DARFUR: UN, AFRICAN UNION ENVOYS HOLD FRESH TALKS WITH LEADERS OF REBEL GROUPS

DARFUR: UN, AFRICAN UNION ENVOYS HOLD FRESH TALKS WITH LEADERS OF REBEL GROUPS New York, Apr 19 2008 6:00PM The United Nations and African Union envoys spearheading efforts to devise a durable political settlement to the five-year conflict in Darfur have held several days of talks in the Sudanese region with representatives of the groups and movements that have not signed previous peace accords.

Jan Eliasson of the UN and Salim Ahmed Salim of the AU met with Khalil Ibrahim, the leader of the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM), in a rebel-controlled area of West Darfur yesterday.

A day earlier the two envoys -- accompanied by military officers from the hybrid UN-AU peacekeeping force known as UNAMID -- held consultations in North Darfur state with members of the Abdul Wahid movement of the Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM).

Mr. Eliasson and Mr. Salim discussed the primacy of the political process and the urgent need to cut the level of violence, better protect civilians and ensure greater humanitarian access during the talks with the two groups.

Today the Special Envoys are scheduled to meet representatives of the Sudanese Government in Khartoum, the capital.

Mr. Eliasson and Mr. Salim have repeatedly reiterated their calls for the parties to the Darfur conflict, which have claimed more than 200,000 lives and displaced nearly 2.5 million others since 2003, to end all violence and prepare for substantive talks aimed at devising a durable peace.
The parties cannot fight and prepare for peace talks at the same time, the envoys have said, stressing that a reduction is violence is vital if progress is to be made on the political front.

2008-04-19 00:00:00.000

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DELEGATION FROM UN PEACEBUILDING COMMISSION BEGINS VISIT TO BURUNDI

DELEGATION FROM UN PEACEBUILDING COMMISSION BEGINS VISIT TO BURUNDI New York, Apr 19 2008 6:00PM A delegation from the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission, set up to help prevent post-conflict countries from sliding back into war and misrule, travels today to Burundi on a six-day mission to examine how to help the struggling African nation move forward.

The eight-member delegation is expected to meet with Burundian Government officials, representatives of regional groups such as the African Union and the Conference on the Great Lakes Region, civil society, women's groups, the media, religious leaders, human rights advocates, members of the private sector and others.

In a statement the commission said the team aims to make a first-hand assessment of the situation on the ground by Burundi, where a comprehensive ceasefire agreement was signed in 2006 after years of civil war but sporadic fighting has continued.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon issued a statement yesterday voicing concern over the latest developments after an outbreak of deadly fighting between Government forces and members of the rebel Palipehutu-FNL group in and around the capital, Bujumbura, this week.

The delegation is also hoping to review the preparations made so far by Burundi since the Peacebuilding Commission agreed to take on the country as one of its areas of focus.

2008-04-19 00:00:00.000

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SECRETARY-GENERAL BAN DEPLORES DEADLY FIGHTING AROUND BURUNDI'S CAPITAL

SECRETARY-GENERAL BAN DEPLORES DEADLY FIGHTING AROUND BURUNDI'S CAPITAL New York, Apr 18 2008 8:00PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has voiced grave concern at the deadly fighting between Government forces in Burundi and the Palipehutu-FNL rebel group over the past two days in and around Bujumbura, the capital of the struggling African country.

"The Secretary-General strongly condemns this armed confrontation, which inflicts unnecessary suffering on the civilian population and jeopardizes the implementation of the Comprehensive Ceasefire Agreement," his spokesperson said in a <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=3105">statement issued late today.

Burundi's Government and Palipehutu-FNL (Forces Nationales de Libération), the last rebel hold-out group, signed the agreement in September 2006, and Mr. Ban warned in his most recent report on the situation that the two sides bore primary responsibility for ensuring that the accord is implemented.

The small country is attempting to rebuild, with the support of the UN Integrated Office in Burundi (BINUB), after a brutal civil war between its Hutu majority and Tutsi minority.

In today's statement the Secretary-General called for an immediate end to hostilities.

"He calls upon the Government and the Palipehutu-FNL immediately to take the steps agreed upon in the Facilitator's Programme of Action. He urges the Parties, supported by the Regional Initiative, the Facilitation and the Political Directorate, to resume dialogue and conclude the peace process for the benefit of all the people of Burundi."
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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HAITI FACING 'EXPLOSIVE SITUATION' BECAUSE OF FOOD CRISIS, UN OFFICIAL WARNS

HAITI FACING 'EXPLOSIVE SITUATION' BECAUSE OF FOOD CRISIS, UN OFFICIAL WARNS New York, Apr 18 2008 7:00PM Haiti will remain in an extremely precarious economic and humanitarian situation unless it receives an urgent injection of funds to widen emergency feeding operations, extend existing job programmes and jump-start agricultural activity, a senior United Nations official to the impoverished Caribbean country has warned.

Joël Boutroue, the Humanitarian and Resident Coordinator for Haiti, told the UN News Centre in an interview that while the security situation had stabilized somewhat this week following recent deadly protests over sharp rise in the price of basic foods, daily living conditions are still dire for many Haitians.

"If we don't react very strongly, then we could find ourselves in a very difficult state," he said. "The level of poverty, combined with the lack of coping mechanisms for the poorest Haitians, means we have the potential for a very explosive situation."

In the past thousands of Haitians have fled their homeland because of economic or political problems, and the Coordinator said it was vital that the international community, as well as the Government and the country's civil society and private sector, work together to prevent a repeat.

He noted that the price of rice has fallen slightly from its peak and President René Préval has outlined to the nation a series of measures he hopes to introduce to alleviate the situation.

The Government, in consultation with the UN, is also devising a plan of action for tackling the crisis that has struck worldwide this year, but hit Haiti – already the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere – particularly hard. A major international appeal is expected to launch within the next week.

Mr. Boutroue said Haiti has suffered especially because of its poor environment: few forests, infertile or low-quality soil, a lack of irrigation, polluted canals and waterways and a predominance of tiny farms means agricultural activity is limited.

The country also has few factories, unemployment is estimated at around 60 to 70 per cent and more than half the population lives on less than $1 a day.

Mr. Boutroue, who is also the Secretary-General's Deputy Special Representative in Haiti, called for a series of short- and long-term measures to bring Haiti back from the brink.

These include expanding the existing labour-intensive job programmes that focus particularly on rehabilitating the environment, such as the management of watersheds, so that more agricultural and other economic activity can take place.

It also includes widening the current targeted food distribution schemes, such as the communal kitchens in poor neighbourhoods and the school feeding operations. Earlier this week the UN World Food Programme (<"http://www.wfp.org/english/?n=31">WFP) announced it will distribute an additional 8,000 tons of food to people in need.

Agriculture can also be jump-started, the envoy said, by providing – either free of charge or at a subsidized rate – fertilizers, seeds, tools and other equipment.

He stressed that many of these activities, including the UN feeding programmes, have the capacity to be expanded rapidly, but he added that a boost should also "inject some more dynamism" into the country and its Government ministries.
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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KENYA FACING FOOD SHORTAGE BECAUSE OF RISING PRICES - UN AID OFFICIALS

KENYA FACING FOOD SHORTAGE BECAUSE OF RISING PRICES – UN AID OFFICIALS New York, Apr 18 2008 6:00PM Worries over a possible food shortage in Kenya – where tensions are still running high despite the recent announcement of a new power-sharing Government – are on the rise due to surging food prices worldwide, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (<"http://ochaonline.un.org/Default.aspx?tabid=1080">OCHA) said today.

Further complicating the situation in the East African nation is the fungi that have reportedly destroyed 5,600 hectares of rice in Central Province, where between 10 and 20 percent of the country's annual production is harvested.

Even during good years, Kenya is a net importer of rice, and this fungi problem results in the need for an even greater amount of imported rice to feed its people.

Rice prices have soared 75 per cent globally in the past two months, while the cost of wheat has risen a whopping 120 per cent in the last year, contributing to a food crisis worldwide.

The resulting food insecurity in Kenya has led to an escalation of tensions, with four internally displaced persons (IDPs) having been killed in the Rift Valley while attempting to make their way back to their farms.

Earlier this week, the East African nation's major parties agreed on a grand coalition Government following months of post-election violence in which 1,000 people were killed and more than 300,000 others forced to flee their homes.

Last week, OCHA launched a revised appeal for $189 million for Kenya.
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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UN URGES GROUP OF EIGHT NATIONS TO STEP UP INVESTMENTS IN MATERNAL HEALTH

UN URGES GROUP OF EIGHT NATIONS TO STEP UP INVESTMENTS IN MATERNAL HEALTH New York, Apr 18 2008 6:00PM A United Nations-backed drive issued a call to the leaders of the Group of Eight (G8) industrialized nations today to fulfil their prior pledges to global health and to boost their investments to avert the deaths of more than 6 million mothers, newborns and children yearly.

The Partnership for Maternal, Newborn & Child Health – a coalition of some 240 countries and organizations, administered by the UN World Health Organization (WHO) – appealed for an further $10.2 billion annually to ensure universal coverage of basic services to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to curb child death and improve maternal health.

"We urge the G8 to step up funding and lead by example by saving and protecting lives," said Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, Executive Director of the UN Population Fund (UNFPA).

Today's appeal, which was launched in Cape Town, South Africa, ahead of the G8 Summit to be hosted by Japan in July, also targets all donor governments and business leaders.

Recent data shows that donor aid for health averaged $7 per child and $12 per live birth in the 68 countries which account for 97 per cent of all maternal and child health deaths worldwide, far short of the $45 per person minimum needed to ensure access to basic health services.

The Partnership asked for a "reallocation of national resources to benefit women and children, especially in countries with significant economic prospects where resources can be mobilized."
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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BAN KI-MOON WELCOMES IMMINENT CENSUS IN SUDAN TO BOLSTER NORTH-SOUTH PEACE

BAN KI-MOON WELCOMES IMMINENT CENSUS IN SUDAN TO BOLSTER NORTH-SOUTH PEACE New York, Apr 18 2008 6:00PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today welcomed the intention of Sudan's Government of National Unity to proceed with a delayed national census as from 22 April in preparation for elections next year.

The census, earlier scheduled to run from 5 to 30 April, is an important milestone in implementing the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement, which ended a decades-long civil war between the Government and rebels in southern Sudan, a conflict separate from the ongoing fighting in the Darfur region in the country's west.

"The Secretary-General expresses the hope that the census will not be further delayed, as it could have considerable political and financial implications," as <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=3104">statement issued by Mr. Ban's spokesperson said.

"The Sudanese people, with the assistance of the international community, have invested much in the preparation of the census and look forward to a full and peaceful enumeration process."

In February, Mr. Ban's Special Representative to Sudan Ashraf Qazi told the Security Council that implementation of the agreement ending 21 years of war, in which as many as 2 million people were killed and 4.5 million others displaced, remained on track despite being behind schedule.

He said overall security in the ceasefire zone remained relatively stable, but tensions between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) actually increased along the current boundary between northern and southern Sudan.

He warned that while the working relationship between the two parties was relatively cordial, it suffered from a significant lack of trust and confidence.

The most recent UN report on implementing the agreement found that major challenges lie ahead, but praised the leaders of both sides for demonstrating a willingness to resolve their differences through dialogue.
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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CYPRUS: UN-BACKED TECHNICAL COMMITTEES BEGIN WORK, SEEKING REUNIFICATION

CYPRUS: UN-BACKED TECHNICAL COMMITTEES BEGIN WORK, SEEKING REUNIFICATION New York, Apr 18 2008 5:00PM Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot working groups today launched sessions designed to pave the way for full-fledged negotiations under United Nations auspices on a comprehensive and durable settlement for the reunification of the Mediterranean island.

"As we have said before, the United Nations will do all that it can to help the two sides in their search for a sustainable and mutually acceptable solution," Special Representative of the Secretary-General Elizabeth Spehar told a news conference in Nicosia before the heads of the six working groups and seven technical committees began their meetings.

"We hope that concrete results can be achieved through this process over the coming weeks, that will provide a solid basis for the two leaders [Dimitris Christofias and Mehmet Ali Talat] to move forward and which will encourage the UN Secretary-General to appoint a Special Envoy to accompany and support the leaders in their negotiations," she added as she presided over the launch.

Yesterday, the Security Council in New York <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2008/sc9303.doc.htm">welcomed the development. The 15-member body said the recent opening of the long-closed Ledra Street crossing between the two communities in Nicosia was an indication of the political will on both sides to tackle issues that have obstructed progress in the past, and called for more confidence-building measures to be introduced.

"The Security Council reaffirms its commitment to the reunification of Cyprus based on a bicommunal, bizonal federation and political equality," it said in a presidential statement.

The UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unficyp/index.html">UNFICYP) has been in place since 1964 following the outbreak of inter-communal violence, entrusted with preventing a recurrence of fighting and contributing to a return to normal conditions and the maintenance of law and order.
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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UN FOOD AGENCY FACES $750 MILLION SHORTFALL AS IT BIDS TO FEED WORLD'S HUNGRY

UN FOOD AGENCY FACES $750 MILLION SHORTFALL AS IT BIDS TO FEED WORLD'S HUNGRY New York, Apr 18 2008 5:00PM The recent drastic rise in food prices means the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) now needs more than $750 million to meet its commitment to feed the world's 73 million hungry people this year.

In late February, WFP announced that it required an additional $500 million, on top of its original appeal for this year of $2.9 billion, to carry out its efforts, but surging food prices have led <"http://www.wfp.org/english/?n=31">WFP to revise that figure upwards to $756 million.

The cost of rice in Thailand, for example, swelled from $460 per ton on 3 March to $780 five weeks later.

WFP warned that prices could rice even higher. "We are not looking at a picture anymore, we are watching a movie," the agency's Christiane Berthiaume told reporters in Geneva today. To date, $900 million has been received towards WFP's original appeal.

In a related development, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has accepted an invitation from Jacques Diouf, Director-General of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (<"http://www.fao.org/">FAO), to attend a summit on the topic of food security in Rome.

He confirmed his attendance today at the start of the 30th FAO Regional Conference for Latin America and the Caribbean, noting that the UN agency has a crucial role to play in tackling the issue.

The three-day event, which will start on 3 June at FAO Headquarters, "must take place in a rational manner, without being clouded by emotions or left or right-wing ideologies," the President said. "We need scientific foundations so that people can discuss solutions to the crisis to offer to the world in years ahead."

Dr. Diouf said the upcoming summit will be a "golden opportunity to adopt policies, strategies and programmes that will enable us to face the major challenges currently confronting us which, aside from the price surges, include the question of agricultural production, especially in poor countries."
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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MADAGASCAR: UN HELP SOUGHT FOR OUTBREAK OF RIFT VALLEY FEVER

MADAGASCAR: UN HELP SOUGHT FOR OUTBREAK OF RIFT VALLEY FEVER New York, Apr 18 2008 4:00PM Health and agriculture ministry officials in Madagascar have asked two United Nations agencies for assistance as they fight a deadly outbreak of the viral haemorrhagic disease known as Rift Valley Fever (RVF).

Seventeen people are suspected to have died from the virus outbreak across five regions of the Indian Ocean island nation, according to local authorities, and a total of 418 cases are suspected this year, the UN World Health Organization (<"http://www.who.int/mediacentre/en/">WHO) reported today. Laboratory tests by scientists have also confirmed at least 59 cases of human infection.

Officials in Madagascar have asked the WHO, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (<"http://www.fao.org/">FAO) and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) to undertake a joint mission to the country to support their efforts to contain the outbreak.

Transmitted by mosquitoes, RVF is a dangerous disease that affects both livestock – including sheep, goats, cattle and camels – and humans, but is usually well-established in animal populations by the time the first human cases are observed.

Humans become infected through mosquito bites or direct contact with infected material and liquids such as animal blood during slaughtering, while the uncooked milk of infected animals can also pose a risk. No cases of human-to-human transmission have ever been reported.

While some infected people experience no detectable symptoms, others develop flu-like fever, muscle pain, headaches, joint pain, vomiting, loss of appetite and sensitivity to light. In more severe cases patients can also experience lesions in their eyes, neurological problems, liver impairment and haemorrhagic fever symptoms including widespread bleeding.
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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VATICAN CITY AND UN HEADQUARTERS HAVE GEOGRAPHICAL SIMILARITIES, SAYS POPE

VATICAN CITY AND UN HEADQUARTERS HAVE GEOGRAPHICAL SIMILARITIES, SAYS POPE New York, Apr 18 2008 3:00PM Pope Benedict XVI drew a parallel between United Nations Headquarters in New York and the Vatican City today as two tiny geographical entities that are hubs with vast worldwide influence.

Vatican City is the world's smallest fully independent nation-state, with a total area of 110 acres surrounded by Rome and a population of some 800.

UN Headquarters is "international territory" under an agreement with the United States, stretching over some 18 acres between New York's East River and 1st Avenue, and 42nd and 48th Streets. It has no permanent residents although there is a bedroom attached to the Secretary-General's 38th floor office.

"Here, within a small space in the busy city of New York, is housed an Organization with a worldwide mission to promote peace and justice," the Pope told a meeting of UN staff during his Headquarters visit today.

"I am reminded of the similar contrast in scale between Vatican City State and the world in which the Church exercises her universal mission and apostolate."

The Roman Catholic Church has 1.13 billion followers, according to the Vatican's 2008 yearbook. The population of UN Member States is estimated at some 6.6 billion.
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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THOUSANDS OF REFUGEES FROM DARFUR REMAIN ALONG VOLATILE BORDER - UN AGENCY

THOUSANDS OF REFUGEES FROM DARFUR REMAIN ALONG VOLATILE BORDER – UN AGENCY New York, Apr 18 2008 3:00PM About 8,000 Sudanese remain scattered in a handful of villages along the volatile border with Chad, more than two months after a major round of fighting erupted in West Darfur, the United Nations refugee agency reported today.

UN High Commissioner for Refugees (<"http://www.unhcr.org/news/NEWS/4808a35d4.html">UNHCR) spokesperson Ron Redmond told journalists in Geneva that the agency has been able to transfer some 5,400 people to two camps it runs in eastern Chad, despite the logistical challenges posed by the continuing insecurity and the remoteness of the region.

"There has been sporadic military activity on the Darfur side of the border, and armed groups are often seen on the Chadian side," Mr. Redmond said. "On Sunday morning, a UNHCR team on the Chad side of the border witnessed aerial bombing on the Sudan side southeast of the Chadian border town of Birak."

Most of the transferred refugees – nine out of 10 are women and children – were taken to Kounoungou camp, which was recently expanded but has now reached its capacity of 18,900 residents. This week about 170 refugees were transferred to the camp at Mile, which is 20 kilometres south of Kounoungou. In total, there are 12 UNHCR-run camps in eastern Chad serving as home to roughly 250,000 people.

Mr. Redmond noted that most of the refugees had been living in the open since fighting flared in several towns and villages in the northern part of West Darfur state on 9 February.

When the Darfurians arrive at the camps, they are given medical examinations and any children are vaccinated. Families also receive tents and household kits for use as temporary shelter until the refugees can build sturdier mud-brick huts.

Nearly 2.5 million people have been displaced because of the conflict between Government forces, allied militiamen and rebels in Darfur that has raged since 2003, and more than 200,000 others have been killed.

Since the start of the year a hybrid UN-African Union peacekeeping force (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unamid/index.html">UNAMID) has been in place to try to quell the humanitarian suffering and violence.
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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UN REVIEW OF FIRST GROUP OF COUNTRIES' HUMAN RIGHTS RECORDS WRAPS UP

UN REVIEW OF FIRST GROUP OF COUNTRIES' HUMAN RIGHTS RECORDS WRAPS UP New York, Apr 18 2008 3:00PM The United Nations <"http://www2.ohchr.org/english/bodies/hrcouncil/">Human Rights Council has concluded its review of the first batch of countries as part of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) – a new mechanism to examine the record of every UN Member State.

The mechanism's Working Group wrapped up its first session in Geneva today after evaluating the rights records of 16 nations: Bahrain, Ecuador, Tunisia, Morocco, Indonesia, Finland, the United Kingdom, India, Brazil, the Philippines, Algeria, Poland, the Netherlands, South Africa, the Czech Republic and Argentina.

"Having witnessed the energy which you have all displayed during this session, I have no doubt that we shall collectively rise to the occasion and achieve the primary goal of the UPR, which is the improvement of the human rights situation on the ground," said Council President Doru Romulus Copstea in a message delivered at the meeting's close by Vice President Boudewijn Van Eenennaam.

The Working Group's next session will be held from 5 to 19 May, during which 16 more Member States' records will be reviewed.

The UPR is one of the reforms which differentiate the Council from the Commission on Human Rights, which it succeeded in 2006.

Under the Review's work plans, 48 countries are scheduled to be reviewed each year, so that the UN's complete membership of 192 countries will be reviewed once every four years.

Last month, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged the Council to ensure that all countries were scrutinized equally. "The Review must reaffirm that just as human rights are universal, so is our collective respect for them and our commitment to them," he <"http://www.un.org/apps/news/infocus/sgspeeches/search_full.asp?statID=196">said.
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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UNDP SOUNDS ALARM ON DANGER OF CLUSTER MUNITIONS TO CIVILIANS, DEVELOPMENT

UNDP SOUNDS ALARM ON DANGER OF CLUSTER MUNITIONS TO CIVILIANS, DEVELOPMENT New York, Apr 18 2008 2:00PM Urging the international community to adopt a comprehensive treaty banning the use of cluster munitions, the United Nations Development Programme (<"http://content.undp.org/go/newsroom/2008/april/calls-for-adoption-of-cluster-munitions-treaty.en">UNDP) warned today in a new <"http://www.undp.org/cpr/documents/UNDP_clusterMunitions_2008.pdf">report that the deadly devices deal a blow to development.

"We are concerned about cluster munitions, both as a threat to the lives of innocent civilians and as a major obstacle to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)," said UNDP Associate Administrator Ad Melkert, referring to the eight anti-poverty targets.

The release of the report, entitled <i>Prohibiting Cluster Munitions: Our Chance to Protect Civilians</i>, comes on the eve of the Global Day of Action to Ban Cluster Bombs.

Calling on governments to join efforts to establish a new global pact to ban cluster munitions, UNDP's Director of the Bureau of Crisis Prevention and Recovery Kathleen Cravero characterized these weapons as insidious and observed that they pose "a long-term threat to the very lives and livelihoods of civilians."

Negotiations among nations to create such a treaty prohibiting the use, production, transfer and stockpiling of the devices kick off next month in Dublin, Ireland.

Without such an instrument, the proliferation of cluster munitions will remain unchecked, the UNDP report cautioned.

When launched, these weapons disperse many sub-munitions, over areas often spanning the size of four football fields, which are intended to explode upon impact but often do not and thus turning homes and communities into minefields.

Unexploded munitions are many times shaped like balls and are brightly coloured, putting children at risk. More than three decades after the end of the conflict in Viet Nam, children still account for over 60 per cent of cluster munitions casualties.

Worldwide, the devices have caused more than 13,000 confirmed injuries and deaths, mostly concentrated in Afghanistan, Iraq, Laos, Lebanon and Viet Nam.

But they also lead to food insecurity by contaminating farmland and by killing livestock, as well as causing heath and hygiene problems by cutting off access to shelter, water and sanitation.

Billions of cluster munitions are currently being stockpiled by over 70 countries around the world, UNDP reported.

"I know from the experience of my own country, Côte d'Ivoire, how terrible war can be for individuals, families and communities," said Didier Drogba, Chelsea football star and UNDP Goodwill Ambassador. "For people who are injured or killed by unexploded cluster bombs, or who live in poverty because they cannot farm their land, it is as though the war never ended."
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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BAN KI-MOON WELCOMES POPE BENEDICT, STRESSING COMMON MISSION

BAN KI-MOON WELCOMES POPE BENEDICT, STRESSING COMMON MISSION New York, Apr 18 2008 2:00PM Welcoming a guest he invited to the United Nations a year ago, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stressed to Pope Benedict XVI today the fundamental goals that unite the world Organization and the Roman Catholic Church.

"Your Holiness, welcome to our common home," Mr. Ban told the smiling Pontiff as he introduced him to the 192-member Assembly at UN Headquarters in New York.

"In so many ways, our mission unites us with yours. You have spoken of the terrible challenge of poverty afflicting so much of the world's population, and how we cannot afford indifference and self-centred isolation. You have encouraged the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, and called for progressive and agreed-upon nuclear disarmament.

"You have spelled out that those with greater power may not use it to violate the rights of others, and stated that peace is based on respect for the rights of all. You have spoken of water resources and climate change as matters of grave importance for the entire human family.

"You have called for an open and sincere dialogue, both within your Church and between religions and cultures, in search of the good of humankind. Finally, you have called for trust in, and commitment to, the United Nations."

Mr. Ban recalled that the Pope had underscored the UN ability to foster genuine dialogue and develop multilateral strategies to meet the manifold challenges of a complex and rapidly changing world, and he stressed the faith that motivates UN personnel.

"Whether we worship one God, many or none – we in the United Nations have to sustain and strengthen our faith every day. As demands on our Organization multiply, we need more and more of this precious commodity," he said.

"I am profoundly grateful to his Holiness Pope Benedict XVI for bestowing some of his faith on us – and for placing his trust in us. He possesses both of these in abundance. May we be strengthened by his visit today."

General Assembly President Srgjan Kerim told Benedict his visit was a very powerful recognition of the validity and importance of international institutions, particularly of the UN.

"In a world full of controversies which can escalate into conflicts, violence and atrocities, the role of international institutions is without alternative. Effective multilateralism remains our goal, so as to achieve peace and stability on Earth," he said.

"Let me express my high appreciation for the valuable contribution of the Holy See to the work of the General Assembly and in particular for your important role in promoting social justice, providing education and alleviating poverty and hunger around the world."
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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GOAL OF UNIVERSAL PRIMARY EDUCATION UNDER THREAT FROM LACK OF FUNDS, SAYS UN

GOAL OF UNIVERSAL PRIMARY EDUCATION UNDER THREAT FROM LACK OF FUNDS, SAYS UN New York, Apr 18 2008 1:00PM The internationally agreed goal of universal primary education for every child by 2015 is at risk unless donors scale up aid for basic education, according to a new report published today by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (<"http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL_ID=29008&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html">UNESCO).

The report – prepared by the team that monitors progress towards the goal of "education for all," the pledge made by world leaders in Dakar, the Senegalese capital, in 1999 – found that while aid to basic education increased in 2006 to $5 billion, up from $3.7 billion in 2005, it remained below its 2004 level of $5.3 billion.

In addition, bilateral aid to basic education increased from $2.7 billion in 2005 to $3.9 billion in 2006, while commitments from multilateral agencies remained constant at $1.1 billion.

The data also showed that total official development assistance (ODA) decreased by 8.4 per cent last year, which probably means a corresponding reduction in aid to basic education.

UNESCO Director-General Koïchiro Matsuura said that the fact that aid to basic education increased in 2006 over the previous year was encouraging. However, the "general slowdown" in how much donors are committing to education was still a concern.

"This could carry serious consequences for educational progress in low-income countries," said Mr. Matsuura. "These countries need enough aid and predictable aid to support the rapid expansion of their education systems."

The overall increase in 2006, according to the report, was mainly due to increased contributions from the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, whose combined aid to basic education rose by $1.3 billion.

Noting that some $11 billion a year is needed to achieve education for all in low-income countries, the report urged donors to step up their efforts, in particular by allocating at least 10 per cent of their sector aid to basic education.
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE JOINS GLOBAL PATENT PACT - UN INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AGENCY

SÃO TOMÉ AND PRÍNCIPE JOINS GLOBAL PATENT PACT – UN INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AGENCY New York, Apr 18 2008 1:00PM São Tomé and Príncipe has become the 139th State to accede to the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), the pact designed to stimulate innovation and promote economic activity worldwide, the United Nations agency that protects ownership of intellectual property announced today.

The Geneva-based World Intellectual Property Organization (<"http://www.wipo.int/pressroom/en/articles/2008/article_0022.html">WIPO) said that São Tomé and Príncipe deposited its instrument of accession earlier this month, which means the treaty will enter into force for the country on 3 July. After that date, its nationals and residents will be able to file patent applications.

The number of PCT international applications filed each year continues to rise, WIPO has previously reported, with the overall figures almost doubling in the past two decades.

The treaty aims to provide patent applicants with a more streamlined process for filing and to give the public accelerated access to the latest technological information on inventions and other forms of intellectual property.
2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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UN EXPERTS WELCOME CANADA'S BACKING FOR INDIGENOUS RIGHTS DECLARATION

UN EXPERTS WELCOME CANADA'S BACKING FOR INDIGENOUS RIGHTS DECLARATION New York, Apr 18 2008 10:00AM A group of independent United Nations human rights experts has lauded the endorsement given to a landmark declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples by the House of Commons in Canada -- one of four States that voted against its adoption in the General Assembly last year.

In a statement issued today, the experts welcomed the motion adopted on 8 April by the House, regarding the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and relating to the call for Parliament and Government to fully implement its provisions.

"We are convinced that the standards and principles set forth in the Declaration will constitute a useful road-map for Canada's future laws and policies with regard to Aboriginal peoples, and will help improve their human rights situation," the experts said.

"The Legislature's commitment to put the provisions of the UN Declaration into practice is a powerful sign for indigenous peoples in Canada and in other countries," they added.

Adopted by the 192-member General Assembly last September, the Declaration outlines the rights of the world's estimated 370 million indigenous people and outlaws discrimination against them -- a move that followed more than two decades of debate.

Canada, along with Australia, New Zealand and the United States, voted against the non-binding text, which sets out rights to culture, identity, language, employment, health, education and other issues.

The action by Canada's House of Commons is among recent steps taken by States to give effect to the Declaration, the group stated, noting that Bolivia and Ecuador recently gave legal force to the Declaration by enacting legislation. Similar initiatives are being discussed in other countries.

The statement was signed by the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people, Rodolfo Stavenhagen; the UN Special Rapporteur on the right to adequate housing, Miloon Kothari; the UN Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, Doudou Diène; and the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention.

2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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THOUSANDS OF POOR TIMORESE TO BENEFIT FROM UN-BACKED SMALL BUSINESS LOANS

THOUSANDS OF POOR TIMORESE TO BENEFIT FROM UN-BACKED SMALL BUSINESS LOANS New York, Apr 18 2008 9:00AM A new initiative launched today by the United Nations and the Government of Timor-Leste aims to provide small business loans to thousands of low-income people in the tiny nation, which is grappling with a number of challenges including widespread poverty and unemployment.

The $5 million INFUSE programme will provide access to finance for economically disadvantaged people in 13 districts across the country, which the UN helped shepherd to independence in 2002.

"Long-term and sustainable peace in Timor-Leste depends upon increasing peoples' access to finance," said Finn Reske-Nielsen, Resident Representative of the UN Development Programme (UNDP).

He noted that the programme, administered by UNDP, the UN Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and the Ministry of Economy and Development, will provide loans to people who would otherwise fail to qualify, due to a lack of collateral.

"Linking the need for funds with a sound business proposal will assist development for some of those who most need it," Mr. Reske-Nielsen said.

Minister of Economy and Development Joao Goncalves added that INFUSE will work with existing financial service providers who will in turn increase their micro-loan portfolios and expand their reach.

Meanwhile, Prince Albert of Monaco arrived today in Timor-Leste, where he will be opening a maternity clinic built with funding provided by his Government in the regional town of Same.

2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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LACK OF COOPERATION PROMPTS UN TO CLOSE ANGOLA HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICE

LACK OF COOPERATION PROMPTS UN TO CLOSE ANGOLA HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICE New York, Apr 18 2008 9:00AM The United Nations announced today that it will close its human rights office in Angola, after authorities in the southern African nation decided not to sign an agreement that would have formally established the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in the country.

OHCHR, which has had a presence in Angola since 2003, has been asked by the Government to cease its activities in the country by 31 May, according to a news release issued by the Geneva-based Office.

This came "after the authorities decided not to proceed any further with negotiations on establishing a formal Memorandum of Understanding similar to those under which OHCHR usually operates in other countries."

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour said she "respected but regretted" the Government's decision.

"We look forward to examining any fresh initiatives the Government may suggest in line with its voluntary pledge to the Human Rights Council to increase its cooperation with my Office," Ms. Arbour said.

Over the past five years, OHCHR has been working to increase awareness of human rights in Angola, which was devastated by a 27-year civil war that finally ended in 2002.

In addition to helping to establish a national human rights institution, the Office also assisted the Ministry of Justice in the area of alternative mechanisms of justice, and promoted the inclusion of human rights education in primary and secondary schools.

OHCHR was also helping the Government in preparing its national reports to various human rights treaty bodies.

2008-04-18 00:00:00.000

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SECURITY COUNCIL WELCOMES SIGNS OF PROGRESS TOWARDS REUNIFICATION OF CYPRUS

SECURITY COUNCIL WELCOMES SIGNS OF PROGRESS TOWARDS REUNIFICATION OF CYPRUS New York, Apr 17 2008 8:00PM Welcoming the recent agreement between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders, the Security Council today voiced hope that the two sides can build enough trust and momentum in their peace process to lead eventually to the reunification of Cyprus.

In a <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2008/sc9303.doc.htm">presidential statement, Council members said they are encouraged by the imminent launch of the working groups and technical committees, which are designed to prepare for the ground for full-fledged negotiations under UN auspices on a comprehensive and durable settlement.

"The Security Council looks forward to the results of this preparatory process within the three-month timeline agreed by the two leaders, which it is hoped will build trust, momentum and a sense of common interest in the search for a just and lasting solution," Ambassador Dumisani Kumalo of South Africa, which holds the rotating Council presidency this month, said in the statement.

He also observed that the recent opening of the Ledra Street crossing in Nicosia was an indication of the political will on both sides to tackle issues that have obstructed progress in the past, and called for more such confidence-building measures to be introduced.

"The Security Council reaffirms its commitment to the reunification of Cyprus based on a bicommunal, bizonal federation and political equality, as set out in the relevant Security Council resolutions, and its willingness to support the efforts of the Secretary-General to this end."

The UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unficyp/index.html">UNFICYP) has been in place on the Mediterranean island since 1964 following the outbreak of intercommunal violence, and it is tasked with preventing a recurrence of fighting, contributing to a return to normal conditions and the maintenance of law and order.
2008-04-17 00:00:00.000

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GENERAL ASSEMBLY PRESIDENT HOLDS TALKS WITH GABONESE, BRITISH OFFICIALS

GENERAL ASSEMBLY PRESIDENT HOLDS TALKS WITH GABONESE, BRITISH OFFICIALS New York, Apr 17 2008 7:00PM General Assembly President Srgjan Kerim has held talks today with senior Government ministers from Gabon on the United Kingdom, discussing issues ranging from peace and security in Africa to financing for development in poor countries.

Mr. Kerim met with Gabonese Foreign Minister Laure Olga Gondjout and they discussed yesterday's Security Council debate, which stressed the importance of greater cooperation between the United Nations and the African Union and the need for more funding of peacebuilding operations in Africa.

Mr. Kerim and Ms. Gondjout also discussed the global efforts to achieve the set of anti-poverty targets known as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), according to a statement released by the President's spokesperson.

During a separate meeting with Lord Mark Malloch Brown, the UK Minister for Africa, Asia and the UN, Mr. Kerim and his interlocutor discussed the MDGs, Council reform and overall re-shaping of the UN.

The two men also discussed other topics, including climate change and financing for development.
2008-04-17 00:00:00.000

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UN MINE SERVICE CONSIDERS NEW WAYS TO CLEAR LAND MORE EFFECTIVELY

UN MINE SERVICE CONSIDERS NEW WAYS TO CLEAR LAND MORE EFFECTIVELY New York, Apr 17 2008 7:00PM The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) says it is considering the introduction of new and more efficient methods of checking land for mines that could drastically speed up the clearance of land in mine-affected regions for use by local communities.

Deminers currently use detectors to comb all land suspected of being hazardous, even when there is no credible evidence of landmines in the area. This process can be so slow that many countries affected by landmines and explosive remnants of war struggle to reach their targets of clearing land.

But John Flanagan, the officer-in-charge of UNMAS in the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO), yesterday told a conference on demining in Sibenik, Croatia, that a review of standard procedures would allow mine clearance equipment to be focused more on areas that actually do contain mines and explosive hazards.

"We're looking for ways to confirm that land is safe without necessarily going over every inch of it with a mine detector," he said. "Where there is a genuine threat, however, we will make sure all landmines and explosive remnants of war are removed before we tell a community that land is safe for their use."

A recent report by the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining found that "general assessments and landmine impact surveys often overestimate the extent of land actually affected by landmines and explosive remnants of war."

Under the new procedures, landmine experts would consider a range of indicators before determining whether to send deminers into a suspected hazardous area.

The conference in Sibenik was jointly organized by the UN, the Croatian Mine Action Centre and the International Trust Fund for Demining and Mines Victims Assistance.
2008-04-17 00:00:00.000

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NAMIBIAN FLOOD VICTIMS RECEIVE UN HELP IN HEALTH CARE, KINDERGARTENS

NAMIBIAN FLOOD VICTIMS RECEIVE UN HELP IN HEALTH CARE, KINDERGARTENS New York, Apr 17 2008 5:00PM Apart from helping the Namibian authorities to train health workers in critical steps to stem cholera outbreaks following widespread flooding, the United Nations Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF) is now working to provide kindergartens for toddlers in relocation camps.

Over 71,000 people have been affected by the floods and more than 4,600 have moved into the camps, where they wait for basic supplies to reach them. Some 40 primary schools have been closed because they were either flooded or cut off by fast-flowing water.

There is now a need to provide young children in the camps with safe spaces where they can learn and play, UNICEF Namibia Child Protection Officer Celia Kaunatjike said in an update on the situation in the southern African country.

UNICEF is in the process of procuring tents and recreational kits for kindergartens that will be run by volunteers from among the camps' residents.

In partnership with other UN agencies and the Namibian Government, UNICEF is working to support residents of the flood-affected regions as they rebuild their lives and livelihoods. For now, many Namibians are simply waiting for the water to recede.

Since the floods struck last month, UNICEF has been helping the Government fight cholera, a bacterial disease marked by acute diarrhoea which is spread by contaminated water and can kill in less than a day, especially children. But the vast majority of patients can survive if they receive treatment in time – such as oral re-hydration salts to replace lost fluids, and in especially severe cases the intravenous administration of fluids.

At least 958 cases of cholera have been reported to the Namibian Ministry of Health and Social Services.

UNICEF recently assisted the Government in training the first group of activists, who will now be involved in training others to combat the disease. It is also supporting the Government and other partners in producing radio spots on cholera prevention, and in distributing water purification tablets, necessary in a region where flooding has exacerbated the already poor sanitation.
2008-04-17 00:00:00.000

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NEW REGISTRAR OF INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT VOWS TO STRIVE TO PROTECT WITNESSES

NEW REGISTRAR OF INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT VOWS TO STRIVE TO PROTECT WITNESSES New York, Apr 17 2008 5:00PM Protecting witnesses will be a major challenge for the International Criminal Court as the tribunal prepares to conduct its first trial this year, the incoming ICC registrar said today.

Silvana Arbia, who was sworn in as registrar at a ceremony today at the <"http://www.icc-cpi.int/press/pressreleases/358.html">ICC seat in The Hague, said her office would "dedicate its energy to the first trial" – that of the former Congolese militia leader Thomas Lubanga Dyilo.

Mr. Lubanga Dyilo faces war crimes charges, including that he recruited children to serve as soldiers in the armed wing of his militia, the Union of Congolese Patriots (UPC), which fought with Government forces in the northeast of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in 2002-03.

Ms. Arbia described the trial, set to begin in June, as "the final and most visible result of the joint effort of all the organs of the court… One major challenge will continue to be the protection of witnesses. The systems we put in place have to be efficient and sustainable."

She added that the "first trial shall strive to be a model for national jurisdictions and also a positive benchmark for regions and States which have not yet accepted the jurisdiction of the ICC."

The ICC is an independent, permanent court that tries persons accused of the most serious crimes of international concern – namely genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. It is currently investigating cases in the DRC, Uganda, the Central African Republic (CAR) and the Darfur region of Sudan.

The registry is responsible for the overall administration and management of the tribunal and must ensure that witnesses are protected and that the rights of all accused are respected.
2008-04-17 00:00:00.000

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THREAT OF FLOODS AND LANDSLIDES IN TAJIKISTAN PROMPTS UN HUMANITARIAN APPEAL

THREAT OF FLOODS AND LANDSLIDES IN TAJIKISTAN PROMPTS UN HUMANITARIAN APPEAL New York, Apr 17 2008 4:00PM The United Nations' humanitarian wing is urgently appealing for $1.4 million so that it can buy and pre-position emergency water, sanitation and cooking items for up to 1,500 households in Tajikistan, which faces the threat of floods and landslides after a severe winter across much of Central Asia.

The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (<"http://ochaonline.un.org/">OCHA) says the likelihood of floods and landslides in upcoming weeks remains high following weeks of heavy snow and intense rains.

OCHA is also reporting that Tajikistan could be hit by a locust infestation over more than 150,000 hectares of land because a combination of favourable weather conditions and incomplete spraying last year has led to a larger than normal amount of locusts' eggs developing to adult stage.

"The pest is developing quicker and earlier than usual and action is extremely time-sensitive," according to a <"http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db900sid/MMAH-7DS5PB?OpenDocument&query=tajikistan">situation report issued by OCHA yesterday.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (<"http://www.fao.org">FAO) is calling for $500,000 to cover the cost of pesticides and equipment, warning that unless those funds are received within the next week, it may not be able to avert a major outbreak.
2008-04-17 00:00:00.000

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UN MEMBER STATES ISSUED INVITATIONS TO UPCOMING IRAQ COMPACT MEETING

UN MEMBER STATES ISSUED INVITATIONS TO UPCOMING IRAQ COMPACT MEETING New York, Apr 17 2008 4:00PM Invitations to the upcoming high-level meeting of the International Compact for Iraq – to be held on 29 May in Stockholm, Sweden – have been issued to all UN Member States, as well as to several regional and international organizations and institutions.

These invitations to the talks on the five-year peace and development plan to help rebuild the war-torn nation were extended yesterday by both Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Barham Salih and by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's Special Adviser Ibrahim Gambari.

Mr. Ban, who will co-chair the meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki, encouraged Member States to take part.

Under the Compact, which was launched last May in Sharm el-Sheik, Egypt, the Government will work to meet basic needs, protect the rights of all citizens and ensure the optimal use of the country's resources for the common good.
2008-04-17 00:00:00.000

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UN RIGHTS EXPERT URGES PROTECTION OF PALESTINIAN, ISRAELI CIVILIANS

UN RIGHTS EXPERT URGES PROTECTION OF PALESTINIAN, ISRAELI CIVILIANS New York, Apr 17 2008 4:00PM An independent United Nations human rights expert has called on the United Nations to do its utmost to protect the lives of both Palestinians and Israelis, after some two dozen people were reportedly killed in the latest round of violence to engulf the Gaza Strip and southern Israel.

"Surely it is not too much to ask of the Security Council, and if it cannot act, the Secretary-General, to protect human life," John Dugard, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights on the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, said in a <"http://www.unhchr.ch/huricane/huricane.nsf/view01/8547BF048156F2D3C125742E00555289?opendocument">statement issued today.

Mr. Dugard, who reports to the Geneva-based Human Rights Council, also called on the UN to play its role as international mediator to encourage dialogue among all the parties.

"It is the responsibility of the United Nations, as the ultimate guardian of human rights and international peace, to open lines of communication between Israel, Hamas, and the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah, and to bring them to the negotiating table," the Special Rapporteur stated.

Yesterday, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed his grave concern at the escalating violence in the Gaza Strip and southern Israel, urging all parties to the Middle East conflict to exercise restraint.
2008-04-17 00:00:00.000

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GROUP OF EIGHT NATIONS AND UN SEEK TO HARMONIZE COUNTER-TERRORISM EFFORTS

GROUP OF EIGHT NATIONS AND UN SEEK TO HARMONIZE COUNTER-TERRORISM EFFORTS New York, Apr 17 2008 3:01PM The senior United Nations counter-terrorism official is in Tokyo today for a meeting to discuss how the world body and the Group of Eight (G8) industrialized nations can better coordinate their efforts on the issue.

Mike Smith, Executive Director of the UN Committee Executive Directorate (CTED), is conferring with the G8's Counter-Terrorism Action Group (CTAG) on how the two bodies can improve their technical assistance in this field, UN spokesperson Michele Montas told reporters.

Established in 2003, CTAG aims to boost political will and promote the implementation of Security Council resolution 1373, which was adopted in the wake of the September 2001 attacks on the United States. It also calls on countries to adopt measures to enhance their ability to counter terrorist activities nationally, regionally and globally.

CTED was created as a special political mission in 2004 to assist the Council's Counter-Terrorism Committee in monitoring 1373's implementation.

Following his talks with the G8 group, Mr. Smith will hold bilateral discussions with Japanese officials.

Earlier this week, he visited Beijing where he met with Chinese authorities, and will travel to Moscow following the Tokyo meeting for consultation with Russian officials.
2008-04-17 00:00:00.000

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HAITI: UN INCREASES FOOD DISTRIBUTIONS FOLLOWING PROTESTS OVER HIGH PRICES

HAITI: UN INCREASES FOOD DISTRIBUTIONS FOLLOWING PROTESTS OVER HIGH PRICES New York, Apr 17 2008 3:00PM The United Nations is taking further action to confront food insecurity in Haiti with plans to distribute 8,000 more tons in the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, where rising prices have led to widespread protests, some of them violent.

The UN World Food Programme (<"http://www.wfp.org/english/">WFP) will hand out the food in the coming days in the north, west and central regions, focusing on children, pregnant women and nursing mothers.

The UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF) will double its child feeding programme to combat malnutrition and spend some $1.6 million on water and sanitation in the northwest and the Artibonite regions.

Meanwhile, the Brazilian contingent of the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/minustah/">MINUSTAH) is distributing 14 tons of food to more than 3,000 families in the poorest quarters of Port-au-Prince, the capital.

MINUSTAH and WFP also continue to support various projects aimed at creating jobs that, with a combined $2.3 million budget, already employ some 2,500 Haitians.

Set up in 2004 to help re-establish peace after an insurgency forced then president Jean-Bertrand Aristide to go into exile, the Mission also focuses on a host of humanitarian issues.
2008-04-17 00:00:00.000

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UNESCO HEAD PAYS TRIBUTE TO MARTINIQUE POET OF 'LA NÉGRITUDE'

UNESCO HEAD PAYS TRIBUTE TO MARTINIQUE POET OF 'LA NÉGRITUDE' New York, Apr 17 2008 2:00PM The head of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (<"http://portal.unesco.org/en/ev.php-URL_ID=29008&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html">UNESCO) mourned the death today of Aimé Césaire, the Martinique poet and the founder of the artistic and cultural movement "la négritude."

"UNESCO has lost one of its most valuable friends," Koïchiro Matsuura, the agency's Director-General, told its Executive Board in Paris.

"We have all been marked by the universal import of Aimé Césaire's call for human dignity, watchfulness and responsibility."

Mr. Matsuura noted that the poet had tirelessly opposed colonialism and racism since the 1930s.

In 2004, Mr. Césaire was awarded UNESCO's Toussaint Louverture Prize in recognition of his commitment to equality among peoples and cultures and to the struggle against discrimination and exclusion.

Calling the poet a "voice of the voiceless," Olabiyi Babalola Joseph Yaï of Benin, President of the UNESCO Executive Board, said that "a great <i>baobab</i> has fallen, as we say back home. This great poet and playwright of the French language was also a great humanist."
2008-04-17 00:00:00.000

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UN-BACKED TV SERIES PEELS BACK SILENCE SURROUNDING WORLDWIDE SEXUAL VIOLENCE

UN-BACKED TV SERIES PEELS BACK SILENCE SURROUNDING WORLDWIDE SEXUAL VIOLENCE New York, Apr 17 2008 1:00PM With one in three women worldwide suffering rape or attempted rape during her lifetime and at least one in three likely to be beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused, a United Nations-backed television series starting tomorrow will seek to peel away the silence surrounding these brutalities.

"Even where there is no war, women's bodies continue to be battlegrounds," says Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, Executive Director of the UN Population Fund (<"https://www.unfpa.org/news/news.cfm?ID=1118">UNFPA), which with other UN agencies provided information for "Women on the Frontline," the seven-part investigative series by BBC World to be broadcast to some 300 million households.
"Women and girls are at risk of violence when carrying out essential daily activities – within their homes, or while walking, taking public transport to work, collecting water or firewood. Demanding the end of violence against women is about protecting human rights and ensuring that women live in safety and dignity."

British singer Annie Lennox, presenting the series, stresses that violence against women threatens the lives of more young women than cancer, malaria or war. "It affects one in three women worldwide. It leaves women mentally scarred for life, and it is usually inflicted by a family member," she says.

Trafficking, sexual harassment, female genital mutilation, dowry murder, "honour" killings and female infanticide are also part of the problem.

"The gaps in addressing violence against women are in terms of political will, resources and the strong involvement of men and boys in insisting on zero tolerance," says Joanne Sandler, acting Executive Director of the UN Development Fund for Women (<"http://www.unifem.org/news_events/story_detail.php?StoryID=673">UNIFEM).

"If we can't put an end to the pandemic of violence against women, we can't achieve any of the other agreed goals: development, equality or peace."

The seven films cover:<ul>
<li>Nepal, where thousands of women are trafficked each year; </li>
<li>Turkey, where killing in the name of honour continues; </li>
<li> Morocco, where women political activists who have survived torture and imprisonment testify before a Government truth and reconciliation commission; </li>
<li>Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where women bear the brunt of a 10-year war in eastern provinces; </li>
<li>Colombia, where women have been tortured in the shadow of a guerilla war; </li>
<li>Mauritania, where women who have been raped may go to prison; </li>
<li>and Austria, where, under a new law, perpetrators of domestic violence are forced to leave home. </li></ul>

"We found girls who said they had been raped and who were being sent to prison for the simple reason that there was no tangible proof of this violence," says Zeinabou Mint Taleb Moussa, a lawyer who heads the Mauritanian Association for Maternal and Child Health. "I would prefer them to go through the justice system or even better, I would prefer that the boys are arrested and the girls are recognized as victims."

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, acknowledging the depth of the problem, launched a multi-year campaign eight weeks ago to eliminate the scourge and a number of UN agencies are involved in various aspects of the battle.
2008-04-17 00:00:00.000

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AS TIMORESE LEADER RETURNS, UN ENVOY CALLS ON NATION TO 'PULL TOGETHER' FOR PEACE

AS TIMORESE LEADER RETURNS, UN ENVOY CALLS ON NATION TO 'PULL TOGETHER' FOR PEACE New York, Apr 17 2008 11:00AM Marking the return of President José Ramos-Horta from Australia, where he was recovering after being wounded in an assassination attempt two months ago, the top United Nations envoy to Timor-Leste today called on the leaders and people of the young nation to strengthen their commitment to ensuring lasting peace.

Atul Khare, the Secretary-General's Special Representative and head of the UN Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (<"http://www.unmiset.org/unmisetwebsite.nsf/MainFrame-EN.htm?OpenFrameset">UNMIT), greeted the President at the airport in the capital, Dili, and assured him of the UN's continued support as he resumes his duties.

"I look forward to continuing the UN's work with the President in promoting democratic governance, strengthening the rule of law, supporting the review and reform of the security sector, and furthering socio-economic development," said Mr. Khare.

"President Horta's return is an opportunity for Timorese society to pull together with renewed determination for the future of Timor-Leste," he added. "Sustained peace depends upon the commitment of everyone, including politicians, the security sector and the citizens of Timor-Leste."

The President was shot at his home on 11 February by rebel soldiers. Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão came under fire in a separate attack on his motorcade but was not injured.

Ahead of Mr. Ramos-Horta's return, the UN announced strengthened security arrangements for the President on his arrival and afterwards, including checkpoints near his house and close protection by UN and Timorese police.
2008-04-17 00:00:00.000

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ATTACKS ON FOOD TRUCKS FORCE UN AGENCY TO CUT RATIONS IN DARFUR

ATTACKS ON FOOD TRUCKS FORCE UN AGENCY TO CUT RATIONS IN DARFUR New York, Apr 17 2008 10:00AM The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) <"http://www.wfp.org/english/?ModuleID=137&Key=2819">said today that it will have to cut rations to the strife-torn Darfur region of Sudan by half because attacks on its trucks are preventing vital relief supplies from getting through.

So far this year 60 WFP-contracted trucks have been hijacked in Darfur – where the agency is feeding over two million internally displaced persons (<" http://www.unhcr.org/protect/3b84c7e23.html">IDPs) and refugees – with 39 trucks still missing and 26 drivers unaccounted for. One driver was killed in Darfur last month.

WFP's trucks should be delivering 1,800 metric tons of food daily around this time of year to supply warehouses ahead of the rainy season, due to begin next month. However, deliveries have dropped to less than 900 tons per day.

"Attacks on the WFP food pipeline are an attack on the most vulnerable people in Darfur," said the agency's Executive Director, Josette Sheeran.

In March, more than 2.4 million people in Darfur received WFP food assistance, which include cereals, pulses, vegetable oil, sugar and salt.

The number of those requiring assistance is expected to rise to some three million during the rainy season from May to September – also known as the pre-harvest 'hunger gap,' when last year's agricultural stocks are depleted and there is less access to food in the market.

Ms. Sheeran called on all parties to protect the access to food, stressed that with up to three million people depending on WFP for their survival in the upcoming rainy season, keeping the agency's supply line open is "a matter of life and death."

Kenro Oshidari, WFP Representative in Sudan, noted that the Sudanese Government does provide police escorts for convoys on the main routes, "but unfortunately the frequency is not enough to maintain the food pipeline."

"We're appealing to the rebel factions and their commanders who operate in other parts of Darfur to ensure security on the roads and to respect the neutrality of all people involved in the humanitarian effort," he said. "If the security situation on the roads improves, we will be able to restore the ration levels."
2008-04-17 00:00:00.000

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SECRETARY-GENERAL ALARMED BY DAY OF DEADLY VIOLENCE IN GAZA AND ISRAEL

SECRETARY-GENERAL ALARMED BY DAY OF DEADLY VIOLENCE IN GAZA AND ISRAEL New York, Apr 16 2008 7:00PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has expressed grave concern at the escalating violence in the Gaza Strip and southern Israel today that media reports say has left nearly two dozen people dead.

In a <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2008/sgsm11517.doc.htm">statement, Mr. Ban's spokesperson said he "condemns the reported civilian casualties among Palestinians, including children, during Israeli military operations, and calls on Israel to abide by its obligations under international humanitarian law and human rights law.

"The Secretary-General also reiterates his condemnation of rocket fire against Israeli civilian targets," the statement noted, adding that Mr. Ban was urging all parties to the Middle East conflict to exercise restraint.
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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STATUS QUO IN WESTERN SAHARA NEGOTIATIONS UNACCEPTABLE - LATEST UN REPORT

STATUS QUO IN WESTERN SAHARA NEGOTIATIONS UNACCEPTABLE – LATEST UN REPORT New York, Apr 16 2008 7:00PM Consolidating the status quo is not an acceptable outcome to the current process of negotiations over Western Sahara, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says in his latest <"http://www.un.org/Docs/journal/asp/ws.asp?m=s/2008/251">report on the long-running dispute between Morocco and the Frente Polisario.

Mr. Ban writes that while he welcomes the two parties' commitment – outlined in a communiqué last month – to continue their negotiations, so far there was no sign of any breakthrough in the dispute.

"Momentum can only be maintained by trying to find a way out of the current political impasse through realism and a spirit of compromise from both parties," he states, in the first report issued since UN-led talks were held in Manhasset, New York, last month.

Mr. Ban recommends that the Security Council stress to both Morocco and the Frente Polisario that they enter into "a more intensive and substantive phase of negotiations" without any preconditions.

He also voices concern about the humanitarian situation of the Western Saharan refugees, many of whom have been living in camps in the Tindouf area of neighbouring Algeria for years.

"I am particularly pleased that Morocco and the Frente Polisario have agreed at the talks held at Manhasset… to explore the establishment of family visits by land, in addition to the existing programme by air. This has the potential to significantly increase the number of beneficiaries able to visit their relatives from whom they have been separated for so long."

He also notes the recent progress made in clearing mines and explosive remnants of war in Western Sahara.

Morocco holds that its position over Western Sahara should be recognized, while the Frente Polisario contends that the Territory's final status should be decided in a referendum that includes independence as an option.

The UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/minurso/index.html">MINURSO) has been in place since 1991 to monitor the ceasefire between the two sides.
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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UN HELPS WEST AND CENTRAL AFRICAN COUNTRIES FIGHT SCOURGE OF ILLICIT WEAPONS

UN HELPS WEST AND CENTRAL AFRICAN COUNTRIES FIGHT SCOURGE OF ILLICIT WEAPONS New York, Apr 16 2008 6:00PM A two-day United Nations conference seeking to help West and Central African nations bolster their abilities to identify and trace illicit small arms and light weapons kicks off tomorrow in Lomé, Togo.

Held by the Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Africa – part of the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs – the gathering will assist countries' efforts to implement the International Instrument to Enable States to Identify and Trace, in a Timely and Reliable Manner, Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons.

Co-organized by Interpol, the workshop aims to identify actions States can take to adhere to the Instrument and familiarize government authorities with it.

Some 60 participants are expected to attend the event, which is supported by the European Union as well as Japan and Norway.

The meeting is part of a series targeted at promoting the Instrument and step up States' capacity to put it into practice.
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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MORE THAN 120,000 ANGOLAN FAMILIES TO BENEFIT FROM UN-BACKED SCHEME

MORE THAN 120,000 ANGOLAN FAMILIES TO BENEFIT FROM UN-BACKED SCHEME New York, Apr 16 2008 6:00PM Some 126,000 farming families in Angola, one of the world's poorest countries, will benefit from a $49.5 million United Nations-backed agreement signed today to improve agricultural productivity and revitalize markets.

After almost three decades of war, peace in the southern African country has opened the way for reconstruction, but 68 per cent of Angolans live below the poverty line and 15 per cent of households live in extreme poverty.

"Angola could be a rich agricultural country, but the war and lack of investment have severely held back the sector," said Carla Ferreira, country programme manager for the UN International Fund for Agricultural Development (<"http://www.ifad.org/media/press/2008/23.htm">IFAD), which fights rural poverty.

"However, we see a significant potential to increase agricultural production by expanding the average area that each farmer cultivates, increasing labour productivity and making markets more efficient. That is what this project is going to tackle," she added.

Under the agreement signed at IFAD's Rome headquarters by Angolan Ambassador to Italy Manuel Pedro Pacavira and IFAD President Lennart Båge, the market-oriented Smallholder Agriculture Project will be partly financed by an $8.2 million loan from the Fund.

The World Bank will contribute $30.1 million and Japan another $4 million. Angola will provide $4.1 million and other project participants the equivalent of $3 million.

A large proportion of beneficiaries consist of recently returned persons who have taken up farming. The project activities will begin in the province of Bié, and will later be expanded to Malanje and Huambo.

The project will help communities to identify needs for small-scale agricultural investments, which will be funded through matching grants. It will build the capacity of private-sector service providers and improve links with other development organizations. The project has a gender-sensitive design, and includes budgeting for childcare to enable women to attend training courses.

To improve farmers' skills and knowledge, the project will set up farmer field schools, hold workshops, exchange visits and study tours at both the municipal and provincial levels to share lessons in project implementation in the different target areas.

With this project, IFAD has provided a total of $44.3 million for five projects in Angola, directly benefiting 311,800 households.
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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UN OFFICIALS IN DR CONGO VOICE SADNESS IN WAKE OF DEADLY PLANE CRASH IN GOMA

UN OFFICIALS IN DR CONGO VOICE SADNESS IN WAKE OF DEADLY PLANE CRASH IN GOMA New York, Apr 16 2008 5:00PM Senior United Nations officials in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have expressed their sorrow and sympathy to the many victims of yesterday's plane crash in the north-eastern city of Goma, which has killed dozens of people.

Alan Doss, the Secretary-General's Special Representative in the DRC and the head of the UN peacekeeping mission (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/monuc/index.html">MONUC) to the vast African country, pledged the continued involvement of the UN in rescue operations.

UN spokesperson Michele Montas told journalists that there are conflicting reports as to the number and identity of the victims from the crash, which took place about 2:45 p.m. as the Hewa Bora Airlines plane was attempting to take off from Goma, bound for the Congolese capital, Kinshasa.

MONUC reports that between 21 and 37 people have died, with the survivors including three UN staff members and one dependent of a UN worker. More than 100 others are injured.

But more than 70 people were reported to have been aboard the plane when it crashed into the densely populated Birere neighbourhood of Goma. It is not clear whether the victims were passengers or also included residents of Birere.

"It seems that the majority of deaths are from those that were in the houses which surround the airport, but we also heard that many passengers were able to exit alive from the plane," Ross Mountain, the Secretary-General's Deputy Special Representative in the DRC, told a press conference in Kinshasa.

He said MONUC was working with the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (<"http://ochaonline.un.org/News/tabid/1080/Default.aspx">OCHA), the UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF), the World Health Organization (WHO), many non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and Congolese authorities to assist the victims and their families.

MONUC personnel securing the crash site have also located the plane's black box flight recorder, which Mr. Mountain said would be vital to the investigation into the cause of the disaster.

DRC has been plagued by an extremely poor aviation safety record, and just last Friday the European Union banned Hewa Bora Airlines from flying in its airspace because of safety issues.

"We hope that there will be fewer accidents in the future," Mr. Mountain said. "Unfortunately, there is much to repair in the country. It is necessary to look at how the regulations can be reinforced. It is a question of management of the planes, of maintenance for the airports. There's a lot of work to be done."
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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REUNIFICATION EFFORTS IN CYPRUS TO MOVE AHEAD THIS WEEK, UN SAYS

REUNIFICATION EFFORTS IN CYPRUS TO MOVE AHEAD THIS WEEK, UN SAYS New York, Apr 16 2008 5:00PM The drive to reunite the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities in Cyprus is set to take an important step forward this week with the start of substantive talks among new working groups, according to the United Nations mission on the Mediterranean island.

Representatives of the Greek Cypriot leader Demetrios Christofias and the Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat have agreed on the agendas of six working groups and seven technical committees, and the heads of these bodies will kick off their work following a ceremony on Friday in the UN Protected Area in the capital Nicosia.

The leaders of the two sides decided on the creation of the groups and committees at a meeting on 21 March hosted by the Secretary-General's Special Representative, Michael Møller.

Elizabeth Spehar, Acting Special Representative and head of the UN mission (<"http://www.unficyp.org/nqcontent.cfm?a_id=1&tt=graphic&lang=l1">UNFICYP), will preside over Friday's event, which will also be addressed by George Iacovou and Ozdil Nami, representatives of the heads of the two communities.

Yesterday, Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs B. Lynn Pascoe told the Security Council that he was optimistic that Cyprus could soon be reunified, but also cautioned that the upcoming negotiations between the two sides would not be easy.

"I think the entire world would be delighted to see Cyprus move forward on its negotiation," he told reporters after briefing the 15-member body. "We would like to see this settled as soon as possible."

Earlier this month, Mr. Pascoe visited the island, followed by stops in Athens and Ankara.
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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TREE-PLANTING CAMPAIGN PART OF 'GREENING' EFFORT DURING UN RENOVATION

TREE-PLANTING CAMPAIGN PART OF 'GREENING' EFFORT DURING UN RENOVATION New York, Apr 16 2008 5:00PM The United Nations has announced it will plant 150 new trees in and around its New York Headquarters compound, during the landscaping phase of the five-year, $1.9 billion renovation designed to result in a more sustainable, modern, safe and efficient facility.

The Office of the Capital Master Plan (CMP), as the project is known, said the new trees will be planted on the North Lawn as well as in surrounding areas – in coordination with neighbourhood associations – following the completion of the renovation in 2013.

The plan, along with measures to lower energy use and save water, aim at a significant "greening" of the Headquarters compound, the Office stated in a news release.

"One of the primary objectives of the Capital Master Plan is to renovate the facilities, and the grounds, as a model of sustainability for the rest of the UN system, emphasizing the climate change initiatives championed by the Secretary-General," the Office stated. "These new trees, in the heart of NYC, will reinforce that objective."

Todd Forrest, Vice President for Horticulture and Living Collections at the New York Botanical Garden, will work with the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation to assist the UN in selecting the appropriate species and locations to ensure that the proposed tree planting will serve not just as a greening programme, but also an opportunity to increase the diversity of trees in the Turtle Bay area.

Last month, the UN announced it had secured all necessary "swing space" for the temporary relocation of the 5,000 staff members that will be displaced during the overhaul.

Ground breaking for the construction of a temporary venue for international meetings, the most visible piece of the renovation plan, is scheduled for early May.
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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KOREAN SUPPORT FOR THE UN NEEDED ON MANY FRONTS - SECRETARY-GENERAL BAN

KOREAN SUPPORT FOR THE UN NEEDED ON MANY FRONTS – SECRETARY-GENERAL BAN New York, Apr 16 2008 4:00PM The United Nations needs the support of the Republic of Korea (ROK) on many fronts as challenges multiply in the world, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said last night.

Mr. Ban <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs/2008/sgsm11515.doc.htm">told the annual dinner in New York of the Korea Society that he hoped developing countries can benefit from the ROK's experience in becoming both a democracy and an economic powerhouse, and transforming from a receiving nation to a donor country.

He also asked the Republic to be even more generous in its official development assistance (ODA) to needy countries, stressing the importance of such assistance in achieving the anti-poverty targets known as the Millennium Development Goals (<"http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/">MDGs) by 2015.

Mr. Ban called on the ROK to continue its "active and constructive role" in seeking the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula through the six-parties talks involving China, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), Japan, the ROK, Russia and the United States on efforts to dismantle the DPRK's nuclear weapons programme.

"As we move forward the task will become even more arduous," he said. "The United Nations and the international community will need to redouble their support. The best way to complement the six-party process is to build on progress achieved in the inter-Korean dialogue and cooperation over the past decade. I will do all I can to advance this work."

He also called for support for the DPRK's efforts to tackle the humanitarian needs of its most vulnerable citizens. The UN World Food Programme (WFP) warned today that the country, where 6.5 million people are already estimated to be suffering from food insecurity, faces a potential food crisis due to a low harvest resulting partly from last summer's heavy floods.
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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UN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COUNCIL TO HOLD MEETING ON EMERGING FOOD CRISIS

UN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COUNCIL TO HOLD MEETING ON EMERGING FOOD CRISIS New York, Apr 16 2008 4:00PM The President of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) has announced plans to hold a meeting of the Council early next month to discuss how to respond to the growing food crisis around the world.

Ambassador Léo Mérorès of Haiti, the current <"http://www.un.org/ecosoc/">ECOSOC President, made the decision after consultations with the Bureau of the Council and with Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, UN spokesperson Michele Montas told reporters.

Earlier this week, Mr. Ban told a joint meeting of ECOSOC, the Bretton Woods financial institutions, the World Trade Organization (<"http://www.wto.org/">WTO) and the UN Conference on Trade and Development (<"http://www.unctad.org/Templates/StartPage.asp?intItemID=2068">UNCTAD) that it was time for both short- and long-term measures to deal with the rising cost of basic foods.

"The rapidly escalating crisis of food availability around the world has reached emergency proportions," he said.

Public protests and tensions have already broken out in many countries, including Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Egypt, Senegal, Morocco and Haiti, because of the surging cost of living.
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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HOPES FOR POLITICAL SOLUTION IN DARFUR WILT UNDER MILITARY ACTION - UN REPORT

HOPES FOR POLITICAL SOLUTION IN DARFUR WILT UNDER MILITARY ACTION – UN REPORT New York, Apr 16 2008 3:00PM The prospect of negotiating a political solution to the Darfur crisis has become ever more remote as both the Sudanese Government and rebels appear determined to pursue a military solution, according to a United Nations <"http://www.un.org/Docs/journal/asp/ws.asp?m=s/2008/249">report released today.

At the same time the international community's failure to supply vital helicopters, transport and other logistical support is undermining the work of the seriously under-staffed African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unamid/index.html">UNAMID) to pacify a region where five years of fighting have killed more than 200,000 people and driven nearly 2.5 million others from their homes.

"I am extremely disappointed in the lack of progress on all fronts," Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says in the report that covers the UNAMID's operations for the first three months of the year.

"The parties appear determined to pursue a military solution; the political process stalled; the deployment of UNAMID is progressing very slowly and continues to face many challenges; and the humanitarian situation is not improving."

Blaming the lack of a political commitment on all sides as the primary obstacle, Mr. Ban stresses that if they had mustered the necessary will, agreed to cease hostilities, cooperated with the deployment of UNAMID and moved towards negotiations, "we would by now have started to witness significant progress towards a lasting solution."

UNAMID was set up at the end of last year with a target strength of 26,000 military and police personnel to replace a seriously under-manned and under-equipped African Union (AU) mission, but at present only has some 10,600 in the field, 1,400 of them civilians.

"It is critical that the international community recognize its own central role in supporting the mission, so as to enable it to effectively implement its mandate and contribute to improving the lives of the civilians of Darfur," Mr. Ban writes. "In that respect, more must be done to secure the necessary aviation and logistical capacities for a full and effective deployment.

"Creative solutions must be found for those shortfalls, and they must be found quickly. I once again call on all Member States to pledge the necessary capabilities for UNAMID or to prevail upon other who may be on a position to do so."

He notes that although the Government agreed in principle to the Mission's right to conduct night flights, it continues to obstruct operations by restricting flying hours. UNAMID has also not been afforded complete general freedom of movement, particularly in areas of West Darfur affected by ongoing violence between the Government and the rebel Justice and Equality Movement (JEM).

Turning to the effect of the fighting on Darfurians, Mr. Ban stresses that Government military actions in West Darfur and the widespread use of force against civilians has resulted in indiscriminate killings and other grave human rights abuses. "JEM must also be held accountable for the role it has played in creating those circumstances," he says.

Calling the implications of the current security situation for Darfurians grave, he adds that attacks on food convoys and general violence are hindering the provision of humanitarian aid. Moreover, sexual and gender-based violence in and around camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) is high.

He concludes with a call to all parties to "urgently commit to a cessation of hostilities and to meaningfully engage in the political process led by the Special Envoys" – Jan Eliasson of the UN and Salim Ahmed Salim of the AU, who have been spearheading efforts to launch negotiations.
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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ENDING CONFLICTS MUST REMAIN PRIORITY FOR UN AND AFRICAN UNION - BAN KI-MOON

ENDING CONFLICTS MUST REMAIN PRIORITY FOR UN AND AFRICAN UNION – BAN KI-MOON New York, Apr 16 2008 3:00PM Preventing and resolving conflicts peacefully must remain high on the shared agenda of the United Nations and the African Union, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told a high-level Security Council meeting today at UN Headquarters, calling for deeper cooperation between the two institutions.

In a <"http://www.un.org/apps/news/infocus/sgspeeches/statments_full.asp?statID=218">speech to a <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2008/sc9301.doc.htm">meeting on peace and security in Africa, attended by many heads of State and other high-level figures, Mr. Ban said he would "spare no effort" in making the partnership between the UN and the AU complementary, effective and inclusive.

The Secretary-General said the two bodies have already started taking concrete steps to work more closely together on peace and security issues, from deploying good offices and mediation on border issues to developing early warning strategies and building operational capacity on conflict prevention.

"We have established a dedicated team to help operationalize the concept of an African Stand-by Force, which would build on the valiant and pioneering efforts of the African Union's missions in Burundi, in Somalia, in Sudan," he said.

"Today, the DPKO [Department of Peacekeeping Operations] team develops training, operational capacity and technical advice, in collaboration with the African Union Commission, the sub-regional organizations and donors."

Mr. Ban said that given the importance he attached to preventing and resolving conflicts, he welcomed the recent announcement of a new Government in Kenya, which has been torn by deadly ethnic violence since disputed elections were held at the end of last year.

"Now that the immediate power-sharing issues have been addressed, I urge all sides to stay committed to resolving the longer-term causes of the recent unrest."

But he voiced deep concern at the uncertainty in Zimbabwe, where the results of the presidential election on 29 March have still not been released.

"Absent a transparent solution to the impasse, the situation could deteriorate further with serious implications for the people of Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwean authorities and the countries of the region have insisted that these matters are for the region to resolve, but the international community continues to watch and wait for decisive action.

"The credibility of the democratic process in Africa could be at stake here. If there is a second round of elections, they must be conducted in a fair and transparent manner, with international observers. I urge the leaders of the Southern African Development Community to continue their efforts."

The Secretary-General also called for accelerated efforts to achieve "desperately needed progress" to the crises in Sudan's Darfur region and to Somalia, both beset by deadly violence, massive displacement and humanitarian suffering.

Under-Secretary-General B. Lynn Pascoe also addressed the open Council meeting, presenting two reports from Mr. Ban regarding UN cooperation with regional organizations and on conflict prevention, especially in Africa.

More than 40 participants are expected to speak during today's debate, which is being chaired by President Thabo Mbeki of South Africa.
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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SECRETARY-GENERAL WELCOMES 'STEADY PROGRESS' IN CÔTE D'IVOIRE

SECRETARY-GENERAL WELCOMES 'STEADY PROGRESS' IN CÔTE D'IVOIRE New York, Apr 16 2008 1:00PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon welcomed the "steady progress" – including the improving political and security environment, economic recovery and advances in identifying the population – that has been achieved in Côte d'Ivoire, in a report published today ahead of his visit to the West African nation next week.

The country became divided in 2002 between the Government-controlled south and the rebel Forces Nouvelles-held north, but last year's Ouagadougou Peace Agreement paved the way for an end to the conflict and included a provision calling for free and fair elections to be held.

Presidential polls were to be held as far back as 2005, but after having been delayed several times since, are now slated for 30 November.

The advances made since the signing of that pact "can be attributed to the sustained partnership between President [Laurent] Gbagbo and Prime Minister [Guillaume] Soro," as well as national ownership of the peace process, Mr. Ban noted.

"The parties should do everything possible to preserve the spirit of reconciliation, sustained dialogue and inclusiveness engendered by the Ouagadougou Agreement in order to keep the peace process on track," he wrote.

Additionally, the report underscored the necessity of promoting disarmament; the dismantling of militias; the rehabilitation and reintegration of ex-combatants; Côte d'Ivoire's reunification; and the reinstatement of State authority throughout the nation.

The Secretary-General – who is scheduled to meet Mr. Gbagbo this afternoon – also welcomed the agreement among the Ivorian parties to hold elections this year, but cautioned that "the road to the elections, however, is fraught with a treacherous mix of technical challenges, security and political risks."

The election process could also be hampered by serious funding gaps, which could potentially roll back progress made so far, he observed.

"While the elections will contribute to the consolidation of peace and stability in the country, they also bear serious risks, if they are not conducted in a transparent, fair and credible manner," Mr. Ban warned.

The UN Mission in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI) reported last week that almost half a million Ivorians have received new birth certificates, the first step in a process to enable them to vote in national general elections.
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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IN TIMOR-LESTE, UN BEEFS UP SECURITY AHEAD OF PRESIDENT'S RETURN

IN TIMOR-LESTE, UN BEEFS UP SECURITY AHEAD OF PRESIDENT'S RETURN New York, Apr 16 2008 1:00PM Security has been stepped up in Timor-Leste ahead of the return of President Jose Ramos-Horta on Thursday, some two months after he was wounded in an assassination attempt, a senior United Nations police official said today.

Ahead of the President's return, the UN Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (<"http://www.unmiset.org/unmisetwebsite.nsf/MainFrame-EN.htm?OpenFrameset">UNMIT) today unveiled strengthened security arrangements for the President on his arrival and afterwards, including checkpoints near his house and close protection by UN and Timorese police.

Mr. Ramos-Horta has been undergoing medical treatment in Darwin, Australia, after being shot at his home in the Timorese capital, Dili, by rebel soldiers on 11 February. Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão came under fire in a separate attack on his motorcade but was not injured.

The attacks are among several security-related challenges the young nation – which the UN helped shepherd to freedom in 2002 – has experienced during its short period of independence.

Speaking to reporters in Dili today, UNMIT's Deputy Police Commissioner Juan-Carlos Arevalo said that one of the most important lessons from the attacks is that UN Police (UNPOL) should be reinstated into the security arrangements of the President.

Therefore, the Mission is providing members of the Portuguese Formed Police Unit (FPU) to be directly in charge of the close protection. "This team is very well equipped, very well trained and they have plenty of experience," said Mr. Arevalo.

"Another important lesson is that we need to strengthen our links and our coordination among all the institutions related to security," he added. "We need to increase our communication channels, we need to coordinate even more… in procuring security and stability for East Timor."
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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HAITI: UN MISSION'S BRAZILIAN CONTINGENT DISTRIBUTES FOOD FOLLOWING PRICE PROTESTS

HAITI: UN MISSION'S BRAZILIAN CONTINGENT DISTRIBUTES FOOD FOLLOWING PRICE PROTESTS New York, Apr 16 2008 12:00PM The Brazilian contingent of the United Nations mission in Haiti is distributing 14 tons of food to more than 3,000 families in Port-au-Prince, the capital, following widespread protests over rising food prices in the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere.

The beneficiaries of the gift from the Brazilian Government, especially children, are receiving rice, beans, sugar and oil in a distribution that will continue until the weekend in the city's poorest quarters, such as Cité Soleil, Bel-Air and Cité Militaire.

The officer in charge of the distribution, Colonel Paolo Cruz, acknowledged that the resources were limited, but said he hoped the gesture will help to bring peace to Cité Soleil and other areas of the capital.

"Even a drop of water can make a difference here," said a nun, Maria Aparecida, who has spent 10 years running a Cité Soleil health centre, where 60 children are recovering from malnutrition.

The UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti (<"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/minustah/">MINUSTAH), set up in 2004 to help re-establish peace after an insurgency forced then president Jean-Bertrand Aristide to go into exile, has also focused on a host of humanitarian issues.
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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HEALTH CARE MUST BE SCALED UP TO REDUCE MATERNAL AND CHILD DEATHS - UN

HEALTH CARE MUST BE SCALED UP TO REDUCE MATERNAL AND CHILD DEATHS – UN New York, Apr 16 2008 11:00AM With over 10 million women and children in developing countries still dying every year from largely preventable and treatable causes, a new report by United Nations agencies and their partners <" http://www.unicef.org/media/media_43577.html">calls for scaling up health care systems to reduce maternal and child deaths.

"<" http://www.who.int/pmnch/Countdownto2015FINALREPORT-apr7.pdf"> Tracking Progress in Maternal, Newborn and Child Survival" finds that few of the 68 developing countries that account for 97 per cent of maternal and child deaths worldwide are providing the necessary health care to save lives.

The 2008 report was released today as leading global health experts, policy-makers and parliamentarians convene in Cape Town, South Africa, to address further efforts to slash maternal and child mortality by 2015, part of a set of internationally-agreed targets known as the Millennium Development Goals (<" http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/">MDGs).

The report highlights the progress made in many of the 68 countries in areas such as preventing measles and malaria, including through the provision of vaccinations and insecticide-treated mosquito nets.

"Nonetheless, treatment for potentially fatal illnesses and other vital health services still fail to reach the majority of women and children," according to a news release on the findings of the report.

The report also identifies four "missed opportunities to save lives" – family planning, skilled care at birth, clinical care for sick children and nutrition.

At the same time, it notes that a number of countries, such as China, Haiti, Turkmenistan and several in sub-Saharan Africa, have made progress in the past three years in reducing the number of under-five deaths. In addition, 16 of the 68 countries are now 'on track' to achieving Goal number 4 on reducing child mortality.

The report urges Governments and their partners to improve health care for women and children, including by tackling obstacles such as weak health systems, funding shortages and inequalities in access.

And while donor funding for maternal, newborn and child health has risen in recent years, resulting in significant health gains, health systems remain "grossly under-funded" relative to the needs, it adds.
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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POSSIBLE FOOD CRISIS LOOMS OVER DPR KOREA, WARNS UN AGENCY

POSSIBLE FOOD CRISIS LOOMS OVER DPR KOREA, WARNS UN AGENCY New York, Apr 16 2008 11:00AM The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) <" http://www.wfp.org/english/?ModuleID=137&Key=2818">warned today that the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) is facing a potential food crisis owing to a low harvest resulting partly from last summer's heavy floods.

"The food security situation in the DPRK is clearly bad and getting worse," said WFP's Regional Director for Asia, Tony Banbury. "It is increasingly likely that external assistance will be urgently required to avert a serious tragedy."

It is estimated that more than 6.5 million people in DPRK suffer from food insecurity, and that number is expected to increase unless the growing food shortages are addressed.

In addition to the poor harvest, DPRK, like many other countries around the world, is trying to cope with the recent surge in food prices. The prices of staple foods such as rice and maize have doubled in the capital, Pyongyang, over the past year and are now at their highest recorded levels since 2004.

"The rapid rise in the real price of food for persons living in the DPRK confirms WFP's fears that the DPRK may suffer deeper and more widespread hunger this year," said Jean-Pierre de Margerie, WFP Country Director in Pyongyang.

"Now it takes a third of a month's salary just to buy a few days worth of rice. Families and especially vulnerable persons will suffer from lack of access to food, eat fewer meals and have a poorer diet, increasing their vulnerability to diseases and illness," he stated.

The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (<"http://www.fao.org">FAO) has predicted a food shortfall of 1.66 million metric tons in the country this year – almost twice the 2007 deficit and the highest since 2001.

Until 2005, WFP was assisting over six million people in DPRK – some 25 per cent of the population. Since 2006, following a DPRK government decision to reduce its operation, WFP has been assisting 1.1 million of the most vulnerable persons, mainly women and children.

The agency plans to distribute 45,000 metric tons of food in 50 of the DPRK's 203 counties until August, when its food aid programme is scheduled to end.

"WFP stands ready to do its part to help the people of the DPRK meet their minimum food needs, and avoid a possible return to the tragic circumstances of the past," said Mr. Banbury. "But WFP cannot solve the problem on its own. The DPRK government needs to provide the necessary operating conditions for aid agencies so that donors have confidence that their donations will be used for the intended purposes. And donors need to do their part to ensure that the people of DPRK do not go hungry, or worse."
2008-04-16 00:00:00.000

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UN WAR CRIMES TRIBUNAL FOR BALKANS GRANTS TEMPORARY RELEASE TO THREE MEN

UN WAR CRIMES TRIBUNAL FOR BALKANS GRANTS TEMPORARY RELEASE TO THREE MEN New York, Apr 15 2008 8:00PM The United Nations war crimes tribunal set up to deal with the worst crimes committed during the Balkan conflicts of the 1990s has granted temporary provisional release to three men either facing trial or mounting an appeal in separate cases.

The appeals chamber of the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (<"http://www.un.org/icty/">ICTY), sitting in The Hague, yesterday ordered that Berislav Puši&#263; be released from its custody, starting from the first feasible date and concluding on 2 May.

The reasons for the temporary release of Mr. Puši&#263;, whose original request was granted by the ICTY in February but then stayed following a prosecution appeal, will be detailed later, the tribunal said.

Mr. Puši&#263; and five other men – all senior figures in the Bosnian Croat wartime entity known as Herceg-Bosna – are currently jointly on trial in what is known as the 'Prlic and others' case, charged with committing war crimes in 1992 and 1993 against Bosnian Muslims and other non-Croats in south-western and central Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The many charges include murder rape, unlawful deportation, imprisonment, cruel treatment, unlawful labour, the wanton destruction of cities, towns and villages, and persecutions on political, racial or religious grounds.

Meanwhile, Vladimir Lazarevi&#263;, a former high-ranking official in the Yugoslav Army during the war in Kosovo in 1999, was today granted provisional release on humanitarian grounds from 25 April to 1 May. He will be in Serbia for the duration of the period under strictly controlled conditions, including 24-hour surveillance.

Mr. Lazarevi&#263; and five others are on trial for an alleged campaign of terror and violence directed against Kosovo Albanians and other non-Serbs living in Kosovo in 1999, with the charges including murder, persecution, deportation and forcible transfer of civilians.

Also today, the ICTY appeals chamber granted provisional release to Pavle Strugar, who has filed an appeal against his conviction for attacks on civilians and the destruction or wilful damage of the Old Town of the historic city of Dubrovnik during the war. He is to be released no later than 17 April for a period of no more than six days.

Mr. Strugar, a former commander in the Yugoslav Army, is currently serving an eight-year jail term for his role in the military campaign against Dubrovnik. But both he and prosecutors have appealed, and a hearing is scheduled for 23 April.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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SECURITY COUNCIL CALLS FOR MORE PROGRESS IN IMPLEMENTING LEBANON RESOLUTION

SECURITY COUNCIL CALLS FOR MORE PROGRESS IN IMPLEMENTING LEBANON RESOLUTION New York, Apr 15 2008 7:00PM The Security Council today called for greater progress on the outstanding issues needed to reach a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Hizbollah in southern Lebanon following their war in mid-2006.

In a <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2008/sc9300.doc.htm">presidential statement, Council members reiterated their commitment to the implementation of the Council resolution that ended the conflict and urged all parties in the region "to intensify their efforts" to comply with the text.

That resolution called for, among other issues, renewed respect for the Blue Line separating Lebanese and Israeli forces, the disarming of militias and an end to arms smuggling.

Ambassador Dumisani Kumalo of South Africa, which holds the rotating Council presidency this month, said in today's statement that the 15-member body "emphasizes the need for greater progress on all the key issues required for a permanent ceasefire and long-term solution."

He added that the Council gives its full support to the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and welcomed its recent enhanced cooperation with the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF). In addition, it urged all parties to abide by their obligations to respect the safety of UN personnel in the area.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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EASTERN DR CONGO WILL REMAIN FOCUS OF MISSION'S RESOURCES, UN ENVOY SAYS

EASTERN DR CONGO WILL REMAIN FOCUS OF MISSION'S RESOURCES, UN ENVOY SAYS New York, Apr 15 2008 7:00PM The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has made solid progress in trying to stabilize the volatile east of the country, but the continued presence of armed rebels and militias means the region will remain the overwhelming focus of its operations for some time, its chief told reporters today.

Alan Doss, the Secretary-General's Special Representative to the DRC and the head of the mission, known as MONUC, said as much as 90 to 92 per cent of the total number of blue helmets are deployed across the east of the vast country, which is trying to rebuild after years of misrule and civil war.

Nearly two out of every three MONUC peacekeepers are based in either of two provinces, North Kivu and South Kivu, where the fighting and violence has been the worst in recent years but two recent accords were signed.

Mr. Doss – who briefed the Security Council earlier today on the latest mission report – said the mission was making relative progress in restoring State authority to areas formerly controlled by rebels or other irregular armed groups, especially in the Ituri district of North Kivu.

A large proportion of the DRC, which is as big as Western Europe, remains at peace, he said, although they are still burdened by enormous challenges, such as human rights violations, high infant and maternal mortality, and what he described as an epidemic of sexual violence.

"This is a problem of immense dimensions," he stressed, noting the lack of a meaningful criminal justice system in many parts of the country and the widespread culture of impunity, including for members of the Congolese national security and defence forces who commit such violations.

He said the presence of the notorious rebel group from northern Uganda, the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), in the borderlands area was another concern, as no one knew of their intentions in the DRC.

Mr. Doss said it was also important to remain vigilant about the threats posed in the east by such armed groups as the Rwandan Interahamwe and the Forces Démocratiques de la Libération du Rwanda (FDLR).

MONUC is consulting with both the Rwandan and the Congolese Governments to try to persuade the groups to disarm and repatriate, he added, saying it was vital for the countries of the region to work together, particularly given the porous nature of the borders.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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BRAIN DRAIN CAN ALSO BE BRAIN GAIN FOR SOME SOURCE COUNTRIES - UN REPORT

BRAIN DRAIN CAN ALSO BE BRAIN GAIN FOR SOME SOURCE COUNTRIES – UN REPORT New York, Apr 15 2008 6:00PM The so-called brain drain of migrants taking their skills and initiative to their new countries of residence can also serve as an engine of growth in their homelands, according to a study released today by the United Nations University (<"http://www.unu.edu/index.htm">UNU).

"The idea that the mobility of bright, qualified people represents a permanent loss of scarce human capital for the source country is becoming rapidly outdated," study director Andrés Solimano said. "Talent mobility can bring benefits both to host and source countries."

But although this is the case in high-tech and other fields, it is not the case in the health sector, particularly in the case of migrating African, Asian and Caribbean health professionals.

"Here the old worries about brain drain are in general fully warranted," Mr. Solimano, regional adviser at the UN Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, told a news conference in New York.

Among positive examples cited by the study, <i>Mobilizing Talent for Global Developments</i>, figure several successful Indians and Taiwanese in the high-tech industry in the United States who also set up hardware and software companies in their home countries, contributing to growth.

Other examples include a successful mobile telephone company founded by a Bolivian entrepreneur in the US which has already opened several plants in Latin American capitals.

"So you see a pattern of circulation, part of the investments is done in the first world, part of the investments is done in the third world," Mr. Solimano said. "So this notion of one-way mobility, that people leave their country, take whatever abroad and are completely lost for the whole country should be reassessed. It's more realistic to think there's a movement of people in both directions."

But in the health sector the study, produced by the university's World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER), cautions that emigration hurts source countries.

As doctors, nurses and medical specialists continue to leave African, Asian and Caribbean countries, the health services they leave behind become depressed and inadequate, especially in Africa, which is already suffering the toll of HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases that kill and impair economic development.

The studies also recommends that countries that are losing talent should set up more liberal and open regimes that create a positive climate for business and the well-educated, leading to an improvement in the economy and society at large.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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CYPRUS: TOP UN POLITICAL OFFICIAL CAUTIOUSLY OPTIMISTIC ABOUT CHANCES OF PROGRESS

CYPRUS: TOP UN POLITICAL OFFICIAL CAUTIOUSLY OPTIMISTIC ABOUT CHANCES OF PROGRESS New York, Apr 15 2008 6:00PM The United Nations political chief told the Security Council today that he was optimistic that Cyprus could soon be reunified, but he also cautioned that the upcoming negotiations between the two communities on the Mediterranean island would not be easy.

Speaking to reporters after briefing the Council, B. Lynn Pascoe said he was looking forward to next week's start of substantive talks among the working groups set up under the agreement signed by the leaders of the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities on 21 March.

Mr. Pascoe, the Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, said his discussions last week with senior officials in both Athens and Ankara also left him "really optimistic" about the outlook for Cyprus and the chances of ending the long-running dispute.

"I think the entire world would be delighted to see Cyprus move forward on its negotiation," he said. "We would like to see this settled as soon as possible."

In response to a journalist's question, Mr. Pascoe said Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon would consider appointing a special envoy on the issue in the months ahead if the working groups make progress in the first phase.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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SECURITY COUNCIL EXTENDS UN OPERATION IN GEORGIA FOR FURTHER SIX MONTHS

SECURITY COUNCIL EXTENDS UN OPERATION IN GEORGIA FOR FURTHER SIX MONTHS New York, Apr 15 2008 6:00PM The Security Council today <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2008/sc9299.doc.htm">extended until 15 October the mandate of the United Nations Observer Mission in Georgia (UNOMIG), established in 1993 to verify compliance with a cessation of hostilities and separation of forces accord following the armed conflict between the Georgian and Abkhaz sides.

In unanimously adopting the resolution extending <"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unomig/index.html">UNOMIG, the 15-member body called on both sides to consolidate and build on recent improvements in the overall security situation along the ceasefire line, and underlined the need for "a period of sustained stability" along the line and in the Kodori Valley.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, in his recent report on Abkhazia, Georgia, noted that "a period of sustained stability along the ceasefire line and in the Kodori Valley would improve the prospect of repairing the much deteriorated relationship between the two sides."

In today's resolution, the Council urged "all parties to consider and address seriously each other's legitimate security concerns, to refrain from any acts of violence or provocation, including political action or rhetoric, and to comply fully with previous agreements regarding ceasefire and non-use of violence."

It also called on both sides to finalize without delay documents on the non-use of violence and on the return of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs).

At its February meeting in Geneva, the Secretary-General's Group of Friends expressed its disappointment at the lack of progress in implementing the proposals it had set out last year to boost confidence between the parties.

The Council too expressed its regret at the lack of such progress, and urged both sides to implement these measures without conditions.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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EGYPTIAN ACTOR APPEALS FOR FUNDS TO HELP UN FEED IRAQI REFUGEES IN SYRIA

EGYPTIAN ACTOR APPEALS FOR FUNDS TO HELP UN FEED IRAQI REFUGEES IN SYRIA New York, Apr 15 2008 5:00PM Egyptian actor Mahmoud Yassin, an Ambassador Against Hunger for the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), has appealed for urgent funds for the agency's operation in Syria which aims to feed some 360,000 Iraqi refugees by the end of this year.

The operation is facing a funding shortfall of 45 per cent, with WFP having received only $24 million out of the $44 million needed.

After meeting some of the Iraqi families assisted by WFP during his visit to Syria on Monday, Mr. Yassin said "the last thing they need is for their basic food requirements to be disrupted as well."

<"http://www.wfp.org/english/?n=31">WFP and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (<"http://www.unhcr.org/cgi-bin/texis/vtx/news">UNHCR), in partnership with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, carried out a distribution of food and other items in February.

"If the funds don't become available soon, the next round of food distribution may have to be postponed," warned Pippa Bradford, WFP's Country Director for Syria.

The food distribution in Syria is part of a $127 million regional operation that includes assistance to 750,000 Iraqis displaced within their country. That operation is facing a funding shortfall of over 60 per cent.

Syria is hosting some 1.5 million Iraqis who have left their homeland. Many of them have no savings or income and are finding it difficult to cope with the rising costs of living, including food prices.

A UN survey found that about a third of Iraqi refugees in Syria said they skipped one meal a day to feed their children. Sixty per cent said they were buying cheaper, often less nutritious, food owing to the high prices.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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UN STAFF AMONG FEW SURVIVORS OF DEADLY PLANE CRASH IN EASTERN DR CONGO

UN STAFF AMONG FEW SURVIVORS OF DEADLY PLANE CRASH IN EASTERN DR CONGO New York, Apr 15 2008 5:00PM Three United Nations staff members are among only a handful of survivors from today's plane crash in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) that has killed dozens of people, the UN peacekeeping mission to the country reports.

The mission, known as <"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/monuc/index.html">MONUC, said a Hewa Bora Airlines plane crashed soon after take-off at about 2:45 p.m. from the airport at Goma, close to the border with Rwanda. The Kinshasa-bound flight was carrying an estimated 80 passengers and six crew members.

Radio Okapi reported the plane experienced technical difficulties during the take-off and briefly reached an altitude of 100 metres before it crashed into homes in the nearby densely populated Birere suburb of Goma and burst into flames. Nearly all on board are reported to have died.

MONUC peacekeepers, fire brigades, ambulance crews, medical staff and first-aid providers were dispatched immediately to the crash site to help local authorities give treatment to the injured and evacuate victims to a UN hospital.

The mission said the few survivors include two international staff with the UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF), one of whom is in critical condition; one national staff member with the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (<"http://ochaonline.un.org/Default.aspx?tabid=1080">OCHA); and the spouse of an OCHA national staff member. The pilot, his co-pilot and a flight attendant are also believed to have survived.

The DRC has long had an extremely poor aviation safety record, and just last Friday the European Union added Hewa Bora Airlines to its blacklist of airlines banned from flying into EU air space.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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AID NEEDED TO FIGHT DRUG SMUGGLING IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA - UN ANTI-CRIME CHIEF

AID NEEDED TO FIGHT DRUG SMUGGLING IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA – UN ANTI-CRIME CHIEF New York, Apr 15 2008 4:00PM Smuggling routes in the sub-Saharan Sahel region of Africa that were traditionally used for cigarettes, arms and illegal migrants are now becoming highways for cocaine, heroin and hashish, with kidnapping and banditry rife, the United Nations chief crime fighter warned today.

"Policing such terrain is a challenge for any country, made even greater when resources are limited," UN Office on Drugs and Crime (<"http://www.unodc.org/unodc/index.html">UNODC) Executive Director Antonio Maria Costa told Western and Central African ministers at a session of the UN Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Vienna, calling for increased technical assistance.

"The international community must act to prevent a further deterioration of the situation that could destabilize the entire region and have a dangerous spill-over effect," he said. "Countries where these goods are headed should also do more to reduce the demand that is fuelling this dangerous trade."

He noted that criminals were also exploiting the region's rich natural resources, and that the overall situation provided a lucrative source of funding for rebels, anti-government forces and terrorists in a vast inhospitable and remote area stretching across the width of Africa, where nomads and traders have for centuries moved back and forth across borders.

Some countries like Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger have thousands of kilometres of almost open frontiers.

Not only is this a threat to security, but also a drain on development. Badly-needed resources are being shifted away from education and health care into security. In one country alone, resources spent on border security and crime fighting last year were sufficient to have built 600 schools and health centres.

"These countries are being targeted by smugglers because they are vulnerable, and criminal activity is making them even more vulnerable," Mr. Costa said. "We must break this vicious circle."

Among needs identifies for technical assistance were counter-narcotics, criminal justice reform, anti-corruption, border management, intelligence sharing, terrorism prevention and the battle against the illicit arms trade.

Counties represented at the meeting included Burkina Faso, Chad, Cape Verde, Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Mauritania, Togo, Niger and Senegal.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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FOOD PRODUCTION MUST BENEFIT WORLD'S POOR, URGE UN-BACKED SCIENTISTS

FOOD PRODUCTION MUST BENEFIT WORLD'S POOR, URGE UN-BACKED SCIENTISTS New York, Apr 15 2008 4:00PM A United Nations-backed group of over 400 scientists are calling for a radical change to the way the world grows food to better serve the poor and hungry and to protect the planet's resources.

Modern agriculture has brought significant increases in food production, but its benefits have been uneven and have come at a high cost to small-scale farmers, workers, rural communities and the environment, according to a new report by the International Assessment of Agricultural Science and Technology for Development.

The group, which is sponsored by several UN agencies, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (<"http://www.fao.org/">FAO) and the UN Environment Programme (<"http://www.unep.org/Documents.Multilingual/Default.asp?DocumentID=531&ArticleID=5769&l=en">UNEP), as well as the World Bank, proposes putting measures in place that will boost production while also protecting and conserving precious resources such as water, forests and biodiversity.

"To argue, as we do, that continuing to focus on production alone will undermine our agricultural capital and leave us with an increasingly degraded and divided planet is to reiterate an old message," said Professor Bob Watson, Director of IAASTD.

"But it is a message that has not always had resonance in some parts of the world. If those with power are now willing to hear it, then we may hope for more equitable policies that do take the interests of the poor into account," he added.

The group also calls for addressing trade regimes and subsidy systems, since, as Professor Watson noted, "the poorest developing countries are net losers under most trade liberalization scenarios."

The report comes just one day after Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stressed the need for a "significant increase in long-term productivity in food grain production," in addition to short-term measures to address critical needs and avert starvation in many parts of the world amid the global surge in food prices.

The crisis has already sparked unrest and tensions in many countries, including Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Egypt, Senegal, Morocco and, most recently, in Haiti, where several people have died in riots.

Today the UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF) expressed concern that the increasing food prices could force families to spend more on less food, and families might remove their children from school so that they can work and earn money.

Stopping school meals due to lack of funds is another concern, since the only semi-balanced meal many children eat are provided at schools, the agency noted.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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UN AGENCIES CALL ON ISRAEL TO IMMEDIATELY RESUME FULL FUEL SHIPMENTS TO GAZA

UN AGENCIES CALL ON ISRAEL TO IMMEDIATELY RESUME FULL FUEL SHIPMENTS TO GAZA New York, Apr 15 2008 3:00PM United Nations humanitarian and development agencies today called on Israel to immediately resume the distribution of sufficient fuel to the Gaza Strip to allow Palestinians there to go about their normal daily lives.

"The current situation is a threat to the health and well-being of the population of the Gaza Strip, 56 per cent of whom are children," a joint statement signed by eight UN bodies said. "The work of the United Nations organizations in Gaza has been severely hampered affecting schools, health facilities, and food distribution."

Israel ceased all fuel supplies to Gaza, which was already suffering from shortages, after an attack on 9 April by Palestinian militants, condemned by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon as an act of terrorism, on a fuel terminal in Nahal Oz, southern Israel, the sole overland conduit into the Strip.

The organizations called for a cessation of all acts of violence, including attacks such as the one on Nahal Oz, in which two Israelis were reported to have been killed. It said Israel's announcement that it would resume deliveries to Gaza's power plant was a positive, but insufficient to address severe fuel shortages for transport and generators.

"The current absence of fuel at petrol stations has meant that normal transportation has ceased," the agencies said. "Many students have been unable to get to school, and many health professionals have been unable to get to hospitals and clinics. There have been difficulties transporting essential items such as food throughout Gaza."

The signatories were: the UN Special Coordinator's Office (<"http://www.unsco.org/unsco.asp">UNSCO), UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (<"http://www.un.org/unrwa/english.html">UNRWA), World Food Programme (<"http://www.wfp.org/english/">WFP), World Health Organization (<"http://www.who.int/en/">WHO), Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (<"http://ochaonline.un.org/News/tabid/1080/Default.aspx">OCHA), UN Population Fund (<"http://www.unfpa.org/">UNFPA), UN Development Programme (<"http://www.undp.org/">UNDP) and UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF).
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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DARFUR: UN-AU MISSION TO PROBE MISCONDUCT ALLEGATIONS ABOUT STAFF MEMBER

DARFUR: UN-AU MISSION TO PROBE MISCONDUCT ALLEGATIONS ABOUT STAFF MEMBER New York, Apr 15 2008 3:00PM The United Nations-African Union hybrid peacekeeping force in Sudan's war-wracked Darfur region said today that it has opened an investigation into allegations by local authorities that one of its staff has engaged in misconduct.

The officer, serving with the mission (known as UNAMID) in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur state, was detained by authorities on Sunday before being handed over to the mission, as per the status-of-forces agreement signed by the Sudanese Government and UNAMID.

"It should be noted that medical tests undertaken this far, at the request of local police, proved negative," the mission said in a statement to the press.

"UNAMID upholds a zero-tolerance policy as regards misconduct by peacekeepers. Peacekeepers are expected to respect the culture and traditions of the host country and show the highest standards of conduct at all times."

The statement stressed that should the allegations prove founded, then the mission would take "appropriate measures" to deal with the staff member.

UNAMID was established by the Security Council last year to try to bring stability to Darfur, which has been beset by fighting between rebels, Government forces and allied militiamen since 2003. In that time, more than 200,000 people have died from violence, hunger or disease and nearly 2.5 million others have had to flee their homes.

At full deployment the mission should have around 26,000 uniformed personnel, but it currently has less than 10,000 troops, military observers and police officers in place across the arid and isolated region.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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'LONG-OVERDUE' JUSTICE NECESSARY IN CAMBODIA, SAYS SECRETARY-GENERAL BAN

'LONG-OVERDUE' JUSTICE NECESSARY IN CAMBODIA, SAYS SECRETARY-GENERAL BAN New York, Apr 15 2008 2:00PM Noting that today is the tenth anniversary of the death of the notorious Cambodian dictator Pol Pot, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called on the United Nations-backed tribunal to "soon deliver long-overdue justice for the people" of the South-East Asian country.

"I would like to remind the international community of the urgent importance of bringing to closure one of history's darkest chapters," Mr. Ban said in a <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=3098">statement.

"The United Nations and the Royal Government of Cambodia remain actively engaged in efforts to hold the Khmer Rouge senior leaders and those most responsible accountable for their horrific crimes."

The Secretary-General said it was his hope that the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) – which has been operational since July 2006 – could soon deliver justice.

Under an agreement signed by the UN and Cambodia, the ECCC was set up as an independent court using a mixture of Cambodian judges and staff and foreign personnel. It is designated to try those deemed most responsible for crimes and serious violations of Cambodian and international law between April 1975 and January 1979.

Estimates vary but as many as three million people died during the rule of the Khmer Rouge, which was then followed by a protracted period of civil war in the impoverished country.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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WORKPLACE ATTITUDES TO HIV/AIDS VASTLY IMPROVED, REPORTS UN LABOUR AGENCY

WORKPLACE ATTITUDES TO HIV/AIDS VASTLY IMPROVED, REPORTS UN LABOUR AGENCY New York, Apr 15 2008 1:00PM Effective HIV policies have led to more supportive attitudes at the workplace towards co-workers living with the virus, the United Nations International Labour Organization (ILO) says in a new report.

Prepared by the ILO Programme on HIV/AIDS in the world of work, "<"http://www.ilo.org/global/About_the_ILO/Media_and_public_information/Feature_stories/lang--en/WCMS_092034/index.htm">Saving lives, Protecting jobs" tracks changes in attitudes related to HIV and presents a series of good practices and data collected from workplaces, ministries of labour and employers' and workers' organizations.

"With 33.2 million people globally living with HIV, the majority of whom are still working and in their most productive years, the workplace is a unique entry point in addressing HIV/AIDS," the agency notes in a <"http://www.ilo.org/global/About_the_ILO/Media_and_public_information/Press_releases/lang--en/WCMS_092045/index.htm">news release.

The report summarizes the activities of the Strategic HIV/AIDS Responses in Enterprises (SHARE) project, which is active in over 650 workplaces in 24 countries, covering almost one million workers. It includes data gathered by the ILO over the past four years from six pilot countries – Belize, Benin, Cambodia, Ghana, Guyana and Togo – on the impact of HIV/AIDS activities and non-discrimination policies in the workplace.

"Several countries offer outstanding examples of how they address HIV/AIDS using the workplace for prevention, care and support, and tackle stigma and discrimination," said Dr. Sophia Kisting, Director of the ILO Programme.

The agency reported that in all six pilot countries, workers demonstrated "a marked improvement" in attitudes towards people living with HIV.

The percentage of workers who reported having a supportive attitude towards co-workers living with HIV rose from 49 per cent to 63 per cent on average during the period covered. In Ghana that figure increased from 33 per cent to 63 per cent.

The report also showed that attitudes towards condom use improved considerably in most countries, rising for example in Cambodia from 34 per cent to 68 per cent. Further, the percentage of workers who reported using condoms with non-regular partners rose in all six countries from 74 per cent to 84 per cent.

The ILO attributes the changes in behaviour to better policies and practices in the workplace, including an increase in the number of enterprises in the six pilot countries that have written HIV policies. In addition, employers' and workers' groups are increasingly making use of the ILO's Code of Practice on HIV/AIDS.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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UN-BACKED EFFORT TO REMOVE DANGEROUS NUCLEAR FUEL FROM SERBIA MOVES AHEAD

UN-BACKED EFFORT TO REMOVE DANGEROUS NUCLEAR FUEL FROM SERBIA MOVES AHEAD New York, Apr 15 2008 1:00PM A global effort to remove dangerous spent fuel and decommission a Soviet-designed nuclear reactor in Serbia has cleared another major funding hurdle as part of a United Nations-backed initiative to close down potential sources of terrorism and proliferation.

The UN International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) <"http://www.iaea.org/NewsCenter/News/2008/ecInfusesSerbian.html">said today that together with the Serbian Government it recently signed a $8.63 million framework agreement with the European Commission (EC) to help fund decommissioning the reactor at Vinca reactor on the outskirts of Belgrade, the capital.

But $25 million more is still needed to complete the project, which includes repatriating to Russia high-enriched uranium (HEU) that could be converted to weapons-grade material.

"The EC support was absolutely crucial to the life of the programme, but we have quite a ways to go to find the remaining $25 million for the project," said IAEA Special Programme Manager for the Vinca Institute Nuclear Decommissioning (VIND), John J. Kelly.

"The EC contribution serves as a great example and encourages other potential donors to invest in an important and successful project. With radioactive waste, disused sources, and leaking spent fuel that's almost 45 years old, the Vinca site presents huge radiological challenges."

Once completed, the spent fuel shipment will comprise the largest in the European theatre, and extra shipping casks have already been built for the project through funding received from the United States.

Thousands of containers of unprocessed radioactive waste and disused sealed radioactive sources must also be removed from old, degraded storage buildings, repackaged and placed into new holding facilities. In a third stage the reactor will be decommissioned.

Security at Vinca had long been a source of concern, with much of the dangerous material and facilities inadequately protected, but thanks to funding and other support from the Serbian Government and the US for upgrades and police, overall security has been substantially improved over the past two years.

International concern over Vinca mushroomed in the 1990s after the break-up of the former Yugoslavia, which led to increased international cooperation to reduce the radiological risk.

The IAEA has been involved in various such projects in recent years from now independent of reunified countries that were part of the Soviet sphere of influence, including the secret airlift from the former East Germany of 270 kilos of HEU that could be used by terrorists to make nuclear explosives and the repatriation from Uzbekistan of fuel containing enough uranium to produce two and a half nuclear bombs.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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CHAD: UN DISTRIBUTES AID TO REFUGEES LEFT HOMELESS AFTER CAMP BLAZE

CHAD: UN DISTRIBUTES AID TO REFUGEES LEFT HOMELESS AFTER CAMP BLAZE New York, Apr 15 2008 11:00AM The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has <" http://www.unhcr.org/news/NEWS/48037d694.html">provided temporary housing and relief supplies to more than 2,000 Darfurians who were left homeless after a fire swept through part of the Goz Amer refugee camp in eastern Chad last week.

The agency has distributed mats, blankets, kitchen sets and jerry cans to some 2,130 refugees from Sudan's war-torn Darfur region, who are currently being housed in three schools at the camp until family tents arrive in the coming days.

In addition, the UN World Food Programme (<"http://www.wfp.org/english/">WFP) will be handing out an extra one-month food ration to the affected families.

UNHCR spokesperson Ron Redmond said the cause of last Friday's blaze is believed to be an untended cooking fire which spread rapidly due to high winds.

As of Monday, 24 refugees had been admitted to the camp's health centre with various burn injuries – none of them life-threatening. In addition, at least 15 severely traumatized refugees are receiving counselling from a UNHCR partner organisation in the camp.

"Staff report that some of those made homeless are suffering from psychological trauma because the blaze rekindled memories of the Janjaweed attacks on their villages, including house torching, that forced them to flee from Darfur to Chad in 2003 and 2004," Mr. Redmond said.

Goz Amer, which lies about 70 kilometres from the border with Darfur, is host to about 20,500 people and it is the southernmost of 12 UNHCR-run camps in the region that are home to more than 240,000 Darfurians in total.

UNHCR plans to rebuild the destroyed section of the camp using more solid material than the straw and mud that most shelters are made from.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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ROADBLOCKS LEAVE HUNDREDS OF AFGHAN REFUGEES STRANDED IN PAKISTAN - UN

ROADBLOCKS LEAVE HUNDREDS OF AFGHAN REFUGEES STRANDED IN PAKISTAN – UN New York, Apr 15 2008 10:00AM Hundreds of Afghan refugees set to leave Peshawar in Pakistan's North West Frontier Province (NWFP) to return to their homeland have been left stranded after local tribal disputes shut down a key road between the two countries, the United Nations refugee agency reported today.

Over 360 Afghan families that had been processed for repatriation from Peshawar on Monday were unable to leave due to the roadblock along the Peshawar-Torkham highway.

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has temporarily suspended its voluntary repatriation operation via Peshawar in order to prevent more families from being stranded.

UNHCR spokesperson Ron Redmond <"http://www.unhcr.org/news/NEWS/48048a594.html"><told reporters in Geneva that assisted returns will start again once the road is cleared.

The blockage has also meant that more time will be needed to repatriate those Afghans living in the Jalozai refugee camp in NWFP. The deadline to close that camp was today.

"UNHCR acknowledges that Jalozai must be closed as previously agreed and that its residents must cooperate by leaving on time," said Mr. Redmond. "Nonetheless, we hope the Pakistani government can give them a little more time in view of the current impasse on the Peshawar-Torkham road."

More than 70,000 Afghans living there have been given the options of voluntary repatriation to Afghanistan or relocation to an existing refugee village in Pakistan.

Over 3,000 have repatriated in recent weeks, while more than 30 families have asked to be relocated to Kot Chandna refugee village in Pakistan's Punjab province.

"The authorities have assured us that houses that are still occupied will not be demolished, and that basic services such as food, water and electricity will keep running until the last inhabitant leaves," Mr. Redmond said.

"We have also urged the authorities to be more proactive on relocating Afghans who cannot return to Afghanistan," he added.

Meanwhile, assisted returns are unaffected and continue in south-western Pakistan through UNHCR's Baleli Voluntary Repatriation Centre in Balochistan.
2008-04-15 00:00:00.000

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LACK OF FUNDING COULD PUT HALF A MILLION IN CHAD AT RISK, WARN UN AID OFFICIALS

LACK OF FUNDING COULD PUT HALF A MILLION IN CHAD AT RISK, WARN UN AID OFFICIALS New York, Apr 14 2008 7:00PM United Nations humanitarian officials have repeated their appeal for funds to support nearly half a million refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Chad, noting that less than 20 per cent of the $290 million requested last December has been provided.

Only $51 million has been received so far for the 2008 Humanitarian Appeal for Chad, which covers 70 projects proposed by eight UN agencies and 14 non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator John Holmes said he was still hopeful that donors will respond generously to the appeal.

"But if funding trends do not significantly improve in the coming months, this could have devastating consequences for nearly half a million people who heavily rely on humanitarian assistance for their survival," he warned.

In addition to the more than 180,000 IDPs who have fled internal conflict in the east of the country, Chad also hosts over a quarter of a million refugees from the Sudan, and more than 57,000 refugees from the Central African Republic (CAR).

Solofo Ramaroson, head of the UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF) field office in Chad's eastern town of Abéché, also cautioned that "should our life-saving operations ever be interrupted, whether due to lack of funding or to insecurity, the current crisis would seriously deteriorate within a short period of time."

Humanitarian actors in Chad are set to meet in May to revise the humanitarian needs and the requirements for the response.

The acting UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Chad, Eliane Duthoit, noted that the 2007 Humanitarian Appeal for the country was the "best-funded worldwide," having received 99 per cent of the $274 million requested.

The contributors to this year's appeal include Canada, Finland, Ireland, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland and the United States.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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UN MISSION WELCOMES UNVEILING OF PRESIDENTIAL POLL DATE IN CÔTE D'IVOIRE

UN MISSION WELCOMES UNVEILING OF PRESIDENTIAL POLL DATE IN CÔTE D'IVOIRE New York, Apr 14 2008 7:00PM The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI) today welcomed the announcement that the country's much delayed presidential elections will now be held on 30 November this year.

The publication of the poll date "is one of the greatest achievements in the Ivorian peace process since the outbreak of the crisis more than four years ago," UNOCI said in a press release issued in Abidjan.

Côte d'Ivoire became divided in 2002 between the Government-controlled south and the rebel Forces Nouvelles-held north, but last year's Ouagadougou Peace Agreement paved the way for an end to the conflict and included a provision calling for free and fair elections to be held.

Presidential polls were to be held as far back as 2005, but have been delayed several times since then.

In its statement <"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unoci/index.html">UNOCI encouraged all Ivorian parties "to consolidate the current momentum by demonstrating the same will to move ahead and the same commitment to public interest."

However, in a mid-term <"http://www.un.org/Docs/journal/asp/ws.asp?m=s/2008/235">report to the Security Council that was released today, the Côte d'Ivoire Group of Experts said it had gathered credible information that members of the defence and security forces of both the Government and the Forces Nouvelles are being trained in the territories of other UN Member States, a breach of a 2004 Council resolution.

The Group also voiced deep concern that UNOCI has been unable to inspect sites held by the Garde Républicaine to monitor the arms embargo established by the Council, and that Ivorian authorities routinely deny access to such sites, claiming that inspections are outside UNOCI's mandate.

Turning to the area of customs, the Group said the major weakness of the embargo stemmed from the failure of Ivorian authorities to sensitize customs staff to be vigilant and not allow the export or imports of prohibited goods.

During the reporting period the experts were also informed by Mali that an attempt was made last December to export 31 rough diamonds, purportedly of Malian origin, through Bamako airport.

Exporting rough diamonds from Mali is illegal as the West African country is not a member of the Kimberley Process, the system set up in 2003 to prevent rebel groups and others from profiting from diamond sales.

The Group said the diamonds may be of Ivorian origin, it recommends that the Kimberley Process send a technical working group to Bamako to examine the seized diamonds.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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AFTER FAILURE TO REACH PEACE DEAL IN NORTHERN UGANDA, UN ENVOY TRIES FRESH TACK

AFTER FAILURE TO REACH PEACE DEAL IN NORTHERN UGANDA, UN ENVOY TRIES FRESH TACK New York, Apr 14 2008 6:00PM The United Nations envoy heading efforts to end the conflict that has ravaged northern Uganda for two decades will contact the key parties to assess the way forward after the Government and the rebel Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) failed last week to sign a permanent peace agreement, a UN spokesperson said today.

Joaquim Chissano, the Secretary-General's Special Envoy for the LRA-Affected Areas, will try to see what can be done now to support the peace process, spokesperson Marie Okabe told reporters.

"We were obviously expecting a different outcome," she said, adding that the UN has yet to make a full assessment of the situation. "In the best of cases, this will be only a temporary setback to the process, but we cannot say at this point."

Ugandan Government forces have been fighting the LRA in the north of the country since the mid-1980s and during the conflict the rebel group has become notorious for its human rights abuses.

A series of accords struck by the two sides earlier this year raised hopes that they could reach a permanent, wide-ranging agreement ending the conflict, and last week LRA leaders were expected to emerge and sign a deal mediated by the Government of Southern Sudan. But that did not happen.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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IRAQ: UN BACKS CONFERENCE TO PREVENT RECURRENCE OF CHOLERA OUTBREAK IN KURDISTAN

IRAQ: UN BACKS CONFERENCE TO PREVENT RECURRENCE OF CHOLERA OUTBREAK IN KURDISTAN New York, Apr 14 2008 6:00PM A United Nations-backed international conference is under way in Iraq's Kurdistan region to draw up measures to prevent a recurrence of last year's cholera outbreak, which saw more than 30,000 people fall ill with acute watery diarrhoea.

"Last year's crisis demonstrated how crucial it is to embark on concerted efforts to urgently improve the delivery of basic services to the population in order that another outbreak of cholera does not occur again this year," UN Development Programme (<"http://www.undp.org/">UNDP) country director Paolo Lembo told the gathering of the disease, which is spread by drinking contaminated water and in extreme cases can be fatal.

"The United Nations will do everything it can to support such efforts," he said, citing the need for the international community's assistance given the risks for the region of another outbreak.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's Special Representative for Iraq Staffan de Mistura and Kurdistan Regional Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani are patrons of the conference, and UNDP, the UN World Health Organisation (<"http://www.who.int/en/">WHO) and the UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF) are participating.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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GENERAL ASSEMBLY PRESIDENT CALLS ON STATES TO RESIST 'TEMPTATION OF PROTECTIONISM'

GENERAL ASSEMBLY PRESIDENT CALLS ON STATES TO RESIST 'TEMPTATION OF PROTECTIONISM' New York, Apr 14 2008 5:00PM Countries should resist the "temptation of protectionism" because free trade and the broader process of globalization have brought people closer together and play an important role in reducing poverty, the General Assembly President has told an international meeting on democracy and development.

Speaking last night to the opening of the Doha Forum on Democracy, Development and Free Trade, held in the Qatari capital, Srgjan Kerim said that free trade agreements have become "the engine of regional integration," citing the examples of pacts involving the European Union (EU), the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

"Democracy fosters openness and open societies tend to trade more and freely," Mr. Kerim said, stressing that countries can always achieve more when they work together rather than when they operate alone.

"Globalization has further accentuated and strengthened the nexus of relations between democracy, development and free trade, increasing our mutual interdependence, the complexity and density of relationships between our economies, societies, politics and individuals; and, the speed at which we need to face changes and interact with each other.

"This has led to a proliferation of actors in the international arena. Influential individuals, civil society groups, think tanks, corporations and religious institutions operate internationally and have created new social and economic networks."

Today's biggest global problems, including climate change, terrorism and sustainable development, can only be solved when countries cooperate in "a new kind of internationalism that puts the well-being of the individual and communities at its centre."

Mr. Kerim warned that "the temptation of protectionism remains to this very day. It needs to be resisted, all the more so as free and fair trade also has its immediate benefits. It is essential to reducing poverty."

While in Doha, Mr. Kerim also held bilateral meetings with Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani and with the country's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Hamad bin Jassem bin Jabor al Thani.

The leaders discussed the role of Qatar in the work of the UN and the priority activities of the 192-member Assembly during this session, including preparations leading up to the review conference of the implementation of the Monterrey Consensus on financing for development. This gathering is slated to take place in Doha from 29 November to 2 December.

At the Forum in Doha, the Assembly President also held talks with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and with Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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UN-BACKED PROGRAMME FOR CLEAN ENERGY PROJECTS PASSES 1000 MILESTONE

UN-BACKED PROGRAMME FOR CLEAN ENERGY PROJECTS PASSES 1000 MILESTONE New York, Apr 14 2008 5:00PM A mechanism under the United Nations-backed Kyoto Protocol that allows industrialized countries to generate credits through investment in emission reduction projects in developing countries reached a milestone today, approving its 1000th clean energy project.

The project in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by more than 34,000 tons annually, according to a news release issued by the secretariat of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (<"http://unfccc.int/2860.php">UNFCCC), the parent treaty of the <"http://unfccc.int/kyoto_protocol/items/2830.php">Kyoto Protocol.

To be registered with the Protocol's Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) and then earn Certified Emission Reduction (CER) credits, projects must pass a rigorous process of approval and independent third-party monitoring designed to ensure that emission reductions claimed by a project are real, verifiable and additional to what would have taken place without the project.

Rajesh Kumar Sethi, Chair of the CDM Executive Board, who signed off on the project at a joint coordination workshop in Bonn, Germany, noted that with 1,000 projects in 49 countries in just two and a half years, the mechanism has shown its potential.

At the same time, "it's clear that there is still much greater potential that can be realized, while respecting the imperative of ensuring environmental integrity and making the mechanism as simple as possible," said Mr. Sethi.

The Bonn workshop brought together about 240 representatives of CDM regulatory implementers and national stakeholders who discussed, among other things, registration of CDM projects and issuance of CERs, emissions baseline setting and monitoring methodologies, and accreditation of third-party certifiers.

The CDM has been hailed as one of the Kyoto Protocol's greatest successes by UNFCCC Executive Secretary Yvo de Boer, who said that it "provided developed countries with a degree of flexibility in how they meet their commitments under the Kyoto Protocol."
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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DARFUR: UN AND AFRICAN UNION ENVOYS TO HOLD MORE CONSULTATIONS IN SUDAN

DARFUR: UN AND AFRICAN UNION ENVOYS TO HOLD MORE CONSULTATIONS IN SUDAN New York, Apr 14 2008 5:00PM The United Nations and African Union envoys spearheading international efforts to resolve the five-year conflict wracking Darfur will tomorrow begin a four-day visit to Sudan to hold consultations with the movements that have not signed previous peace agreements in the region.

The aim of the consultations involving the UN's Jan Eliasson and the AU's Salim Ahmed Salim is to brief the parties on informal discussions held in Geneva last month with regional and international partners to the peace process and to seek their views on the way forward, UN spokesperson Marie Okabe told reporters today.

The main focus of the consultations will be on the need to improve the security situation across Darfur, which is affecting not only humanitarian operations and the work of the hybrid UN-AU peacekeeping mission (known as <"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/unamid/">UNAMID), but the political process as well, she said.

The visit by Mr. Eliasson and Mr. Salim will take place a week after consultations were held in the capital, Khartoum, and the southern city of Juba with the Government, the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) – the former rebels from the separate north-south civil war that ended in 2005 – and one of the Darfur movements, the United Resistance Front (URF).

Mr. Eliasson and Mr. Salim have repeatedly reiterated their calls for the parties to the Darfur conflict, which have claimed more than 200,000 lives and displaced nearly 2.5 million others since 2003, to end all violence and prepare for substantive talks aimed at devising a durable peace.

The parties cannot fight and prepare for peace talks at the same time, the envoys have said, stressing that a reduction is violence is vital if progress is to be made on the political front.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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PROGRESS IN KEY AREAS WILL IMPACT UN DRAWDOWN IN LIBERIA, SAYS TOP OFFICIAL

PROGRESS IN KEY AREAS WILL IMPACT UN DRAWDOWN IN LIBERIA, SAYS TOP OFFICIAL New York, Apr 14 2008 5:00PM Challenges related to security, rule of law and economic development must be addressed if Liberia is to solidify the progress made so far and the United Nations is to successfully draw down its presence there, the world body's top official in the West African nation said today.

"The hope and tranquillity we see today is tempered by a tenuous and fragile peace," Ellen Margrethe Løj, the Secretary-General's Special Representative for Liberia, told a <"http://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2008/sc9297.doc.htm">meeting of the Security Council today.

She pointed out that while the overall situation in Liberia was stable, recent months have witnessed several incidents of violence on rubber plantations and in diamond mining areas, as well as mob violence. Such incidents highlight the need for security sector reform in the country, which is rebuilding after a devastating civil war.

The security of the country continues to rely heavily on the presence of the police and military forces of UN Mission in Liberia (<"http://unmil.org/">UNMIL), which is headed by Ms. Løj. "This is clear evidence that peace has not taken firm roots and it is not yet time to declare victory and leave the country," she stated.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, in a report issued last August, outlined a drawdown plan for both the military and police component of UNMIL to be carried out in several stages, resulting in 9,750 peacekeeping troops and UN police on the ground in Liberia at the end of 2010.

The plan is contingent on a number of core benchmarks, particularly relating to the Liberian National Police (LNP), military forces and rule of law institutions.

Speaking to reporters after the Council meeting, Ms. Løj noted that there are concerns among Liberians that UNMIL would depart the country prematurely, leaving behind a security vacuum. "The Mission is trying to assure the public that the drawdown is taking place so as to minimize threats to the security of the country and also to deal with any serious disruptions," she stated.

The drawdown plan, Ms. Løj pointed out in her briefing to the Council, "is intended to provide the time and space needed for Liberia to build up its own police and military forces and progressively assume full responsibility for national security."

Progress is being made, although slower than expected, in the training and restructuring of the new Armed Forces of Liberia, Ms. Løj reported, adding that any further delays will prevent the new army from becoming fully operational before late 2009, and impact on the timeline for UNMIL's drawdown.

The reform of the LNP "constitutes a bigger challenge," she stated, emphasizing the need to focus on improving the quality and professionalism of the officers, enhancing management and providing the LNP with the equipment and resources required to perform effectively.

Deficiencies in the justice system – including lack of adequate funding, shortage of qualified personnel, lack of infrastructure, low salaries and corruption, pose another major challenge – stated Ms. Løj, adding that many Liberians have little confidence in such as system.

"Liberians do not trust the system. They do not trust the Liberian police. They do not trust the justice system, and they are all too quick to return to the civil war mentality of fending for themselves," she told journalists.

She also highlighted the need for economic growth, particularly to reduce the high unemployment rate, which poses a "serious security threat." Crucial in this regard will be implementing the country's new national poverty reduction strategy.

To address gender-based violence in Liberia, UNMIL and the UN Country Team are supporting the Government in finalizing the national gender policy. The Government has also developed a national action plan against gender-based violence to deter and prosecute rape cases and approved a new rape law.

In a related development, Ms. Løj and Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf have jointly commissioned a peace park in a suburb of the capital, Monrovia, in recognition of the contributions of former UN envoy Alan Doss to the rebuilding and prosperity of the country.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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EUROPEAN FOOTBALL CLUBS TEAM UP WITH UN TO SCORE AGAINST WORLD HUNGER

EUROPEAN FOOTBALL CLUBS TEAM UP WITH UN TO SCORE AGAINST WORLD HUNGER New York, Apr 14 2008 4:00PM The Association of the European Professional Football Leagues (EPFL) today mustered its more than 900 member clubs to support the United Nations in its fight against hunger in the latest case of international sports teaming up with the Organization to advance humanitarian causes.

UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Director-General Jacques Diouf signed a cooperation agreement in Lisbon with David Richards, EPFL President and Chairman of England's Premier League, to promote a series of initiatives to sensitize the public on issues related to food security, including fund-raising.

"The two organizations believe that the power of football is a key tool in development and in advocating for the fight against hunger and towards the achievement of the first Millennium Development Goal (<"http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/">MDGs) – to reduce by half the proportion of people who suffer from hunger and poverty in the world by 2015," FAO said in a news release.

"With this strategy, the two organizations hope that football will become a tool for advocacy with the ultimate goal of improving living conditions for the world's poorest people and a means to mobilize resources in the fight against global hunger."

EPFL consists of 27 member and associated member leagues, comprising more than 900 football clubs across Europe. Top European players already helping <"http://www.fao.org/">FAO in its fight against hunger include former star of Juventus and Inter, Italy's Roberto Baggio, and Spain's Raúl Gonzalez, captain of Real Madrid. Both are FAO Goodwill Ambassadors.

Last month, FAO signed a similar agreement signed with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to mount solidarity campaigns, such as national or regional food security programmes, TeleFood projects and cultural and sporting events held to promote the development of agriculture, nutrition and the environment.

These initiatives, in the framework of World Food Day and TeleFood activities, will draw attention to the plight of the more than 850 million hungry around the world and raise funds to support FAO micro-projects to help families and poor communities to produce their own food.

One example, among the more than 2,500 small-scale existing projects in 130 countries, are school gardens where students learn how to grow their own crops and breed livestock, and also benefit from meals at school prepared with the food they produce.

The campaign is but the latest in a whole series of collaborations between UN agencies and world sport, which has seen the likes of football legends Ronaldo and Zinédine Zidane shooting against poverty, the European Swimming League in "a race against time" to prevent deaths from unclean water and the Cricket World Cup batting for the Joint UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (<"http://www.unaids.org/en/">UNAIDS) and the UN Children's Fund (<"http://www.unicef.org/">UNICEF) in the battle against HIV/AIDS.

Similar initiatives have involved the International Rugby Board, American football stars, marathon runners and Formula One auto racers.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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SECRETARY-GENERAL BAN WELCOMES AGREEMENT ON KENYA'S COALITION GOVERNMENT

SECRETARY-GENERAL BAN WELCOMES AGREEMENT ON KENYA'S COALITION GOVERNMENT New York, Apr 14 2008 4:00PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today welcomed the agreement on a grand coalition Government in Kenya formed by both major parties following months of post-election violence in which 1,000 people were killed and more than 300,000 others forced to flee their homes.

"The Secretary-General encourages both parties to urgently address" issues related to finding a solution to the root causes of the crisis, a <"http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=3096">statement issued by Mr. Ban's spokesperson said.

The violence erupted after disputed elections in December in which President Mwai Kibaki was declared the winner over opposition leader Raila Odinga.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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UN RELIEF CHIEF OPTIMISTIC OF GREATER HUMANITARIAN COOPERATION FROM GULF STATES

UN RELIEF CHIEF OPTIMISTIC OF GREATER HUMANITARIAN COOPERATION FROM GULF STATES New York, Apr 14 2008 4:00PM United Nations Emergency Relief Coordinator John Holmes said today he was reasonably optimistic of building over time greater partnerships between UN agencies and the Gulf Arab States, which have a tradition of bilateral donations, in channelling humanitarian contributions multilaterally.

"The encouraging thing I found was that there was a recognition of the need to, of the desirability of working more closely together with the United Nations humanitarian system and the international humanitarian system more widely," Mr. Holmes told a news conference in New York following a visit to Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

"I wasn't there asking for money for any particular cause or any particular fund or any particular request. It wasn't that kind of visit. It was more like trying to create the kind of partnerships, long-term partnerships… which I think are appropriate," he said, calling his talks very constructive and noting that the message he was carrying was not new.

"I was pointing out for them the advantages of channelling resources where they want to give them through the international system in the sense that we have already through our existing mechanisms established needs, established priorities and established projects which can be funded multilaterally in a very transparent and accountable way," added Mr. Holmes, who is also Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs.

"I am reasonably optimistic that over time these kinds of discussions will bear fruit in the form of better partnerships and a more multilateral channelling of resources from these countries to the international humanitarian system. But I am not expecting a sort of instant results right now."

Asked about the situation in Gaza, where crossing points with Israel have been closed, Mr. Holmes said it remained grim but there was a marginal improvement last month when twice as many lorry-loads of goods got through as in February. But that was still a very low base since February's figures were only 10 per cent those of the same period in 2007.

"It still leaves the inhabitants of Gaza very, very substantially short of what it is they need to lead a normal and decent life. Nevertheless it is a marginal improvement from the situation we saw in February and we will be pressing for that to go on improving," he added.

"We have been discussing with the Israeli authorities how we can try to persuade them to allow more goods in even if they're not going to lift the embargo or blockade altogether."
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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QUICK PROGRESS ON MILLENNIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS 'OBVIOUSLY POSSIBLE' - MIGIRO

QUICK PROGRESS ON MILLENNIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS 'OBVIOUSLY POSSIBLE' – MIGIRO New York, Apr 14 2008 3:00PM Although many countries remain off track in meeting the ambitious Millennium Development Goals (<"http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/">MDGs) that seek to slash hunger poverty and a host of other social ills by 2015, quick and significant progress is obviously possible, according to Deputy Secretary-General Asha-Rose Migiro.

"Many countries are proving this," Ms. Migiro told a meeting of the Inter-Parliamentary Union yesterday in Cape Town, South Africa, citing increased public school enrolment, reduced child mortality thanks to massive vaccination campaigns, with 3 million more children surviving annually compared with the year 2000.

"And we know the ingredients for success. Strong government leadership. Good policies that support private investment. And sound strategies for scaling up public investments. "The international community must back these favourable conditions with financial and technical assistance," she said.

"Our ambitious vision for a better world is still within reach, but we need all States to follow through on their commitments. Developing countries, yes, but especially those which are already more developed," she added, calling for immediate rigorous and concerted national and international action to push back the frontiers of poverty, especially in light of skyrocketing food prices.

Ms. Migiro noted that parliaments are key to achieving the MDGs, by showing political will in legislation and budget allocations. In developed countries in the North, parliaments should contribute to government efforts to honour their commitment to allocate 0.7 per cent of gross national income to official development assistance whose latest figures are in steep decrease.

In the developing countries of the South, parliaments should not only be preoccupied by domestic issues but relate to what is taking place at the regional as well as the global level, she said.

"They must press to ensure that their governments mobilize resources, set strategies and adopt policies geared toward reaching the MDGs. And they should participate in formulating poverty reduction strategies and monitoring efforts to carry them out," she added, stressing the importance of accountability, good governance and human rights.

Turning to climate change, Ms. Migiro noted that negotiations in Bangkok earlier this month agreed on a work programme to move forward towards crafting a new international climate change agreement.

"Now is when the real work begins, and given the magnitude of the challenge ahead, actors from across the spectrum – not just government negotiators – need to be involved," she said.

"Governments at the national and local level need to work closely with intergovernmental organizations, the private sector, the media, civil society and individuals from around the world. As we seek to galvanize public opinion, Parliaments are uniquely poised to assist in this global alliance for action," she added.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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FRESH POLLING FOR NEPAL'S CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY NEEDED IN 98 CENTRES - UN

FRESH POLLING FOR NEPAL'S CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY NEEDED IN 98 CENTRES – UN New York, Apr 14 2008 3:00PM Nepal's Election Commission has announced that re-polling following last week's historic Constituent Assembly election will be required in 98 stations out of some 20,000 across the country, a spokesperson for the United Nations said today.

Marie Okabe told reporters that the re-polling in the 98 stations, covering 21 constituencies and 12 districts, will be completed within a week.

Meanwhile, ballot counting in the 10 April polls is under way in 132 constituencies, mostly focusing on the results for the first-past-the-post ballots.

The UN Mission in Nepal (UNMIN) is providing technical assistance and advice to Nepal's Election Commission, which is fully responsible for all aspects of the preparation and conduct of the election.

UNMIN district electoral advisers remain in the districts throughout the re-polling and counting process.

In a statement issued after the close of polls last week, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon appealed "to all parties to remain calm while awaiting the results."

Once elected, the Constituent Assembly will draw up a new constitution for the South Asian nation that emerged from a decade-long civil war that claimed an estimated 13,000 lives until the Government and Maoist rebels signed a peace accord in 2006.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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UN ENVOY IN FRESH TALKS ON FORMER YUGOSLAV REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA NAME ISSUE

UN ENVOY IN FRESH TALKS ON FORMER YUGOSLAV REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA NAME ISSUE New York, Apr 14 2008 2:00PM The United Nations envoy tasked with helping Greece and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia resolve their dispute over the official name of the latter country will fly to the region this week to try to reactivate efforts to settle the issue.

Matthew Nimetz, the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, is scheduled to be in Skopje on Thursday and then Athens on Friday, UN spokesperson Marie Okabe told reporters today.

A follow-up round of discussions is then expected to take place, probably in New York, Ms. Okabe added.

Mr. Nimetz told journalists last month that there had been no progress on the "name issue," despite intense efforts in recent months to broker a solution and the acknowledgement by both sides that a solution would be in their best interests.

The envoy had proposed several compromise names but Skopje and Athens remained far apart on what they considered to be a satisfactory name for the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.
The Interim Accord of 13 September 1995, which was brokered by the UN, details the difference between the two countries on the issue. It also obliges the two sides to continue negotiations under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General to try to reach agreement.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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EMERGENCY UN AID REACHES 400,000 AFGHANS HIT BY RISING FOOD PRICES

EMERGENCY UN AID REACHES 400,000 AFGHANS HIT BY RISING FOOD PRICES New York, Apr 14 2008 2:00PM The United Nations World Food Programme (<"http://www.wfp.org/english/">WFP) has distributed assistance to some 400,000 Afghans hit by soaring wheat prices, but warned that the most vulnerable will continue to need aid for a while as the record high prices show no sign of abating.

In the past few weeks, the agency has handed out about 30,000 tons of food in Kabul, as well as in the east and south of the country, WFP Country Representative Rick Corsino <" http://www.unama-afg.org/news/_pc/_english/2008/08april14.html">told reporters in the capital today. It expects to finish the first round of distributions in Kabul by next Sunday.

In January, the UN and the Afghan Government appealed for more than $80 million to help over 2.5 million people facing food shortages due to the soaring price of wheat, the most important food crop in the country.

Mr. Corsino announced that nearly all of the $78 million requested for food has been provided by 10 donors – United States, Canada, Denmark, the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (<" http://ochaonline2.un.org/Default.aspx?tabid=7480">CERF), Germany, Switzerland, United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Finland and Norway.

"I am really happy to be able to report today that the appeal has essentially been fully resourced," Mr. Corsino said.

While the appeal has gone well, the concern now is what happens in a few months' time. "Very few people think that the factors that came into play pushing the price of wheat up to record highs in the early part of this year are going to disappear," he stated.

"What this means of course is that those people most affected by the higher prices are unlikely to get too much relief," he added.

While there is usually a seasonal reduction in the price of wheat when the harvests arrive both in Afghanistan and Pakistan, Mr. Corsino said he does not expect it to be such that the prices will return to what they were a few years ago.

Another concern is how productive Afghanistan's cereals crop will be this year. "It is still too early to tell, but there has been some concern raised both by the UN and the Government that the crop this year may not be as good as expected," he noted.

"So together, the Government and the UN continue to watch that and continue to look at interventions that may be necessary in the short, in the medium and in the longer term to assist Afghans who have been hurt by the higher food prices and who potentially might be harmed by a poorer crop this year."

Several senior UN officials have called for urgent measures to tackle the global food price crisis, which threatens to hit the world's poor the hardest and to lead to increased tensions and unrest.

The past few weeks have witnessed violent protests over the increased costs of wheat, maize and rice in a number of countries, including Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Egypt, Senegal, Morocco and, most recently, in Haiti, where several people have died in riots.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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BAN KI-MOON URGES IMMEDIATE AND LONG-TERM STEPS TO FIGHT ESCALATING FOOD CRISIS

BAN KI-MOON URGES IMMEDIATE AND LONG-TERM STEPS TO FIGHT ESCALATING FOOD CRISIS New York, Apr 14 2008 1:00PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today <" http://www.un.org/apps/sg/sgstats.asp?nid=3095">called for both immediate and long-term measures to tackle the growing global food crisis, warning that it could not only push millions of people deeper into poverty but also have larger political and security implications.

"The rapidly escalating crisis of food availability around the world has reached emergency proportions," he told a joint meeting in New York of the UN Economic and Social Council (<"http://www.un.org/esa/ffd/ecosoc/springmeetings/2008/index.htm">ECOSOC), the Bretton Woods institutions, the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the UN Conference on Trade and Development (<"http://www.unctad.org">UNCTAD).

"We need not only short-term emergency measures to meet urgent critical needs and avert starvation in many regions across the world, but also a significant increase in long-term productivity in food grain production, he said, citing the recent steep rise in prices and World Bank warnings that the crisis could mean "seven lost years" in the fight against global poverty.

"The international community will also need to take urgent and concerted action in order to avert the larger political and security implications of this growing crisis. The UN needs to examine ways to lead a process for the immediate and longer-term responses to this global problem," he added.

Turning to the meeting's five key themes, Mr. Ban called for building consensus around measures on development financing that would lead to more stable and predictable long-term resource flows to developing countries.

He noted that middle-income countries need better market access to foster their comparative advantages as well as technical assistance and knowledge sharing to help address critical gaps in their development processes, such as improving infrastructure, integrating into world financial markets and tackling persistent pockets of poverty and growing inequality.

Thirdly, citing trade as an engine of growth for the poorest economies, he appealed for increased investment and technology transfer from donors to help the least developed countries to broaden their exports through diversification and economic capacity-building, thus bolstering "aid for trade" support.

He also called for "innovative and robust regulation to protect financial systems and sustain continued growth and expansion," warning that regulatory checks and balances have failed to keep pace with the "enormous growth" of recent years. "The current turmoil in world markets demonstrates that this gap is unsustainable," he declared.

Finally he noted that long-term global economic growth and sustainable development is imperiled by climate change.

"Developing countries need external assistance – especially better technology and increased financing – to rise to this challenge," he said, calling on the world community to use the run-up to a major climate change conference in 2010 to implement new ways to finance adaptation and mitigation measures in developing nations.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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UN MISSION IN HAITI DECRIES MURDER OF ONE OF ITS POLICE OFFICERS

UN MISSION IN HAITI DECRIES MURDER OF ONE OF ITS POLICE OFFICERS New York, Apr 14 2008 1:00PM The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Haiti has strongly condemned Saturday's murder of a Nigerian police officer serving with its operation, which took place two days after another gun attack on UN blue helmets amid continuing violent unrest in the impoverished Caribbean country because of a recent spike in food prices.

The officer, a 36-year-old father, was with three other members of his formed police unit (FPU) near the cathedral in the Bel-Air district of the capital, Port-au-Prince, when he was dragged from his car and shot dead execution-style, according to the mission (known as <"http://www.un.org/Depts/dpko/missions/minustah/">MINUSTAH).

The mission said it has already opened an inquiry into the killing in collaboration with Haitian police officers. MINUSTAH "will pursue the authors of this abject crime with the strongest determination," it added.

Last Thursday, three UN peacekeepers from Sri Lanka were shot while on patrol in the capital, but their injuries are not considered life-threatening.

The attacks have occurred during a time of widespread public protests against the rising cost of living in Haiti, the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. On Saturday members of the national Senate voted to dismiss Prime Minister Jacques-Edouard Alexis.

In a separate statement MINUSTAH said it hoped a new government could be quickly formed and Haiti could return to its efforts to rebuild after years of misrule and suffering.

"The reform process must continue. At the same time, Haitians must work together to consolidate the stability and the progress which they have realised."
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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RULE OF LAW KEY IN ATTAINING GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT GOALS, SAYS UN ANTI-CRIME CHIEF

RULE OF LAW KEY IN ATTAINING GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT GOALS, SAYS UN ANTI-CRIME CHIEF New York, Apr 14 2008 11:00AM The head of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has called on countries to give priority to the rule of law which he says is one of the keys to achieving the set of anti-poverty targets world leaders have pledged to achieve by 2015, known as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

"Where the rule of law is weak or absent, crime and corruption hold back development and democracy. This can cause conflicts, mass poverty and environmental degradation, creating further instability," UNODC Executive Director Antonio Maria Costa <"http://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/press/releases/2008-04-14.html"> told the UN Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, which <" http://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/events/17th-session-of-the-commission-on-crime-prevention-and-criminal-justice.html">opened its 17th session today in Vienna.

"Stronger justice and integrity can break this vicious circle," Mr. Costa added, stressing the role of the rule of law in helping States make progress toward the <" http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/">MDGs.

The current session of the Commission, which runs until Friday, is focusing on ways of preventing violence against women. This is a particularly important issue in conflict and post-conflict situations, stated the Executive Director, where women and girls are especially vulnerable to becoming victims of human trafficking.

Mr. Costa also highlighted a number of other global concerns, such as the dangerous links between drugs, crime and terrorism across Africa, which he noted "is a major windfall for criminals, a funding source for terrorists and insurgents, and a grave threat to us all."

Drawing attention to the threat posed by the illegal trade in weapons, which contributes to other crimes such as terrorism and drug trafficking and the deaths of millions every year, Mr. Costa urged States to ratify and implement the UN Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms.

He also stressed the need to focus on "green crimes," stating that "the way that our environment is being destroyed is, quite literally, criminal."

Crimes such as dumping hazardous waste or illegal logging not only damage the environment, he noted, but they also plunge many countries where pollution, deforestation and population displacement lead to conflict and hamper the achievement of the MDGs into deeper poverty. In particular, Mr. Costa urged countries "save the lungs of our planet by stopping the illicit trade in forest products."

The UNODC chief also highlighted the need to work more closely with the private sector and labour unions to tackle economic fraud and identity-related crime, as well as the need to address crime in urban areas. "With half of the world's population now living in urban centres, we need to stop drugs, crime and terrorism from creating failing cities," he stated.

He added that the fight against crime requires the mobilization of all segments of society. "Schools, places of work, religious groups, the media, and the film and entertainment industries all have a role to play. Most of all, we must curb demand for illicit goods and services that are the incentive for criminal activity – whether trafficked people, drugs, weapons, forest products, rare species, cigarettes, or precious metals."
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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UNICEF TEAMS UP WITH V-DAY CAMPAIGN TO STOP RAPE IN DR CONGO

UNICEF TEAMS UP WITH V-DAY CAMPAIGN TO STOP RAPE IN DR CONGO New York, Apr 14 2008 11:00AM The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the global movement to end violence against women and girls known as V-Day have launched a new partnership to end rape in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and ensure justice for the victims of this heinous crime.

The new partnership was announced by UNICEF Executive Director Ann M. Veneman and playwright and <"http://v10.vday.org/homepage">V-Day founder Eve Ensler on Saturday during V-Day's tenth anniversary celebrations in the United States city of New Orleans.

"The goal of the campaign, Stop Raping Our Greatest Resource, Power to The Women and Girls of Democratic Republic of Congo is to stop the rape, empower women and girls and end impunity for these atrocious crimes," <" http://www.unicef.org/media/media_43541.html">said Ms. Veneman.

Hundreds of thousands of women and children, aged six months to 80 years of age, have been sexually assaulted in the <"http://www.monuc.org/Home.aspx?lang=en">DRC, where rape has been used as a weapon of war for years.

Ms. Veneman, who met with several rape survivors during a visit to the vast Great Lakes nation in 2006, noted that "these women's lives have been profoundly marked by acts of brutality.

"It is urgent that we work together to put a stop to these inhumane acts of violence," she stressed.

The agency, in partnership with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), is assisting thousands of women and girls in the DRC who have been assaulted and raped.

To date, the V-Day movement has raised over $50 million and educated millions about the issue of violence against women and the efforts to end the scourge. Among its many activities, it has reopened shelters and funded over 5,000 community-based anti-violence programmes and safe houses in places such as DRC, Haiti and Iraq.

The partnership between UNICEF and V-Day is just one of several UN initiatives to help women in the DRC who are victims of sexual violence. Last month, the UN Population Fund (<"http://www.unfpa.org">UNFPA) teamed up with civil society groups, NGOs and the Government to launch a nationwide public awareness campaign aimed at reducing the country's appalling levels of sexual violence.
2008-04-14 00:00:00.000

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