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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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

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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 , filtered_html

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A UN Volunteer works at a compute rin an office setting

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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, filtered_html

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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, filtered_html

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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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22 January 2025

Gender equality in the Caribbean requires a transformative approach says former UN Women Caribbean Head

Achieving true gender equality in the Caribbean requires more than just responsive actions—it demands a transformative shift in how institutions and governments address the barriers that perpetuate inequality.This was the key message from Tonni Brodber, former Representative, UN Women Multi-Country Office (MCO) – Caribbean, as she addressed over 40 UN staff members during an inaugural staff Community of Practice session at UN House themed: From Resolution to Action: Gender Equality as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development.The hybrid initiative, which saw participation from UN staff across the Eastern Caribbean, seeks to bridge gaps across UN Agencies, Funds, and Programmes, providing staff with greater insight into Agency-specific priorities and updates on emerging global issues that may be outside of their mandates. Moreover, it aims to strengthen internal communications and build synergies to enhance joint approaches to UN work in the region.Leading the participatory session, which included staff surveys and a high-level of engagement, Ms. Brodber said the Caribbean requires gender-transformative actions that tackle the deep-rooted barriers to equality. “Gender responsiveness means acting on the issue, but gender-transformative actions are what we need, especially with states. We must address the barriers that states may not even realize are keeping certain groups out,” she underlined.Using an example from the COVID-19 pandemic, when some regional leaders allowed workers to return to work while keeping schools closed, Ms. Brodber noted that this posed a major challenge, particularly for caregivers, who were predominantly women. “When leaders across the region said you can go back to work after COVID-19 but schools were closed… people said you know, we are depending on you, the older women in society, [to help take care of the children] but some of them were also working.”For Ms. Brodber, being gender-transformative means creating systems that allow both women and men to participate equally in the workforce, such as opening schools, adjusting work hours, and recognising the structural burdens on caregivers.She emphasized that gender equality also entailed ensuring that the needs of men were also taken into consideration .
Unpaid Care WorkThe session also brought to the fore the issue of unpaid care work, which was the focus of a recent UN Women-led study on the topic ‘Assessing the Impact of Unpaid Care Work on Families in Barbados’. Ms. Brodber told the forum: “We still have serious gaps as it pertains to women's empowerment, and you won't have gender equality without us addressing these gaps right now, like unpaid care work.” She noted that unpaid care work disproportionately affects women, who are often expected to organize after-school activities, cook, and manage household tasks. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO) and UN Women, unpaid work refers to tasks such as caregiving, household chores, and community service that are performed without financial compensation.Ms. Brodber also highlighted the challenges women face in business and entrepreneurship. “In the Caribbean, women own only 8% of registered businesses, most of which are sole proprietorships. If these women fall ill or need to care for a child, their businesses suffer,” she explained, emphasizing the structural barriers to entrepreneurial success.Turning to systemic disadvantages, Brodber remarked, “Historically, our institutions have privileged men.” She cited an example from the 1980s, when women in many Caribbean countries were required to have male family members co-sign loans or open bank accounts—an issue more rooted in gender than ability. Beijing +30: Progress and ChallengesThe discussion also focused on the broader global movement for gender equality, particularly the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action. Ms. Brodber underscored the significance of the 1995 Beijing Conference, where world leaders committed to addressing gender inequality in areas such as education, health, violence, and economic participation. Despite some progress, many of the issues outlined in the Beijing Platform remain unresolved. “We’re still talking about women’s representation in leadership, pay gaps, and unpaid care work,” Ms, Brodber observed making the point that the Beijing Platform is a reminder that gender equality isn’t a one-time effort but requires sustained commitment.The forum, which was organized by the UN Communications Group, is expected to be a bi-monthly initiative , to be led by various UN AFPs. Some of the Agencies represented at the inaugural session included the UN Resident Coordinator Office, UN Women, UNDP, PAHO, UNICEF, FAO, WFP, ILO, and the UN Information Centre (UNIC). ............................................................................This story was first published by UN Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean., filtered_html

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24 January 2025

UN regrets US exit from global cooperation on health, climate change agreement

“The WHO regrets the announcement that the United States of America intends to withdraw from the Organization…We hope the United States will reconsider,” said WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic, hours after the new President signed an executive order at the White House, bringing US involvement in the UN agency to an end in 12 months.The US joined WHO in 1948 after a joint resolution was passed by both chambers of Congress. The resolution requires the country to provide one year’s notice to leave the organization.President Trump took steps to withdraw from the WHO in 2020 during his first term – but the move was reversed by the Biden administration.Responding to journalists’ questions in Geneva, Mr. Jasarevic insisted that WHO “plays a crucial role in protecting the health and security of the world’s people, including Americans, by addressing the root causes of disease, building stronger health systems, and detecting, preventing and responding to health emergencies, including disease outbreaks, often in dangerous places where others cannot go.”Asked about the impact of the US withdrawal, Mr. Jasarevic pointed out that he saw the executive order “this morning like everyone else” and that further analysis will be needed. He confirmed that the US was WHO’s largest single donor, accounting for 18 per cent of the agency’s budget in 2023.Also in Geneva, UN humanitarian affairs office (OCHA) spokesperson Jens Laerke highlighted the UN health agency’s importance, saying that “the world lives longer, healthier, perhaps a little bit happier because of WHO”.“WHO is in places where others cannot go,” Mr. Laerke said, including Gaza, Yemen, Afghanistan and Sudan. “It is an indispensable part of the international humanitarian system,” he insisted.Climate shockFrom the UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO), spokesperson Clare Nullis reacted to President Trump’s vow to quit the universally adopted 2015 Paris Agreement - marking an immediate return to the policies of his first presidential term, which ended in January 2021.The need for all countries to respect the accord was “pretty obvious”, she said, given that 2024 “was the hottest year on record”, at about 1.55°C above the pre-industrial era. “It is the defining challenge of our time,” she insisted.In the wake of the recent devastating and deadly massive wildfires that ripped through Los Angeles, the WMO spokesperson also noted that the US had suffered the bulk of global economic losses from weather, climate and water-related hazards.“It has sustained 403 weather and climate disasters since 1980 where overall damages/costs reached or exceeded $1 billion. The total cost of these 403 events exceeds $2.915 trillion, according to US figures,” Ms. Nullis said.Her comments echoed those of the UN Spokesperson’s Office late on Monday which responded to journalists’ questions insisting that “the transformation envisaged in the Paris Agreement is already underway”, with a renewable “energy revolution” offering opportunities for jobs and prosperity.“The Secretary-General remains confident that cities, states and businesses within the United States - along with other countries - will continue to demonstrate vision and leadership by working for the low-carbon, resilient economic growth that will create quality jobs and markets for 21st century prosperity," the statement continued.“It is crucial that the United States remains a leader on environmental issues,” it concluded. ..............................................................This story was first published by UN News., filtered_html

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17 January 2025

UN experts commend Saint Kitts and Nevis education record, query corporal punishment and gang violence

The Committee on the Rights of the Child today concluded its review of the second periodic report of Saint Kitts and Nevis, with Committee Experts commending the State on its exemplary record for compulsory and free education, while raising questions on the prevalence of corporal punishment and youth gang violence. Faith Marshall Harris, Committee Expert and Country Taskforce Coordinator, said Saint Kitts and Nevis should be commended for its excellent record for education which was exemplary and well-known in the region, due to the compulsory and free education.Rinchen Chophel, Committee Vice Chair and Taskforce Member, said it was understood that corporal punishment was still lawful in the home and other settings. What were plans to prohibit corporal punishment in law and in all settings? How were positive methods of discipline being promoted? Ms. Marshall Harris asked if there had there been any developments on banning corporal punishment in schools? Ms. Marshall Harris also said the State should also be given kudos due to the Gang Prohibition Act initiated in 2017. The State had been more progressive than most in getting this legislation to parliament. However, the provisions seemed to be wide; could this be clarified? Had this legislation worked? Had it decreased the prevalence of gangs? Mr. Chophel said the high prevalence of homicide among children relating to youth gang violence was a concern. What measures were being adopted to prevent such incidents?The delegation said the law regarding corporal punishment was still in draft form. Social norms around discipline and punishment needed to be addressed. The Government had been engaging with the United Nations Children’s Fund and United Nations Women around behaviour change specialists to create the literature, training and public awareness campaigns in this regard. In prisons and institutions, corporal punishment had already been abolished; in children’s homes and schools, it had an adapted process; in homes, it remained a practice within. Conversations were being held with the religious community to ensure a holistic view. The country welcomed the sharing of any best practices for the abolishment of corporal punishment in the home.The delegation said a 90-day campaign had been launched in Saint Kitts and Nevis to address youth violence, which included community engagement events. A national action plan would be drafted and presented to the public for full implementation in 2025. The Peace Programme was a direct initiative to address gang-related matters of recruitment, reform, and rehabilitation. A key aim was to restrict gang recruitment. The State was on the lookout for these groups and was looking at ways to provide alternative measures for teamwork and identification to these children.Azilla Clarke, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Social Development and Gender Affairs of Saint Kitts and Nevis and head of the delegation, presenting the report, said the tagline for the National Social Protection Strategy for the Federation was “making Saint Kitts and Nevis the best place to grow up and to grow old in”, which remained a fundamental vision for the Government. Ms. Clarke said the delegation looked forward to learning from the experiences of the Committee members while continuing to care, protect, and provide for children across Saint Kitts and Nevis.In closing remarks, Ms. Marshall Harris thanked the delegation for an enlightening and encouraging dialogue. The State had promised to continue the review of child justice which was urgently needed, to continue the good work in education and review the curriculum, to continue and intensify efforts to eradicate poverty, and to continue with considerable efforts to counter gang activity. It was hoped these promises would be kept.In her closing remarks, Ms. Clarke thanked all Committee members for their engagement and questions, which underpinned their commitment to protecting children, sharing best practices, and recognising progress made by Saint Kitts and Nevis. The State would endeavour to deliver on the promises made, with all activities being carried out in the best interests of the child.The delegation of Saint Kitts and Nevis was comprised of representatives from the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Affairs; the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; the Ministry of Social Development; the Ministry of Health, Gender Affairs and Social Empowerment; the Ministry of Education; the Ministry of Health; the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs; the Probation and Child Welfare Board; and the Permanent Mission of Saint Kitts and Nevis to the United Nations Office at Geneva. Summaries of the public meetings of the Committee can be found here, while webcasts of the public meetings can be found hereOpens in new window. The programme of work of the Committee’s ninety-eighth session and other documents related to the session can be found hereOpens in new window.The Committee will next meet in public at 3. pm on Monday, 20 January, to begin its consideration of the combined sixth and seventh periodic report of Peru (CRC/C/PER/6-7).............................................................Get the full meeting summary and transcript at the website of the United Nations Office at Geneva., filtered_html

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15 January 2025

Guterres highlights ‘hope through action’ for 2025, amid continuing turmoil

In his traditional new year address to the General Assembly setting out his key priorities for the global organization, the UN chief acknowledged the “turmoil of our world” and conceded that “it is understandable to get overwhelmed”.Nonetheless, Mr. Guterres urged delegates to “never lose sight of progress and potential”, highlighting the ceasefire in Lebanon which is “largely holding” and the country’s recent election of a President, after a two-year stalemate.Away from the world’s battlefields, the UN chief underscored positive developments on climate action that reflect the commitment of the United Nations to combating global warming, as “the world now invests almost twice as much in clean energy as it does in fossil fuels…almost everywhere, solar and wind are now the cheapest sources of new electricity - and the fastest growing in history,” he said.And as a measure of how much socio-economic progress has been made in line with UN values, Mr. Guterres noted that “in much of the world, girls have achieved parity in education. On health matters, moreover, “more children are surviving today than ever before,” he insisted, before adding that HIV infections “continue to dramatically decline, along with malaria mortality rates”.He described the UN as “a force of construction” that is always strengthening how it works and delivers, proving the maxim that global problems need global solutions.Pandora’s BoxBut there can be no illusions that action or inaction has “unleashed a modern-day Pandora’s Box of ills,” he continued, highlighting protracted wars, inequality, the climate crisis and “out of control technology.”Conflicts are multiplying with the full spectrum of human rights under increasing attack.Mr. Guterres called for negotiators who are reportedly close to a deal on a Gaza ceasefire to finalise the deal. Throughout the whole Middle East “we must deny extremists a veto over a peaceful future,” he said.He announced he would be travelling to Lebanon later in the day, emboldened by the positive developments there in recent weeks that could see Israelis and Lebanese forge a new and lasting era of peace and security.He highlighted conflict in Ukraine, Sudan, the Sahel and Haiti.Tackling inequality“Inequalities can be beaten,” he said boldy, starting with accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through multilateral reform on all fronts.He said the scourge of discrimination and hate speech was also fuelling inequality, demonstrating the need to strengthen “communities of belonging”: “This is even more crucial as guardrails around social media platforms are being dismantled, allowing disinformation and hate speech to run rampant.” Climate crisisReferencing the infernos engulfing the canyons of Los Angeles, the UN chief said everyday people worldwide are suffering the deadly effects of a warming planet and extreme weather.But here too, there is a huge opportunity to reverse the damage and build on climate action such as renewable energy growth, a commitment to net zero and national plans to cut emissions.The UN is assisting nearly 100 developing countries with their climate action plans ahead of the pivotal COP30 in Brazil later this year and he promised a special stocktaking event to keep the 1.5℃ target within reach.Technology raceThe Secretary-General said the technology revolution in 2025 also offers “unprecedented opportunities” but needs careful stewardship and a commitment to equal access for all.Rapid and decisive action must be taken across the UN to ensure a level playing field including the setting up of an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI – without delay.Secondly, governance of Artificial Intelligence must protect human rights while also promoting innovation. Third, developing countries must be supported so AI can be leveraged for sustainable development, he said.“Humanity’s hand must be firmly in control” of the tech revolution, he added, with every nation helping to shape AI to advance human progress, equality and dignity.Hope remainsIn closing, he noted that the Pandora myth includes one often overlooked detail. After the box was opened unleashing its horrors, there was one thing left inside – hope.“We must never lose sight of hope,” Mr. Guterres said. “And we will work to lift the lid on that hope through action. To make it real, to help it spread – sticking to principles, speaking the truth, never giving up.”....................................................................This story was first published to UN News.
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UN Secretary-General António Guterres briefs the 56th plenary meeting of the General Assembly on his priorities for 2025.

Story

10 January 2025

Confirmed: 2024 was the hottest year on record, says UN weather agency

“We saw extraordinary land, sea surface temperatures, extraordinary ocean heat accompanied by very extreme weather affecting many countries around the world, destroying lives, livelihoods, hopes and dreams,” WMO spokesperson Clare Nullis said. “We saw many climate change impacts retreating sea ice glaciers. It was an extraordinary year.”Four of the six international datasets crunched by WMO indicated a higher than 1.5℃ global average increase for the whole of last year but two did not. The 1.5℃ marker is significant because it was a key goal of the 2015 Paris Agreement to try to ensure that global temperature change does not rise more than this above pre-industrial levels, while striving to hold the overall increase to well below 2℃.Climate deal under pressureThe Paris Agreement is “not yet dead but in grave danger”, the WMO maintained, explaining that the accord’s long-term temperature goals are measured over decades, rather than individual years.However, WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo insisted that “climate history is playing out before our eyes. We’ve had not just one or two record-breaking years, but a full ten-year series. “It is essential to recognize that every fraction of a degree of warming matters. Whether it is at a level below or above 1.5C of warming, every additional increment of global warming increases the impacts on our lives, economies and our planet.”LA fires: climate change factorAmid still raging deadly wildfires in Los Angeles that weather experts including the WMO insist have been exacerbated by climate change - with more days of dry, warm, windy weather on top of rains which boosted vegetation growth – the UN agency said that 2024 capped a decade-long “extraordinary streak of record-breaking temperatures”. UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the WMO’s findings as further proof of global warming and urged all governments to deliver new national climate action plans this year to limit long-term global temperature rise to 1.5C – and support the most vulnerable deal with devastating climate impacts.“Individual years pushing past the 1.5℃ limit do not mean the long-term goal is shot,” Mr. Guterres said. “It means we need to fight even harder to get on track. Blazing temperatures in 2024 require trail-blazing climate action in 2025,” he said. “There’s still time to avoid the worst of climate catastrophe. But leaders must act – now.”The datasets used by WMO are from the European Center for Medium Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), the Japan Meteorological Agency, NASA, the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the UK Met Office in collaboration with the Climatic Research Unit at the University of East Anglia (HadCRUT) and Berkeley Earth.Listen back to an interview climate scientist Alvaro Silva at the WMO, following the heat alert in the United States at the end of June: Ocean warmingHighlighting a separate scientific study on ocean warming, WMO said that it had played a key role in last year’s record high temperatures.“The ocean is the warmest it has ever been as recorded by humans, not only at the surface but also for the upper 2,000 metres,” the UN agency said, citing the findings of the international study spanning seven countries and published in the journal Advances in Atmospheric Sciences.WMO noted that about 90 per cent of the excess heat from global warming is stored in the ocean, “making ocean heat content a critical indicator of climate change”.To put the study’s findings into perspective, it explained that from 2023 to 2024, the upper 2,000 metres of ocean became warmer by 16 zettajoules (1,021 Joules), which is about 140 times the world’s total electricity output............................................................................This story was first published to UN News., filtered_html

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Press Release

28 January 2025

Charge youth group promoting climate change and health action in Saint Lucian primary schools

Castries, Saint Lucia, 28 January 2025 (PAHO/WHO) – Saint Lucian youth group Climate and Health Action for the Rising Generation (CHARGE) recently engaged 108 students including 55 males and 53 females, and 51 teachers from 50 primary schools to take collective responsibility for climate change and health action at the second national primary school climate change and health initiative. CHARGE is an affiliate of the University of the West Indies (UWI) Climate Change and Health Leaders Fellowship Training Program, one aspect of the European Union/CARIFORUM Strengthening Climate Resilient Health Systems in the Caribbean project, coordinated by the Pan American Health Organization.Held from 16-17 January under the theme "Promoting Climate Change and Health Awareness in Primary Schools in Saint Lucia: Act Now for a More Sustainable and Resilient Future," itcovered all eight school districts across the across the island. The four-hour interactive sessions were held at the Orchid Garden in Union, Castries, and the Micoud Multipurpose Centre, Micoud and combined education and entertainment. Activities included question-and-answer segments to reinforce knowledge and increase awareness dance, treasure hunts, role-play, and craft to foster creativity, problem solving and teamwork. This year, the initiative introduced a long-term component that culminates in June. CHARGE, in collaboration with its partners, will work with selected primary schools to establish or improve school kitchen gardens by providing support in sustainable cultivation practices.“The program is designed as a dynamic and interactive learning experience that highlights the importance of personal health, the environment, their relationship and the impacts of climate change on health and that of the community through exercise and healthy diets, implementing the three Rs – Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle – and planting to promote sustainability,” said President, Kezia St Brice-Isidore. “Through this initiative, we are not only equipping students with knowledge and practical tools but also empowering them to take ownership of their learning and environment. By blending education with creativity and active engagement, we aim to inspire a generation of problem-solvers who are aware, responsible, and ready to lead,” she emphasised.CHARGE was born out of the passion fueled by Dr Kim Newton-James, a 2021 graduate of the UWI Fellowship’s first cohort. Dr Newton-James, who is passionate about highlighting the linkages between the physical environment and public health, went beyond training the youth. She spurred youth engagement and action at the community level. The participants used their cell phones to capture scenes that depicted the impact of climate change on their communities and develop solutions. Several members of CHARGE, including its Mrs St. Brice-Isidore, participated in this project."I am extremely happy to see the youth participants of my project rise to the challenge and turn their solutions into action. Through CHARGE, they are exemplifying the power of 'youth teaching youth’, inspiring students to take meaningful action for climate change and health. This initiative showcases the transformative impact of youth leaders driving change for a more sustainable future," Dr Newton-James asserted.CHARGE partners with several organizations, including the Saint Lucia Ministry of Youth Development and Sports; the Department of Education; the Technical Vocational Education and Training Unit, the Department of Sustainable Development within the Ministry of Education, Sustainable Development, Innovation, Science, Technology, and Vocational Training; the Bureau of Health Education within the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs; and the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College.The initiative was funded by the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados, through the 2024 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund of the U.S. Department of State, accessed by Fullbright Scholars, Dr Newton-James and Dr Winston Phulgence, Vice Principal, Academics, at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College.Learn more about CHARGE. Learn more about the EU/CARIFORUM Climate Change and Health Project.Learn more about the UWI Climate Change and Health Leaders Fellowship Programme.*** END *** CONTACT: Lisa Bayley - bayleylis@paho.org, PAHO/WHO Office of the Subregional Program Coordination (Caribbean)About the Pan American Health Organisation: The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) works with the countries of the Americas to improve the health and quality of life of its population. Founded in 1902, it is the world’s oldest international public health agency. It serves as the Regional Office of WHO for the Americas and is the specialized health agency of the Inter-American system.The PAHO Subregional Program is responsible for providing subregional technical cooperation and to strengthen PAHO’s engagement with the Caribbean Subregional integration mechanisms, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and its various bodies and organs; and to build synergistic partnerships with the West Indies (UWI), among others. PAHO’s subregional technical cooperation specifically focuses on public health issues which would benefit from economies of scale and for which agreement on proposed collective responses and actions would produce a far greater impact rather than individual country responses. The Subregional Program also plays a role in coordinating among the different PAHO country offices., filtered_html

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Press Release

09 January 2025

Short-term outlook for Latin America and the Caribbean remains stable, according to UN flagship report

Mexico, 10 January 2025 – The economic outlook in Latin America and the Caribbean is expected to strengthen, supported by more robust household spending and easing monetary policies, according to the UN World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) 2025. However, the region faces major downside risks, including domestic political uncertainties and weaker-than-anticipated external demand.The UN flagship economic report projects that global growth will remain at 2.8 per cent in 2025, unchanged from 2024. While the world economy has demonstrated resilience, withstanding a series of mutually reinforcing shocks, growth remains below the pre-pandemic average of 3.2 per cent, constrained by weak investment, sluggish productivity growth, and high debt levels.The report notes that lower inflation and ongoing monetary easing in many economies could provide a modest boost to global economic activity in 2025. However, uncertainty still looms large, with risks stemming from geopolitical conflicts, rising trade tensions, and elevated borrowing costs in many parts of the world. These challenges are particularly acute for low-income and vulnerable countries, where sub-par and fragile growth threatens to further undermine progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).“Countries cannot ignore these perils. In our interconnected economy, shocks on one side of the world push up prices on the other. Every country is affected and must be part of the solution—building on progress made,” said António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General, in the foreword to the report. “We’ve set a path. Now it’s time to deliver. Together, let’s make 2025 the year we put the world on track for a prosperous, sustainable future for all.”The short-term outlook for Latin America and the Caribbean remains moderately favourable. Regional GDP growth is expected to accelerate from an estimated 1.9 per cent in 2024 to 2.5 per cent in 2025. Economic growth is being driven by improvements in private consumption, easing monetary policies, resilient capital flows, and stronger export growth.However, there are significant downside risks to this outlook. On the external front, a sharper-than-expected slowdown in China and the United States would negatively impact exports, remittances, and capital flows. On the domestic front, political uncertainties could dampen business confidence and investments. Climate-related shocks, particularly in the Caribbean, could also strain fiscal policies and disrupt agricultural production, driving up food inflation.In Brazil, growth is expected to decelerate from 3.0 per cent in 2024 to 2.3 per cent in 2025, remaining well above the 2010–2019 average of 1.4 per cent. This slowdown reflects headwinds from tighter monetary policy, reduced fiscal spending, and weaker exports. In Mexico, GDP growth is expected to remain sluggish. After an estimated expansion of 1.6 per cent in 2024, GDP is projected to grow by 1.3 per cent in 2025, constrained by weak private consumption and fiscal consolidation efforts. The economy in Argentina is recovering after two years of contraction, driven by a revival in private consumption and robust investment growth. In the Dominican Republic, Guyana, and Paraguay, GDP growth is projected to remain above 3.5 per cent in 2025.In the Caribbean (excluding Guyana), economic growth is estimated at 2.5 per cent for 2024 and is expected to remain unchanged in 2025 as the effects of the post-pandemic rebound in tourism fade. Although GDP growth is significantly above the 0.5 per cent average recorded between 2010 and 2019, it remains insufficient to improve living conditions.Although the outlook is resilient, economic growth has remained sluggish for over a decade. Between 2015 and 2024, regional GDP growth averaged just 0.9 per cent—the lowest rate for any decade since the 1950s. Thus, per capita GDP remains stagnant, stuck at the same level as ten years ago. In order to improve labour market outcomes, raise living standards, and advance the SDGs, it is crucial to accelerate economic growth.Critical minerals: A vital opportunity for accelerating sustainable developmentThe report highlights the potential of critical minerals for the energy transition—such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements—and also for accelerating progress towards the SDGs in many countries.For resource-rich developing countries, including several in Latin America and the Caribbean, rising global demand for critical minerals presents a unique opportunity to boost growth, create jobs, and increase public revenues for investment in sustainable development. However, the report warns that these opportunities come with significant risks. Poor governance, unsafe labour practices, environmental degradation, and over-reliance on volatile commodity markets could exacerbate inequalities and harm ecosystems, undermining long-term development gains.“Critical minerals have immense potential to accelerate sustainable development, but only if managed responsibly,” said Li Junhua, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs. “Governments must adopt forward-looking policies and comprehensive regulatory frameworks to drive sustainable extraction, equitable benefit-sharing, and investments in building productive capacities to maximize the development gains from these resources.”The report will be available on 9 January 2025, 12:30 pm EST on https://www.bit.ly/UN_WESP2025 and desapublications.un.org once the embargo has been lifted.Hashtag: #WorldEconomyReportMedia Contacts:
Alex del Castello, UN Department of Global Communications, alexandra.delcastello@un.org
Helen Rosengren, UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, rosengrenh@un.org, filtered_html

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Press Release

11 December 2024

The Commonwealth of Dominica Accedes to the UN Convention Against Torture, Reaffirming Commitment to Human Rights.

On December 5, Dominica became the 175th state party to this core human rights treaty demonstrating a strong commitment to safeguarding the dignity and fundamental freedoms of all human beings. This Convention seeks to eradicate torture in all its forms and ensure justice and accountability for victims. In reflecting on this milestone, Mr. Springett noted: “Dominica’s decision to add this essential treaty to the various other international instruments it has ratified, is a clear demonstration of its unwavering dedication to human rights and the rule of law. This step reinforces the country’s commitment to ensuring access to justice and protection of the dignity of all human beings. Some Highlights of the Convention Against TortureProhibition of Torture: Establishes an absolute ban on torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment under all circumstances.Accountability Measures: Requires states to investigate and prosecute acts of torture and to provide reparations to victims.International Cooperation: Promotes collaboration between states to prevent and combat torture globally.Prevention Mechanisms: Encourages measures such as training for law enforcement and judicial personnel to prevent the occurrence of torture.The Role of the UN in Supporting ImplementationThe UN system is fully committed to supporting the Government of Dominica in its efforts to implement the provisions of the Convention, and all other human rights instruments ratified by Dominica. Through technical assistance, training, and capacity-building initiatives, the United Nations will work closely with the Government, the justice system, civil society and others to ensure the treaty’s obligations are fully implemented in law, policy, and practice, and accountability is ensured. Additional Resources for InformationMembers of the press and the general public seeking further information on the UN Convention against Torture or the support provided by the UN system in Dominica can visit: Human Rights Instrument: Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment Committee against Torture (CAT)- the body of independent experts that monitors the implementation of the ConventionAbout the United Nations in DominicaThe United Nations Resident Coordinator's Office (UN RCO) in Dominica operates under the leadership of the UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. This office is part of a multi-country arrangement, of seven islands and three British Overseas Territories, that includes Dominica, with the Resident Coordinator overseeing UN development activities across these nations. The United Nations works in partnership with the Government of Dominica, civil society, and other stakeholders to promote sustainable development, human rights, and resilience. Through its agencies, funds, and programs, the UN supports Dominica in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fostering a society rooted in dignity, equity, and opportunity for all. ---ENDS --- Media Contacts Carol GaskinCommunications and Advocacy Officer, UN Resident Coordinator OfficeEmail: carol-ann.gaskin@un.org; Telephone: 1(246) 467-6110 Marlon MarieUN Country Coordination Officer , Dominica, UN Resident Coordinator OfficeEmail: marlon.marie@un.org; Telephone: 1(767) 616 -7151 Juana SotomayorHuman Rights Adviser, United Nations Resident Coordinator Office Email: juana.sotomayor@un.org ; Telephone: 1(246) 467-6116 , filtered_html

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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, filtered_html

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