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:

Learn more

Story

14 March 2025

Showing up on the streets – International Women's Day activism in Trinidad and Tobago

Over the past 40 years, civil society organisations in Trinidad and Tobago have coordinated a march and rally through the streets of the capital, Port of Spain, to mark International Women’s Day (IWD). The local tradition of public demonstrations for women’s rights dates back to a placard protest organised by Christina Lewis in 1958, but it is the joint celebrations organised in the mid-1980s that have grown into the Annual International Women’s Day March that is a regular fixture on the national IWD calendar. International Women’s Day is a prominent commemoration in Trinidad and Tobago that is also marked by academic conferences, meetings and workshops; cultural events; political messages; and United Nations-led outreach campaigns and activities. Among these, the annual march and supporting rally has become a recurring opportunity for women’s rights activists and their allies (ranging from the dozens to the hundreds) to give voice to their cause and give it a public face. In 2025, social networks and owned media, like websites, extend the reach of IWD messages and mobilise public engagement in the commemorative experience. For these audiences, such participation can often be as simple as liking a post or making the extra effort to repost or share. Information and communication technologies eliminate distance and facilitate connection and sharing of experiences with the click of a mouse or movement of a thumb across a screen. Why then would an ‘offline’ activity like a march, which requires lending one’s body and voice to a cause, continue to be seen by women’s rights activists and their allies in Trinidad and Tobago as a useful opportunity to reaffirm their commitment to goals of gender equality?For Dr. Sue Ann Barratt, Lecturer and Head at the Institute for Gender and Development Studies, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, the visibility offered by this annual march serves as a reminder of the work still required to create safer, more equitable societies. ”People think women have everything and they’ve arrived”, she says, “but, truthfully, women continue to negotiate their bodily autonomy, their sexuality, their rights to self-determination and property and inheritance and safety in the workplace and safety on the streets. So, we have to keep reminding of who we are in this world and in this space.” One defining tradition of the annual IWD March in Trinidad and Tobago is the call to 'bring yuh message and come’, encouraging participants to bring their own signs, placards, and banners highlighting the issues, messages and concerns that speak directly to their own experiences. In keeping with this tradition, organizers at the IWD 2025 March set up a 'poster-making table', complete with coloured boards, markers and pens, for participants to create their own signs. This enthusiasm for choosing colours and decoration and putting marker to paper to create a hand-drawn representation of one’s thoughts and ideas, may seem surprising in the era of Canva, Photoshop and digital printing. What enduring attraction therefore does a procession with handmade signs, in the sun (and sometimes rain) hold for participants? For one mother, her participation in the march and spur of the moment decision to create a sign is the commitment of self and voice to the cause, as well as an opportunity to share this experience with her daughter: “Empowerment first starts from within… so I felt I needed to model for her that power is not always given to you. You have to assert it, kindly, respectfully, humbly, justly. And as women we do that with such, such, such persistence.” An annual march offers genuine allies the opportunity to not only physically demonstrate their support, but also possibly to educate and recruit others to the cause. As one male ally explains, an intentional physical presence with signs, placards or banners, all work in concert to educate and amplify messages: “I can only talk to so many people. But when I’m walking, people will see the sign. And when they see this young guy holding up this sign, they will be like ‘maybe I could do the same, as a young or older man in society.” The IWD March is also a forum to comment on current issues and challenges relevant to the status of women in society. Inspired by a published op-ed and informal conversations with friends on current events, one march participant felt moved to create her sign addressing the ongoing work still needed towards a more equitable and safe society. “So, my thing is women do not have it all [and] I was looking for sort of like ‘key words’ ‘buzz words’ easy concepts to grasp: what are the things that women still do not have? Her sign spoke to clarity on the issue of consent and the ongoing discussion on equality, especially in terms of compensation and respect. This year marks the thirtieth anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and from 10 to 21 March 2025, during its 69th session, the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) will reflect on the progress that has been made towards the goals of gender equality and recommit to the work that still lies ahead. The Annual International Women’s Day March in the Trinidad and Tobago is a yearly ritual of ‘showing up’ with one’s physical presence and voice. Amidst the digital communication conveniences of the 21st century, this march is an interactive, interpersonal and creative space carved out by local gender activists and their allies to renew commitment, educate others and foster solidarity, and to model to younger generations what support ‘in real life’ can look like..............................................................................................View more photographs taken by the United Nations Information Centre for the Caribbean Area (UNIC Caribbean) at the 2025 IWD march in Trinidad and Tobago by visiting the Flickr Album.This story was first published to the website of UNIC Caribbean. , filtered_html

1 of 5

Story

19 December 2024

Understanding the legacy of slavery: UN commemorations in human rights advocacy

United Nations International Days, Weeks, Years and Decades communicate about, foster deeper understanding, and encourage action on key issues affecting the individuals and communities we serve. These commemorations form a critical pillar in the outreach and advocacy strategies of United Nations Information Centres (UNICs) and Services tasked with connecting local and regional audiences with the work of the United Nations. In the International Days calendar, there are several observances that encourage continuous engagement with the legacy of slavery and promote understanding of its pervasive and harmful influence, including the brutal interruption of African history and the lasting impact of racism and economic marginalisation on People of African Descent. These International Days honour those who suffered at the hands of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Slavery and affirm the significance of its Abolition as an historical event, raise awareness of contemporary forms of human trafficking and enslavement, and campaign against the economic and social marginalisation wrought by all expressions of racism and racial discrimination. They also mobilise action and celebrate ongoing resistance to, and triumph over, this legacy. Within this framework, the United Nations Outreach Programme on the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Slavery collaborated with the Rijksmuseum to present the exhibit Slavery: ten true stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery at United Nations sites worldwide, beginning with a hosting event at United Nations Headquarters, New York, in 2023. The exhibit as originally created, comprises audio-visual artefacts and print material that tell stories from a range of perspectives of the experience of the slave trade and slavery during the Dutch colonial period. To make these stories available to audiences outside the Netherlands, the Rijksmuseum developed a poster version as well as online supporting material. Permission to reproduce and display the poster exhibit was made available to the United Nations for use in its outreach. For its 2024 commemoration of the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, the United Nations Information Centre for the Caribbean Area (UNIC Caribbean) tapped into the UN Secretariat’s collaboration with the Rijksmuseum to bring the ten true stories exhibit to library users in Trinidad and Tobago. UNIC Caribbean's Slavery and its Legacy travelling exhibit project, a collaboration with the Public Libraries Division of the National Library and Information System (NALIS), showcased the Rijksmuseum’s exhibit with supporting lectures at public and school libraries across the country. This travelling exhibit was the most recent activity in the Centre’s longstanding outreach programme of exhibits, presentations, discussion sessions, and digital campaigns, designed to promote understanding of the significance of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Slavery and its enduring impact on Caribbean societies. It also built on the UNIC’s partnerships with education and research stakeholders who embrace the UN’s values and support its strategic communications goals. Guiding the UNIC Caribbean approach to this outreach, was the UN’s commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights: the understanding that there are inalienable rights that “everyone is entitled to as a human being - regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status." (UN observances – Human Rights Day) With these important relationships and frameworks in view, the UNIC’s travelling poster exhibit project aimed to educate and encourage nuanced discussions about the legacy of slavery, drawing on the stories of the Dutch Caribbean colonial experience and perspectives. The exhibit was mounted in seven public libraries across Trinidad and Tobago between July and October, and in three school libraries in November. At the schools, the exhibit showcased the ten true stories poster display and also included discussions led by National Information Officer, Amanda Laurence, on the need to continue to remember slavery as an exercise in applying the lessons of the past to build better societies. The UNIC also hosted an information session that featured the Rijksmuseum’s Head of History, Dr.Valika Smeulders, to brief NALIS librarians about the travelling exhibit project and encourage their participation in all dimensions of the Centre’s human rights advocacy. , filtered_html

1 of 5

Story

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 , filtered_html

1 of 5

A UN Volunteer works at a compute rin an office setting

Story

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, filtered_html

1 of 5

United Nations General Assembly Hall for the Summit of the Future

Story

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, filtered_html

1 of 5

Story

22 March 2025

Modernizing Jamaica’s education system

PORTMORE, March 25 – The Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information, in collaboration with the United Nations, launched the ‘Empowering Jamaica’s Future: SDG Joint Programme on Digital Transformation for Education’ project today at Cumberland High School in Portmore, St. Catherine. This three-year initiative aims to help modernise the Jamaican education system through digital innovation systems and will impact over 450,000 students nationwide.The over $3.7Million USD joint programme will leverage technology to ensure inclusive and accessible education, particularly for Jamaica’s most vulnerable students. The programme will augment existing efforts to strengthen several entry points of the education system. It will bolster education data management through the digitisation of administrative processes in schools and tracking nutrition support through the digitisation of the National School Feeding Programme via an Education Management Information System (EMIS). This will further enhance the capacity of schools and the government to make informed decisions, including matters related to resource allocation and other student support strategies linked to centralised attendance tracking. In her keynote address, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon stated, “We are working hard to enhance and transform how we operate in the education sector for the betterment of our students and teachers. This joint project takes us one step further toward ensuring equal access to quality education for every Jamaican child. In addition to fostering resilience and equipping educators and children to thrive in a rapidly changing digital environment, integrating this type of technology into our schools improves our capacity to monitor the uptake of critical support services, such as our school nutrition programmes to ensure that resources reach the students who need them most. The systems we are putting in place will provide real-time data and the necessary tools to make even more informed decisions about how best to support our schools.”Dennis Zulu, the United Nations Resident Coordinator, remarked, “This programme is a testament to our shared commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It underscores the critical role of digital innovation in accelerating educational equity and national development.”The programme is supported by key implementing partners, including the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the World Food Programme (WFP), and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).The Programme is made possible by the Joint SDG Fund – an SDG-accelerator funding mechanism. The digital transformation portfolio is financed by the European Union with additional funding from the Kingdom of Spain. While the Joint Programme made its official launch today, it is already piloting critical initiatives such as the Educational Management Information System (EMIS) in selected schools.More about the Joint SDG Fund: https://jointsdgfund.org/publication/digital-transformation-education-jamaica , filtered_html

1 of 5

Story

24 March 2025

Caribbean media and stakeholders urged to amplify cross-border evacuation protocols ahead of hurricane season

With just a little under three months before the official start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) must take urgent action to prepare for climate-related displacement and migration. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and partners are calling on media and stakeholders to share the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices cards available on its Trello [board 1 & board 2] to enhance preparedness and response efforts.The Caribbean faces increasing threats from hurricanes, floods, coastal erosion, rising sea levels, and prolonged droughts. These environmental shocks not only disrupt economies but also exacerbate socio-economic vulnerabilities, leading to internal and cross-border displacement. As SIDS work to enhance their disaster response mechanisms, it is essential to mainstream human mobility and human security into national climate and disaster risk reduction policies and planning.This call to action aligns with the upcoming regional workshop, Mainstreaming Human Mobility and Human Security in Caribbean Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction Policies: Progress and Way Forward, to be held in Saint Kitts and Nevis on 25-26 March 2025. This workshop will bring together government officials, policymakers, and regional stakeholders to strengthen the integration of human mobility considerations into National Adaptation Plans (NAPs), Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) strategies.Why the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocols Matter? The Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices Cards provide essential guidance for Caribbean nations to manage migration and displacement effectively in the face of climate-induced disasters. By ensuring that communities, policymakers, and responders are equipped with standardized protocols, SIDS can improve national and regional coordination, protect displaced populations, and build resilience.Key Workshop Objectives The workshop, organized by IOM with funding from the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security (UNTFHS) and the French-funded project on Environmental Migration and Disaster Displacement, will focus on:• Assessing progress in incorporating human mobility into Caribbean climate policies.• Training stakeholders in the application of the Environmental Migration, Disaster Displacement, and Human Security Policy Assessment Tool.• Identifying policy gaps and opportunities to enhance disaster and climate mobility strategies.• Sharing best practices to ensure the dignity, safety, and livelihoods of displaced populations.• Strengthening multi-stakeholder partnerships for regional collaboration.• Discussing climate finance mechanisms to address funding gaps for displacement, migration, and planned relocation.Call to Action Media and stakeholders are urged to share and amplify the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices Cards from Trello across platforms, ensuring that the Caribbean community is well-prepared for the upcoming hurricane season. By integrating human mobility considerations through the human security approach into climate and disaster risk reduction policies, we can collectively strengthen the region’s resilience and disaster response.For more information about the workshop and how to access the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices, please visit https://www.iom.int/countries/dominica where the complete protocol reports live., filtered_html

1 of 5

Preparing for the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season in the Caribbean

Story

22 March 2025

‘The poison of racism continues to infect our world’, Guterres warns on International Day

21 March marks the adoption of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and honours the legacy of the 1960 Sharpeville massacre, when South African police opened fire on a peaceful protest against apartheid, killing 69 people.A toxic legacyDespite decades of progress, racism remains a threat, UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned in a message marking the occasion. “The poison of racism continues to infect our world – a toxic legacy of historic enslavement, colonialism and discrimination. It corrupts communities, blocks opportunities, and ruins lives, eroding the very foundations of dignity, equality and justice,” he said in the message read by his Chef de Cabinet, Courtenay Rattray of Jamaica, at a General Assembly commemoration.He described the International Convention as a “powerful, global commitment” to eradicating racial discrimination urging everyone to turn this vision into reality.“On this International Day, I call for universal ratification of the Convention, and for States to implement it in full,” his message continued, urging business leaders, civil society and individuals to take a stand.“This is our shared responsibility.” UN Photo/Eskinder DebebeGeneral Assembly President Philémon Yang (centre) addresses the commemorative meeting on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.Matching words with actionGeneral Assembly President Philémon Yang also emphasised need of translating the Convention – an international legal instrument – into action.“As with all other legal instruments, ambition must translate into implementation and action,” he said, urging sustained political will and global solidarity.“Let us ensure that dignity, equality, and justice are not vague aspirations but substantive realities…we must all stand against racism, and build a world where equality is not just promised but practiced – for everyone, everywhere,” Mr. Yang said.Meanwhile, Ilze Brands Kehris, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, warned of rising xenophobia, hate speech and divisive rhetoric worldwide.“Racism still permeates our institutions, social structures and everyday life in all societies,” she said, cautioning that racial and ethnic groups continue to be targeted, isolated and scapegoated.A moment to reflectAlso speaking in the Assembly, Sarah Lewis, founder of Vision & Justice initiative, underscored the importance of Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, as the blueprint to eliminate racism and protecting human rightsShe said that many societies were built on racial discrimination and warned that such practices undermine future progress and harm everyone.“When are we going to give up the lie that there is any basis for the idea that anyone is better than anyone else on the basis of race, colour, national origin or ethnic origin,” she asked ambassadors. UN Photo/Eskinder DebebeSarah Lewis, Associate Professor at Harvard University and Founder of Vision and Justice, addresses the UN General Assembly.Youth as agents of changeA recurring theme throughout the commemoration was crucial role of young people in shaping solutions.General Assembly President Yang emphasised the need to empower the youth, not only to protect them from discrimination but to enable them to become agents of change.“Their voices must shape the policies and solutions that lead to a just and inclusive society,” he emphasised.Echoing this, Ms. Brands Kehris highlighted the power of education in dismantling racism.“If we practice racism, we teach racism,” she said, urging everyone to correct injustices so future generations can learn from example.She also highlighted that acknowledging historical injustices are essential to dismantling systemic racism, and fostering reconciliation, healing and equality....................................................................................This story was first published to UN News., filtered_html

1 of 5

Courtenay Rattray of Jamaica who serves as Chef de Cabinet of the Secretary-General, addresses the commemorative meeting of the General Assembly on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (21 March).

Story

19 March 2025

Climate change: Paris Agreement goals still within reach, says UN chief

The latest State of the Global Climate report prepared by the the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) confirms 2024 as the hottest year since records began 175 years ago, with a global mean temperature of 1.55°C above pre-industrial levels – surpassing the critical warming threshold of 1.5°C for the first time. While a single year above 1.5°C doesn't break the Paris Agreement's long-term goals (a long-term average below 1.5°C), it is a stark warning of the urgent need for emissions reduction.Multiple climate indicators also set new records. Atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations are at their highest in 800,000 years, and the oceans continue to warm at unprecedented rates. Glaciers and sea ice are rapidly melting, contributing to a rise in global sea levels that threatens coastal ecosystems and infrastructure worldwide.Furthermore, tropical cyclones, floods, droughts, and other hazards last year led to the highest number of new displacements recorded in 16 years, contributing to worsening food crises, and fuelling massive economic losses. Leveraging renewables and early warning systemsDespite these alarming trends, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that the Paris Agreement goals are still achievable and called on world leaders to step up their efforts in response to the mounting crisis.“Our planet is issuing more distress signals – but this report shows that limiting long-term global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius is still possible. Leaders must step up to make it happen –seizing the benefits of cheap, clean renewables for their people and economies – with new national climate plans due this year’’, he urged.WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo called the report findings a “wake-up call” to the increasing level of deadly risk facing human life, economies and the planet.“WMO and the global community are intensifying efforts to strengthen early warning systems and climate services to help decision-makers and society at large be more resilient to extreme weather and climate. We are making progress but need to go further and need to go faster”, she said. Irreversible changesThe report explains that the record-breaking global temperatures in 2023 and 2024 were primarily driven by increasing greenhouse gas emissions, amplified by the transition from La Niña to El Niño. Other factors that might have contributed include solar cycle variation, volcanic activity and changes in ocean circulation.Scientists also underscore the urgency of taking action, outlining some already irreversible changes – including the rate of sea level rise – that has doubled since satellite measurements began.Projections show that ocean warming, which reached its highest level on record, will continue over the rest of the 21st century and beyond, even if the world were to significantly reduce emissions. Similarly, ocean acidification will continue to increase for the rest of this century, at rates dependent on future emissions. Other key findingsGlobally, each of the past ten years were individually the ten warmest years on record.Each of the past eight years has set a new record for ocean heat content.The 18 lowest Arctic sea-ice extents on record were all in the past 18 years.The three lowest Antarctic ice extents were in the past three years.The largest three-year loss of glacier mass on record occurred in the past three years.In 2024, ocean heat content reached its highest level in the 65-year observational record.Tropical cyclones were responsible for many of the highest-impact events of 2024. These included Typhoon Yagi in Viet Nam, the Philippines and southern China. , filtered_html

1 of 5

Story

13 March 2025

Islands and Allies for Peace: Towards ‘Women, Peace and Security’ solutions for the Caribbean

March 12, 2025: A call to establish a CARICOM Envoy to lead the Caribbean’s journey to achieve just, peaceful and resilient societies and the commitment of solidarity and support by the African Union, UN Women and the Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund, were some of the major outcomes at the event: Islands and Allies for Peace: Towards ‘Women, Peace and Security’ Solutions.The Caribbean region has been described as one of relative peace that is however significantly impacted by organised violence and crime, severe climate change impacts, migration influxes, and widespread violence against women. These intersect with growing security issues such as armed violence, and a significant gang crisis driven by drug trafficking and competition for trafficking routes.Developing a Caribbean Regional Action Plan for advancing the “Women, Peace and Security Agenda” was the focus of a consultation held on the margins of the 69th convening of the Commission of the Status of Women – CSW69. The Governments of Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti and the United Kingdom, the UN Women Multi-Country Office (MCO) – Caribbean and The United Nations Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund hosted the event with funding support from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda, UN Women Deputy Executive Director noted that at the recent SIDS4 Conference and in the Communique of the associated SIDS Gender Equality Forum, the Caribbean region highlighted a broader definition of peace:“The peace and security agenda is not just about the presence of active war and conflict; it is about the absence of total peace in people's lives. Whether we call it violence against women, we call it gang violence, or we call it climate vulnerabilities, the essence of peace and the notion of peace demands us to have a broader perspective and a broader definition that enables us to be able to respond. Therefore, the importance at this moment is for us to build on the importance of resilience - resilience of communities which is rooted in the voices, the experiences, and the perspectives of women”. Mme Bineta Diop, Special Envoy on Women, Peace, and Security, African Union Commission shared that from the African Union’s experience, that regional cooperation, policy frameworks, and WPS Envoys have a significant positive impact on the development of gender-sensitive peace and security measures. The AU Special Envoy added:“The appointment of a CARICOM WPS Envoy is a significant step that will increase the representation of women in the decision-making processes and their involvement in peacebuilding processes. The Haiti crisis offers a clear example that peace cannot be sustained without women’s involvement in the process. The representation of women in Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council, although partial, requires more efforts to achieve the full participation of women… The African Union has been reaffirming its commitment to strengthening relations with the African Diaspora worldwide, including the Caribbean, and particularly, the Haitian community, since the start of the unrests. To this end, I wish to announce that the African Women Leaders Network will undertake a Solidarity visit to Haiti this year”. Isiuwa Iyahen, Head of Office ad interim, UN Women Multi-Country Office – Caribbean said:“As we mark Beijing+30, commemorating three decades since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, it is crucial to recognize the deep connections between this landmark framework and the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda. The Beijing Platform for Action was groundbreaking in calling for women's equal participation in conflict prevention, resolution, and peacebuilding—principles that were later enshrined in UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000) and subsequent WPS resolutions. For more than two decades, the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda has made clear that peace and security efforts are more effective, sustainable, and just, when women are at the table.” Tonni Brodber, Head of Secretariat, UN Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund (WPHF) stressed that women’s leadership remains underfunded and undervalued:“Women are not just victims—they are leading recovery efforts after hurricanes, mediating community conflicts, and advocating for justice in the face of violence. In Haiti, WPHF is actively funding women-led organizations that are providing critical support services—safe houses, trauma counselling, and advocacy for women affected by gender-based violence and organized crime. We continue our investment in Haiti with an immediate investment of 2 million USD this year... WPHF is also committed to investing in women-led climate action in CARICOM and globally. Investing in women-led solutions strengthens climate resilience, peace, and security across the CARICOM region”.Trinidad and Tobago signalled the value of and its commitment to the Women, Peace and Security Agenda as the first Caribbean nation to pursue the WPS Agenda and has submitted a National Action Plan to Cabinet for approval. Kurt Meyer, Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, Trinidad and Tobago told the meeting that for the period 2019 to 2022, records show a total of 8,829 reports of domestic violence.“Data from our National Violence Hotline have revealed that a number of reports of over 1,600 over the same period. When we drill down into the data, the victims are predominantly women and girls, with the vast majority, over 90% being under the age of 35. During this period, 144 persons lost their lives as a direct result of domestic violence. The majority of these deaths were women”.He added that the twin island nation is implementing a number of intervention strategies: research on the linkages between gang violence and gender-based violence; a national parenting programme; engaging with women's networks within faith-based organisations to provide safe spaces for trauma-informed discussions, adopting the Boys and Girls Club model for in and out of school programmes for youth, and scaling up the retiree adolescent Partnership Programme to promote the role of senior women within marginalised communities with experience to help reduce the levels of crime and operate as agents of peace.The event also sought to strengthen the regional and global women’s movements to support gender responsive political and peace processes in the region drawing from the Haitian experience.Honourable Pedrica Saint Jean, Minister for the Status of Women and Women's Rights – Haiti, said over 300,000 people have been displaced within the country fleeing extreme gang violence, reports of sexual violence have increased and many survivors are scared to report. However she said Haitian women are not mere victims:“Haitian women continue to fight. They are the pillars of their community. They carry the hope of whole generations and do not abandon those in the most afflicted areas. They have organised a Solidarity Network. While we struggle for Haiti to get its first national action plan, women must be at the centre of discussions over safety, governance and reconstruction of the country and we must also mobilise the international community. The support of our partners is crucial to reinforce our institutional capacity and to ensure a rigorous follow up of the commitments taken towards women's rights, a message of peace and resilience”.Civil society representatives also contributed to the lessons learned and proposed solutions. Folade Mutota Executive Director of The Trinidad and Tobago-based Women's Institute for Alternative Development (WINAD) said they had adopted a WPS approach from 2002 and advocated its benefits: “We have advanced the argument that women's leadership particularly in borderline communities, and when I speak about borderline communities here I'm talking about communities with gang territories, that women's leadership to prevent and reduce harm warrants analysis, and positions women for full and effective participation in decision making on small arms control”. Pascale Solages, a Haitian CSO representative said more and flexible financing is needed – however she stressed the value of indigenous knowledge and experiences. “You have to trust Haitian women. You have to trust Caribbean women. We know our reality. We know what we have to do. We know what has worked for Haitian women and girls, for Caribbean women and girls. You have to trust the women in their country because they know what they have to do as activists, they know what they have to do as feminists”. The UN Women MCO - Caribbean Head Isiuwa Iyahen said the wealth of experiences and solutions shared should be tapped into by other Caribbean countries since the WPS comprehensive approach not only addresses immediate security challenges but also promotes sustainable peace and inclusive development in the Caribbean. ......................................................................................................This story was first published by UN Women Multi-Country Office – CaribbeanFor further information, please contact: Sharon Carter-Burke
Communications Analyst, UN Women Multi-Country Office (MCO) – Caribbean
Email: sharon.carter-burke@unwomen.org
WhatsApp: 1-246-836-6124 Shelly Dolabaille
Communications and Partnerships Analyst,
UN Women Multi-Country Office (MCO) – Caribbean
Email: shelly.dolabaille@unwomen.org
WhatsApp: 1-868-330-4791, filtered_html

1 of 5

Isiuwa Iyahen, Head of Office a.i., UN Women Multi-Coutry Office - Caribbean, chairs the event

View all

Press Release

24 March 2025

Media Advisory: Data in Action: Youth Data Literacy as a Tool for Change

This one-day event will bring together youth champions, youth-led organizations, and representatives from NGOs across the Eastern Caribbean to explore how data literacy can drive meaningful social change. Participants will engage with experts from UNFPA, UNESCO, IOM, and other key partners through interactive sessions on data storytelling, GIS applications, and ethical AI usage in advocacy.Who:Kirk Humphrey (Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Barbados) – Feature AddressDe-Jane Gibbons (UNFPA) – Opening RemarksEbenezer Fiifi Abassah-Konadu (RCO) – Population Data Repositories & ToolsKim Farren (UNFPA) – GIS Applications for AdvocacyPaula Isturiz Cavero & Angelica Shilova (UNESCO) – Ethical AI in AdvocacyAlexandra Bate & Vynliz Dailey (IOM) – Data Storytelling for Decision-MakingKenroy Roach (RCO) – Closing RemarksWhen:
Tuesday, March 25, 2025,
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
(Media should be in place by 8:45 a.m.)Where:
[Hybrid] UN House, Marine Gardens, Christ Church, Barbados
[Online]
Zoom Registration LinkYOU ARE INVITED TO COVER THIS EVENTKindly confirm your agency’s participation and the names of assigned media personnel via email to ebenezer.abassahkonadu@un.org and Akeel.lovell@un.org no later than March 23, 2025., filtered_html

1 of 5

Press Release

24 March 2025

MEDIA ADVISORY: Launch Of The SDG Joint Programme on Digital Transformaiton for Education

WHAT: LAUNCH OF THE SDG JOINT PROGRAMME ON DIGITAL TRANSFORMAITON FOR EDUCATIONWHEN: TUESDAY MARCH 25, 2025 AT 10:30 A.M.WHERE: CUMBERLAND HIGH SCHOOL, PORTMORE, ST CATHERINEWHO: Senator Dr the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon, Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and InformationH.E. Ambassador, Dr Erja Askola, Head of Delegation of the European Union to JamaicaH.E. Jose Fernandez Lopez de Turiso, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain to JamaicaMr Dennis Zulu, United Nations Resident CoordinatorMs Olga Isaza, Representative, UNICEF Jamaica OVERVIEW: The SDG Joint Programme on Digital Transformation for Education is a three-year initiative designed to support the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information (MOESYI) in modernizing Jamaica’s education system. The programme will make learning more inclusive and accessible for at least 450,000 students. By using digital tools, schools and policymakers will have better access to reliable data, making it easier to track student progress, support teachers and improve learning outcomes across Jamaica. Among others, the program aims to achieve:Informed decision-making through upgraded Education Management Information System (EMIS).Enhanced efficiency in teacher engagement and workforce management through data-driven solutions.Increased access to digital education tools such as the Learning Passport as well as improved student attendance and learning outcomes.Improved National School Feeding Programme through digital tracking and AI-driven menu planning.Contact: Jomain McKenzie, Programme Communications & Advocacy, United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office; jomain.mckenzie@un.orgDonna-Marie Rowe, Communication Specialist, UNICEF; dwallacerowe@unicef.org; CUG: 876-460-4725, filtered_html

1 of 5

Press Release

24 March 2025

UN Women Multi-Country Office (MCO) – Caribbean Wrap up March 24-28

Advancing Women, Peace, and Security in the Caribbean: High-Level Experts Meeting in Guyana.On March 26-28, 2025, UN Women, in partnership with the British High Commission and key regional stakeholders, will convene a High-Level Experts Meeting on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) in the Caribbean. This gathering aims to advance the development and implementation of Regional and National Action Plans (NAPs) on WPS, transforming commitments into concrete action.The event will bring together decision-makers, policymakers, and experts to explore opportunities for regional collaboration, identify funding mechanisms, and strengthen the role of civil society and government in advancing WPS priorities. With a dynamic mix of panel discussions, fireside chats, and interactive sessions, participants will engage in critical dialogue on how to drive sustainable change in the region.A key outcome of the meeting is exploring the viability of a regional WPS envoy to enhance advocacy and implementation efforts across CARICOM. Bilateral discussions will also help to identify challenges and opportunities for NAP implementation.This meeting is part of a broader programme to enhance regional security frameworks and ensure that women’s voices are central to peacebuilding efforts across the Caribbean. Trinidad and Tobago to Launch Historic Women, Peace and Security National Action PlanTrinidad and Tobago is set to make history as the first country in the Caribbean to develop and adopt a National Action Plan (NAP) on Women, Peace and Security (WPS). The official launch will take place on March 26, 2025, at the Hilton Trinidad and Conference Centre, marking a significant step toward promoting gender-inclusive peacebuilding and security.Developed through an extensive consultative process involving government agencies, civil society, and international partners, the WPS NAP will focus on addressing gun and gang violence—a key challenge to peace, justice, safety, and security in the country.This initiative, led by the Office of the Prime Minister (Gender and Child Affairs), UN Women MCO - Caribbean, and the Government of Canada, aligns with global efforts to recognise the critical role of women in conflict prevention and peacebuilding. With over 110 countries worldwide having implemented similar plans, this milestone underscores Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to advancing women’s leadership in security, governance, and social cohesion. Strengthening Women’s Leadership in Security: Our Secure Future and UN Women Host Workshop in Trinidad and Tobago.UN Women, in collaboration with key stakeholders, will convene a two-day workshop on March 24-25, 2025, at Hilton Trinidad to translate the National Action Plan (NAP) on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) into concrete implementation steps.This workshop will bring together government agencies, civil society, and international partners to refine the operational framework, establish monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and strengthen coordination for effective NAP execution. Participants will also develop a six-month roadmap, ensuring collective action towards a more secure and inclusive Trinidad and Tobago. UNITED NATIONS – PRIVATE SECTOR OPEN HOUSEOn Monday March 24th, The United Nations is hosting a dialogue: “SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals: A Focus on St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ Private Sector Contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals”. The UN Resident Coordinator’s Office for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean is coordinating the initiative with participating agencies: UN Women through its Global Affairs Canada-funded Build Back Equal Project, UN Global Compact Network Caribbean, World Food Programme, UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and UNFPA. CARIBBEAN ACADEMIC FORUM: Advancing Towards Care Societies 25th -26th March 2025The Caribbean Academic Forum, “Contributions to the XVI Regional Conference on Women in Latin America and the Caribbean: Advancing Towards Care Societies”, will be held in Barbados, on 25th and 26th of March 2025.The Forum is organised by UN ECLAC, The Consortium Universities Caribbean, the Institute for Gender and Development Studies: Nita Barrow Unit of the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus, UN Women and Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC), in collaboration with El Colegio de Mexico (COLMEX), the Global Alliance for Care and the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD). It will be live streamed at: https://live.cepal.org/caribbeanforum. Caribbean preparatory meeting of the XVI session of the Regional Conference on Women in Latin America and the Caribbean (hybrid format)On March 27, UNECLAC and UN Women will host this preparatory meeting in Barbados and virtually, as part of the road map for the preparatory process of the XVI Regional Conference on Women in Latin America and the Caribbean, which will be held in Mexico City from 12 to 15 August 2025. Young Women in Leadership Network Beijing+30 WebinarOn March 25th, 2025, UN Women will in observance of Beijing+30, join ParlAmericas and the Caribbean Institute for Women in Leadership (CWIL) – the coordinators of the Young Women in Leadership Programme - to host a webinar on the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. YWiL is a series of national-level initiatives to foster young women’s interest in politics and public leadership in five Caribbean countries: Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Lucia, Jamaica and Grenada. PhotoVoice Workshop & Exhibition: Amplifying Women's Voices for ChangeIn celebration of International Women’s Day 2025 and the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the Resident Coordinator’s Office in partnership with UN Women MCO - Caribbean, UNHCR, the Institute for Gender and Development Studies, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, and in collaboration with the United Nations Communications Group (UNCG), are launching a PhotoVoice Workshop and Exhibition in Trinidad and Tobago.This initiative will empower eight women and girls from diverse backgrounds to share their personal stories through photography and oral storytelling, offering a powerful platform for advocacy and awareness. Participants recently participated in a virtual storytelling workshop, guiding on how to capture compelling narratives that reflect their lived experiences. Their stories, paired with impactful images, will be showcased in an interactive public exhibition, allowing visitors to listen to the participants’ voices through audio recordings and engage in dialogue on gender equality.Exhibition Details:East Gates Mall, Trincity: 8:00AM to 4:00PM on Thursday 27 and Friday 28 March, 2025- This activity is open to the public.Main Library, University of the West Indies: Available for the period Thursday 3 to Friday 4 April, 2025- This activity is open to UWI students, staff and other users of the library. , filtered_html

1 of 5

Press Release

19 March 2025

WMO report documents spiralling weather and climate impacts

The clear signs of human-induced climate change reached new heights in 2024, with some of the consequences being irreversible over hundreds if not thousands of years, according to a new report from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), which also underlined the massive economic and social upheavals from extreme weather. Key messagesKey climate change indicators again reach record levelsLong-term warming (averaged over decades) remains below 1.5°CSea-level rise and ocean warming irreversible for hundreds of yearsRecord greenhouse gas concentrations combined with El Niño and other factors to drive 2024 record heatEarly warnings and climate services are vital to protect communities and economiesWMO’s State of the Global Climate report confirmed that 2024 was likely the first calendar year to be more than 1.5°C above the pre-industrial era, with a global mean near-surface temperature of 1.55 ± 0.13 °C above the 1850-1900 average. This is the warmest year in the 175-year observational record.WMO’s flagship report showed that:Atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide are at the highest levels in the last 800,000 years.Globally each of the past ten years were individually the ten warmest years on record.Each of the past eight years has set a new record for ocean heat content.The 18 lowest Arctic sea-ice extents on record were all in the past 18 years.The three lowest Antarctic ice extents were in the past three years.The largest three-year loss of glacier mass on record occurred in the past three years.The rate of sea level rise has doubled since satellite measurements began.“Our planet is issuing more distress signals -- but this report shows that limiting long-term global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius is still possible. Leaders must step up to make it happen -- seizing the benefits of cheap, clean renewables for their people and economies - - with new National climate plans due this year, ” said United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres.“While a single year above 1.5 °C of warming does not indicate that the long-term temperature goals of the Paris Agreement are out of reach, it is a wake-up call that we are increasing the risks to our lives, economies and to the planet,” said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo.Global mean temperature 1850-2024 The report said that long-term global warming is currently estimated to be between 1.34 and 1.41 °C compared to the 1850-1900 baseline based on a range of methods – although it noted the uncertainty ranges in global temperature statistics.A WMO team of international experts is examining this further in order to ensure consistent, reliable tracking of long-term global temperature changes to be aligned with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).Regardless of the methodology used, every fraction of a degree of warming matters and increases risks and costs to society.The record global temperatures seen in 2023 and broken in 2024 were mainly due to the ongoing rise in greenhouse gas emissions, coupled with a shift from a cooling La Niña to warming El Niño event. Several other factors may have contributed to the unexpectedly unusual temperature jumps, including changes in the solar cycle, a massive volcanic eruption and a decrease in cooling aerosols, according to the report.Temperatures are just a small part of a much bigger picture.“Data for 2024 show that our oceans continued to warm, and sea levels continued to rise. The frozen parts of Earth’s surface, known as the cryosphere, are melting at an alarming rate: glaciers continue to retreat, and Antarctic sea ice reached its second-lowest extent ever recorded. Meanwhile, extreme weather continues to have devastating consequences around the world,” said Celeste Saulo.Tropical cyclones, floods, droughts, and other hazards in 2024 led to the highest number of new displacements recorded for the past 16 years, contributed to worsening food crises, and caused massive economic losses.“In response, WMO and the global community are intensifying efforts to strengthen early warning systems and climate services to help decision-makers and society at large be more resilient to extreme weather and climate. We are making progress but need to go further and need to go faster. Only half of all countries worldwide have adequate early warning systems. This must change,” said Celeste Saulo.Investment in weather, water and climate services is more important than ever to meet the challenges and build safer, more resilient communities, she stressed.The report is based on scientific contributions from National Meteorological and Hydrological Services, WMO Regional Climate Centres, UN partners and dozens of experts. It includes sidebars on monitoring global temperature for the Paris Agreement and understanding the temperature anomalies in 2023 and 2024. It includes supplements on climate services and on extreme weather.It is one of a suite of WMO scientific reports which seek to inform decision-making. It was published ahead of World Meteorological Day on 23 March, World Water Day on 22 March and World Glaciers Day on 21 March.Three methods for establishing an up-to-date estimate of current global warming as of 2024, compared with the IPCC AR6 method, which uses averages over the previous 10 years and is representative of warming to 2019. The best estimate resulting from each method is shown as a dark vertical line, and the uncertainty range is shown by the shaded area.Key IndicatorsAtmospheric Carbon DioxideAtmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide, as well as methane and nitrous oxide, are at the highest levels in the last 800,000 years.Carbon dioxide concentrations in 2023 (the last year for which consolidated global annual figures are available) were 420.0 ± 0.1 parts per million (ppm), 2.3 ppm more than 2022 and 151% of the pre-industrial level (in 1750). 420 ppm corresponds to 3,276 Gt – or 3.276 trillion tonnes of CO₂ in the atmosphere.Real-time data from specific locations show that levels of these three main greenhouse gases continued to increase in 2024. Carbon dioxide remains in the atmosphere for generations, trapping heat.Global Mean Near-surface TemperatureIn addition to 2024 setting a new record, each of the past ten years, 2015-2024, were individually the ten warmest years on record.The record temperature in 2024 was boosted by a strong El Niño which peaked at the start of the year. In every month between June 2023 and December 2024, monthly average global temperatures exceeded all monthly records prior to 2023.Record levels of greenhouse gases were the primary driver, with the shift to El Niño playing a lesser role.Ocean Heat ContentAround 90% of the energy trapped by greenhouse gases in the Earth system is stored in the ocean.In 2024, ocean heat content reached its highest level in the 65-year observational record. Each of the past eight years has set a new record. The rate of ocean warming over the past two decades, 2005-2024, is more than twice that in the period 1960-2005.Ocean warming leads to degradation of marine ecosystems, biodiversity loss, and reduction of the ocean carbon sink. It fuels tropical storms and contributes to sea-level rise. It is irreversible on centennial to millennial time scales. Climate projections show that ocean warming will continue for at least the rest of the 21st century, even for low carbon emission scenarios.Ocean AcidificationAcidification of the ocean surface is continuing, as shown by the steady decrease of global average ocean surface pH. The most intense regional decreases are in the Indian Ocean, the Southern Ocean, the eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, the northern tropical Pacific, and some regions in the Atlantic Ocean.The effects of ocean acidification on habitat area, biodiversity and ecosystems have already been clearly observed, and food production from shellfish aquaculture and fisheries has been hit as have coral reefs.Projections show that ocean acidification will continue to increase in the 21st century, at rates dependent on future emissions. Changes in deep-ocean pH are irreversible on centennial to millennial time scales.Annual global ocean heat content down to 2000 m depth for the period 1960–2024, in zettajoules (1021 J). The shaded area indicates the 2-sigma uncertainty range on each estimate.Global Mean Sea LevelIn 2024, global mean sea level was the highest since the start of the satellite record in 1993 and the rate of increase from 2015-2024 was double that from 1993–2002, increasing from 2.1 mm per year to 4.7 mm per year.Sea level rise has cascading damaging impacts on coastal ecosystems and infrastructure, with further impacts from flooding and saltwater contamination of groundwater.Glacier Mass BalanceThe period 2022-2024 represents the most negative three-year glacier mass balance on record. Seven of the ten most negative mass balance years since 1950 have occurred since 2016.Exceptionally negative mass balances were experienced in Norway, Sweden, Svalbard, and the tropical Andes.Glacier retreat increases short-term hazards, harms economies and ecosystems and long-term water security.Glacier cumulative mass balance 1950-2024 Sea-ice ExtentThe 18 lowest Arctic sea-ice minimum extents in the satellite record all occurred in the past 18 years. The annual minimum and maximum of Antarctic sea-ice extent were each the 2nd lowest in the observed record from 1979.The minimum daily extent of sea-ice in the Arctic in 2024 was 4.28 million km2, the 7th lowest extent in the 46-year satellite record. In Antarctica, the minimum daily extent tied for the 2nd lowest minimum in the satellite era and marked the 3rd consecutive year that minimum Antarctic sea-ice extent dropped below 2 million km2. These are the three lowest Antarctic ice minima in the satellite record.Extreme events and impactsExtreme weather events in 2024 led to the highest number of new annual displacements since 2008, and destroyed homes, critical infrastructure, forests, farmland and biodiversity.The compounded effect of various shocks, such as intensifying conflict, drought and high domestic food prices drove worsening food crises in 18 countries globally by mid-2024.Tropical cyclones were responsible for many of the highest-impact events of 2024. These included Typhoon Yagi in Viet Nam, the Philippines and southern China.In the United States, Hurricanes Helene and Milton in October both made landfall on the west coast of Florida as major hurricanes, with economic losses of tens of billions of dollars. Over 200 deaths were associated with the exceptional rainfall and flooding from Helene, the most in a mainland United States hurricane since Katrina in 2005.Tropical Cyclone Chido caused casualties and economic losses in the French Indian Ocean island of Mayotte, Mozambique and Malawi. It displaced around 100,000 people in Mozambique. Notes to EditorsThe State of the Global Climate 2024 report includes scientific contributions from dozens of WMO Members, partners and scientists.The WMO Secretariat wishes to thank everyone who dedicated their time and expertise to this report. Full details of the datasets, references and institutions involved are available in the report.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for promoting international cooperation in atmospheric science and meteorology.WMO monitors weather, climate, and water resources and provides support to its Members in forecasting and disaster mitigation. The organization is committed to advancing scientific knowledge and improving public safety and well-being through its work.For further information, please contact:Clare NullisWMO media officercnullis@wmo.int+41 79 709 13 97WMO Strategic Communication Office Media Contactmedia@wmo.int, filtered_html

1 of 5

Press Release

18 February 2025

Insurance top-up programme directing cash support to people affected by Hurricane Beryl

In Grenada alone, 34,000 people (30 percent of the population) required emergency assistance after Hurricane Beryl. Now, it is the first country to provide subsidies to people who lost income, under the Beryl Relief Income Support Programme (BRISP).WFP and CCRIF SPC (formerly the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility) work together to link tropical cyclone and excess rainfall insurance policies with national social protection systems. Through an innovative model, financial support allows countries to top-up their sovereign insurance coverage on the condition that a fixed percentage of the payout is allocated for social assistance if and when policies are triggered. “Recognising the limited fiscal space of Caribbean governments, we know that it is crucial to strengthen national systems to ensure that support reaches the people who need it most, when disaster strikes,” said Brian Bogart, Representative of the WFP Caribbean Multi-Country Office. “Hurricane Beryl’s impact was significant, and many people are still struggling to recover. WFP is committed to supporting strategies that assist people as they recover, without increasing the long-term debt burden of small island nations and derailing progress on national development goals.”Chief Executive Officer of CCRIF, Mr. Isaac Anthony shared that “as the leading provider of parametric insurance coverage, in the Caribbean and Central America, we are pleased that CCRIF’s products offered to governments, can be used to make their social protection systems more shock responsive by facilitating vertical and horizontal expansion of social protection systems, when a country’s policy is triggered”. Citing the examples of Grenada and Jamaica, Mr, Anthony indicated that the government of Grenada received payouts under its tropical cyclone and excess rainfall policies from CCRIF as a result of Hurricane Beryl totalling US$ 43 million, of which US$4.6 million was allocated to social protection. WFP first introduced insurance policy top-up agreements in Dominica in 2021. Since then, WFP has helped expand the model to Belize, Dominica and Saint Lucia, with support from the European Union, the Government of Canada and the Global Shield Financing Facility. The Canada-CARICOM Climate Adaptation has recently provided funding to include Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Jamaica and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. "In the face of increasing climate-related challenges, it is imperative that we strengthen our collaborative efforts to build resilience within our Caribbean communities,” said Isaac Solomon, Acting President of the Caribbean Development Bank. ” Innovative insurance models supported by CCRIF SPC and WFP are an effective method to get relief those most affected in a timely manner.”“Canada was keen to build on the work that started in 2021,” said Abebech Assefa, Head of Cooperation for the Eastern Caribbean at Canada's International Trade - Global Affairs Canada. “The idea to connect a portion of CCRIF SPC payouts to social protection systems helps ensure that these funds reach the most vulnerable people. The recent experience with Hurricane Beryl has provided an opportunity to put the concept to the test.” Caribbean small island developing states (SIDS) are on the frontline of climate change. The WFP Caribbean Multi-Country Office was established in 2018 and has since supported governments in scaling-up climate solutions, including early warning systems, anticipatory action and insurance to protect food-insecure communities. , filtered_html

1 of 5

View all