Humanitarian Aid, Topics

New Support Amid Preparations for Ukraine’s Third Wartime Winter

Posted on by mahmoud gaber
19
Jul

July 18, 2024 – Humanitarian Aid

In preparation for Ukraine’s third winter amid ongoing conflict, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has announced a significant $100 million financial contribution to support displaced and war-affected individuals. This announcement was made by UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, during his third visit to the wartime city of Kharkiv.

“Kharkiv is central to our support efforts for the people of Ukraine. I’ve seen the devastating impact of continuous attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and the resulting hardships for millions of civilians. Yet, I’ve also witnessed the unwavering reconstruction efforts, a testament to the resilience and strength of the Ukrainian government and its people,” Grandi remarked.

Kharkiv remains a refuge for approximately 200,000 internally displaced persons. The situation in the city intensified in May when a renewed ground offensive by Russian forces forced over 10,000 people from frontline communities to seek safety in Kharkiv.

In his role as head of UNHCR, Grandi is urging the international community to increase support to meet the pressing needs and to show unwavering solidarity with the people of Ukraine.

Comprehensive Winter Response Plan

UNHCR is particularly concerned about the harsh winter conditions in Kharkiv, which could exacerbate the already difficult living conditions, potentially causing more people to seek protection elsewhere. To mitigate this, UNHCR has launched an extensive winter response plan. This initiative, part of a broader UN appeal, aims to provide financial aid, assist with home repairs and insulation before the cold sets in, and cover energy bills.

As an initial measure, Grandi, in coordination with Ukraine’s Ministry of Energy, has provided 10 generators to ensure critical services remain operational during power outages. Oleh Syniehubov, Head of Kharkiv’s oblast state administration, expressed gratitude for the generators, emphasizing their importance for critical infrastructure in towns and villages. Svitlana Hrynchuk, Deputy Minister of Energy, highlighted that this support is crucial in strengthening the energy system to withstand the winter months.

‘Ukraine is Home’ Digital Platform

Additionally, UNHCR has launched the ‘Ukraine is Home’ digital information platform. This innovative tool is designed to help Ukrainian refugees and internally displaced individuals make informed decisions about returning home or continuing to stay in host communities by providing timely and impartial information.

“We must continue to support Ukrainian refugees, and also be ready to assist them in returning home when they deem it safe and appropriate,” Grandi emphasized.

For more details, visit the report

Economic Development, News, Topics

China Dominates Global Generative AI Patents: UN Report

Posted on by mahmoud gaber
tech
09
Jul

3 July 2024 – Economic Development

A recent report from the UN World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) reveals that China-based inventors are leading in the number of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) patents filed globally. Between 2014 and 2023, over 38,000 GenAI patents originated from China, which is six times more than those filed by inventors in the United States, the second-highest country in this regard.

GenAI: A Revolutionary Technology

Generative AI, or GenAI, enables users to create various content types, including text, images, music, and software code. This technology powers a wide array of industrial and consumer products, such as chatbots like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Baidu’s ERNIE.

According to WIPO Director General Daren Tang, “GenAI has emerged as a game-changing technology with the potential to transform the way we work, live, and play.” The WIPO report highlights that since the introduction of deep neural network architecture in 2017, the number of GenAI patents has surged by over 800 percent through 2023, reflecting significant technological advances and the vast potential of GenAI.

Shaping the Future of GenAI

Tang added that by analyzing patenting trends and data, WIPO aims to provide insights into where this rapidly evolving technology is being developed and its future direction. “This can help policymakers shape the development of GenAI for our common benefit and ensure that we continue to put the human being at the center of our innovation and creative ecosystems,” he said.

Key Findings of the Report

The report notes that GenAI patents currently represent 6 percent of all AI patents globally. The top ten applicants for these patents include:

  1. Tencent (2,074 inventions)
  2. Ping An Insurance (1,564)
  3. Baidu (1,234)
  4. Chinese Academy of Sciences (607)
  5. IBM (601)
  6. Alibaba Group (571)
  7. Samsung Electronics (468)
  8. Alphabet (443)
  9. ByteDance (418)
  10. Microsoft (377)

Geographically, China (38,210 inventions) leads the field, followed by the US (6,276 inventions), Republic of Korea (4,155), Japan (3,409), and India (1,350).

In terms of data types, image and video data dominate GenAI patents (17,996 inventions), followed by text (13,494) and speech or music (13,480). Additionally, patents involving molecule, gene, and protein-based data have grown rapidly, with 1,494 inventions since 2014 and a 78 percent average annual growth over the past five years.

For more details visit the original website

News, Refugees and maigrents, Reports, Topics

Refugees, Migrants Face Violence, Abuse, and Death on Routes Across Africa

Posted on by mahmoud gaber
05
Jul

New Data Highlights Severe Risks for Refugees and Migrants

Refugees and migrants continue to face extreme violence, exploitation, and death as they traverse Africa, according to a new report by UNHCR, IOM, and MMC. The report emphasizes the severe dangers on land routes, especially across the Sahara desert, where deaths are estimated to be double those in the Mediterranean Sea.

Abuse and Human Rights Violations

Vincent Cochetel, UNHCR Special Envoy for the Western and Central Mediterranean, highlighted that migrants and refugees, regardless of their status, face serious human rights violations, including torture, physical violence, arbitrary detention, and sexual exploitation. Criminal groups and state officials are often responsible for these abuses.

Push Factors and Insufficient Protection

Push factors include political conflicts, climate change, and racism. Many refugees and migrants lack access to protection and assistance, driving them to take more perilous routes. Despite international commitments, efforts to hold perpetrators accountable are insufficient, leading to near-complete impunity.

Stepping Up Life-Saving Measures

While UNHCR, IOM, and partners have intensified life-saving protection services, they stress that humanitarian action alone is not enough. They call for legal and regular migration channels to enhance migration governance and address the urgent needs of refugees and migrants.

For more details, visit the original article.

Health, News, Topics

New WHO Guidelines to Help Millions Quit Tobacco

Posted on by mahmoud gaber
No Smooking Sign
03
Jul

WHO Releases First-Ever Tobacco Cessation Guidelines

The UN World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced its first comprehensive guidelines to aid over 750 million adults in quitting tobacco. These guidelines cover a range of treatments, initiatives, and digital interventions designed to help people stop using cigarettes, waterpipes, smokeless tobacco, cigars, roll-your-own tobacco, and heated tobacco products.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus heralded this as a significant milestone in the global fight against tobacco, providing countries with essential tools to support individuals in quitting and reducing the global burden of tobacco-related diseases.

Challenges in Quitting Tobacco

Despite 60% of the world’s 1.25 billion tobacco users wanting to quit, many lack access to necessary services due to resource limitations. Rüdiger Krech, Director of Health Promotion at WHO, emphasized the immense strength required to overcome tobacco addiction and the suffering involved for individuals and their families. He noted that the guidelines are designed to help communities and governments provide the best possible support and assistance for those on this challenging journey.

Treatment Options

WHO’s guidelines recommend a combination of pharmacotherapy and behavioral interventions to increase the chances of successfully quitting. Recommended treatments include medications such as varenicline, Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), bupropion, and cytisine. Behavioral support options range from brief counseling sessions with healthcare workers to more intensive individual, group, or phone counseling sessions.

Additionally, WHO suggests using digital interventions such as text messaging, smartphone apps, and internet programs as valuable adjuncts or self-management tools to aid in the quitting process.

Global Implementation and Support

WHO encourages countries to offer these treatments at no or reduced cost to improve accessibility, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The organization also highlights the importance of integrating these guidelines into national health systems to ensure widespread availability and support for those seeking to quit tobacco.

Dr. Tedros highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach, stating, “This guideline marks a crucial milestone in our global battle against these dangerous products. It empowers countries with the essential tools to effectively support individuals in quitting tobacco and alleviate the global burden of tobacco-related diseases.”

Digital Interventions and Broader Impact

The guidelines also emphasize the potential of digital interventions to reach a broader audience. With the increasing use of technology, digital tools such as text messaging, smartphone applications, and online programs offer innovative ways to support individuals in their journey to quit tobacco. These tools can provide continuous support, motivation, and resources, making it easier for individuals to manage their quitting process and stay on track.

For more details, visit the original article.

Topics

World News in Brief: UN Responds to Bangladesh Floods, Sports and Human Rights, Polio Vaccination in Angola

Posted on by admin
flood
02
Jul

UN Provides Aid to Bangladesh Flood Victims

The UN World Food Programme (WFP) is delivering vital assistance to communities in northeast Bangladesh affected by severe flooding. Around 1.4 million people have been impacted by heavy rains in Sylhet and Sunamganj districts, as well as areas upstream in India. The WFP’s field office in Sylhet supports government-led relief efforts, distributing fortified biscuits to over 23,000 families. Cash assistance is planned for these and an additional 48,000 households. Further heavy rains are forecast, potentially worsening the situation.

Human Rights in Sports

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, addressed the UN Human Rights Council, highlighting the human rights challenges in the sports world. Despite ideals of equality, athletes face rights violations, including racism, sexism, abuse, and corruption. Türk emphasized that mega sporting events, like the Olympics and the World Cup, should advocate against these inequalities. He noted positive steps by some businesses aligning with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, citing a case in Spain where football fans were punished for racially abusing a player.

Polio Vaccination Campaign in Angola

UN agencies are supporting Angola’s vaccination campaign to curb the spread of polio. Polio, a highly infectious disease causing paralysis, can be prevented through vaccination. The World Health Organization (WHO) aims to achieve 95% vaccination coverage for children under five. The campaign includes house-to-house visits and fixed posts in populated areas. The first round in May 2024 successfully vaccinated over 5.5 million children. The second round continues with the same strategy to ensure all at-risk children are protected.

For more details, visit the original article

Reports, Topics

400 Million Under-Fives Regularly Experience Violent Discipline at Home

Posted on by mahmoud gaber
under-fives regularly experience violent discipline at home
01
Jul

On 11 June 2024, UNICEF released alarming data revealing that six in ten children under five face psychological aggression or physical punishment at home. Nearly 400 million young children are affected, with 330 million experiencing physical punishment. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell highlighted the detrimental impact of such abuse on children’s development.

The data, released on the first International Day of Play (IDOP), underscores the lack of play, stimulation, and interaction that many children face. UNICEF calls for stronger legal protections, increased investment in parenting programs, and enhanced play spaces to support child development.

Despite growing prohibitions against physical punishment, about half a billion under-fives lack adequate legal protection. Harmful social norms continue to perpetuate violent discipline, with one in four caregivers believing physical punishment is necessary. Additionally, four in ten children aged two to four do not receive sufficient stimulation at home, leading to emotional neglect and potential long-term issues.

The IDOP highlights the vital role of play in cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. It also addresses barriers to play, such as disabilities, gender discrimination, conflict, and learning poverty. UNICEF urges governments to strengthen legal and policy frameworks, expand parenting programs, and increase access to play spaces.

“On the first International Day of Play, we must unite to end violence against children and promote positive, nurturing caregiving,” said Russell.

For more details, visit the original article.

Reports

Syria: Security Council Highlights Escalating Crisis and Civilian Suffering

Posted on by admin
26
Jun

Najat Rochdi, UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria, addressed the Security Council, highlighting the dire need for political solutions to resolve Syria’s escalating crisis. Rochdi described the security situation as violent and tense, with civilians living in fear due to recent airstrikes and increased ISIL attacks. Women activists face growing threats, and violence against women and girls is on the rise. She stressed that implementing resolution 2254 is crucial for sustainable solutions.

The humanitarian situation is deteriorating sharply, with millions needing unrestricted aid access. Over 174,000 Syrians were displaced last year, adding to the 7.2 million internally displaced and 6.4 million refugees. Rochdi called for intensified efforts to ensure safe and voluntary refugee returns.

Ramesh Rajasingham, Coordination Director of OCHA, reported that over half of Syria’s population faces acute food insecurity, with severe malnutrition affecting children. The UN humanitarian appeal is severely underfunded, risking further suffering. Despite these challenges, the UN and its partners have provided aid to 2.7 million people monthly, but more resources are needed to continue critical assistance.

For more details, visit the original article.

Topics

UN World Oceans Day Highlights Urgent Need for Marine Protection

Posted on by admin
13
Jun

7 June 2024 – Climate and Environment

UN World Oceans Day was celebrated on Friday at the UN Headquarters in New York, focusing on “opening minds, igniting senses, and inspiring possibilities” to safeguard marine life globally. The event featured a compelling video themed “awaken new depths,” which underscored the urgent need for immediate ocean protection and cautioned against complacency.

In a statement marking the day, which officially falls on Saturday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the crucial role the ocean plays in sustaining life on Earth, highlighting that the problems it faces are primarily man-made. Guterres pointed out that climate change is causing sea levels to rise, posing an existential threat to small island developing states and coastal populations. He also noted that ocean acidification is destroying coral reefs, and record-high sea temperatures are leading to extreme weather events. Additionally, overfishing and other harmful practices are contributing to the degradation of marine ecosystems.

President of the General Assembly, Dennis Francis, echoed these concerns, stressing the need to learn more about the oceans and to reverse the damage being inflicted on this vital resource. Francis remarked that the ocean is humanity’s strongest ally against climate change and emphasized the collective responsibility to manage ocean resources sustainably to ensure their availability for future generations.

Both Guterres and Francis are looking forward to reflections and actions to restore and protect the oceans as the Summit of the Future in September 2024 and next year’s UN Oceans Conference approach.

Earlier in the week, UNESCO released a State of the Ocean report, urging policymakers to consider “the ocean we need for the future we want.” The report highlighted threats such as the doubling rate of ocean warming over the past 20 years and the decreasing oxygen levels suffocating coastal species. It concluded that ocean literacy is a strategic ally in optimizing resources, accelerating behavioral change, and enhancing the implementation of conservation programs and sustainability practices.

Marine biologist and oceanographer Sylvia Earle, one of the speakers at the event, emphasized the importance of sharing the significance of ocean protection to drive crucial actions for preserving coastal wildlife. Guterres called on governments, businesses, investors, scientists, and communities to unite in defense of the ocean, while Francis urged a renewed commitment to ocean action, capacity building in small island developing states and other developing countries, and innovative financing solutions to enhance resilience.

For more detailed information, you can visit the UN News website

Topics

UN Chief Stresses Fair Trade for Developing Nations Amid Rising Debt

Posted on by admin
13
Jun

12 June 2024 – Economic Development

The right to development is closely linked with fair trade, a necessity for the world’s poorest countries, currently “mired in debt” through no fault of their own, UN Secretary-General António Guterres asserted on Wednesday. In a speech marking the 60th anniversary of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Guterres highlighted the multiple challenges that hinder the creation of a more sustainable and inclusive global economy.

Guterres emphasized that these countries must pursue development through equitable trade terms, as they are burdened by escalating debt, exacerbated by both ongoing and new conflicts that ripple across the global economy. This has led to increased global debt levels, while key development indicators, such as poverty and hunger, have regressed.

During his address at the UN Trade and Development Global Leaders Forum in Switzerland, Guterres reiterated that the current international financial architecture is outdated, dysfunctional, and unjust. He noted that it has failed to protect developing countries from debt crises and warned that the international trading system is on the brink of fragmentation due to escalating pressures and geopolitical tensions.

Highlighting the role of UNCTAD, Guterres argued that the agency’s work is more relevant than ever in promoting a sustainable and inclusive global economy through trade and investment. He invoked Raul Prebisch, UNCTAD’s first Secretary-General, asserting that the agency cannot remain neutral on development issues, just as the World Health Organization cannot be neutral on diseases like malaria.

Guterres described trade as a “double-edged sword”—a source of both prosperity and inequality, interconnection and dependence, economic innovation and environmental degradation. He called for increased dialogue between nations to address the near-tripling of trade barriers since 2019, many of which are driven by geopolitical rivalry without consideration for their impact on developing countries.

Stressing the importance of a unified global market, Guterres warned against the division into rival blocs. He emphasized that achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensuring peace and security requires one global market and economy, where poverty and hunger have no place.

for more information visit The UN news

Topics

SIDS go forward with ‘new sense of hope, solidarity and determination’

Posted on by admin
31
May

Antigua and Barbuda, May 31, 2024
The Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) concluded with a strong message of hope and optimism despite the significant challenges faced by these nations. Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, emphasized the progress and future vision encapsulated in the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda (ABAS).

A Unified Vision for Resilient Prosperity
Over 4,000 participants, including more than 20 world leaders and senior ministers from over 100 nations, gathered at the American University of Antigua. The conference brought together a diverse array of stakeholders from the private sector, civil society, academia, and youth to address critical issues threatening the survival of the 39 SIDS in the face of climate change and other global shocks.

The ABAS outlines a ten-year plan aimed at achieving resilient prosperity. This plan focuses on sustainable development, ensuring access to food, energy, and water, and promoting health, productivity, and security. It also emphasizes protecting biodiversity and conserving ocean resources through strong climate action to mitigate temperature rise and sea level increases.

UN News/Matt Wells Wide view at the closing of the Fourth International Conference on Small Island States (SIDS4) in Antigua and Barbuda.

Financial and Structural Support
Key elements of the ABAS include calls for substantial new financing and the establishment of a debt sustainability support service. These measures are crucial to addressing the high-interest debt burdens that many SIDS face. The new Centre of Excellence for SIDS, based in Antigua and Barbuda, will play a pivotal role in fostering private sector engagement and generating innovative solutions.

A Collective Commitment
Ms. Mohammed highlighted the necessity of robust and effective partnerships to implement the ABAS successfully. She underscored the importance of monitoring and evaluation to maintain the credibility of multilateral efforts, particularly halfway through the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) timeline.

The UN, through its Resident Coordinators and Country Teams, will work closely with all partners to achieve the goals set out in the ABAS, supporting digital, green, and blue transformations.

Health and Human Capital
Health was a key focus on the final day, with discussions emphasizing the fragility of health systems in many small island states. Patrice Gumbs, Minister Plenipotentiary from Sint Maarten, stressed that investing in human capital, particularly in health, education, and youth empowerment, is vital for survival and growth. Innovative healthcare solutions such as tele-medicine and mobile health teams were highlighted as essential strategies.

Jose Ulisses Correia e Silva, Prime Minister of Cabo Verde, echoed these sentiments, advocating for investments in quality education, healthcare, and job creation for young people. Cindy McCain, Executive Director of the World Food Programme, reinforced that strengthening human capital is fundamental to sustainable development.

Looking Ahead
As the conference drew to a close, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda noted that while significant progress has been made, the real work is just beginning. He called for continued commitment to multistakeholder partnerships, innovation, and inclusivity to overcome the unique challenges faced by SIDS.

The SIDS4 conference marks the start of a new journey, guided by the ABAS towards resilient prosperity by 2030. The international community’s collective efforts and commitments will be crucial in turning this vision into reality.

Reference