutions for the HIV response. The Global AIDS strategy calls for the 80% of prevention services to be delivered by community–led organizations which are the best places to reach key populations at risk.UNAIDS India is also committed towards working for the rights of people living with HIV or are at the risk of HIV. UNAIDS this year voices examples from around the world of proven policies and programmes that are succeeding in protecting health and HIV services by protecting rights. These voices highlight mutual understanding and collaborative efforts toward overcoming barriers, whether they be legal, social, or economic.
As UNAIDS continues to promote the integration of community-led approaches in the HIV response, UNAIDS India aims to achieve the following key milestones:Mainstreaming Voices: Amplifying and channeling the stories of key communities at the national, regional, and global levels.Strengthening Dialogue: Enhancing communication and partnership between communities, institutions, and key stakeholders.Public Awareness: Increasing public awareness about the need for an inclusive HIV response and the pivotal role that key communities play in it.
This World AIDS Day, UNAIDS India calls on everyone to take the right path—by standing alongside those who are most affected by HIV and advocating for an AIDS-free future. Together, we can ensure that the journey toward ending AIDS is not just a goal but a reality.About UNAIDS: UNAIDS is the leading global organization advocating for an end to the AIDS epidemic. Through its strategic partnerships and grassroots efforts, UNAIDS works to promote HIV prevention, increase access to care, and ensure the human rights of people living with HIV are respected.
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29 November 2024
UNODC champions prison healthcare reforms
Investing in prison healthcare is an investment in safety, and social progress. Effective prison healthcare not only improves the lives of inmates but also safeguards public health when they reintegrate into society. Recognizing this critical need, UNODC, in collaboration with the India Vision Foundation and the Uttar Pradesh Prison Department, hosted prison administrators, healthcare providers, and policymakers at a consultation to enhance prison healthcare, tackle infectious diseases and address challenges related to mental health and substance abuse. Highlighting the pivotal role of sanitation in improving inmate well-being, Minister of Prisons, Government of Uttar Pradesh Dara Singh Chauhan underlined initiatives led by authorities to improve the mental and physical health of prisoners while former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry and Founder of the India Vision Foundation Dr. Kiran Bedi stressed the broader implications of such reforms. “This conference has not only highlighted pressing challenges but also provided a roadmap for reform. Initiatives like health ATMs, digital libraries, and training prison health workers are already making a difference,” Uttar Pradesh’s Director General of Prisons, P.V. Rama Sastry said.
A highlight of the event was the unveiling of an interactive toolkit designed to educate prison staff on the United Nations’ Nelson Mandela Rules guiding healthcare in prisons. The toolkit includes a peer guide and board games to raise awareness on the Mandela Rules, as well as on substance use and HIV prevention.
Stressing in the link between prison health and public health, UNODC Regional Representative Marco Teixeira said: “Many inmates return to their communities. Without proper care, they risk spreading diseases, perpetuating mental health issues, and succumbing to substance abuse”. UNAIDS India Director Dr. David Bridger emphasized the importance of safe spaces in prisons for effective HIV prevention and treatment, further bridging the gap between health services and vulnerable populations. The consultation also witnessed a session addressing the unique health challenges faced by women, including reproductive health, maternal care, and mental health support, in line with the Bangkok Rules. Participants engaged in a practical session featuring case studies and role-play exercises, led by prison staff. This hands-on approach highlighted real-life challenges and solutions for managing mental health crises in correctional facilities.The two-day event concluded with a resounding call to action: to replicate these innovations across all prisons in Uttar Pradesh and beyond.
A highlight of the event was the unveiling of an interactive toolkit designed to educate prison staff on the United Nations’ Nelson Mandela Rules guiding healthcare in prisons. The toolkit includes a peer guide and board games to raise awareness on the Mandela Rules, as well as on substance use and HIV prevention.
Stressing in the link between prison health and public health, UNODC Regional Representative Marco Teixeira said: “Many inmates return to their communities. Without proper care, they risk spreading diseases, perpetuating mental health issues, and succumbing to substance abuse”. UNAIDS India Director Dr. David Bridger emphasized the importance of safe spaces in prisons for effective HIV prevention and treatment, further bridging the gap between health services and vulnerable populations. The consultation also witnessed a session addressing the unique health challenges faced by women, including reproductive health, maternal care, and mental health support, in line with the Bangkok Rules. Participants engaged in a practical session featuring case studies and role-play exercises, led by prison staff. This hands-on approach highlighted real-life challenges and solutions for managing mental health crises in correctional facilities.The two-day event concluded with a resounding call to action: to replicate these innovations across all prisons in Uttar Pradesh and beyond.
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29 November 2024
Celebrating cooperatives as drivers of SDGs
More than 3,000 delegates from 107 countries resolved to strengthen cooperatives to drive inclusive global development at the launch of the UN International Year of Cooperatives in New Delhi this week. In June 2024, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives under the theme ‘Cooperatives build a better world’ - to foster growth in the cooperative sector and to celebrate the cooperative model as a means to advance sustainable development. The official flag of the International Year of Cooperatives was hoisted at the venue at Bharat Mandapam in the heart of the Indian capital to mark the start of the year, as delegates gathered to deliberate on ways to promote cooperative values at the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) Global Conference and General Assembly - the first to be held in India and hosted by the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), in collaboration with the ICA, the Government of India, and Indian cooperatives AMUL and Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited.
Cooperatives are “vital to the success of the Sustainable Development Goals,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in a special video address to the gathering, urging united efforts to build momentum ahead of the Second World Summit on Social Development. “For the world, cooperative is a model, but for India, it is a lifestyle,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, as he launched a commemorative stamp to mark the year alongside UN in India Resident Coordinator Shombi Sharp, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah, Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Deputy Prime Minister of Fiji Manoa Kamikamica, and ICA President Ariel Guarco. The stamp features a lotus with symbols representing sectors ranging from agriculture to housing and technology, in a nod to India's commitment to the cooperative movement.
Lauding successful homegrown cooperatives within India's eight lakh-strong cooperative sector, UN in India Resident Coordinator Shombi Sharp said: "India is driving development solutions at unmatched scale, including the largest cooperative movement in the world, and sharing these successes with others through South-South Cooperation".Over a series of panel discussions and sessions during the five-day conference, participants shared insights on how cooperatives can help accelerate progress of the SDGs, strengthen community resilience, alleviate poverty and empower marginalized communities. Representatives from ILO, FAO and DESA presented insights on how cooperative law can keep pace with a changing world, with ILO officials highlighting the need to nurture cooperatives to advance decent work, while activists from the informal economy shared their insights on how cooperatives can contribute to the transition to the formal economy.
"We will show how cooperatives build a better world,” ICA Director-General Jeroen Douglas said as he presented the New Delhi Action Agenda on the Future of Cooperatives at the closing ceremony of the conference. The agenda charts a roadmap to reaffirm cooperative identity and deepen collaboration, with a focus on enabling supportive policies and cultivating inclusive leadership.Visit the official website to participate in the International Year of Cooperatives: 2025.coop
Cooperatives are “vital to the success of the Sustainable Development Goals,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in a special video address to the gathering, urging united efforts to build momentum ahead of the Second World Summit on Social Development. “For the world, cooperative is a model, but for India, it is a lifestyle,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, as he launched a commemorative stamp to mark the year alongside UN in India Resident Coordinator Shombi Sharp, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah, Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Deputy Prime Minister of Fiji Manoa Kamikamica, and ICA President Ariel Guarco. The stamp features a lotus with symbols representing sectors ranging from agriculture to housing and technology, in a nod to India's commitment to the cooperative movement.
Lauding successful homegrown cooperatives within India's eight lakh-strong cooperative sector, UN in India Resident Coordinator Shombi Sharp said: "India is driving development solutions at unmatched scale, including the largest cooperative movement in the world, and sharing these successes with others through South-South Cooperation".Over a series of panel discussions and sessions during the five-day conference, participants shared insights on how cooperatives can help accelerate progress of the SDGs, strengthen community resilience, alleviate poverty and empower marginalized communities. Representatives from ILO, FAO and DESA presented insights on how cooperative law can keep pace with a changing world, with ILO officials highlighting the need to nurture cooperatives to advance decent work, while activists from the informal economy shared their insights on how cooperatives can contribute to the transition to the formal economy.
"We will show how cooperatives build a better world,” ICA Director-General Jeroen Douglas said as he presented the New Delhi Action Agenda on the Future of Cooperatives at the closing ceremony of the conference. The agenda charts a roadmap to reaffirm cooperative identity and deepen collaboration, with a focus on enabling supportive policies and cultivating inclusive leadership.Visit the official website to participate in the International Year of Cooperatives: 2025.coop
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27 November 2024
16 Days, One Goal: End Violence
It happens every ten minutes. Somewhere in the world, a woman’s life is stolen—not by disease or disaster, but by the hands of someone she trusted. A partner, a family member. Someone who was supposed to care for her.For thousands of women in 2023, their stories ended in violence. The cycle of abuse—silent in its beginnings, escalating in its cruelty—culminated in one final, irreversible act: femicide.Behind every statistic is a name. Behind every headline is a family forever changed. Yet, the epidemic of violence against women and girls remains one of the world’s most persistent, and solvable, crises. The Numbers Speak Louder Than WordsNearly one in three women experiences physical or sexual violence in her lifetime. One in four adolescent girls faces abuse at the hands of a partner. These are not abstract figures; they are lives interrupted, futures erased.And while the problem is global, it’s deeply personal. It happens in homes, in workplaces, in communities that claim to care for their own.The truth is stark: without addressing gender-based violence, we cannot achieve the world envisioned by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Gender equality—Goal 5—remains out of reach as long as women live in fear of violence.A Campaign of Hope and UrgencyThis year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence comes with a haunting reminder: “Every Ten Minutes, a Woman is Killed. #NoExcuse.”From 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to 10 December, Human Rights Day, the campaign calls on governments, organisations, and individuals to confront the reality of femicide and gender-based violence head-on.The urgency of this moment is amplified as the world approaches the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in 2025. This visionary blueprint for achieving gender equality has been a rallying point for decades. But the question remains: are we doing enough to honour its promise? The Faces Behind the FiguresConsider Nadia, a 28-year-old mother of two. She was outgoing, loved to sing, and dreamed of opening her own bakery. But for years, she endured the sharp edges of her husband’s words, then his fists. She thought things would change. She stayed for her children.One evening, after an argument over something as trivial as a burnt dinner, Nadia became another statistic—one more woman lost to intimate partner violence.Nadia’s story is tragically common. It’s a story repeated every day, in every corner of the world. What Needs to Change?Violence against women doesn’t happen in isolation. It is rooted in inequality, silence, and a culture that too often excuses or minimises abuse. Change must happen on multiple fronts:Governments must enforce laws and policies that protect women and hold perpetrators accountable. Countries with comprehensive domestic violence laws report significantly lower rates of intimate partner violence (9.5%) than those without (16.1%).Communities must challenge harmful norms, support survivors, and speak out against abuse.Businesses can adopt zero-tolerance policies and create safe workplaces for women.Individuals—yes, you—can raise awareness, advocate for change, and support women’s organisations working on the front lines. A Future Without FearThis year’s 16 Days campaign is more than a call to action—it’s a plea for justice, for accountability, for change.Advocate for stronger laws. Speak out against harmful attitudes. Support survivor-centred services. And remember: behind every ten minutes is a life that could have been saved.Violence against women and girls is not inevitable. It is a choice society makes every day—whether to act or to stay silent.The time for silence is over. It’s time to stand up, speak out, and say together: #NoExcuse for violence against women. Disclaimer - Nadia’s story is fictional but reflects the experiences of countless women around the world. Every ten minutes, a woman loses her life to violence, often at the hands of someone she knows and trusts.
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19 November 2024
ESCAP forum urges urgent SDG action
In a powerful display of unity and urgency, representatives from South and South-West Asian countries gathered in New Delhi for the Eighth South and South-West Asia Subregional Forum on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The forum, held from November 12 to 14, served as both a platform for dialogue and a rallying cry for accelerated collective action to address the subregion's most pressing development challenges. Opening the forum, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ESCAP Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana called for decisive action on key SDGs affecting health, gender equality, employment, life below water, and partnerships (SDGs 3, 5, 8, 14, and 17). “We must address multi-dimensional challenges to our health systems and ensure that women and girls have equal opportunities across all sectors,” Alisjahbana stated, emphasizing the need to prioritize youth employment for the region's young populations.Amid progress, forum participants noted persistent challenges, including climate impacts, natural disasters, and gaps in informal employment and gender equality. Discussions aimed to produce actionable recommendations on environmental protection, bridging the gender gap, youth employment, and safeguarding water resources, amongst others. Representing the host country, Suman Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, underscored the role of government-private sector collaboration as essential for sustainable growth, especially for SDG 8 and SDG 17. “Achieving the 2030 Agenda requires ambitious, holistic approaches, recognizing the unique challenges faced by countries across the region,” Md. Golam Sarwar, Secretary General of the SAARC Secretariat added.UN Resident Coordinator in India Shombi Sharp highlighted India’s leadership in South-South cooperation through the SDG Index, a model that aligns national strategies with the global Goals. Organized by ESCAP in collaboration with the Government of India, the Research and Information System for Developing Countries, and the UN in India, this three-day forum is part of a broader initiative that spans five subregional meetings. Insights from these discussions will feed into the Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development (APFSD) and the UN High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in 2025, helping set a course towards achieving the 2030 Agenda across Asia and the Pacific.As the forum concluded, a collective resolve emerged among participants to harness regional and subregional cooperation, aiming to overcome obstacles and advance shared goals. The gathering stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, reflecting the optimism and unity needed to transform sustainable development from aspiration to reality for South and South-West Asia.
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Press Release
01 November 2024
Statement by the President of the General Assembly, H.E Philemon Yang on Israeli legislation on UNRWA
I am deeply alarmed by the Israeli Parliament’s adoption of two laws which, if implemented, will prevent the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from undertaking its essential work in Gaza and in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem.UNRWA, an agency directly established and mandated by the United Nations General Assembly in its resolution 302 (IV) of 18 December 1949, plays a critical role in providing protection, shelter, food, water, and medical care to millions of Palestinian refugees in Gaza, the occupied West Bank, Lebanon, Jordan and Syria. A collapse of UNRWA operations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory as a result of these two laws would exacerbate an already catastrophic humanitarian situation. This is unacceptable.The United Nations Secretary-General has also brought this matter to the attention of the General Assembly, which underscores the gravity of the situation.I urgently call on the Government of Israel to abide by UN resolutions and to allow UNRWA to continue its indispensable work.[END]
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Press Release
29 November 2024
Message on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian people
Nothing justifies the 7 October terror attacks by Hamas and the taking of hostages. And nothing justifies the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. Yet, more than a year later, Gaza is in ruins, more than 43,000 Palestinians – mostly women and children – have been reportedly killed, and the humanitarian crisis is getting worse by the day. This is appalling and inexcusable. Meanwhile, in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, Israeli military operations, settlement expansion, evictions, demolitions, settler violence and threats of annexation are inflicting further pain and injustice. It is past time for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages; an end to the unlawful occupation of the Palestinian Territory – as confirmed by the International Court of Justice and the General Assembly; and irreversible progress towards a two-State solution, in line with international law and relevant UN resolutions – with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security, and Jerusalem as the capital of both States. As a matter of urgency, I appeal for full support of lifesaving humanitarian relief for the Palestinian people – in particular through the work of UNRWA, which represents an irreplaceable lifeline for millions of Palestinians. The United Nations will continue to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people and their inalienable rights to live in peace, security and dignity.
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Press Release
27 November 2024
High-level meeting to mark the 25th anniversary of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
I am pleased to convene this High-level meeting commemorating the twenty-fifth anniversary of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.Let us remember the tragedy that inspired the proclamation of this day.In 1960, the Mirabal sisters were brutally assassinated for their courageous activism and resistance to oppression.They became symbols of the pervasive scourge of violence against women worldwide. This scourge continues to upend the lives of millions of women and girls today.Too often, this violence is rooted in and exacerbated by a deep-seated gender inequality and regressive social attitudes toward women and girls. We must be far more resolute in combating this violence, and act with greater urgency than in the past. Let us use this International Day as an opportunity to exchange best practices, identify critical gaps, and strengthen our commitment to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls.The international community has made historic strides in the right direction. In 1979, we adopted the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.
This was an affirmation that women’s rights are human rights.
The Convention commits signatories to eliminate discrimination, promote gender equality, and empower women worldwide.The 1993 Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action further prioritized ending violence as essential to achieving gender equality.These are milestones that have led to the adoption in several countries of national legislation aimed at empowering women, ending gendered violence, and providing vital support to survivors.Yet today, a lack of adequate enforcement or political will limits the impact of these measures.Women and girls are still being killed and battered because of their gender.Women who play a role in the public sphere, including in politics, still face violence both online and offline, with some attacks proving fatal.Globally, an estimated 736 million women—nearly one in three—have experienced physical or sexual violence, or both, at least once in their lives.This is unacceptable!We must actively promote policies and programmes that address the root causes of violence against women and girls, striving toward true gender equality.We must end discriminatory laws and social norms. We must also implement robust legal frameworks and policies to fully uphold gender equality and women’s rights.Men and boys have an important role in this fight. They are allies who must introspect on what they can do better. Moreover, they must take proactive steps to change discriminatory attitudes toward women and prevent violence against them.It is our collective responsibility to do so too.In the Pact for the Future, Member States reaffirmed their commitment to the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, reinforcing their efforts to achieve gender equality,To advance women’s participation in all spheres of life,To fully empower women and girls, And to eliminate all forms of discrimination and violence targeting them.I wholeheartedly support the urgent implementation of these commitments. Broadly, I will continue to champion gender equality in the work of the General Assembly, especially as we prepare to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration next year.I will participate in the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, beginning today and concluding on Human Rights Day, on 10 December.And I will also reestablish the Advisory Board on Gender Equality to guide our efforts within the work of the General Assembly, and beyond.The thirtieth anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action will be a crucial opportunity to further integrate these efforts into our pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals.Let us use this moment to strengthen our resolve and work together to secure a world free from violence for all women and girls.Thank you.[END]
This was an affirmation that women’s rights are human rights.
The Convention commits signatories to eliminate discrimination, promote gender equality, and empower women worldwide.The 1993 Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action further prioritized ending violence as essential to achieving gender equality.These are milestones that have led to the adoption in several countries of national legislation aimed at empowering women, ending gendered violence, and providing vital support to survivors.Yet today, a lack of adequate enforcement or political will limits the impact of these measures.Women and girls are still being killed and battered because of their gender.Women who play a role in the public sphere, including in politics, still face violence both online and offline, with some attacks proving fatal.Globally, an estimated 736 million women—nearly one in three—have experienced physical or sexual violence, or both, at least once in their lives.This is unacceptable!We must actively promote policies and programmes that address the root causes of violence against women and girls, striving toward true gender equality.We must end discriminatory laws and social norms. We must also implement robust legal frameworks and policies to fully uphold gender equality and women’s rights.Men and boys have an important role in this fight. They are allies who must introspect on what they can do better. Moreover, they must take proactive steps to change discriminatory attitudes toward women and prevent violence against them.It is our collective responsibility to do so too.In the Pact for the Future, Member States reaffirmed their commitment to the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, reinforcing their efforts to achieve gender equality,To advance women’s participation in all spheres of life,To fully empower women and girls, And to eliminate all forms of discrimination and violence targeting them.I wholeheartedly support the urgent implementation of these commitments. Broadly, I will continue to champion gender equality in the work of the General Assembly, especially as we prepare to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration next year.I will participate in the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, beginning today and concluding on Human Rights Day, on 10 December.And I will also reestablish the Advisory Board on Gender Equality to guide our efforts within the work of the General Assembly, and beyond.The thirtieth anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action will be a crucial opportunity to further integrate these efforts into our pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals.Let us use this moment to strengthen our resolve and work together to secure a world free from violence for all women and girls.Thank you.[END]
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Press Release
27 November 2024
International Day of Persons with Disabilities
This year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities reminds us that we need the leadership of persons with disabilities more than ever.Persons with disabilities already disproportionately bear the brunt of the crises scarring our world -- from conflicts and climate disasters, to poverty and inequalities -- because of persistent discrimination, stigma and barriers to basic rights and services.But, they are also often denied their right to contribute to solutions to these crises. Through the recently adopted Pact for the Future, the countries of the world committed to correcting this injustice for persons with disabilities of all ages, for present and future generations.This includes recognizing the essential role of persons with disabilities in shaping the future of digital and assistive technologies -- such as those powered by artificial intelligence -- driving change across communities and advocating for their rightful place in decision-making processes that affect their lives.Next year’s World Summit for Social Development will be a key moment to carry these and other commitments forward. In every community, persons with disabilities are changemakers and peacemakers.They are also leaders. On this important day, and every day, let’s work with persons with disabilities to achieve an inclusive and sustainable future for all people.[END]For more information and resources at the following link: https://www.un.org/en/observances/day-of-persons-with-disabilities
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Press Release
27 November 2024
Middle East - 2024
The Secretary-General welcomes the successful conclusion of the fifth session of the Conference on the Establishment of a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and Other Weapons of Mass Destruction, which took place from 18 – 22 November 2024 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.The work of this Conference is critical to building a more peaceful future for all people -- in the Middle East and around the world. The Secretary-General commends the participating States of the Conference, under the Presidency of Mauritania, on their constructive engagement towards the elaboration of a future treaty and their commitment to diplomacy and multilateral solutions at a time of ongoing heightened tensions and the acute humanitarian crisis in the Middle East region.He encourages the participating States to continue working constructively during the intersessional period, and supports their continuing efforts to pursue, in an open and inclusive manner, the establishment of a Middle East Zone Free of Nuclear-Weapons and Other Weapons of Mass Destruction. He congratulates Morocco, with best wishes for success, on its endorsement as the President of the sixth session.[END]
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