2024

• 26 4月 2024
  Politically Speaking
• 26 4月 2024
  Politically Speaking: “Investing in Peace Remains the Most Cost-effective Strategy”: DPPA Launches Multi-Year Appeal Annual Report 2023

  From Gaza, Ukraine and Sudan to Colombia and Mozambique, the UN’s Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs’ funding appeal showcases how donor contributions have enabled it to remain responsive during extremely challenging times.

  

  “Our Multi-Year Appeal Report for 2023 underscores that investing in peace remains not only essential for the preservation of human life and the prevention of suffering, but also the most cost-effective strategy for securing enduring peace and development gains.”

  — Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo

  On 24 April 2024, the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) is presenting its 2023 Multi-Year Appeal (MYA) Annual Report.

  The MYA is a trust fund that supports a substantial share of the Department’s work, complementing UN regular budget funding. It allows DPPA to respond quickly and flexibly to requests from UN member states and other entities. Crisis response, mediation support and electoral assistance are almost entirely funded by the MYA, for example.

  The Appeal also helps DPPA fund innovative initiatives, for example the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to increase participation in peace and political initiatives by women and youth.

  Voluntary contributions to are indispensable to the Department. However, in 2023, the MYA fell short of its $41 million target by 24 per cent. Despite strong ongoing support from our current and new donors, this deficit impacted the MYA portfolio. The Department had to tap into its cash reserves and, in some cases, recalibrate its activities and scale back engagement.

  The MYA facilitates DPPA’s response to heightened demands, such as those stemming from the crisis in Gaza in the wake of Hamas’ attack on Israel on 7 October 2023 and the subsequent Israeli military response. Through MYA-funded capacities, DPPA has been actively involved both at Headquarters and backstopping the Office of the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process (UNSCO). The Department also deployed surge capacity to UNSCO to reinforce its crisis response and planning and its coordination with UN Headquarters.

  In Ukraine, DPPA’s Liaison Office in Kyiv monitors developments and supports crisis and humanitarian responses, while also promoting peace efforts through coordination with local stakeholders.

  Similarly, in Sudan, MYA funding enables real-time analysis and coordination with UN entities, bolstering peacebuilding efforts amid escalating hostilities.

  

  The MYA also supports initiatives in Mozambique, Colombia, Yemen, Afghanistan, and Syria, ranging from peace negotiations to humanitarian assistance and reconciliation efforts.

  The MYA report highlights the Department’s three strategic goals . Goal 1 focuses on DPPA’s work preventing and resolving violent conflicts and sustaining peace, work that is guided by the vision of “A New Agenda for Peace.” With a network of special political missions (SPMs), Peace and Development Advisors (PDAs), and Headquarters-based capacities, DPPA collaborates with the UN system and external partners to respond to and prevent conflicts.

  The Appeal enhances the mediation, preventive diplomacy, and peacebuilding activities of the Department, building resilience, support local mediation, and foster social cohesion. Emphasizing inclusive participation, DPPA ensures involvement of women, youth, and marginalized groups in peace efforts. MYA’s flexible funding and rapid response window enable swift adaptation to evolving situations.

  DPPA’s Mediation Support Unit (MSU) and the Standby Team of Senior Mediation Advisors (SBT) play a pivotal role in global peace efforts, deploying experts to negotiations worldwide. Funded by the MYA, the SBT offers rapid deployment within 72 hours, providing specialized advice and training for mediators and parties to conflicts. In 2023, the SBT engaged in 131 mediation support assignments across approximately 26 contexts, spanning regions from Africa to the Americas. Notable engagements included support to Special Political Missions in Afghanistan, Libya, Sudan, and Yemen, focusing on issues such as gender inclusion, ceasefire arrangements, and public participation.

  Simultaneously, DPPA’s Electoral Assistance Division provided multi-faceted support to 57 Member States in 2023. This support ranged from technical assistance to good offices and mediation, ensuring peaceful and credible elections. The Division worked in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Liberia, and Paraguay, emphasizing the prevention of election-related violence and strengthening partnerships with regional organizations.

  

  Goal 2 of the MYA report underscores the Department’s commitment to enhancing the multilateral architecture for international peace and security. This involves supporting various UN bodies such as the Security Council, General Assembly, and Peacebuilding Commission.

  DPPA recognizes the increasing interconnectedness in today’s world, emphasizing effective cooperation with regional and sub-regional organizations. Partnerships with entities like the African Union (AU) have been strengthened, supported by MYA funding, facilitating joint initiatives such as the UN-AU partnership on peace and security. Collaboration extends to areas like hate speech prevention in media and enhancing maritime security in regions like the Gulf of Guinea.

  In Southeast Asia, DPPA’s partnership with ASEAN focuses on introducing climate, peace, and security as a new policy focus area. This includes collaborative efforts to assess climate-related risks and promote policy discussions within ASEAN countries. Cooperation with organizations like the League of Arab States (LAS), Organisation for Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) aims to deepen strategic dialogue and forge common approaches to preventive diplomacy and conflict resolution.

  In 2023, funding from the MYA played a pivotal role in advancing the Department’s Goal 3: A Stronger, More Diverse and More Effective Department. Central to DPPA’s strategy was the enhancement of departmental capacities, focusing on knowledge management, staff investment, and innovation. The MYA enabled DPPA to continue its work as the UN’s central hub for mediation knowledge, focusing on digital technologies, ceasefires, climate, religion, and knowledge management. Initiatives included frameworks for conflict analysis, online courses on utilizing digital tools for peace negotiations, ceasefire mediation courses, and training on understanding religious dimensions of conflicts. Through these efforts, DPPA expanded its outreach, supported capacity-building, and identified emerging needs.

  “In the current difficult political and funding environment, DPPA is determined to continue to deliver on its mandate, working around the globe and in cooperation with Member States and other partners to help build peaceful and equitable societies. With the support of our donors, we are confident that we can make a decisive contribution to achieving the mission of our Organization: to make peace a reality for all.”

  — Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo

  Read the full report here.

   

• 26 4月 2024
  ASG Jenča urges restraint while Nord Stream investigation continues

  ASSISTANT SECRETARY-GENERAL MIROSLAV JENČA’S

  REMARKS TO THE SECURITY COUNCIL

  New York, 26 April 2023

   

  Madam President,

  The destruction of the Nord Stream gas pipelines in September 2022 highlighted the vulnerability of critical commercial and energy infrastructure in the current regional and global context.

  The incident has sparked widespread speculations that risk further fueling the already heightened tensions and mistrust among Member States.

  The Council has convened in total seven times to discuss the issue.

  I recall that our briefings on this topic are based solely on information that is publicly available. The United Nations does not have any additional details of the events and is not in a position to verify or confirm claims or reports made regarding the incident. I will therefore use this opportunity to recap what has been stated so far.

  Between 26 and 29 September 2022, four leaks were reported in the Nord Stream undersea gas pipelines. These pipelines are located in international waters, within the Swedish and Danish economic zones in the Baltic Sea.

  The first leak was reported on the Nord Stream 2 pipeline in the morning of 26 September 2022. Later that day, the second and third leaks were reported on the Nord Stream 1 pipeline. The fourth leak was reported on 29 September on the Nord Stream 2 pipeline.

  While the pipelines were not in operation at the time of the incidents, they reportedly contained several hundred million cubic meters of natural gas.

  In February 2023, the United Nations Environment Programme estimated the plausible range of total methane emissions leaked during the incident to be between 75,000 and 230,000 metric tons.

  The full extent of the environmental impacts of the incident, including on marine and local wildlife, is yet to be grasped.

  After the leaks were reported, the Danish, German and Swedish authorities announced the launch of separate national investigations. The concerned authorities provided updates on their respective investigations, including in a joint letter to the President of the Security Council dated 10 July 2023 [S/2023/517].  

  The letter indicated that, according to the investigations, the leaks were caused by the use of explosives. The authorities also reported having informed the Russian Federation about the progress of the investigations.

  In a letter dated 25 August 2023 from the Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the United Nations, addressed to the Secretary-General and the President of the Security Council [S/2023/627], the Russian Federation expressed concerns about these national investigations and called for "comprehensive and objective proceedings".

  In February this year, the Danish and the Swedish authorities informed about the closure of their respective investigations in joint letters from the Permanent Representatives of Denmark, Germany and Sweden to the United Nations, addressed to the President of the Security Council dated 7 and 26 February 2024 [S/2024/149 and S/2024/189].

  We look forward to hearing about the findings and conclusions of the ongoing German investigation in due time.

  In a letter from the Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the United Nations, dated 1 March 2024, addressed to the Secretary-General and the President of the Security Council [S/2024/230], the Russian Federation reiterated its concerns and that they see a need for an international commission to investigate the Nord Stream incidents further.

  Madam President,

  We reiterate that any intentional damage to critical civilian infrastructure is of serious concern, should be condemned and investigated.

  In the current sensitive security context, we urge everyone to exercise restraint while we wait for the remaining investigation to conclude and for the information to be shared accordingly.

  We strongly encourage Member States to continue cooperation and sharing of information to ensure the security of all international waters, including the Baltic Sea, which is critical for regional commerce, security, and stability.

  Thank you.

• 26 4月 2024
  CPS Workshop Report - Cairo 2023
• 26 4月 2024
  Wronecka takes part in the unveiling of the plaque of the inscription of Rachid Karami Int’l Fair on UNESCO World Heritage List

  Speech for the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon

  ...
• 26 4月 2024
  UN SPM Map 2024
• 26 4月 2024
  WORKING VISIT OF SRSG KAHA IMNADZE TO MOSCOW

  MOSCOW, Russia

  On 22-24 April 2024, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Central Asia, Head of UNRCCA, Kaha Imnadze, paid a working visit to Moscow and had...

• 26 4月 2024
  Gaza’s unexploded ordnance could take 14 years to clear

  Making Gaza safe again from unexploded bombs could take 14 years, UN demining experts said on Friday. 

• 26 4月 2024
  PREVENTIVE DIPLOMACY ACADEMY CONTINUES WITH A SESSION ABOUT UN VOLUNTEERS

  ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan

  On 25 April, the UNRCCA Preventive Diplomacy Academy invited UN Volunteers (UNV) to introduce the United Nations Volunteers...

• 25 4月 2024
  UN SPM Map 2024
• 25 4月 2024
  UN SPM Map 2024
• 25 4月 2024
  World News in Brief: ‘Barbaric’ sexual violence in Sudan, Haiti’s transitional council in place, rights experts condemn Iran rapper's death sentence

  The international community must take immediate action to end the wave of sexual violence being carried out against women and girls in Sudan, two senior UN officials said on Thursday.

• 25 4月 2024
  Syria crisis intensifies in shadow of Gaza war

  The war in Gaza continues to cast a dark shadow over the wider Middle East region, in particular Syria where a series of strikes and attacks are exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation, the UN Special Envoy for the country said on Thursday.

• 25 4月 2024
  Gaza: Heatwave brings new misery and disease risk to Rafah

  Unexpected blistering temperatures across Gaza have added to the daily misery faced by the enclave’s people and sparked new fears of disease outbreaks amid a lack of sufficient clean water and waste disposal, UN humanitarians said on Thursday.

• 25 4月 2024
  Debate at UN examines impact of Portugal’s ‘Carnation Revolution’

  On 25 April 1974, military officers overthrew the nearly 50-year dictatorship in Portugal in a largely peaceful coup known as the Carnation Revolution.

• 24 4月 2024
  UN’s prevention work and efforts to foster trust, cooperation and solidarity through diplomacy has never been more important, tells USG DiCarlo

  Under-Secretary-General Rosemary A. DiCarlo's

  Remarks at DPPA's Annual Donor Meeting

  New York, 24 April 2024

  Excellencies,

  Colleagues,

  Friends,

  Welcome to the Annual Donor meeting of the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs.  Thank you for being here and for your support of DPPA’s work. 

  Fittingly, today is International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace – a day that really highlights our work, and the challenges we face.

  When we met just over a year ago, the world was still reeling from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.  Two weeks after that meeting, armed conflict exploded in the Sudan, sending the country spiraling.  

  Today, we are more than six months into a devastating Israeli military campaign in Gaza in response to the Hamas terror attacks of 7 October.  And we are seeing the growing regional ramifications of this conflict across the Middle East.

  These wars are destroying lives and compromising the future of millions of people – and they are far from the only ones. Violent conflict has proliferated markedly in the last decade, accelerated by an erosion of – if not an outright assault on - international norms and growing geopolitical competition and division.

  I’ll be blunt: This is the most dangerous period in global relations since the end of the Cold War, perhaps even since the end of the Second World War.

  The UN’s prevention work and our efforts to foster trust, cooperation and solidarity through diplomacy has never been more important.  Similarly, the role of DPPA in accomplishing these tasks is critical.

  This is work that we plainly cannot do without your support.  Work that, though often painstaking, arduous and discreet, makes a difference, even if it rarely makes the headlines.

  Let me also be blunt on another aspect.  These are difficult times politically – but also financially.  DPPA has been deeply affected by the liquidity situation and the resultant measures and constraints affecting regular budget resources and activities. 

  We know this is a difficult time for many of you.  Some of our partners have cut back.  Others have told us that they will not be able to maintain their support at the same level as in previous years. 

  We understand the constraints you face.  But I can also assure you that the return on your investment is worth it. We are not a costly operation.  Conflict prevention saves lives – and it is cost-effective. 

  Nothing saves as much on humanitarian aid, refugee assistance, the costly consequences of conflict as resolving or averting it in the first place. 

  Friends,

  Today, I want to share with you some of the progress we made in 2023.  We will also endeavour to respond to your questions and concerns. 

  And I hope that we will leave here today with an even stronger shared commitment to do all we can to advance peace and security globally – and to leverage the cost-effectiveness of conflict resolution and conflict prevention.

  As you know, we are currently in the thick of preparations for the Summit of the Future in September. In 2023, the Secretary-General tasked DPPA as the lead penholder for his policy brief on “A New Agenda for Peace.”  The New Agenda outlines his vision for how Member States can advance shared interests and strengthen multilateral action for peace.

  In the brief the Secretary-General stresses his commitment to enhance his Good Offices to prevent and mediate conflicts as well as the importance of addressing drivers of conflict.  Conflict prevention is a central theme.

  DPPA widely consulted Member States and other stakeholders for our analysis and recommendations with the support of the Multi-Year Appeal.

  Such consultations and engagement, and translating them into analysis and policy recommendations, are a foundation of our work.  They are also vital for the Secretary-General’s Special Representatives and Special Envoys, who rely on the MYA for many of their diplomatic efforts.  

  In a few minutes, the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Hanna Tetteh, will share with you how the MYA supports her ongoing efforts in the Horn of Africa.

  Indeed, the MYA supports a broad range of activities including political and peace processes:

  • In relation to Gaza and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, MYA funding has enabled DPPA to meet critical monitoring and analysis demands.  This has helped ensure timely and effective support to the wider  UN system.

  • The situation in in Ukraine continues to require timely and actionable political analysis to inform the UN response.  Our liaison office in Kyiv, funded 100% from extrabudgetary resources under the MYA, provides updates and inputs, including for over 100 Security Council briefings over the past year.

  • On Sudan, following the closure of UNITAMS, DPPA is supporting the new Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General, Ramtane Lamamra, in a challenging assignment.  MYA funding is critical to equip him with staff support and other capacities.

  • In Haiti, amid escalating gang violence, MYA-funded support has enabled DPPA and BINUH to engage politically and bring together civil society stakeholders. This remains critical in the present volatile conditions in the country.

  • In Colombia, the UN contributed to significant advances in peace talks in 2023 between the Government and the National Liberation Army (ELN).  The MYA enabled us to complement the resources of the Verification Mission regarding the inclusion of women in implementation of the 2016 Peace Agreement.

  • In Afghanistan, MYA funding enabled DPPA to support UNAMA in advocating for women’s rights, facilitating dialogue with authorities, and maintaining workforce diversity.  

  • And in Mozambique, the MYA supported our efforts on the disarmament and successful reintegration of combatants. The closure of the final RENAMO base in June last year successfully completed the reintegration of all 5,221 former combatants into communities throughout the country.  With this success, the good offices of the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General for Mozambique concluded in October 2023.

  • Our Rapid Response mechanism continued to enable us to quickly act on emerging needs by deploying resources within 72 hours.  This agility was crucial in providing timely interventions in Chad and in the Tigray region of Ethiopia, where we supported prevention and peacebuilding efforts at critical moments.  We did so working closely with the RCs and UN Country Teams in both countries.

  • We also provided timely and risk-responsive support to our partners in the field.  Funded by the MYA, our Standby Team of Senior Mediation Advisers engaged in 131 mediation support assignments in approximately 26 different contexts in 2023.  The African continent saw the largest share of these engagements.

  These examples underscore the increasing demand for our services and expertise.  Each crisis presents unique challenges.  Your contributions make possible the tailored responses such challenges require.

  Colleagues,

  In 2023, we again balanced crisis response with non-crisis prevention efforts.  This is always a challenge, but one that is more pronounced the more crises there are – and when we have to make do with limited resources.

  DPPA led 53 electoral missions to Member States, demonstrating our commitment to supporting democratic processes globally.   

  We dedicated $8.2 million, or 19 per cent of the MYA budget, to Women, Peace, and Security initiatives. This surpasses our target [18 per cent] and demonstrates a firm commitment to inclusive political and peacemaking efforts.

  Through our MYA-funded Innovation Cell, we used AI technology to promote participation in peace and political initiatives, notably enhancing the inclusion of youth.  

  In Bolivia and Guinea, for example, we engaged youth in meaningful consultations in the context of political transitions.  Our  virtual reality films about Lebanon and Chad provided viewers with insights into local challenges.  

  We also provided essential real-time support to combat disinformation and hate speech across various field presences.  

  For example, we helped UNAMI with social media monitoring ahead of municipal elections in December and enhanced analytical support for UNOCA, UNOWAS, UNSCOL and the Verification Mission in Colombia.

  Our work on climate, peace, and security relies also entirely on voluntary contributions through the MYA.  In 2023, we enhanced our capacity to address climate-related security risks in the field.  

  We successfully deployed climate, peace, and security advisors to our special political missions across West Africa and the Sahel [UNOWAS], Central Africa [UNOCA], the Horn of Africa [OSE-Horn of Africa], Somalia [UNSOM], and Iraq [UNAMI].

  Additional deployments are planned for this year [e.g. UNAMA].  By doing so, we are advancing from general policy work to concrete, operational engagement on the ground – where it matters.

  As always, over the past year, we also continued to emphasize and deepen our partnerships with regional and sub-regional organizations.  

  For many years, we have maintained liaison presences that have enabled collaboration and partnership with such organizations, across the globe.  However, some of these critical collaborations are now at risk of being downsized or closed due to funding constraints.

  But while the world is confronting more and more crises, in 2023, we achieved only 76 per cent of our annual funding target of $41 million. We gratefully received a total amount of $31.1 million from 31 donors.  The resultant 24 per cent funding gap, equivalent to $9.9 million, highlights the critical need for sustained and enhanced support.   

  For this cycle of our Multi-Year Appeal from 2023 to 2026, we are seeking to raise a total of $170 million. Our immediate goal for 2024 is $42 million. This funding enables us to do things, concretely and operationally.  It also enables us to maintain our work on key thematic areas of engagement, be it the women, peace and security agenda; climate, peace and security; our mediation support; and innovation.

  Excellencies, colleagues,

  Allow me to conclude very simply by expressing my sincere gratitude and that of our colleagues in the field and here at HQ for your indispensable support.

  We know you face many appeals for contributions, and that the current funding environment is difficult. That you have consistently shown up to bolster our efforts, over and above what you already contribute to the UN budget, is deeply appreciated.  And we hope, very much, that you can continue to do so.

  I would now like to give the floor to Special Envoy Hanna Tetteh.  

  Hanna is joining us from Addis Ababa and will be speaking about the impact of extra-budgetary contributions on her work.

  Thank you.

   

• 24 4月 2024
  Latest hunger data spotlights extent of famine risk in Gaza, Sudan and beyond

  Dangerous levels of acute hunger affected a staggering 281.6 million people last year - the fifth year in a row that food insecurity has worsened - heightening growing fears of famine and “widespread death” from Gaza to Sudan and beyond, UN agencies warned on Wednesday.

• 24 4月 2024
  Russia vetoes Security Council draft resolution on a weapon-free outer space

  Russia used its veto to quash a draft resolution aimed at keeping weapons out of outer space.

• 24 4月 2024
  UNRWA seeks $1.2 billion to meet urgent needs in Gaza and the West Bank

  The UN agency that assists Palestine refugees, UNRWA, launched a $1.2 billion appeal on Wednesday to address the unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the besieged Gaza Strip and to respond to needs in the West Bank as violence there increases. 

• 23 4月 2024
  SRSG KAHA IMNADZE TALKS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF MULTILATERALISM TODAY

  For over 75 years, the United Nations special political missions have been promoting peace, preventing violence and working to end conflicts. We joined these efforts in 2007, by the initiatives of the five Central Asian states, when the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia opened its doors in Ashgabat with the mission to liaise with the Governments of the region on issues relevant to preventive diplomacy.

  ...
• 23 4月 2024
  UNRWA committed to implement independent review recommendations

  The head of the UN agency that assists Palestine refugees, UNRWA, on Tuesday reiterated that he welcomed the recommendations of a much-awaited report on its efforts to ensure neutrality and to respond to allegations of serious breaches when they arise. 

• 23 4月 2024
  World News in Brief: South Sudan tax impositions, Somalia flash floods, Ukraine attacks

  The UN acknowledges assurances from the South Sudanese government that the recent imposition of taxes on fuel and supply trucks does not apply to the Organization. Still, concerns remain regarding the delivery of humanitarian aid efforts in the region since some of the UN’s fuel and supply trucks are being held at many depots and the border. 

• 23 4月 2024
  Silence the guns, amplify women’s voices for peace to end rape in wartime

  The UN verified 3,688 cases of rape and other sexual violence committed in war in 2023, a “dramatic increase” of 50 per cent over the previous year, the Security Council heard on Tuesday. 

• 23 4月 2024
  General Assembly debates Security Council’s rising veto use

  The General Assembly on Tuesday debated veto power in the Security Council on the eve of the second anniversary of a special measure adopted to monitor its use, following on the heels of the United States vetoing Palestine’s bid last week for full UN membership.

• 23 4月 2024
  Mass graves in Gaza show victims’ hands were tied, says UN rights office

  Disturbing reports continue to emerge about mass graves in Gaza in which Palestinian victims were reportedly found stripped naked with their hands tied, prompting renewed concerns about possible war crimes amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said on Tuesday.

• 23 4月 2024
  “Diplomacy for Peace”: Online Exhibit Highlights 75 years of Special Political Missions

  The opening of the exhibit “...

• 22 4月 2024
  Thousands of children killed or maimed by explosive weapons in populated areas: UNICEF

  Meaningful action to prevent the use of explosive weapons in populated areas could reduce the number of child casualties in conflicts by nearly half, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said on Monday. 

• 22 4月 2024
  Guterres upholds UNRWA as a 'lifeline' following receipt of independent panel's report

  UN chief António Guterres issued an appeal on Monday to “actively support” the UN agency for Palestinians, UNRWA, adding that he accepted the final findings of an independent probe into the organization, launched amid serious unconfirmed allegations of UNRWA collusion with Hamas fighters and as part of efforts to assess whether the agency was doing everything within its power to ensure neutrality.

• 22 4月 2024
  UN envoy urges international solidarity with Haiti as gang violence spirals

  As gang violence increases in Haiti, the international community must continue to stand in solidarity with the population, the UN Special Representative for the country told the Security Council on Monday.

• 22 4月 2024
  World News in Brief: Rising West Bank violence, dialogue critical in Kosovo, free detained Afghan activist

  The UN Middle East envoy has expressed concern about increased levels of violence in the West Bank, UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told journalists in New York on Monday. 
   

• 22 4月 2024
  Guterres upholds UNRWA as a ‘lifeline’ following receipt of independent panel’s report

  UN chief António Guterres issued an appeal on Monday to “actively support” the UN agency for Palestinians, UNRWA, adding that he accepted the final findings of an independent probe into the organisation, launched amid serious unconfirmed allegations of UNRWA collusion with Hamas fighters and as part of efforts to assess whether the agency was doing everything within its power to ensure neutrality.

• 22 4月 2024
  UN Special Representative Catriona Laing completes assignment

  Mogadishu – The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia, Catriona Laing, is completing her assignment in May.

  “I have full confidence that Somalia will succeed and that the...

• 20 4月 2024
  This Week in DPPA: 13 - 19 April 2024

  A brief roundup of United Nations-related political and peacebuilding events and developments globally.

  "It is high time to end the bloody cycle of retaliation" in the Middle East, Guterres tells Council On 18 April, Secretary-General António Guterres reiterated to Security Council members his “strong condemnation of the serious escalation” represented by Iran’s attack on Israel on 13 April, as well as his condemnation of the attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus earlier this month. “It is high time to end the bloody cycle of retaliation," he said. Guterres underscored that the international community must work together to pull the region back from the precipice by advancing comprehensive diplomatic action for regional de-escalation, starting with Gaza. “Ending the hostilities in Gaza would significantly defuse tensions across the region,” he stressed.

  Read more

  "Creating political space for youth to meaningfully engage in peace and security initiatives is key," DiCarlo tells Council

  On 17 April, Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo, briefing at a Council open debate on the role of young persons in addressing security challenges in the Mediterranean, said youth needed to be empowered to participate in decision-making that can affect their present and future (see our Politically Speaking story on youth and peace and security initiatives). In the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean, young people constituted 55 per cent of the population, she said, and recalled the wave of demonstrations – with youth at the forefront – that swept across the region in 2011. DiCarlo highlighted DPPA’s work in its special political missions, where it has deployed new technologies to organize digital consultations with youth. “Creating political space for youth to meaningfully engage in peace and security initiatives is key,” she said.

  Read more

  SRSG Bathily tells Council that the “selfish resolve” and “stubborn resistance” of current Libyan leaders must stop

  On 16 April, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Libya Abdoulaye Bathily told the Council that his recent dialogue with the five key stakeholders on contested issues regarding electoral laws and the formation of a unified government were met with “stubborn resistance, unreasonable expectations, and indifference to the interests of the Libyan people.” He underlined that “despite continuous and extensive engagement with the main institutional actors, their persistent positions are significantly impeding efforts to advance the political process. “The selfish resolve of current leaders to maintain the status quo through delaying tactics and maneuvers at the expense of the Libyan people must stop,” he stressed, adding: “More than ever, the renewed and coordinated commitment among regional and international actors is imperative.” Following his briefing, Bathily confirmed to reporters that he had submitted his resignation as Special Representative.

  Read more

  Ceasefire and roadmap for political process “best possible chance for achieving peace” in Yemen

  On 15 April, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen Hans Grundberg warned the Council that “In the absence of a ceasefire in Gaza and a complete termination of attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, the threat of further escalation persists. The recent developments involving Iran and Israel further underscored the urgency of the matter, he said. While the conflicts in Yemen and the wider region have become interlinked, resolving the conflict in Yemen must not be contingent upon the resolution of other issues. “If we leave Yemen’s political process in the waiting room and continue down this path of escalation, the consequences could be catastrophic, not only for Yemen but also for the wider region,” he stressed.

  Read more

  UN Special Coordinator holds round of meetings in Lebanon

  This week, UN Special Coordinator Joanna Wronecka met with Lebanese officials and political leaders to stress the importance of safeguarding Lebanon’s security and stability at a time of growing regional uncertainty. With caretaker Minister of Interior Bassam Mawlawi (pictured), the Special Coordinator discussed the need for a return to the cessation of hostilities across the Blue Line. In separate meetings with Gebran Bassil, leader of the Free Patriotic Movement, and leader of the Lebanese Forces party Samir Geagea, Wronecka highlighted the need to end Lebanon’s prolonged presidential vacuum. She also discussed with Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces Gen. Joseph Aoun the importance of adhering to Resolution 1701. She held similar discussions with the Acting Director of General Security Brig Gen. Elias Baissari.

  DSRSG Isaczai showcases past humanitarian work of UN Iraq

  Speaking at the 8th Sulaimani Forum on 18 April,  Deputy Special Representative for Iraq Ghulam Isaczai showcased UN humanitarian work in the country during the years of conflict. He also spoke about the transition from humanitarian to development and cooperation with the government towards the Sustainable Development Goals.

  Watch more

  Peacebuilding Support Office partners visit South Sudan

  This week, DPPA's Peacebuilding Support Office organized a partner visit to South Sudan to highlight the impact of UN Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) supported initiatives. The delegation included representatives from Brazil, representing the Chairpersonship of the Peacebuilding Commission, contributing partners including Denmark, the European Union, Finland, Ireland, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, the United Kingdom, and two members of the PBF’s Advisory Group. Hosted by the Ministry of Peacebuilding, the participants met with the Minister of Peacebuilding, Minister of Governmental Affairs, the Upper Nile State Government, the UN Country Team, UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and other strategic partners. Interactions with communities and civil society in Juba and Malakal, Upper Nile State, where PBF-supported efforts are being implemented, showcased the willingness of many people to move forward towards peace and reconcile, and the possibility of undertaking projects to build peace.

  Promoting the role of women in Great Lakes region peace processes

  The Office of the Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region (OSESG-GL), in partnership with the African Union Office of the Special Envoy for Women, Peace and Security, convened a meeting in Nairobi on 17 April to promote the role of women in the ongoing peace processes in the Great Lakes (the Nairobi and Luanda processes). The meeting, chaired Special Envoy Huang Xia, brought together a select group of women leaders, civil society representatives, women rights groups activists and experts from Burundi, Democractic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.

  Preventive Diplomacy Academy holds training on gender equality

  This week, the Preventive Diplomacy Academy of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) held its 6th hybrid training session in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. The training focused on gender equality. Presenters discussed issues such as the root causes of gender inequality, social norms, stereotypes, cultural factors, and the drivers of gender-based violence, as well as the role of men in promoting gender equality. The Academy highlights UNRCCA’s commitment to equip future leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to build a more inclusive and peaceful Central Asia.

  Read more

  For victims, peace signatories and police in Colombia, football is an act of reconciliation

  On 13 April, a soccer championship kicked off in the former Territorial Training and Reincorporation Area (TATR) Tierra Grata in Manaure, department of Cesar. Peace signatories, victims, police and nearby communities joined together to create 14 teams. The event uses soccer as a reconciliation activity to create bonds among children and young people from the Serranía del Perijá. The tournament is taking place in April and May with the backing of the UN Verification Mission in Colombia.

  Next Week On 22 April, the Security Council will hold a briefing on the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH). On 23 April, there will be an open debate on Women, Peace and Security: Conflict related sexual violence sanctions. On 24 April, the Council will be briefed on the Great Lakes region. On 25 April, there will be a briefing on the Middle East. Starting on 22 April, a photo exhibit from the Office of the Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region (OSESG-GL) entitled “The Great Lakes Region Through Your Lens" will be on show at UN Headquarters. Read more about the exhibit in Politically Speaking.

• 19 4月 2024
  One year after the outbreak of conflict, Sudan's warring parties continue to ignore calls to cease hostilities, tells USG DiCarlo

  Under-Secretary-General Rosemary A. DiCarlo

  Remarks to the Security Council on Sudan

  New York, 19 April 2024 

   

  Madam President,   

  Thank you for the opportunity to address the Council. It is crucial to keep the spotlight on the need to bring an immediate end to the war ravaging the Sudan and its people. 

  The conflict started just over a year ago when an outbreak of fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces brutally interrupted the political transition.  

  Since then, the Sudanese people have endured unbearable suffering. Both parties have failed to protect civilians. Over 14,000 people have been killed and tens of thousands wounded.   

  My colleague from OCHA, Director Edem Worsornu, will expand on the humanitarian situation and needs, but I would like to cite just three appalling figures: half the country’s population - 25 million people - need lifesaving assistance, while more than 8.6 million people have been forced to flee their homes, including 1.8 million refugees.  

  Allegations of atrocities abound. There are reports of widespread use of sexual violence as a weapon of war; of the recruitment of children by parties to the conflict; and of extensive use of torture and prolonged arbitrary detention by both parties.   

  Thousands of homes, schools, hospitals, and other essential civilian infrastructure have been destroyed. The war has wrecked large swathes of the country’s productive sectors, crippling the economy. 

  Meanwhile, many media outlets and civil society organizations have been closed, while hundreds of human rights defenders and journalists have been forced to seek refuge abroad.  

  In short, this is a crisis of epic proportions. It is also wholly manmade.  

  The warring parties have ignored repeated calls to cease their hostilities, including from this Council. Instead, they have stepped up preparations for further fighting, with both the SAF and the RSF continuing their campaigns to recruit civilians.  

  The conflict started in Khartoum but has since engulfed large parts of the country. And it continues to spread.  

  In Darfur, recent reports indicate a possible imminent RSF attack on El Fasher, raising the specter of a new front in the conflict.  

  Already, clashes between the RSF and SAF-aligned members of the Joint Protection Forces have erupted in Mellit, a strategic town to the north of El Fasher.  

  Fighting in El Fasher could unleash bloody intercommunal strife throughout Darfur. It would also further impede the delivery of humanitarian assistance in an area already on the brink of famine.  

  Beyond Darfur, greater Khartoum continues to be the epicenter of fighting between the SAF and the RSF. Galvanized by recent gains, the SAF has intensified aerial raids in Khartoum, the Kordofan regions and parts of Darfur.  

  Since April, clashes between the SAF and the RSF also escalated in and around Gezira.  

  Madam President, 

  All warring parties must uphold their obligations under International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Law and adhere to the Jeddah Declaration of Commitment to Protect the Civilians of Sudan.   

  I reiterate the Secretary-General’s call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid further bloodshed. 

  But if the parties have been able to sustain their confrontation, it is in no small part thanks to the material support they receive from outside the Sudan. These external actors continue to flout the sanctions regime imposed by the Council to support a political settlement, thereby fueling the conflict. This is illegal, it is immoral and it must stop. 

  At this critical moment, in addition to global support for aid, we need to redouble our efforts to achieve peace in the Sudan.  

  Over the past four months, the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General, Mr. Ramtane Lamamra, has tirelessly engaged with a broad variety of national, regional, and international stakeholders to promote the coordination of mediation initiatives.  

  Just yesterday, Mr. Lamamra briefed the African Union Peace and Security Council. Today, we look forward to hearing from the Chairperson of the African Union High Level Panel – Dr. Mohammad Chambas.   

  The United Nations stands ready to redouble efforts with our multilateral partners – including the African Union, Intergovernmental Authority for Development, the League of Arab States and key Member States and partners –to help bring about a durable cessation of hostilities and an inclusive and effective international mediation.  

  Madam President, 

  The Jeddah platform provides a promising vehicle for dialogue between the warring parties to achieve an agreement on a ceasefire and related transitional security arrangements.    

  We hope that it will be reconvened in the coming weeks.  

  A renewed push for peace also means continuing our work on Sudan’s democratic transition – by supporting and empowering civilians — including women’s rights groups and young people. 

  We salute the efforts of the African Union and the European Union to support Sudanese civilians in coordinating a common position on an inclusive political transition in the Sudan.  

  And we congratulate France, Germany, and the European Union for hosting the recent Paris Conference on Sudan and welcome its outcomes, including the overwhelming support for humanitarian efforts. The Conference emphasised the need for unity of purpose and action among peace initiatives on the Sudan. 

  To this end, the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy has proposed the convening of an inclusive meeting to develop a comprehensive mediation and peace-making strategy. 

  Madam President, 

  We must build on the momentum of the Paris conference to boost our efforts to help end the fighting and return the Sudan to a path towards inclusive democracy and recovery.  

  This is a shared responsibility.  

  We must spare no effort in supporting the Sudanese people in their aspirations for a peaceful and secure future. 

  Thank you. 

• 19 4月 2024
  DPPA Strategic Plan 2023-2026 (updated)
• 19 4月 2024
  War in Sudan is ‘a crisis of epic proportions’ as atrocities abound

  The year-long ongoing war in Sudan is “a crisis of epic proportions” and the world must rethink the way it supports the Sudanese people amid rampant atrocities against civilians and no end in sight, top UN and African Union officials warned the Security Council on Friday.

• 19 4月 2024
  World News in Brief: Green light for new cholera vaccine, Ukraine attacks condemned, action against racism call, Brazil rights defenders alert

  A new oral vaccine for cholera has been given the green light for manufacture by the UN health agency allowing for the massive scale-up of lifesaving immunisation in the world’s most vulnerable communities.

• 19 4月 2024
  Ukraine war ‘stark reminder’ of the trials facing multilateralism

  The Russian invasion of Ukraine is “a stark reminder” of the challenges to multilateralism and remains the top priority of UN partner the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the Security Council heard on Friday. 

• 19 4月 2024
  Myanmar: Rohingyas in firing line as Rakhine conflict intensifies

  The UN’s top human rights official on Friday raised alarm over the escalating violence in Myanmar’s Rakhine state between junta and opposition forces amid reports of the military regime forcing members of the minority Muslim Rohingya community to join their ranks.

• 19 4月 2024
  Retaliatory spiral in Middle East must end, says UN chief after reported strikes on Iran

  Following reports of alleged Israeli strikes inside Iran near a nuclear power station early Friday, the UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a new appeal to all parties to “stop the dangerous cycle of retaliation in the Middle East”.

• 18 4月 2024
  MYA Annual Report 2023

  This reporting period covers the inaugural year of the Department’s Strategic Plan for 2023-2026, and demonstrates how DPPA was able to respond to new and protracted crises –together with our partners – amidst an ever more complex international peace and security environment. In 2023, the MYA secured $31.1 million, falling short of the $41 million target by 24 per cent. Despite strong ongoing support from our current and new donors, this deficit impacted the MYA portfolio.

• 18 4月 2024
  THE UNRCCA PREVENTIVE DIPLOMACY ACADEMY HELD A HYBRID SESSION WITH OSCE

  ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan

  On 17 April, UNRCCA Preventive Diplomacy Academy (PDA) hosted a hybrid session, for the 2024 cohort participants from Central Asia...

• 18 4月 2024
  World News in Brief: Rights chief Türk urges peace in DR Congo, Haiti aid update, food insecurity in Timor Leste

  UN human rights chief Volker Türk this week met survivors of massacres in eastern provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) who told him they are desperate for peace.

• 18 4月 2024
  Gaza: UN experts decry ‘systemic obliteration’ of education system

  UN independent human rights experts on Thursday raised alarm over the “systematic destruction” of the Palestinian education system in the Gaza Strip, as Israel’s military operation continues unabated.

• 18 4月 2024
  Guterres appeals for maximum restraint in the Middle East

  Recent escalations in the Middle East make it even more important to support efforts towards lasting peace between Israel and a fully independent, viable and sovereign Palestinian state, UN Secretary-General António Guterres told the Security Council on Thursday. 

• 18 4月 2024
  World News in Brief: Rights chief Türk urges peace in DR Congo, Haiti aid update, food insecurity in Timor-Leste

  UN human rights chief Volker Türk this week met survivors of massacres in eastern provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) who told him they are desperate for peace.

• 17 4月 2024
  UN Special Coordinator Holds Round of Meetings in Lebanon

  UN Special Coordinator Joanna Wronecka held a round of meetings with Lebanese officials and political leaders to stress the importance of safeguarding Lebanon’s...

• 17 4月 2024
  DiCarlo: "Creating political space for youth to meaningfully engage in peace and security initiatives is key"

  UNDER-SECRETARY-GENERAL ROSEMARY A. DICARLO 

  REMARKS TO THE SECURITY COUNCIL  

  “The role of young persons in addressing security challenges in the Mediterranean” 

  New York, 17 April 2024 

   

  Mister President,  

  I would like to thank Malta for convening this debate today.  

  In 2015, this Council adopted resolution 2250, which acknowledged the importance of youth in prevention and peacebuilding.  

  The resolution urged Member States to increase youth representation in decision-making processes at all levels.  

  As we approach the tenth anniversary of this groundbreaking text, today’s debate is a timely reminder that advancing meaningful youth participation must remain a priority for all of us. 

  The potential and opportunity for renewal that young people represent – as well as the vulnerabilities that can often affect them disproportionately – means that they must be part of the broader discussions shaping our societies.  

  Yet, so much more needs to be done to meet the aspirations of the region’s youth, including by empowering them to participate in the decisions that can affect both their present and their future. 

  Mister President,  

  Today’s discussion is focused on the Mediterranean region, and with good reason. 

  In the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean, young people constitute 55 per cent of the population.  

  We recall the wave of demonstrations that swept across the region in 2011. Youth were at the forefront of these movements, protesting disenfranchisement and the lack of economic opportunity and employment.  

  We also witnessed how violent and extremist networks exploited such grievances to lure young people into their ranks.  

  Young people also make up most of those embarking on the perilous crossing of the Mediterranean, fleeing conflict and poverty in search of a better life.  

  Mister President, 

  It is estimated that one out of four young people around the world is affected by violence or armed conflict.  The young, especially women, are more vulnerable to neglect, abuse, and exploitation. Young people are more likely to be recruited by armed groups when they have no other livelihood opportunities.  

  Additionally, estimates also suggests that more than 90% of all direct conflict deaths occur among young adult males.  

  Exposure to conflict at a young age creates well documented mental-health and psychosocial impacts that persist into adulthood.  

  These grim facts and figures are borne out in the unfolding calamity in one part of the Mediterranean. The 7 October attack on Israel by Hamas and the war in Gaza has destroyed many young lives.  

  Seventy per cent of the population in Gaza is under 30. Almost all have been exposed to unprecedented levels of trauma, violence, disease, and food insecurity. All schools across the Gaza Strip are closed, impacting more than 625,000 students. 

  Mister President, 

  The impact of war and violence on youth is well known. What is still not sufficiently recognized is the many ways young people – with their energy, innovative ideas and creativity - can make the search for peace more sustainable and effective.  

  We have witnessed this spirit of innovation in our special political missions where we have increasingly deployed new technologies to organize digital consultations with youth. From Libya to Lebanon, these dialogues have helped us better understand their views and aspirations, and to reflect them in our work. 

  Creating political space for youth to meaningfully engage in peace and security initiatives is key. For example, last September, our mission in Libya launched the “Training Future Leaders of Libya” initiative.  

  Thirty young Libyan women will develop their skills in human rights, as well as legislation and policies to promote women’s participation and to counter hate speech. In February, the programme brought these young women to the European Parliament, where they discussed the impact of conflict on youth. 

  Mister President,  

  Young people are inheriting a planet on fire. One statistic encapsulates our dire situation: last month was the hottest March ever recorded. The previous nine months also set records.  

  The Mediterranean is particularly vulnerable to climate change, warming at a rate 20 per cent faster than the global average. Massive floods, devastating storms and long droughts threaten livelihoods, health, water and food security across the region. 

  The World Bank predicts that up to 19 million people would become internal climate migrants in North Africa alone by 2050 without concrete climate action.  

  In addition to facing these risks, youth are also expected to be most vulnerable to climate change related health hazards due to prolonged exposure during their lifetime. 

  Youth continue to take on a leading role in influencing, advocating, and demanding greater political will and concrete action on climate change.  

  This has been clear in their strong messages at the various COP meetings. Young women are often at the forefront of these movements, advocating for a gender lens at all stages of policy and decision-making related to climate risks.  

  In Cyprus, for example, our Good Offices Mission has helped young people across the divide to unite around shared concerns over environmental sustainability and to prepare joint positions for COP28 last December. 

  Mister President,  

  As documented in the Secretary-General’s report on youth, peace and security, negative stereotypes of youth as agents of unrest and violence continue to contribute to their marginalization and stigmatization.  

  To strengthen the role of youth as positive agents of change, regional and multilateral actions are essential. 

  In his policy brief on A New Agenda for Peace, the Secretary-General strongly advocates for active youth participation in decision-making processes. The United Nations is intensifying its efforts in this regard.  

  UNDP’s flagship report on Human Mobility reminds us that by accessing training, education and economic opportunities in other societies, young people, especially women, can be agents of change by bringing new experiences, skills and wealth back to their home countries. 

  Further, my Department’s Youth, Peace and Security Strategy builds on the Youth Promotion Initiative of the Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund. It remains the only international financing mechanism dedicated to the implementation of the agenda.  

  The Fund has invested $128 million (US dollars) in 97 projects in support of youth inclusion across more than 30 countries since 2016.  

  But we will need more adequate, predictable, and sustained funding to translate youth inclusion from a political commitment to tangible practice. 

  Regional organizations have a key role to play. In this regard, we welcome the League of Arab States recent endorsement of its first Youth, Peace and Security strategy.  

  I also commend the Union for the Mediterranean for its Youth 2030 Strategy and its efforts to support work opportunities for youth in the Southern Mediterranean.    

  Mister President,  

  Investing in youth is investing in peace.  

  The work of this Council is critical in this regard.  

  In his third report on the implementation of Resolution 2250, the Secretary-General noted that the number of young briefers to the Security Council had decreased in the past two years.  

  Meaningful youth engagement can start in this Chamber. I urge the Council to create more opportunities for young briefers and to continue to champion the youth, peace and security agenda, which is critical for the Mediterranean region and beyond.    

  Thank you, Mister President. 

   

• 17 4月 2024
  UPDATING LIVE: 'Insidious campaign' by Israel is denying live-saving aid to Gaza says UNRWA chief

  The Commissioner-General of the UN relief agency for Palestine refugees (UNRWA) briefed the Security Council in New York on Wednesday as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, telling ambassadors that life-saving deliveries are being blocked by Israel as part of an "insidious campaign" to push it out of the Occupied Palestinian Territory. 

• 17 4月 2024
  ‘Investing in youth is investing in peace’, UN Security Council hears

  The UN’s top political and peacebuilding official on Wednesday emphasized the pivotal role of youth in shaping the future of societies, stressing the need to involve them in decision-making on issues ranging from conflict to climate change.