New agenda sets sail with bold action as UN Water Conference closes

New agenda sets sail with bold action as UN Water Conference closes

The Agenda sets out a series of action-oriented game changing commitments, from making smarter food choices to re-evaluating water as a powerful economic driver, and part of the Earth’s cultural heritage. Water-secure future for all The conference, and its 2,000 participants, forged an “ambitious vision”, the UN Secretary-General António Guterres said. “Your dedication to action…

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UNICEF alert to save millions from desperate hunger in Yemen

UNICEF alert to save millions from desperate hunger in Yemen

Eight brutal years of conflict have left around 11 million children in need of humanitarian assistance and many of their families facing serious malnourishment. “The lives of millions of vulnerable children in Yemen remain at risk due to the almost unimaginable, unbearable, consequences of the crushing, unending war,” said Peter Hawkins, the agency’s representative in…

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Ramadan: UN chief calls for solidarity as month of giving begins

Ramadan: UN chief calls for solidarity as month of giving begins

The UN chief drew a parallel between the spirit of “understanding and compassion” which characterizes Ramadan, and the mission of the United Nations, “to foster dialogue, unity and peace.” “In these challenging times, my thoughts are with those facing conflict, displacement and suffering. I join everyone observing Ramadan to call for peace, mutual respect and…

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Climate change making Earth ‘uninhabitable’ Guterres warns

Climate change making Earth ‘uninhabitable’ Guterres warns

He laid down the challenge to governments worldwide, to make 2023 a year of “transformation, not tinkering” when it comes to seriously addressing climate change, with meaningful climate action. ‘Closer to the brink’ “Every year of insufficient action to keep global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius drives us closer to the brink, increasing systemic risks and…

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Southern Africa: Cyclone Freddy aftermath brings diseases, healthcare gaps

Southern Africa: Cyclone Freddy aftermath brings diseases, healthcare gaps

The devastation caused by the cyclone in Madagascar, Malawi and Mozambique has increased the spread of cholera and malaria, as well as malnutrition. Meanwhile, more than 300 health facilities have been destroyed or flooded in the three countries, limiting health care access. The cyclone’s destruction increased public health risks including a surge in the spread…

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Deadly Syria earthquake provides chance to move forward: UN envoy

Deadly Syria earthquake provides chance to move forward: UN envoy

War-torn Syria and neighbouring Türkiye were rocked by twin earthquakes on 6 February, which killed more than 56,000 people and caused widespread destruction, displacing millions.   “The situation today is so unprecedented that it calls for leadership, bold ideas and a cooperative spirit,” said Mr. Pedersen, speaking via videoconference from Geneva.  “A political solution is…

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