United Nations in the Caribbean

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the Earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. The United Nations in the Caribbean is supporting delivery on all 17 goals:

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20 October 2024

Six things to know about the humanitarian crisis in Haiti

By Véronique DurrouxMillions of people in Haiti don’t know where their next meal will come from. They don’t know when they will be able to go to work. Or send their children to school. And if they will ever have access to health services. As Haitians continue to be held hostage by armed group violence that has worsened over the past few months, the humanitarian community is doing its best to deliver aid within the constrained space. 1. Internal displacement has almost doubled since March 2024Armed violence continues in Haiti, forcing many to flee and often to leave everything behind. More than 700,000 people are now displaced across the country—nearly double the number since March. Most are from the Port-au-Prince Metropolitan Area, in the capital, where armed groups control 80 per cent of the neighbourhoods. In May, a surge in violence disrupted previously safe areas like Gressier, a town south of Port-au-Prince. Armed groups, seeking to expand their territories, forced more than 33,000 people to flee to Léogâne, with women and children making up two-thirds of those displaced. 2. Hunger in Haiti is at a historic high: Most people struggle to eat a meal a day Nearly one in two Haitians is suffering from hunger, a number that has been steadily rising this last year. Armed groups have severely disrupted national food production and are blocking the movement of goods on major roads. Rising costs have meant that buying food accounts for up to 70 per cent of a household’s budget. Humanitarian partners are working with authorities to provide hot meals to the displaced, school meals across the country, and cash transfers so people can buy what they need most. Partners are also helping to restart local food production. In partnership with Médecins du Monde Argentina, the World Food Programme is providing nutritional services at the Joseph Claude Bernard School, which hosts hundreds of displaced people. By November 2024, nearly 277,000 children aged 6 to 59 months are expected to face or be at risk of acute malnutrition, including 125,000 suffering from severe malnutrition. 3. The crisis is spilling into the provincesMost displaced people have fled from the Port-au-Prince Metropolitan Area, three-quarters of whom found a safe haven in the provinces. In the Grand Sud, local communities have welcomed many from the capital. However, their resources are running out quickly due to the large influx. In the north-west, armed groups connected to those in the capital are expanding into Artibonite and terrorising the population. 4. Access to medical care remains a major challengeArmed violence has severely affected the health sector, forcing the closure of 63 health facilities across the country. Currently, less than a third of healthcare centres in the capital are still functioning. Many people can no longer access the care they need, including over 10,000 people living with HIV who have had to stop their antiretroviral treatment this year. If people don’t take the medicines regularly, the HIV virus can become resistant. 5. Sexual violence is affecting a growing number of women and girlsSexual violence remains a major concern in Haiti, with armed groups spreading terror in many neighbourhoods both in the capital and in the provinces. Between January and August, more than 4,500 cases of sexual and gender-based violence were recorded. Many victims hesitate to seek care, either out of fear of reprisals or because of difficulties accessing services, and they often do not receive the assistance they need in time. In a shelter for underage survivors of gender-based violence, non-governmental organizations have reported a rise in cases of sexual violence, particularly rape of women and minors, due to the escalating armed violence. Care and support facilities for survivors are overwhelmed, lacking the necessary space and funding to meet the growing needs. 6. Attending school remains a major challengeThe start of the school year on 1 October presents a significant challenge for the more than 350,000 displaced children and those living in gang-controlled areas. Many schools in the capital are currently sheltering displaced people who have nowhere else to go.Through the "Back to Learning" campaign, UNICEF and local partners are supporting authorities in helping children affected by the crisis resume their education. This includes identifying and integrating more than 25,000 displaced children into host schools. This story was first published to the website of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

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Displaced by escalating violence, families in Haiti carry their belongings as they flee their homes in search of safety.

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23 September 2024

Pact for the Future: World leaders pledge action for peace, sustainable development

The Pact along with its annexes, the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations, was adopted by consensus, despite a last-minute proposal for an amendment by some countries, including Russia, Iran, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and Syria.The amendment sought to incorporate text calling for non-intervention in any issue of national sovereignty, and the primacy of intergovernmental deliberation, in effect, downplaying the role of the civil society or private sector interests. It was rejected after the 193-member Assembly decided not to act on the proposal.Click here for UN News’ live coverage of the meeting and here to download the resolution.Pact for the FutureThe Pact’s five broad focus areas include: sustainable development; international peace and security; science and technology; youth and future generations and transforming global governance.This has become an urgent pivot, as multilateral financial institutions and even the United Nations itself have come up short seeking solutions to 21st century problems, the pact lays out.By endorsing the Pact, UN Member States pledged, among other things, to:Turbocharge the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement on climate change, two landmark 2015 agreements that have seen halting progress and missed milestonesListen to young people and include them in decision-making, at the national and global levelsBuild stronger partnerships with civil society, the private sector, local and regional authorities and moreRedouble efforts to build and sustain peaceful, inclusive and just societies and address the root causes of conflictsProtect all civilians in armed conflictAccelerate the implementation of our commitments on women, peace and securityGlobal Digital CompactThe Global Digital Compact marks the first truly worldwide agreement on the international regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) and is founded on the idea that technology should benefit everyone.It outlines commitments to ensure that digital technologies contribute to sustainable development and human rights, while addressing risks like digital divides, cybersecurity, and misuse of technology.The Compact aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure AI technologies are used responsibly, fostering global cooperation on both AI capabilities and security threats. Governments are also obligated to form an impartial worldwide Scientific Panel on AI and start an international conversation about AI governance inside the UN.Declaration on Future GenerationsThe Declaration on Future Generations focuses on securing the well-being of future generations, also highlighting the need to include their interests in decision-making processes.It also underlines the importance of protecting the environment, promoting intergenerational equity, and ensuring that long-term consequences of today's actions are considered. New opportunitiesSpeaking after the adoption, Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that the Pact for the Future and its annexes, “open pathways to new possibilities and opportunities.”“People everywhere are hoping for a future of peace, dignity, and prosperity. They are crying out for global action to solve the climate crisis, tackle inequality, and address new and emerging risks that threaten everyone,” he said.“They see the United Nations as essential to solving these challenges,” he continued, adding “the Summit of the Future sets a course for international cooperation that can meet their expectations … now, let’s get to work.”Months of negotiationThe adoption was the culmination of months of negotiations co-facilitated by Germany and Namibia.Speaking after the adoption, Philémon Yang, President of the 79th session of the General Assembly, urged nations to move forward, together, in a spirit of solidarity and multilateral cooperation.“The path we choose must lead to a future where human dignity is respected and human rights are upheld. A future where peace transcends the mere absence of conflict and is grounded in justice, inclusion, and equity.” This story was first published to UN News

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United Nations General Assembly Hall for the Summit of the Future

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25 June 2024

UN Secretary-General launches UN Global Principles for Information Integrity

The world must respond to the harms caused by the spread of hate and lies online while vigorously defending human rights, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said at the launch of the United Nations Global Principles for Information Integrity, 24 June 2024.One year after launching his report on information integrity on digital platforms, the Secretary-General presented a framework for coordinated international action to make information spaces safer and more humane, one of the most urgent tasks of our time.Misinformation, disinformation, hate speech, and other risks to the information ecosystem are fueling conflict, threatening democracy and human rights, and undermining public health and climate action. Their proliferation is now enhanced by the rapid rise of easily accessible Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, increasing the threat to some groups often targeted in information spaces, including children. "The United Nations Global Principles for Information Integrity aim to empower people to demand their rights," said the Secretary-General. "At a time when billions of people are exposed to false narratives, distortions, and lies, these principles mark a clear way forward, firmly rooted in human rights, including the right to freedom of expression and opinion." The UN chief urgently called on governments, technology companies, advertisers, and the public relations industry to take responsibility for disseminating and monetizing harmful content.The erosion of information integrity is compromising the UN's missions, operations, and priorities, including vital peacekeeping operations and humanitarian efforts. In a global survey of UN staff, 80% of respondents said that damaging information puts them and the communities they serve at risk.The principles result from extensive consultations with member states, the private sector, youth leaders, media, academia, and civil society. The recommendations in this document are designed to foster healthier and safer information spaces that promote human rights, peaceful societies, and a sustainable future.The 5 Global Principles for a more humane information ecosystem are: What do these principles include?Governments, technology companies, advertisers, media, and other stakeholders should refrain from using, supporting, or amplifying disinformation and hate speech for any purpose.Governments should facilitate timely access to information, ensure a free, viable, independent, and pluralistic media landscape, and ensure robust protection for journalists, researchers, and civil society.Technology companies should ensure security and privacy by design in all their products, along with consistent application of policies and remedies across countries and languages, with particular attention to the needs of groups often targeted online. They must improve their response and take steps to support the integrity of information during elections.All parties involved in developing Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies must take urgent, immediate, inclusive, and transparent steps to ensure that all AI applications are designed, implemented, and used safely, responsibly, and ethically to respect human rights.Technology companies must develop business models that do not rely on programmatic advertising and that do not prioritize engagement over human rights, privacy, and security. These models must allow users greater choice and control over their online experience and personal data.Advertisers should demand transparency in the technology sector's digital advertising processes to help ensure that advertising budgets do not inadvertently fund disinformation, hate, or undermine human rights.Tech companies and AI developers should ensure meaningful transparency, allow researchers and academics access to data while respecting user privacy, commission publicly available independent audits, and co-develop accountability frameworks for the industry.Governments, technology companies, AI developers, and advertisers should take special measures to protect and empower children, and governments must provide resources to parents, guardians, and educators."Everyone should be able to express themselves freely without fear of attack. Everyone should be able to access diverse opinions and sources of information. No one should be at the mercy of an algorithm that they do not control, that was not designed to safeguard their interests, and that tracks their behavior to collect personal data and keep them hooked," stressed the Secretary-General during the presentation of the Global Principles, placing particular emphasis on the situation of vulnerability in which millions of girls and boys find themselves."The UN listens to your pleas for guidance and support. Do not be discouraged: raise your voice. Demand accountability, demand choice, demand control. You are the majority. And this is a fight we can win together," concluded António Guterres (Read the Secretary-General's entire message).For her part, UN Under-Secretary-General for Global Communication Melissa Fleming also urgently called on people to respect the integrity of information, especially those who create artificial intelligence."AI creators: make sure you don't make the same mistakes as social network creators. Make sure you are safe by design, make sure you make branded content, and remove content that fails to comply with the principles," he said.Background:The UN Global Principles for Information In "AI creators: make sure you don't make the same mistakes as social network creators. Make sure you are safe by design, make sure you make branded content, and remove content that fails to comply with the principles," he said. integrity arises from a proposal in Our Common Agenda, the Secretary-General's 2021 report outlining a vision for the future of global cooperation and multilateral action. The Principles are a resource for member states ahead of the Summit of the Future to be launched next September.-----The Universal Principles for Information Integrity are available at:https://www.un.org/es/information-integrityView a video presentation of the Universal Principles at: https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1c/k1c1nfpy8n

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20 February 2024

Decide to join the United Nations as a UN Volunteer

You can decide to change the lives of others while changing your own as a United Nations Volunteer (UNV). Volunteering for the UN is a full-time commitment to peace and sustainable development with a UN agency, fund or programme, in your country or abroad. RIGHTS AND BENEFITSThe United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme encourages broad and inclusive participation, and as such ensures a variety of benefits to secure a basic standard of living while serving as a UN Volunteer. Benefits include: Monthly living allowance Medical insurance (including dependents) Annual leave (2.5 days per month served) Learning opportunities Reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities Travel allowance for international UN Volunteers See more on the UNV Conditions of Service : https://bit.ly/UNV-COS PROFESSIONAL PROFILESBuild on your professional experience and knowledge - whether in development, emergency response, education, health, environment, communications, social work and much more. ASSIGNMENT TITLESSome of the most popular volunteer assignment titles are: Field Officer (in a wide variety of areas) Community Development Officer Communications Officer Protection/Human Rights Officer Monitoring & Evaluation Officer MAIN PARTNERSAs a UN Volunteer you can serve with the following UN entities, among others: United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) International Organization for Migration (IOM) UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) World Food Programme (WFP) In 2022, over 2,500 UN Volunteers served with over 30 UN partners in Latin America and the Caribbean! LEAVING NO ONE BEHINDThe UNV programme is committed to representing the diversity of the world's societies. If you are a person with disabilities, a member of the LGTBQ+, afro-descendant or indigenous communities, or any other minority, you are encouraged to apply. CATEGORIESAssignments are offered into four volunteer categories, which determine eligibility: Expert: candidates must be at least 35 years old and have more than 15 years of professional experience. Specialist: candidates must be at least 27 years of age and have at least 3 years of professional experience. Youth and University: candidates must be between 18 and 26 years of age, and no previous professional experience is required. Community: No previous professional experience or academic requirements needed but must live in the community they serve. Before applying, we recommend carefully reading the specific requirements of your selected assignment. DECIDE TO APPLYRegister in UNV’s Unified Volunteer Platform: app.unv.org, complete your professional profile and apply to vacancies NOW. When filtering vacancies, verify the volunteer category (Expert, Youth, etc.) you fit in and define whether to volunteer in your country or abroad. UN Volunteer opportunities reflect the evolving needs of UN agencies, funds and programmes. We encourage you to visit the UNV platform regularly, so as not to miss any opportunity. VOLUNTEER ONLINEWith the Online Volunteering service, you can undertake volunteer tasks for up to 20 hours a week and for a maximum of 12 weeks with different United Nations entities, governments, public institutions and civil society organisations. As the Online Volunteering service is a free time commitment, selected individuals are not under contract with the UN Volunteers programme or the host entity. As such, Online Volunteers are not eligible for the entitlements and benefits stipulated in the Conditions of Service. Their contribution is recognised with a certificate. Know more here: https://www.unv.org/become-online-volunteer

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A UN Volunteer works at a compute rin an office setting

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01 July 2024

World getting a ‘failing grade’ on Global Goals report card

The 2024 Sustainable Development Goals Report highlighted that nearly half the 17 targets are showing minimal or moderate progress, while over a one-third are stalled or going in reverse, since they were adopted by UN Member States back in 2015 to bring peace and prosperity for people and the planet. “This report is known as the annual SDG report card and it shows the world is getting a failing grade,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said at the press conference to launch the comprehensive stocktake.“The takeaway is simple – our failure to secure peace, to confront climate change and to boost international finance is undermining development. We must accelerate action for the Sustainable Development Goals, and we don’t have a moment to lose,” he stressed.Major obstaclesThe Report identified the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, escalating conflicts, geopolitical tensions and worsening climate chaos as major obstacles to progress.It noted that an additional 23 million people were pushed into extreme poverty and over 100 million more were suffering from hunger in 2022 compared to 2019, while the number of civilian deaths in armed conflict skyrocketed last year. 2023 was also the warmest on record, with global temperatures nearing the critical 1.5°C threshold.Urgent prioritiesMr. Guterres emphasized the urgency of boosting international cooperation, stating “we must not let up on our 2030 promise to end poverty, protect the planet and leave no one behind.”The report outlined key priorities to address the deficit.Foremost, it highlighted the need for financing for development. The SDG investment gap in developing countries is $4 trillion per year. It is crucial to rapidly increase funding and fiscal space, as well as reform the global financial system to unlock funding. Resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy is equally crucial. With nearly 120 million forcibly displaced people by May 2024 and a 72 per cent increase in civilian casualties between 2022 and 2023, the need for peace is more pressing than ever.In parallel, a surge in implementation is desperately needed. Massive investments and effective partnerships are vital to drive transitions in key areas such as food, energy, social protection, and digital connectivity.Seize the momentThe report comes ahead of the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF), taking place at the UN Headquarters, in New York, from 8 to 17 July.Under the auspices of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the Forum will review global progress towards Goal 1 on ending poverty, Goal 2 on zero hunger, Goal 13 on climate action, Goal 16 on peaceful and inclusive societies, and Goal 17 on means of implementation.In addition, the upcoming Summit of the Future in September will be pivotal for realigning efforts towards achieving the Goals. The Summit aims to address the debt crisis affecting many developing countries and the urgent need to reform international financial architecture.Key findingsThe SDG Report highlights stark economic challenges, with per-capita gross domestic product (GDP) growth in half of the world’s most vulnerable nations slower than in advanced economies. Nearly 60 per cent of countries faced abnormally high food prices in 2022, exacerbating hunger and food insecurity.The report also highlighted gender inequality, noting that 55 per cent of 120 surveyed countries lack laws prohibiting discrimination against women.It also cited education as a significant concern, with only 58 per cent of students worldwide achieving minimum proficiency in reading by the end of primary school. At the same time, despite global unemployment reaching a historic low of five per cent in 2023, many obstacles to achieving decent work across all societies persist.However, there are positive developments in renewable energy, which expanded at a rate of 8.1 per cent annually over the past five years.Technological advancements also saw significant strides, with mobile broadband accessibility (3G or higher) increasing to 95 per cent of the world’s population from 78 per cent in 2015. .....................................................This story was first published by UN News.

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18 November 2024

The Week Ahead with the UN in the Caribbean: 18 - 24 November 2024

Crown Prince of Norway Heads to Jamaica on UNDP VisitHis Royal Highness, Crown Prince Haakon of Norway will visit Jamaica from November 18-20, 2024, in his role as global Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Since embarking on this role in 2003, the Crown Prince has been dedicated to promoting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 1, which aims to eradicate poverty, and Goal 14, focused on the conservation of life below water. While in Jamaica, Crown Prince Haakon will meet with local authorities, youth, and representatives from various communities to discuss challenges and solutions related to oceans, climate change, and poverty. The Crown Prince will also visit communities where UNDP is working to advance sustainable solutions, including Rocky Point, where UNDP's Norwegian-supported Blue Resilience Programme is helping secure the future of fishing communities.Click here to learn more. ECLAC Caribbean: Statistical Offices Upskill on Specialized SoftwareMonday 18 November - The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) subregional headquarters for the Caribbean will host a regional workshop in Kingston, Jamaica, from 18 to 22 November to train staff from the statistical offices of Jamaica and Belize in the use of a software programme for the development of web applications for online dissemination of census and survey microdata. Called REDATAM, the software programme is developed and supported by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) for the processing, analysis and dissemination of data from censuses and household surveys. Click Here to Learn More. COP29: Strengthening Climate Finance for Human Mobility in the Caribbean RegionThursday 21 November - At COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) UN Migration Agency will join the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC) to host vital discussions at the CARICOM Pavilion on climate finance and human mobility in the Caribbean Region. Upcoming UN ObservancesMonday 18 November - World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week, an observance of the world Health Organization (WHO), takes place from 18-24 November under the theme “Educate. Advocate. Act now.” Monday 18 November - World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Violence will focus on prevention, protection, and healing.Tuesday 19 November - World Toilet Day is observed under the theme “Toilets: A Place for Peace.”Wednesday 20 November - Africa Industrialization Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of Africa’s industrialization and the challenges faced by the continent. Wednesday 20 November - World Children's Day will be observed in 2024 under the theme “Listen to the Future.”Thursday 21 November - World Television Day recognizes the power of television as a major tool in informing, channeling and affecting public opinion.Thursday 21 November - World Philosophy Day is a UNESCO observance that celebrates the enduring value of philosophy for the development of human thought, for each culture, and for each individual.Sunday 24 November - World Conjoined Twins Day will be observed for the first time, providing an opportunity to advocate for the well-being and social inclusion of people affected by this rare condition.

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15 November 2024

UN Day in Guyana: Celebrating partnerships

In Guyana, this day holds particular significance as the United Nations System reflects on the partnerships and progress achieved through its active engagement with the government of Guyana and all stakeholders. This year’s observance highlighted the collaborative efforts in areas such as sustainable development, human rights, climate resilience, and peacebuilding—issues that are integral to Guyana's national development agenda.A Day of Reflection and Renewal of CommitmentUN Day was observed with a reception that brought together all stakeholders - government officials, UN staff, civil society organisations, development partners, private sector, academia, media, among others. During her remarks, Jean Kamau, UN Resident Coordinator in Guyana, reflected on global crises like conflicts, climate change, and inequality, emphasising the importance of collective action and quicker institutional responses to tackle these challenges effectively. She highlighted that the recent Summit of the Future in New York yielded three critical international agreements—the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact, and the Declaration on Future Generations, which aim to build a fairer financial system, prioritize peace, and protect future generations. Kamau offered praise for the country’s leadership on many of the commitments that were made in the Pact for the Future. “With respect to youth, already Guyana is a Co-Facilitator for the establishment of the UN’s Youth Office, which puts young people closer to the heart of the multilateral system. As it relates to global security, as we know, Guyana is a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council until 2026. In this role Guyana is contributing to discussions and decisions on international peace and security contributing to Key resolutions, sanctions and peacekeeping mandates,” highlighted Kamau. In his address, the Honourable Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Acting President and Prime Minister of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana reaffirmed Guyana’s unwavering commitment to the principles of the United Nations. “Guyana remains dedicated to contributing to the important work of the Organisation across its major pillars: international peace and security, sustainable development, human rights, and international law,” he said. He added that the government will persist in creating an environment that supports sustainable development, eradicates poverty, and combats climate change, while also leveraging technology and innovation, including AI, for the greater good of humanity.The Acting President and Prime Minister also underscored Guyana's role as a member of the UN Security Council, with a focus on key global priorities such as climate change, food insecurity, conflict resolution, peacebuilding, conflict prevention, women’s peace and security, protection of children in armed conflict, and youth engagement in peace and security.UN-Guyana Collaboration During her remarks, the UN Resident Coordinator outlined the UN Country Team’s collaborative efforts in Guyana across key areas, including job creation, health, education, environmental protection, and support for vulnerable communities. She highlighted the UN System’s investment of $17 million in projects in 2023 aimed at making development inclusive and aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She also acknowledged the work of several UN Agencies, Funds, and Programmes that are helping to expand Guyana’s non-oil economy, enhance healthcare, support Forcibly Displaced People and vulnerable populations, and protect human rights. Kamau said, “We bring transparent, trusted, and technically robust support to this country, at the invitation of national authorities. We leverage global networks to help ensure that the country's development remains rights-based, inclusive, resilient, and aligned with the SDGs. We remain fully committed to supporting national authorities, and to our deep, long-standing partnerships with civil society, the private sector, and international development actors.”Moving Forward: Building a Resilient and Inclusive GuyanaUN Day in Guyana served as a reminder of the power of global cooperation in addressing challenges that no single nation can solve alone. It highlighted the need for continued collaboration with all stakeholders to create resilient societies that prioritize the well-being of their people. As Guyana and the UN work together, the promise of the UN Charter continues to inspire a shared commitment to peace, progress, and the global good..................................................................................This story was first published by UN Guyana.

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15 November 2024

COP29 climate talks: Major emitters must right ‘colossal injustice’ on island nations, says UN chief

“You have every right to be angry, and I am too. You are on the sharp end of a colossal injustice. An injustice that sees the very future of your islands threatened by rising seas; your people pounded by record hurricanes; your economies torn apart,” Mr. Guterres said.Addressing the COP29 Small Island Developing States Summit, one of several high-level events in which he is participating today, the Secretary-General emphasized that the injustice facing these nations is being “perpetrated by the few”.Indeed, G20 countries account for around 80 per cent of global emissions, he said, as he called for this injustice to end.‘The world must follow you’“Your nations – the Small Island Developing States – are demonstrating what climate ambition looks like. You are the first responders. The world must follow you. And it must support you,” argued the UN chief, as he set out three priorities:First: sparing no effort to keep the 1.5 C target alive, with the biggest emitters – the G20 – in the lead. That means global emissions falling by nine per cent a year to 2030. It means phasing out fossil fuels – fast and fairly – and delivering on the COP28 outcome. And it means every country putting forward new, economy-wide national climate action plans – or NDCs – by COP30, that align with the 1.5 C objective.Second: following a path towards justice to deliver support to assist small island nations to deal with climate shocks. This means ensuring significant contributions to the Loss and Damage Fund – so that it can have a meaningful impact in places devastated by climate change.Third: carrying out the aims of Pact for the Future – adopted by consensus in the UN General Assembly at a summit this past September – which calls for reform of the international financial architecture, including effective debt relief and commits countries to advancing a Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Stimulus of $500 billion a year. ‘Demand your justice’“We must push for implementation of these commitments. Starting here and now,” Mr. Guterres said, as he called for a new climate finance goal to be agreed at COP29 that considers the situation of Small Island Developing States and allows the mobilization of the trillions of dollars of finance that developing countries need – with a significant increase in concessional public funds.“That goal must provide clarity on how money will be mobilized; tap innovative sources, such as levies on aviation, shipping and fossil fuel extraction; and include an accessibility, transparency and accountability framework to build confidence that funds will be delivered and available,” he explained. Speaking directly to small island leaders, the Secretary-General said: “At this COP and beyond, I urge you: Use your moral authority to demand action. Demand leadership. And demand your justice.” ...............................................................This story was first published to UN News.

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Hurricane Beryl devastating impact on Union Island in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

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15 November 2024

Guyana: Media professionals benefit from training on suicide reporting

In a joint effort to enhance media reporting on suicide, UNICEF Guyana in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and PAHO-WHO over the weekend hosted a two-day training exercise at the Cara Lodge hotel with close to 20 media professionals in Guyana.The training was facilitated by PAHO Consultants, Tanya Nicole Fernandes and Amiti Varma and Ministry of Health Psychologist, Kadija McClure. Among the topics discussed were Reporting on suicide and mental health, best practices for reporting on suicides cases, the mental health of journalists and media professionals to name a few.Dr. Timothy Morgan, Director of the Mental Health Unit, during the training outlined a vision for mental health care within Guyana’s health sector growth. He announced plans to soon introduce a 3-digit suicide helpline, offering a lifeline for individuals in need of immediate assistance.Meanwhile, media professionals touted the training successful and made calls for additional trainings to enhance their reporting on sensitive topics in the health field.The training exercise comes as part of UNICEF, PAHO-WHO and the Ministry of Health’s joint Mental Health and Psychosocial Support for Children and Adolescents Programme.In September 2023, the joint initiative was launched with an aim to address and break the inter-generational cycle of poor mental health and transform mental health outcomes in Guyana. ...................................................................This update was first published tot he website of UNICEF Guyana & Suriname.

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Media Professionals after two day training exercise on media reporting on suicide

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Press Release

19 November 2024

G20 Leaders’ Summit: Brazil, UN and UNESCO launch Global Initiative for Information Integrity on Climate Change

The Global Initiative for Information Integrity on Climate Change is an important intervention to boost support for urgent climate action at a time when scientists are warning that the world is running out of time.As stated by President Lula, “actions to combat climate change are also greatly affected by denialism and disinformation. Countries cannot tackle this problem individually. This initiative will bring together countries, international organizations, and networks of researchers to support joint efforts to tackle disinformation and promote actions in preparation for COP30 in Brazil,” said President Lula at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro.While initially discussed in the G20 framework, the Initiative is being established as a dedicated multilateral collaboration among States and international organizations to fund research and action promoting information integrity on climate issues. Aiming to expand the scope and breadth of research into climate disinformation and its impacts, the effort will gather evidence from around the world to inform and bolster strategic action, advocacy and communications.Countries committing to the Initiative will contribute to a UNESCO-administered fund, with a goal of raising an initial USD 10 to 15 million over the next 36 months, to be distributed as grants to non-governmental organizations to support their work to research climate information integrity, develop communication strategies and undertake public awareness campaigns.The UN and UNESCO have become key partners of the Brazilian government in this challenge, and other countries and international organizations aligned with climate goals and commitment to information integrity are now being invited to join. So far, Chile, Denmark, France, Morocco, the United Kingdom and Sweden have already confirmed participation.“We must fight the coordinated disinformation campaigns impeding global progress on climate change, ranging from outright denial to greenwashing to harassment of climate scientists. Through this Initiative, we will work with researchers and partners to strengthen action against climate disinformation,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres.The risk posed by disinformation to achieving climate goals has been recognized by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) which stated in 2022 that “deliberate undermining of science” was contributing to “misperceptions of the scientific consensus, uncertainty, disregarded risk and urgency, and dissent.”“Without access to reliable information about climate disruption we can never hope to overcome it. Through this initiative, we will support the journalists and researchers investigating climate issues, sometimes at great risk to themselves, and fight the climate-related disinformation running rampant on social media,” urged Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO’s Director-General.The Initiative responds to the commitment in the Global Digital Compact, adopted by UN Members States in September, which encourages UN entities, in collaboration with Governments and relevant stakeholders, to assess the impact of mis- and disinformation on the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.A press conference to launch the Global Initiative for Information Integrity on Climate Change will take place at 1.30pm (Brazilian Time, GMT-3) on 19 November in Briefing Room 1 (G20 Summit area) with UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay; UN Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications Melissa Fleming; and Minister-Chief of the Social Communication Secretariat at the Brazilian Presidency, Paulo Pimenta, besides other representatives of the Brazilian Government. The Secretary General of Government of Chile, Camila Vallejo, and the Ambassador of Denmark to Brazil, Eva Pedersen, will represent the States which have joined the Initiative. Philip Howard, President of the International Panel on the Information Environment, and Camille Grenier, Executive Director of the Forum on Information and Democracy will also be present.MEDIA CONTACTSUnited Nations: Martina Donlon: donlon@un.orgUNESCO: Clare O’Hagan: c.o-hagan@unesco.orgBrazil: Mariana Martins: mariana.martins@presidencia.gov.brFOR MORE INFORMATIONUN climate action site: www.un.org/climatechange/information-integrityUNESCO page: www.unesco.org/en/information-integrity-climate-change

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Press Release

16 August 2024

Efforts to strengthen Human Rights-based and Gender-sensitive Policing in Saint Lucia

The workshop was organized and facilitated by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), with coordination support by the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office for Barbados & the Eastern Caribbean’s (UN RCO) satellite office in Saint Lucia. This initiative is one of several interventions encapsulated in a consolidated offer by the United Nations to the Government , following a development partners meeting organized by the United Nations Barbados and Eastern Caribbean Multi-Country Office in Saint Lucia in October 2023. In alignment with the UNODC Strategy 2021-2025, the UNODC Strategic Vision for Latin America and the Caribbean 2022-2025, the Caribbean Multi-Country Sustainable Development Framework 2022- 2026, and the General Assembly resolution A/RES/78/227 on “Equal access to justice for all’’, UNODC aims to conduct a comprehensive assessment and programming initiative focused on human rights-based and gender-responsive policing in Saint Lucia. This intervention is designed to contributes to meeting SDG 16.3, which promotes the rule of law at national and international levels and ensures equal access to justice for all. Anna Giudice, Team Lead of UNODC’s Access to Justice Team, under the Vienna-based Crime Prevention and Access to Justice Section, advised that a set of recommendations will be developed based on the workshop discussions, to inform further UNODC assistance to Saint Lucia in the area of police reform. She noted that: “the police are under pressure to perform with demands for safety security and justice. UNODC’s role is to support the police in executing their often-challenging duties.” The workshop furnished key insights to enhance the implementation of human rights-based and gender-sensitive police reform in Saint Lucia. It aims to ensure police efficiency, effectiveness, fairness, inclusivity, and humane treatment of marginalized and excluded communities—such as victims of violence, youth, migrants, persons with disabilities, and the poor—thus building and sustaining community trust, accountability, integrity, and transparency, ultimately promoting safety and justice for all, while contributing to a safe society and prevention and responses to crime.
Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of National Security, Mrs. Sarah Dupre-Cotter welcomed this initiative, noting that: We are immensely grateful for the assistance and efforts of the UNODC in organizing this gathering and trust that all participants will immerse themselves in the presented material and utilize their expertise and experience so that, at the end of the session, viable recommendations can be presented to the UNODC, to facilitate their efforts in obtaining the necessary assistance to assist our continued efforts at police reform and equitable access to justice in Saint Lucia”. In relating her perspectives on the workshop, Woman Police Constable (WPC), Rubinia Joseph expressed her preference for its interactive approach, which highlighted challenges, needs and actionable solutions in key areas including human rights-based policing; gender-responsive policing; victim-centered policing and evidence-based policing. She further noted, “the intervention by UNODC is timely, well-placed and tailored to meet the needs of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) during this transformative period geared towards police reform and modernization.” WPC Joseph is hopeful that the workshop discussions will positively contribute to enhancing citizen security, justice and rule of law in Saint Lucia. The workshop was held at on the 5th Foor of the Finance Administrative Center, Pointe Seraphine, Castries from august 14-15, 2024. Participants included representatives from the Ministry of Nations Security, particularly the RSLPF; the Ministry of Home Affairs (Fire Department, Parole and the Bordelais Corrections Facility); the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and the Attorney General’s Chambers. Presentations were delivered by the UNODC and the Regional Security System (RSS). ---Ends--- Media Contacts:Dr. Lorraine Nicholas Resident Coordinator Office,Country Coordination Officer, Saint LuciaEmail: lorraine.nicholas@un.org Tel: +1(758)730-0771 Carol A. GaskinResident Coordinator Office,Development Coordination Officer, Programme Communications and AdvocacyEmail: carol-ann.gaskin@un.org Tel: +1(246)467-6110; Mobile +1(246)832-6110

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Press Release

11 July 2024

UN, partners launch $9 million response plan to help people affected by Hurricane Beryl in Grenada, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

“Swift action is imperative to meet the pressing needs of people whose homes and livelihoods have vanished overnight,” said Simon Springett, the UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, which includes Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The Regional Overview and Response Plan seeks $5 million for Grenada and $4 million for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.Hurricane Beryl struck the two countries on 1 July, marking an ominous start to what is predicted to be an intense 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. Most of the buildings on the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique in Grenada, and Union Island in Saint Vincent, sustained heavy damage. Aid organizations are continuing to assess the full extent of the damage, but they are hindered by power cuts and downed telecommunications. Mr. Springett, who visited Grenada and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines after they were struck by Hurricane Beryl, said that the devastation is “immense and heartbreaking.”“I talked to many families and individuals whose homes and livelihoods have vanished literally overnight. It is likely that utilities will take a long time to be restored,” the Resident Coordinator noted.The response plan will help to both support immediate life-saving and early recovery efforts. The UN and its partners, who are supporting the Governments’ response, have identified shelter, food and health care as being among the top priorities.“International solidarity at this moment is critical in helping people recover from the devastation and rebuild their lives,” Mr. Springett said. “Together, we can help the communities devastated by Hurricane Beryl recover and rebuild stronger than before." The full Regional Overview and Response Plan can be found here: https://reliefweb.int/node/4076723For more information, please contact:Barbados: Carol A. Gaskin, Communications and Advocacy Officer, UN Resident Coordinator Office for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, carol-ann.gaskin@un.org, +1 (246) 467 6110Panama: Véronique Durroux, Head of Information & Advocacy for OCHA ROLAC, durroux@un.org, +507 6674 4740

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Press Release

28 June 2024

With less than one fifth of targets on track, world is failing to deliver on promise of the Sustainable Development Goals, warns new UN report

New York, 28 June 2024 – With just six years remaining, current progress falls far short of what is required to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Without massive investment and scaled up action, the achievement of the SDGs — the blueprint for a more resilient and prosperous world and the roadmap out of current global crises — will remain elusive, warns The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2024, launched today.A world in great upheavalThe report reveals that only 17 per cent of the SDG targets are currently on track, with nearly half showing minimal or moderate progress, and over one-third stalled or regressing. The lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, escalating conflicts, geopolitical tensions and growing climate chaos have severely hindered progress.According to the report, an additional 23 million people were pushed into extreme poverty and over 100 million more were suffering from hunger in 2022 compared to 2019. The number of civilian deaths in armed conflict skyrocketed in 2023. That year was also the warmest on record, with global temperatures nearing the critical 1.5°C threshold.A moment of choice and consequence“This report highlights the urgent need for stronger and more effective international cooperation to maximize progress starting now,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. “With more than six years left, we must not let up on our 2030 promise to end poverty, protect the planet and leave no one behind.”Urgent priorities:Financing development: The SDG investment gap in developing countries now stands at $4 trillion per year. Developing countries require more financial resources and fiscal space. Reforming the global financial architecture is crucial to unlocking the volume of financing required to spur sustainable development.Peace and security: The number of forcibly displaced people has reached an unprecedented level, nearly 120 million by May 2024. Civilian casualties spiked by 72 per cent between 2022 and 2023 amid escalating violence, highlighting the urgent need for peace. Resolving ongoing conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy is essential.Implementation surge: Massive investment and effective partnerships are needed to drive critical transitions in food, energy, social protection, digital connectivity and more.Success stories and opportunities for actionThe report spotlights examples of success and resilience that can be built upon through decisive action.The remarkable recent strides in deploying renewable energy, for example, highlight a clear pathway to a just energy transition. Girls in most regions have achieved parity and even pulled ahead of boys in completing schooling at all levels. Increasing internet access by about 70 per cent in just eight years also illustrates how rapid transformative change is possible. Similarly, decades of progress against HIV/AIDS provide a template for overcoming other pandemics through global solidarity and funding for scientific breakthroughs.“Time and again, humanity has demonstrated that when we work together and apply our collective mind, we can forge solutions to seemingly intractable problems,” said Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs.Key moments for the SDGsThe Summit of the Future, taking place on 22 to 23 September at UN Headquarters in New York, will be pivotal to getting the world back on track to achieving the SDGs. Deliberations at the Summit will include addressing the debt crisis that is holding so many developing countries back and the urgent need for reform of the international financial architecture.According to the report, both the Financing for Development Conference and the World Summit for Social Development in 2025 will be key moments to drive SDG momentum. But as Mr. Li stressed: “The time for words has passed – the political declarations must urgently translate into actions. We must act now, and act boldly.”Key findings:• For the first time this century, per-capita GDP growth in half of the world’s most vulnerable nations is slower than that of advanced economies.Nearly 60 per cent of countries faced moderately to abnormally high food prices in 2022.Based on data collected in 2022 in 120 countries, 55 per cent of the countries lackednon-discrimination laws that prohibit direct and indirect discrimination against women.Increased access to treatment has averted 20.8 million AIDS-related deaths in the pastthree decades.Progress on education remains of grave concern, with only 58 per cent of studentsworldwide achieving minimum proficiency in reading by the end of primary school.Global unemployment hit a historic low of 5 per cent in 2023, yet persistent roadblocksremain in achieving decent work.Global capacity to generate electricity from renewable energy has begun expanding atan unprecedented rate, growing at 8.1 per cent annually for the past five years.Mobile broadband (3G or higher) is accessible to 95 per cent of the world's population,up from 78 per cent in 2015.Record high ocean temperatures have triggered a fourth global coral bleaching event.External debt stock levels have remained unprecedentedly high in developing countries.About 60 per cent of low-income countries are at high risk of debt distress or already experiencing it.More Information:For more information, please visit: https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/report/2024/ Hashtags: #SDGreport #SDGs #GlobalGoalsMedia contacts (interviews available upon request):
Sharon Birch, UN Department of Global Communications, birchs@un.org
Helen Rosengren, UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, rosengrenh@un.org

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