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Ocean protection: In Barcelona, Audrey Azoulay welcomes the “significant efforts” made by the international community 2024-06-01 Since the start of the UNESCO-led Ocean Decade in 2021, more than 500 projects have been launched in all regions of the world to improve knowledge and protection of the ocean. Bringing together the international community in Barcelona, Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, welcomed these significant efforts and called for this positive momentum to continue.Since 2021, much has been accomplished based on our three pillars: understanding, educating, protecting. More than 500 projects are being implemented in around 60 countries and more than a billion dollars has been mobilized. But there is still much that remains to be done. We must continue to invest in science, continue to educate, alert, raise awareness. Maximum mobilization is our only alternative to save the ocean. “Cities with the Ocean”: a new initiative to mobilize coastal cities and portsAt the conference, UNESCO and 13 cities1 announced the creation of the "Cities with the Ocean” platform, a new alliance between the Organization and coastal cities and ports, complementing the work already underway between UNESCO and its 194 Member States. With 75% of megacities around the world situated along the coast, their population is among the most affected by natural and human-caused ocean hazards – including tsunamis, ocean pollution, and the effects of climate disruption – yet they are also the first responders and best placed to implement decisions on a local level to deal with these issues.UNESCO will support these cities by developing programs suited to their needs, such as enhancing UNESCO’s Tsunami Ready Programme, training urban planners to anticipate the risks of coastal erosion, or collecting essential scientific data for tools developed by UNESCO such as Global Ocean Observing System. A first international coastal cities symposium will bring this network together in Qingdao, one of China's largest coastal cities, next year. This initiative will also be highlighted in Nice, as part of the discussions at the United Nations Ocean Conference, in June 2025. A new center of the Ocean Decade dedicated to the blue economy During his meeting with Audrey Azoulay on Wednesday morning, Barcelona Mayor Jaume Collboni presented the city’s candidacy to host a new collaborative center for the Ocean Decade, focusing its activity on the development of a sustainable blue economy. The Center will build on the investments and activities already underway in Barcelona to promote innovation and technology in relation to a sustainable blue economy. This sector already represents 4.3% of the city’s GDP and 1.4% of it’s employment. UNESCO will conduct a feasibility study by September 2024, with a view to opening the center before the end of the year. Since 2021, 12 collaborative centers have already been created under the auspices of UNESCO, enabling the coordination of research and protection actions set by the Ocean Decade. Understanding, educating and protectingUNESCO's priority is to advance scientific knowledge. Thanks to the Decade, vast amounts of data and knowledge have already been generated – on diverse issues ranging from ocean acidification and oxygenation, rising sea levels, to biodiversity and bathymetry. With the International Hydrographic Organization, UNESCO has already mapped 25% of the ocean floor in high resolution – compared to just 6% in 2017. It has also advanced the mapping of ocean species, through its Ocean Biodiversity Information System, compiling 126 million observations on more than 180,000 species. While less than one in two school curricula mentioned ocean protection in 2021, UNESCO is currently supporting 100 of its Member States to add environmental and ocean education to their curricula – and adapt teacher training accordingly. In parallel, UNESCO has trained nearly 200,000 young people and adults on ocean education. The Organization is leading a global ocean educational programme with Prada, involving more than 34,000 students in 56 countries this year.Through its global programs and networks, UNESCO also protects ecosystems. The Organization has listed 240 island and coastal biosphere reserves in 82 countries, as well as 50 marine World Heritage sites in 37 countries, protecting 21% of the world's blue carbon ecosystems – specifically the kelp forests, the mangroves, and the salt meadows that absorb carbon. URL:https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/ocean-protection-barcelona-audrey-azoulay-welcomes-significant-efforts-made-international-community 
‘Investing in youth is investing in peace’, UN Security Council hears 2024-05-31 The UN’s top political and peacebuilding official on Wednesday emphasized the pivotal role of youth in shaping the future of societies, stressing the need to involve them in decision-making on issues ranging from conflict to climate change.“The potential and opportunity for renewal that young people represent means…that they must be part of the broader discussions shaping our societies,” UN Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo told ambassadors in the Security Council.With youth constituting 55 per cent of the population in the southern and eastern Mediterranean, their voices cannot be ignored, she said.Reflecting on the 2011 demonstrations that swept across some Arab nations in the region, she highlighted that “youth were at the forefront of these movements, protesting disenfranchisement and the lack of economic opportunity and employment.”Ms. DiCarlo’s was briefing the Security Council debate on the theme, The role of young persons in addressing security challenges in the Mediterranean, convened by Malta in its capacity as the President of the 15-member Council for April. Disproportionate impactsDespite their resilience, young people face disproportionate impacts from conflicts and climate crises.The brutal 7 October 2023 attack on Israel by Hamas and the subsequent war in Gaza have taken a devastating toll, where 70 per cent of the enclave’s population is under 30 years old. Furthermore, all schools across the Strip are closed, impacting more than 625,000 students.The trauma, violence, and food insecurity resulting from such conflicts underscores the urgent need for peacebuilding efforts that prioritize youth involvement, Ms. DiCarlo said.“We have witnessed this spirit of innovation in our special political missions where we have increasingly deployed new technologies to organize digital consultations with youth,” she added, citing examples from Libya and Lebanon, where such dialogues helped provide better understanding of young people’s views and aspirations, and to reflect them in the UN’s work. Climate changeThe climate crisis further compounds the challenges faced by Mediterranean youth, Ms. DiCarlo continued, especially as the region is warming around 20 per cent faster than the global average.She underscored the importance of youth-led climate action, citing their active participation in international forums such as the annual Conference of the Parties (COP) meetings.“Young women are often at the forefront of these movements, advocating for a gender lens at all stages of policy and decision-making related to climate risks,” she said. Harness the potentialTo harness the potential of youth as positive agents of change, the senior UN official also called for increased investment and support from regional and multilateral organizations.“Investing in youth is investing in peace,” she stressed, urging greater interactions between Security Council members and young people.Concluding her remarks, she called on the Council “to continue to champion the youth, peace and security agenda, which is critical for the Mediterranean region and beyond.” URL:https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/04/1148671 
Meaningful Youth Engagement at the 2024 ECOSOC Youth Forum: On the Path Towards the Summit of the Future 2024-05-27 Last update: 16 May 2024 At the 2024 ECOSOC Youth Forum, SDG4 Youth & Student Network members engaged in intergenerational dialogues, promoting youth-led solutions ahead of key global summits. The ECOSOC Youth Forum, held at the United Nations headquarters in New York between April 16th and 18th 2024, provided numerous opportunities for discussions between Member States, civil society and youth. These intergenerational discussions were key for illuminating the ideas, challenges, visions, and youth-led solutions for policymakers and other stakeholders. It was also a time to pave the path for Y20 (ahead of the G20 in Brazil) and the Summit of the Future, where a youth day is foreseen for Friday 20 September 2024. Hailing from the regions of Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe/North America and Latin America and the Caribbean, 18 members of the SDG4 Youth & Student Network were in attendance and participated in plenary sessions, side events, high-level breakfast meetings with Ministers as moderators, speakers, facilitators, and rapporteurs. Below is a brief outline of several key sessions where young leaders of the network took the lead. Youth Shaping Transformative Human Rights Education The session on Digital Technology, Environment, and Gender Equality: Youth Shaping Transformative Human Rights Education was co-organized by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), UNESCO, UN Youth Office, and the Major Group for Children and Youth (MGCY). Moderated by Network member Taibat Hussain, with a keynote by Arissa Roy, the interactive discussions were facilitated by Barbara Beltran, Christina Williams, and Juliette Gudknecht. The discussion highlighted that human rights education is not just a moral imperative, but a necessary tool for building a more just and equitable society. The inputs from the consultation will feed into the action plan for the fifth phase of the World Programme for Human Rights Education, which will be submitted to the Human Rights Council for adoption in September. "What struck me most was the sense of empowerment and ownership that permeated the event. Young people were not just passive participants but active contributors, shaping the agenda and driving the conversation. It was a powerful reminder that human rights education is not just about imparting knowledge but about creating a sense of agency and responsibility."Taibat Hussain Bridging Education and Inclusion, Greening, and Peace Youth and students were also invited to speak in two sessions led by UNESCO-IESALC. During the session on The Right to Higher Education of Students with Disabilities, Juliette Gudknecht, who recently wrote a book on autism, emphasized the importance of listening to those who are marginalized. "Amplifying disabled voices in all forms of education is super important, especially marginalized ones. We need marginalized youth's voices to be centered, especially those who could not come to the forum due to the selection process, cost, and visa issues."Juliette Gudknecht Moazzam Syed, who spoke in the session on Greening Higher Education Institutions: Bridging SDG4 and 13, shared valuable insights on the importance of quality data in tracking progress towards the SDGs. He emphasized that the drive to provide evidence for national and international SDG targets requires us to work, learn, and research differently and focus on measurable impact to better translate new knowledge into action. The network organized a session titled “Dare Alla Luce / To Give the Light: Impetus and Skills for Peacebuilding and Justice”, which convened youth, academia, policymakers, and civil society in an intergenerational, engaging and open dialogue. Facilitated by network members Vivian Shaima, Max Amanu, Roberto Hernandez Juarez, Azra Hodzic and Musa Carew alongside other experts in their respective field, the breakout room discussions focused on how youth, teachers, families, policymakers, and community leaders can leverage their knowledge, skills, and competencies to promote peace and peacebuilding. Throughout the week, youth and students were advocating for education as a foundation for all other SDGs while involved in important meetings for the planning of the Y20 Summit, to be held 10-17 August 2024 in Brazil, the Summit of the Future to be convened 22-23 September 2024 and COP29 planned for 11-22 November 2024 in Azerbaijan. The discussions at ECOSOC Youth Forum are just one step of many in ensuring the youth voice in these upcoming high-level meetings. Providing inputs into the Pact of the Future was another. If the ECOSOC Youth Forum - an event where youth such as Wendy Civil had conversations with Ministers, Christina Williams discussed the future for youth alongside the UN Assistant Secretary-General (ASG) for Youth Affairs and Felipe Gomez Gallo contributed not only to the discussion on Youth Climate Champion for COP29 but also to the planning of the Forum itself – serves as any indication, then we are indeed on a promising trajectory. This global gathering of young leaders sparked fruitful discussions that resulted in significant insights that members will carry forward to amplify youth voice, advance their work, and the work of achieving the 2030 SDG4 goals and targets. URL: https://www.unesco.org/sdg4education2030/en/articles/meaningful-youth-engagement-2024-ecosoc-youth-forum-path-towards-summit-future 
Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan calls for removal of restrictions on Afghan women 2024-05-18 The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Afghanistan, Roza Otunbayeva, expressed concern about the numerous negative trends observed, including the denial of civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights of the population, repressive policies and measures against women and girls, public manifestations of violence including corporal punishment and death penalties, and the lack of Inclusive governance and marginalization of minorities.In her briefing before a Security Council session held today, Wednesday, to discuss the situation in Afghanistan, Otunbayeva added that the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) will continue to work to maintain its communication with the de facto authorities there (the Taliban) regarding respect for human rights and ways to increase consultations. With the local population, as well as their participation in political decision-making, so that all available resources in Afghanistan can be deployed to achieve the interests of the country.She explained that the mission will continue to call for more funding to be directed towards basic humanitarian needs to build more social and economic resilience, adding that assistance with basic services is “a lifeline for the most vulnerable Afghans, as women constitute the majority of beneficiaries.”She also said that they will encourage donors to identify areas where they can provide long-term sustainable assistance that “directly benefits the Afghan people,” which includes measures to reduce the effects of climate change, reduce the effects of the opium ban, and support the demining process in Afghanistan. In cooperation with the de facto authorities.She added, "We will work to strengthen measures aimed at supporting economic stability as a basis for reducing poverty."The importance of the Doha meetingsThe Special Representative of the Secretary-General in Afghanistan said that in the next phase, UNAMA will begin preparations for the next meeting in Doha, adding that “the next meeting should have a practical agenda and should involve the de facto authorities as well as other Afghan stakeholders.”Otunbayeva stressed the importance of the recent meeting held in the Qatari capital, Doha, of special envoys concerned with Afghanistan, in which the Secretary-General of the United Nations participated.She said that despite the de facto authorities' decision not to attend, the meeting was "important" for several reasons, including reaffirming the international consensus reached at the first Doha meeting in May last year on ensuring that the needs of the Afghan people remain met. top the international agenda, allowing special envoys to hear the views of Afghan civil society, and reaffirming the international community's ongoing concerns about human rights in Afghanistan.The UN official explained that during her discussions with the de facto authorities in Afghanistan after the Doha meeting, “they made clear that their decision not to attend was not a rejection of their declared desire to deal with the international community, but rather a reflection of their concern that they would not be treated as full stakeholders in the discussions on Afghanistan,” stressing that The mission will do its utmost to encourage their participation in the next meeting in this way.Serious harm to girls and womenThe Special Representative noted that although the daily security situation has improved for millions of people since the Taliban took power, “this has come at an enormous cost.” Just two days away from International Women's Day, which this year highlights the need to invest in women, "what we are seeing in Afghanistan is exactly the opposite," she said.She added that denying women and girls access to education and work, and keeping them out of many aspects of public life, has caused serious harm to their mental and physical health and livelihoods. “The recent arbitrary arrests for alleged violations of the Islamic dress code amount to another human rights violation, and carry an enormous stigma for women and girls,” Otunbayeva said.She warned that this matter has a horrific impact among women on a broader scale, as many of them now fear moving around in public places. She called on the de facto authorities to abolish these restrictions, adding that the longer these restrictions continue, the greater the harm.Independent evaluationThe Special Representative of the Secretary-General in Afghanistan touched on the independent assessment presented by the United Nations Special Coordinator for Afghanistan, Feridun Sinirlioglu, at the end of last year, which calls for Afghanistan to be fully reintegrated into the international system by accepting its international obligations and pledges.Some de facto powers are not convinced of the need for this, she said, “however, many recognize that Afghanistan would benefit from full implementation of the recommendations of the independent assessment.”The UN official spoke about the role that the international community has played in supporting the Afghan people since the collapse of the republic, including donors providing nearly $8 billion to finance humanitarian needs and basic humanitarian services, ensuring that vital assistance is provided to about 32 million Afghans so that they can have enough. Of food, water, adequate shelter, and income opportunities. URL: https://news.un.org/ar/story/2024/03/1128992 
KAICIID Hosts Pivotal 2024 Spring Leadership Meeting in Lisbon: Shaping the Future of Sustainable Development through Interreligious Dialogue 2024-05-10 Bridging Faith and Development: In the picturesque city of Lisbon, from February 27th to 29th, 2024, the International Dialogue Centre – KAICIID, a key player in fostering global interreligious and intercultural dialogue, proudly hosted the annual governance meeting of the International Partnership on Religion and Sustainable Development (PaRD) as the co-chair of its Steering Board, on behalf of the multilateral organizations’ constituency. The 2024 Spring Leadership Meeting of PaRD, not only set the tone for the year's collaborative efforts but also was a testament to the collective resolve to harness the potential of religious and faith-based organizations in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).At the heart of the discussions was the willful spirit of cooperation and shared vision among the close to 170 members of PaRD. The meeting, primarily an internal leadership gathering, was a vibrant forum for the Steering Board members, co-leads of workstreams, and task forces to deliberate on PaRD's Operational Plan for 2024, budget and financial planning, and the identification of key engagements and initiatives in the coming year. “As an international actor, KAICIID has embarked on the journey to pursue the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2030 which have inspired multi-stakeholder partnerships. An example of such a transformative partnership is our work with PaRD which started in 2016. KAICIID is currently a co-chair of the Steering Board, on behalf of the multilateral organizations’ constituency and is actively contributing in different Workstreams with a focus on Women Empowerment, Climate and Peacebuilding.” Said, Dr. Zuhair Alharthi, Secretary General of KAICIID.Mr Khushwant Singh, Head of Secretariat at PaRD, added by saying, “The PaRD leadership meeting is an annual tradition which reflects the inclusive nature of our partnership. A tradition, where we discuss collegially and strategically amongst the Steering Board, the Leads of the Workstreams and Taskforces our key priorities for the current year. I thank our long-standing member KAICIID for hosting this fruitful meeting in wonderful Lisbon”. The meeting's agenda was comprehensive, covering a wide range of topics from financial planning to strategic decision-making regarding PaRD's Annual Forum. The diverse representation on the Steering Board, including members from governments, multilateral entities, academia, and civil society, particularly religious and faith-based actors, underscored the multifaceted approach PaRD takes towards development challenges. One of the highlights of the meeting was the focus on thematic workstreams such as Gender Equality and Empowerment and SDG16 where KAICIID has a co-leading role, Health, and Water, Environment, and Climate Action (WECARE). These workstreams are pivotal in directing the partnership's energy and resources towards critical areas of the SDGs. The co-leads and task forces discussed their annual work programs, setting the stage for a year of concerted action and mutual support. KAICIID hosted a reception, coinciding with the Leadership Meeting, where attendees engaged with influential stakeholders in Lisbon, including members of PaRD's Steering Board, diplomats, and religious leaders. This gathering served as a significant platform for attendees to gain insights into KAICIID's collaborations with external entities like PaRD and to connect with local stakeholders keen on the Centre's initiatives.Looking ahead, the leadership meeting laid a solid foundation for PaRD’s activities in 2024, including the much-anticipated Annual Forum to be held in conjunction with the G20 Interfaith Forum event in Brazil from August 19th to 22nd. This upcoming forum represents a significant opportunity for PaRD to further its mission on a global stage, engaging with an even broader spectrum of stakeholders, including those from Latin America, in the pursuit of a just world and a sustainable planet.The PaRD leadership has collectively determined the priority themes for 2024, which will guide the partnership’s collaborative efforts throughout the year, focusing on crisis response and preparedness, with particular attention to addressing hunger, pandemics, and conflict.This thematic framework underscores the importance of strategic religious engagement and emphasizes the critical role of local engagement in effective crisis response and preparedness initiatives. Furthermore, it will inform collaborative efforts across PaRD's Workstreams and Taskforces, fostering synergies among cross-cutting issues such as gender equality, well-being and health, environmental protection, climate action, and FoRB. It will also serve as a guideline for defining priorities and concrete activities in the framework of policy processes, including the Annual Forum.By prioritizing these themes and emphasizing collaboration and strategic engagement, PaRD aims to enhance its impact and effectiveness in addressing pressing global challenges and advancing sustainable development.As the participants left Lisbon, they carried with them not just the plans and commitments for the year ahead but also the enduring spirit of collaboration that defined the 2024 Spring Leadership Meeting. The path forward is clear, with faith and sustainable development intertwined in a shared journey towards a better future for all.URL: https://www.kaiciid.org/stories/features/kaiciid-hosts-pivotal-2024-spring-leadership-meeting-lisbon-shaping-future 
Mikati unveils plaque at the Rachid Karami International Fair (RKIF) as UNESCO World Heritage site and receives the UNESCO Conservation Management Plan 2024-05-10 Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, announced on Friday to Pedro Sanchez, President of the Spanish government, her decision to entrust Spain with the organization of the next edition of MONDIACULT, the international forum for ministers of culture. The event will be held in Barcelona during the second semester of 2025. Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, met Pedro Sanchez, President of the Spanish government, on Friday at the Moncloa Palace in Madrid. During the meeting, she announced that Spain had been selected by UNESCO to host MONDIACULT 2025. MONDIACULT is a major event during which the 194 member states of UNESCO work together to define the global agenda for culture. Following the success of the 2022 edition in Mexico City, I am delighted to announce that the 2025 edition will be held in Barcelona. During this ministerial forum, UNESCO will present the first-ever global report on the state of culture, the fruit of three years' work. Together with the President of the Spanish government, we have also decided to place particular emphasis on artificial intelligence, a technology that while rich in opportunities is also a source of great concern for artists. MONDIACULT 2025 will be an opportunity to develop common solutions to ensure that the use of AI is fully respectful of their rights, both in terms of intellectual property and compensation. In early 2025, UNESCO will launch a call for projects dedicated to the impact of artificial intelligence on culture. The winners will present their innovative solutions for artists at MONDIACULT 2025. Barcelona: city that champions UNESCO valuesSpain is particularly committed to UNESCO programs. It is the country in the world with the most biosphere reserves and UNESCO Chairs, as well as the third most sites on the World Heritage List. It is also the fifth largest European contributor to the Organization's regular budget. Barcelona's candidacy was proposed by the Spanish government in October 2023. The candidacy made all the more sense as Barcelona is itself a city that champions UNESCO values. With nine heritage sites protected by the Organization and a UNESCO Category 2 Center dedicated to research in human and social sciences, Barcelona has also been a UNESCO Creative City for Literature since 2015. It has also been designated World Capital of Architecture 2026.Barcelona also has solid experience in organizing international UNESCO events. It hosted the UNESCO World Conference on Higher Education in 2022, and will host the Conference of the Decade of Ocean Sciences for Sustainable Development (April). URL: https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/spain-host-mondiacult-2025 
Empowering Women Judges in Kazakhstan through International Exchange 2024-05-08 Judge Rsaldy Kakisheva presenting on advantages of creating a women judges association during the interactive session of the workshop for women judges, Astana, 14-15 March 2024 (OSCE) Photo details On 14-15 March 2024, women judges from Kazakhstan and around the world convened for a two-day hybrid workshop in Astana entitled “Women judges: professional exchange of experience and international co-operation” in Astana. Aligned with the International Day of Women Judges on 10 March, the event was dedicated to fostering collaboration and sharing expertise to promote gender equality within the judicial system and enhance the rule of law. The workshop, organized in co-operation with the Supreme Court, commenced with an official opening by Aslambek Mergaliyev, Chairperson of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Welcoming speeches were delivered by Dr. Volker Frobarth, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana; Elvira Azimova, Chairperson of the Constitutional Court of Kazakhstan; and Yelena Maksyuta, judge of the Supreme Court of Kazakhstan. The first day of the workshop featured two engaging sessions, providing an opportunity for insightful discussions among esteemed women judges and legal experts. The first session centered on the importance of international collaboration among women judges and the establishment of their national associations. Robyn Tupman, Secretary/Treasury of the Australian Association of Women Judges, shared methods of international support for national associations, while Jacob Bonnevie, OSCE/ODIHR Rule of Law Adviser, offered insights on gender dynamics within the judiciary. Dr. Sabina Garahan, lecturer at Essex School of Law (UK), presented recommendations from a comparative study of women judges’ associations across the OSCE region, while Dr. Khalida Azhigulova, human rights defender and gender expert in the justice sector (Kazakhstan), emphasized the role of women's associations in the justice system. The subsequent session explored experiences in establishing and managing national associations of women judges. Chinara Aidarbekova, judge of the Constitutional Court of the Kyrgyz Republic, shared insights from the Kyrgyz Association of Women Judges, focusing on strategies for improving access to justice for vulnerable groups. Margaret Glentworth, a retired District Judge and Nominated Judge of the Court of Protection (UK), discussed effective organizational practices of the Association of Women Judges in the United Kingdom. Adisa Zahiragic, judge of the Cantonal Court in Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina), highlighted the influence of the Association of Women Judges on judicial proceedings in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Finally, Nazgul Rakhmetullina, judge of the Supreme Court of Kazakhstan, led a discussion on media engagement strategies among judges in Kazakhstan. The second day featured interactive discussions facilitated by experienced judges and legal experts. Discussions explored the advantages and challenges faced by women judges’ associations and delved into the contribution of these associations to equal access to justice for vulnerable groups. Amongst discussions, participants showcased presentations of statutes of national associations of women judges, outlining their missions and objectives. The workshop was organized under the extrabudgetary project of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana “Improving the effectiveness of the justice system in Kazakhstan” and aimed to promote gender equality, empower women in the judicial system, and enhance the effectiveness of the judicial system through the exchange of knowledge and best practices between associations of women judges. ContactsOSCE Programme Office in Astana10 Beibitshilik StreetZ10K8H4 AstanaKazakhstanOffice: +7 7172 580070Fax: +7 7172 328304media.kz@osce.org URL: https://www.osce.org/programme-office-in-astana/564830 
The Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic and United Nations Development Programme Strengthen Partnership to Combat Climate Change 2024-05-08 Bishkek, 11 April 2024 – In a significant step towards bolstering disaster management and resilience capabilities in Central Asia, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) handed over IT equipment to the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic. This ceremony, held under the Climate Change and Resilience in Central Asia project funded by the European Union (EU), symbolizes a strengthened collaboration between the two entities in the shared pursuit of enhancing climate resilience and disaster preparedness in the region. Mr. Boobek Azhikeev, Minister of Emergency Situations, expressed his gratitude for the equipment provided and comprehensive support in increasing the capacity of the Ministry of Emergency Situations and expressed hope for further cooperation. Ms. Alexandra Solovieva, UNDP Resident Representative in Kyrgyzstan, emphasized the important nature of this collaboration in her opening remarks: “Climate change presents the Central Asian region with significant challenges, and it is critical that the bodies responsible for forecasting, monitoring and response are equipped with the necessary tools to successfully overcome these challenges. Today we are handing over IT equipment as an integral part of the overall system for monitoring natural processes related to climate change to ensure sustainability. These tools will make a huge difference in all aspects of emergency response, enabling informed decisions to be made at critical moments." Hans Farnhammer, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation in Kyrgyzstan said: “European Union and Kyrgyzstan partner up for climate resilience in Fergana valley. This aligns with the European Union’s commitment to improve disaster management and enhance climate resilience in Central Asia”. The Climate Change and Resilience in Central Asia project, funded by the European Union, is an initiative that underscores the joint commitment of UNDP and regional stakeholders to enhance cooperation and resilience in the face of climate challenges. The project concentrates on improving knowledge, integrating climate considerations into policy-making, fostering regional cooperation, and demonstrating effective early warning and prevention strategies. Its efforts are particularly crucial in the Ferghana Valley, aiming to build a more secure and climate-resilient future for the communities there. Building on these efforts, the UNDP has outlined plans to provide additional support to MES KR. This includes transferring early warning system equipment and crisis management tools to the Ministry's Crisis Management Centre. By focusing on enhancing early warning and prevention measures at specific pilot sites, this initiative demonstrates a commitment to fortify regional preparedness and response capacities against climate-related risks. The handover ceremony served as a platform for UNDP and the Ministry of Emergency Situations KR to express their united stance on continuing their collaborative efforts toward a more secure and resilient future. This event highlighted the essential role of collaborative action and a unified vision in effectively tackling the complex challenges posed by climate change. The Climate Change and Resilience in Central Asia project aims to strengthen cooperation and resilience among local and regional stakeholders. With a focus on advancing knowledge, facilitating policy integration, promoting regional cooperation, and demonstrating early warning and prevention measures, the project is pivotal for building a more secure and climate-resilient future, especially in the Ferghana Valley. More information about the project: https://www.undp.org/eurasia/projects/climate-change-and-resilience-central-asia URL:https://www.undp.org/kyrgyzstan/press-releases/ministry-emergency-situations-kyrgyz-republic-and-united-nations-development-programme-strengthen-partnership-combat 
Violations of women’s reproductive health rights trigger rise in preventable deaths 2024-04-30 African women are 130 times more likely to die due to pregnancy or childbirth complications than women in Europe and Northern America, the UN sexual and reproductive health agency (UNFPA) said in a new report published on Wednesday. Interwoven Lives, Threads of Hope: Ending inequalities in sexual and reproductive health and rights, reveals that more than half of all preventable maternal deaths occur in countries which are in a state of crisis or distress. It highlights the role that racism, sexism and other forms of discrimination play in blocking progress on sexual and reproductive health issues. Women and girls trapped in poverty are more likely to die prematurely due to lack of sufficient healthcare if they belong to minority groups or are trapped in a conflict setting, according to the findings. "For sexual and reproductive health issues, the sad truth is that rather than all hands on deck and working together, there's kind of a polarization dialogue, a divisive type of attitude, and in a way, a 'second class citizen' attitude for the rights of women and girls," UNFPA Executive Director Natalia Kanem said in an interview with UN News. Overall, there have been significant advances in sexual and reproductive health it became a global sustainable development priority three decades ago. “In the space of a generation, we have reduced the unintended pregnancy rate by nearly one fifth, lowered the maternal death rate by one third, and secured laws against domestic violence in more than 160 countries,” UNFPA Executive Director said, launching the report. Stalled progressBut progress is slowing down or stalled in several key areas. In a world where a quarter of women cannot say no to sex with their partner and nearly one in 10 have no say over contraception, 800 women die every day giving birth – a disturbing figure that has remained unchanged since 2016. Nearly 500 of those preventable deaths per day are happening in countries living through humanitarian crises and conflicts. “The world made zero progress in saving women from preventable deaths in pregnancy and childbirth,” said Ms. Kanem, adding that for the first time, data was collected on whether women's bodily autonomy is strengthening over time. In 40 per cent of countries where information is available, autonomy is weakening due to an inability to reach “those furthest behind”, she added. There is a clear disparity between the global North and South, West and East, when it comes to contraceptives, safe birth services, respectful maternity care, and other essential services, the report documents. Pockets of inequalityYet, even within those regions there are “pockets of inequality”, the report underscores. Women of African descent in the Americas face higher maternal mortality rates compared to white women, which is especially evident in the United States where it's three times the national average. Indigenous and ethnic minorities also face elevated risks related to pregnancy and childbirth. Within Europe, in Albania, for example, over 90 per cent of Roma women from the most marginalized socioeconomic groups had serious problems in accessing healthcare compared with only five per cent of ethnic Albanian women from the most privileged strata. Additionally, women with disabilities are up to ten times more likely to experience gender-based violence, and individuals of diverse sexual orientation and gender expression encounter significant violence and barriers to care. URL:https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/04/1148621 
Q&A: Countering Racism in and through Education 2024-04-16 10 April 2024 Racist ideologies and discrimination are still widespread in our societies and they continue to be a global problem. They are rooted in different channels that enable their diffusion. Racism in education materials is a prevalent issue that must be addressed. UNESCO’s new publication, "Unmasking racism: Guidelines for educational materials", aims to increase awareness and improve understanding of how racism manifests itself in educational materials and to provide guidance on how to counter this phenomenon. What is the primary focus of “Unmasking racism”? The publication aims to address and rectify the presence of racism in educational materials. Its focus is on how textbooks and other learning resources can intentionally or unintentionally perpetuate racial stereotypes and biases, influencing perceptions and reinforcing social divisions. It guides educators and material developers towards creating content that is not only inclusive and respectful of diverse experiences but also actively combats racism by teaching students how to recognize, understand and oppose racial injustice and inequality. Why is it important to address racism in educational materials? Educational materials play a crucial role in shaping students’ understanding of the world and themselves. When these materials contain racist stereotypes or omit diverse perspectives, they contribute to the marginalization of certain groups and reinforce inequalities. Addressing racism in education is vital for creating an equitable learning environment where every student can see their history and experiences valued and reflected. What are the main objectives of these new guidelines? “Unmasking racism” sets out to: Eliminate racial biases in educational content, ensuring materials do not perpetuate stereotypes or misinformation. Foster an understanding of racism as both a historical and ongoing systemic issue that affects social structures and individual lives. Encourage the development of educational materials that offer a balanced and inclusive view of history and contemporary society, actively promoting anti-racist perspectives and actions. Promote critical engagement with the concepts of race and racism, helping students and educators reflect on their own positions within these dynamics and understand the importance of being actively anti-racist. Advocate for an intersectional approach to understanding identities, emphasizing how race intersects with other factors like gender and socioeconomic status to shape experiences, and guiding students towards actions that support racial justice. How does this publication propose combating racism in educational materials? To effectively combat educational racism, the publication recommends: Introducing educational content that explains race as a construct with no biological basis, challenging essentialist views and debunking myths that fuel racism. Discussing the concept of structural racism, showing how it permeates institutions and social norms, and providing students with tools to identify and challenge these structures. Incorporating knowledge-based discussions that cover the history of racism and its current manifestations, allowing for a deeper understanding of the subject and inspiring actions to combat racism. Engaging students in reflecting on their own identities and experiences in relation to power structures, fostering empathy, awareness and a commitment to anti-racist action. Employing an intersectional framework to explore how race interacts with other identity aspects, providing a more comprehensive view of discrimination and privilege, and encouraging students to advocate for justice and equality in all forms. How can educational materials perpetuate racism? A common example is the oversimplification of migration narratives, which often portray migrants negatively, focusing on issues of assimilation and cultural differences without acknowledging systemic barriers to integration. This portrayal can alienate students from migrant backgrounds and reinforce a divisive narrative that separates “us” from “them,” undermining social cohesion and mutual understanding. By reframing these narratives to highlight the contributions, resilience and diverse experiences of migrants, educational materials can foster a more inclusive and anti-racist understanding of migration and its impact on societies. What are the key recommendations of this publication? Broadening the range of stories and histories included in educational materials to ensure all students find representation and validation in their learning environment. This involves actively including anti-racist content that challenges dominant narratives and promotes a deeper understanding of racial justice. Undertaking a thorough review of existing educational content to identify and address instances of racial bias or exclusion, and incorporating counter-narratives that enrich students’ understanding of complex issues through an anti-racist lens. Equipping educators with the tools and knowledge to address racism effectively within the classroom, fostering a learning environment that encourages open discussion, critical thinking and collective action against racism. Empowering students with the skills to critically analyze content, recognize bias and appreciate the value of diverse perspectives in building a more inclusive society, and inspiring them to be active participants in the fight against racism. How does this publication envision the future of education? “Unmasking racism” envisions an educational future where materials not only impart knowledge but also cultivate critical thinking, empathy and a deep respect for diversity. It aims for an educational system where students learn to recognize and challenge inequalities, fostering a generation that values dignity, equality and human rights. Through such transformative learning, the publication hopes to contribute to building more just and inclusive societies. URL: https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/qa-countering-racism-and-through-education