Story Pakistan celebrates the 76th UN Day with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and UN Agencies in a ‎colorful ceremony ‎

UN agencies set up displays showcasing their products and interventions in Pakistan

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19 November 2021

Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 18 November 2021

Press Release

19 November 2021

Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 19 November 2021

Press Release

17 November 2021

Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 17 November 2021

Latest Press Release

19 November 2021

Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 18 November 2021

Press Release

19 November 2021

Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 19 November 2021

Press Release

17 November 2021

Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 17 November 2021

The Sustainable Development Goals in Pakistan Pakistan affirmed its commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by adopting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as its own national development agenda through a unanimous National Assembly Resolution in 2016. Since then, the country has made considerable progress by mainstreaming these goals in national policies and strategies and developing an institutional framework for SDGs implementation in Pakistan. SDG support units have been established at federal and provincial levels with the planning institutions (Ministry of Planning Development and Special Initiatives and Provincial Planning and Development Departments) to guide SDGs implementation and monitoring it progress. In 2018, the Government designed and approved a National SDGs Framework that envisages a national vision to prioritize and localize SDGs. Localized provincial SDG Frameworks are being formulated. The focus of the government is on mainstreaming SDGs in planning processes, ensuring strong monitoring and reporting on SDGs, ensuring public financial allocations are aligned to SDGs and alternate financing modalities are being explored, and to benefit from use of technology to accelerate progress towards SDGs. sdg-1 sdg-2 sdg-3 sdg-4 sdg-5 sdg-6 sdg-7 sdg-8 sdg-9 sdg-10 sdg-11 sdg-12 sdg-13 sdg-15 sdg-16 sdg-17 Learn more Story 24 November 2020 Assisting Impoverished Marginalized Communities in Floods Ravaged Rural Sindh It’s perturbing to see hundreds of women and children lining up to a water purification tanker with buckets and utensils to fetch clean drinking water for their families in Umerkot, Sindh. These families are waiting patiently for their circumstances to change as they battle all sorts of difficulties in accessing nutritious food, sanitation facilities, and even shelter. They have been left homeless by the unprecedented flooding in the province.With the Pakistan government already grappling with the COVID-19 crisis, the Sindh flooding brought to fore even more challenges to act swiftly to support vulnerable households and strengthen their resilience.Situation in Rural SindhThe heavy rains in the monsoon season (about 3 times hugher than average) contributed to heart wrenching agony for the already marginalized groups in rural Sindh affecting more than 2.4 million people. The unofficial count may be more than 3 million. Gruesome scenes unfolded as whole families who managed to survive the floods were forced to leave their drowning possessions and find shelter on the side of the narrow broken roads- in the open air. There was little or no access to clean drinking water, food items, hygiene products, or basic facilities like toilets. The flooding not only left the populations barehanded, it also destroyed the major source of livelihoods for the next six months, their livestock and the cotton crop, just as it was ready for harvest, plunging them deeper into poverty.While the media focus has mainly been on mainland Karachi and the flooding in relatively better off localities, the vulnerable minority communities in the rural south have borne the brunt of this calamity. South Eastern Sindh already has the lowest development indicators in Pakistan, at par with Balochistan and the newly merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The floods happened during the COVID 19 pandemic and just as the cotton crop was to be harvested, which takes place twice a year. Cotton growing is an arrangement between landowners who provide the land in return for a tiny share of the harvest; smallholder farming families borrow finances to purchase seeds and fertiliser. The women from these families are the main harvesters, therefore they have been particularly affected by this shock. Men who tend to work as daily labourers in construction have been seeing their livelihoods significantly impacted by the COVID pandemic and the imposed public health restrictions (lockdowns, halt in construction, etc).The men, women, elderly and children who managed to survive the floods have been sleeping under the open sky on the roads in makeshift shelters made of thin plastic tents forced to relocate every few days. Their homes, traditionally made of mud and thatched straw, have collapsed or have been severely damaged forcing them to stay on the streets, in the open, surrounded by flooded fields, without access to clean drinking water, with no toilet facilities and vulnerable to vector-borne diseases and other infections. Most people have lost a large part of their livestock and they are struggling to provide fodder for those animals that managed to survive.Chronic malnutrition and stunting is very visible. All the conditions are in place for high morbidity and an increase in mortality.Response to the crisisThe United Nations in Pakistan has been supporting every effort of the Government in reaching the vulnerable populations that include ailing babies in urgent need of vaccination and life-savings medicines, at-risk populations to COVID-19 and other diseases like diarrhea, malaria and dengue.While the government has been responding since the onset of the floods, the scale of the needs dwarfs the available resources. PDMA and NDMA assistance has been in the form of shelter with provision of tents- the most affected people cite shelter as their priority, along with food, water and mosquito nets.As the UN Provincial Programme Team organised a Rapid Needs Assessment for 9 districts, WFP has distributed food rations for thousands of families; UNICEF and WHO have provided millions of water purifying tablets; WHO has provided bednets and medical supplies. The Humanitarian/Resident Coordinator has released the remaining USD 2.5 million of the Pakistan Humanitarian Pooled Fund. The additional USD 3 million from Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) is being directed to strengthen the assistance efforts for food availability, empowering communities by distributing cash, water and sanitation facilities, as well as critical health interventions focusing on women and children..Building back betterWhile there has been a provision of aid and support, both from the government, the UN and partners, the challenges remain colossal and enormous efforts are still needed to help an already vulnerable population. More needs to be done to ensure better risk management and ensuring that communities are better prepared and more resilient to future shocks. The road is long for recovery and rehabilitation, yet immediate action is necessary to prevent loss of life. The humanitarian community is currently working on a concerted Humanitarian Response Plan for 2021 which will be augmenting the Government’s support to the vulnerable population while calling on other partners to ensure better mitigation of future shocks, provide more funding channeled to restore and repair infrastructure.The UN in Pakistan is strongly committed to supporting the NDMA, the PDMA and other government authorities at Federal and Provincial levels to quantify the situation, raise awareness and support the response. The UN country team will continue to support immediate lifesaving activities focusing on food insecurity and health for vulnerable communities with a focus on women, minorities and the disabled. Read more 1 of 3 Story 18 June 2020 Pakistan: Further desert locust damage forecast in coming agricultural seasons The Government of Pakistan’s preliminary estimate of monetary losses due to desert locusts over the two coming agricultural seasons in 2020 and 2021 may range from US$3.4 billion to $10.21 billion.Locust damage has significantly affected many farmers already, with further significant locust damage forecast at the end of summer.In late January, the Government of Pakistan declared the desert locust a national emergency and set up the National Action Plan for Desert Locust Control and Surveillance and a high-level National Locust Control Centre.The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is providing technical advice and procurement support to the Government for locust surveillance and control activities, including locust threat forecasts and control operation strategies.FAO and the World Food Programme and partners, in coordination with the Government, will access needs in the worst-impacted districts, which have also experienced multiple shocks over the past 18 months, including drought, flash flooding, a cold wave and COVID-19.The Government of Pakistan needs $372 million over the coming three years in additional funding to survey, control and recover from the locust damage.FAO launched the Desert Locust Upsurge Global Response Plan 2020, which includes $12.5 million for Pakistan for crisis response, of which only $1.9 million has been funded.More than 3 million people in Pakistan are facing severe acute food insecurity, with the situation particularly precarious in Balochistan.It is estimated that approximately 34,000 households will need of emergency livelihood and food-security assistance due to crop losses.Many more people may be indirectly affected by crop losses leading to price rises in key commodities. Read more 1 of 3 Story 16 June 2020 A Coordinated Response to Coronavirus On Wednesday, 11 March 2020, theWorld Health Organization (WHO)characterizedthe coronavirus (COVID-19) viral disease a pandemic, but it is a pandemic that can be controlled.Coronavirus (COVID-19) is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who heads the UN agency, said,in his statement, “Let me be clear: describing this as a pandemic does not mean that countries should give up.” The UN Secretary-General urged all countries to take a comprehensive approach tailored to their circumstances – with containment as the central pillar. COVID-19 is affecting thousands of people, impacting countries’ health systems and having widespread social and economic effects. The UN entities working on development, theUnited Nations Sustainable Development Group, are supporting countries in their preparedness and response plans.This page convenes sources of information and guidance from theWorld Health Organization(WHO) and theUnited Nations(UN) regarding the current outbreak of novel coronavirus (COVID-19).WHO is working closely with global experts, governments and partners to track the spread and to provide guidance to countries and individuals on measures to protect health and prevent the spread of this outbreak.To stay up to date with the latest information, please visit: United Nations Covid-19 Response: https://www.un.org/coronavirus World Health Organization:https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019 Latest news on the United Nations’ response:https://news.un.org/en/events/un-news-coverage-coronavirus-outbreak WHO guidance for countries:https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/technical Coronavirus (COVID-19) Situation:https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/685d0ace521648f8a5beeeee1b9125cd Read more 1 of 3 Story 08 November 2021 Pakistan celebrates the 76th UN Day with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and UN Agencies in a ‎colorful ceremony ‎ The 76th anniversary of the United Nations was recently celebrated in a colorful event organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator in Islamabad. The Foreign Secretary, Mr. Sohail Mahmood, was the Chief Guest while a video message of the UN Secretary General, Mr. António Guterres, was featured at the event. The Resident Coordinator, Mr. Julien Harneis, also addressed the audience comprising of heads of diplomatic missions and UN agencies based in Islamabad, as well as senior government officials and members of the UN staff.Speaking on the occasion, the Foreign Secretary reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to multilateralism, with the UN playing a central role for promoting peace, security, development and human rights for all. The Foreign Secretary highlighted Pakistan’s contributions to the work of the UN including in the areas of peacekeeping, refugee protection, humanitarian action, climate change, and international cooperation for sustainable development. He also thanked all the UN agencies working in Pakistan for advancing its socio-economic development.The UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. Julien Harneis, appreciated the constant support and assistance of the Government of Pakistan and highlighted the many accomplishments of the UN agencies working in Pakistan in a diversity of sectors. He also talked about the new 5-year plan, the UN Sustainable Development Framework 2023-2027 and how every effort was being made to ensure that it had realistic action plans that align with the needs of the people of Pakistan, the directions of the government and the support of the member states and development partners.A youth representative also shared her views on the expectations from the United Nations for meeting contemporary challenges.Many UN agencies set up displays around the venue to showcase their products and interventions in the areas of health, food security, environmental protection, capacity-building and socio-economic development. These exhibits invited a great deal of interest from the guests and served as an opportunity to showcase the many interventions and accomplishments of the UN in Pakistan. Photo Credit: UNDP Read more 1 of 5 Story 30 May 2021 Pakistan ramps up Protected Areas From the Himalayas in the north to the deserts of Balochistan in the west, to the mangroves of Sindh in the south, Pakistan’snatural diversity is spellbinding, but it is also under threat.In 2018, only 12 per cent of the country was classed as an environmentally protected area. According toBloomberg,it was one of the six countries in the world most at risk from climate change. The country had one of the lowest forest covers in the region, with only 5 per cent cover. This was compared to a global average of 31 per cent. This put the country at increased risk from environmental dangers such as flooding, melting glaciers and droughts.However, change is underway. In 2020, Pakistan’s government launched the ‘Protected Area Initiative’ which aims to increase protected areas such as national parks, wetlands and wildlife reserves to 15 per cent of the country’s total area by 2023. In the last two years, protected area coverage has already increased to 13.9 per cent and further progress looks assured.Pakistan is following a global trend, according to the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) flagship reportProtected Planet. Since 2010, 21 million km2of protected and conserved areas, or 42 per cent of the global total, has been added.“Protected areas offer a range of environmental benefits – they safeguard biodiversity by protecting plant and animal habitats; protect against climate change by building resilience to natural disasters and providing carbon storage, and can help maintain food and water security,” said Susan Gardner, Director of UNEP’s Ecosystems division. “Their positive impact also extends to economies as protected areas can drive eco-tourism and create green jobs in developing countries.”Sustainable Protected AreasWhile the growth of protected areas is a welcome development, as the Pakistan government is aware, in order for them to be effective, the areas must be managed and controlled. While globally the target of 17 per cent of land protection has been met (Pakistan is behind the global average), less than 8 per cent, against a target of 10 per cent, of coastal and marine areas have been conserved.Pakistan’s national parks date back to 1972 with the creation of Lal Suhanra, one of South Asia’s largest. Lal Suhanara is now one of Pakistan’s 31 parks which include desert, mountains, wetlands and coastal ecosystems. They are home to a wide array of species including the elusive and endangered snow leopard. However, many had fallen into disrepair and were parks and protected areas only in name. Part of the Protected Area Initiative is to ensure that these valuable environmental areas are operating and functional.“It is key for Pakistan to not only increase the protected areas but to ensure that all areas that are protected are more than just paper parks. By this we mean they are fully functioning with community buy-in and staff to operate and protect them,” said Dr. Raja Omer, the Deputy Inspector General (Forests) in Pakistan.In order to do this Pakistan is adding 7000 jobs to manage and work in the parks, a key boost after job losses due to COVID-19. UNEP’s Protected Planet Report 2020 finds that in order to be fully effective, jobs in protected areas must draw from and benefit the local communities and fully embrace women at all levels of planning and implementation.“These jobs will ensure community buy-in and agency for the protected areas,” said Dr. Omer.As Pakistan prepares to holdWorld Environment Dayon June 5, in partnership with UNEP, the country continues to make positive progress. Last year Prime Minister Khan announced the creation ofnine new National Parks and the rehabilitation of a further six. Pakistan aims to have at least seven of its national parks registered under the IUCN 'Green List of Protected Areas,' the gold standard for conservation.“We have made good progress and we are confident we will meet our targets,” said Dr. Omer.Story via UNEP Read more 1 of 5 Story 19 May 2021 Pakistan restores mangroves for economy and ecosystem benefits Tahir Qureshi had many nicknames. Father of the Mangroves. Mangrove Man. The mangrove hero of Pakistan. All reflect a life dedicated to the conservation and restoration of Pakistan’s mangroves.As Pakistan prepares to hostWorld Environment Dayon June 5, ecosystem restoration, which includes critical ecosystems like mangrove forests, will be the focus. Mr Quershi, who sadly passed away in December 2020, played a key role in the development of mangrove restoration in Pakistan and will be fondly remembered at the event.“He was a magnificent man. He understood the importance of mangroves in environmental conservation, he dedicated his life to them” said Mahmood Akhtar Cheema, the country representative of theInternational Union for Conservation of Nature(IUCN) a United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) partner, “He literally planted millions of mangroves.”Mangroves are also a central part of the Pakistan government’s ambitious‘Ten Billion Tree Tsunami’drive. Led by Prime Minister Imran Khan and supported by UNEP, Pakistan has committed to planting 10 billion trees by 2023. Millions, if not billions, of these treeswill be mangroves. By the end of June, this year one billion trees will have already been planted.Ecosystem and economic benefitsMangroves are one of the most productive and diverse ecosystems on the planet, without which,39 per centmorepeople would be flooded annually.The IUCNestimates that mangroves provide exceptional carbon storage - three to five times that of tropical forests – and support livelihoods for over 120 million people globally. They are also home to more than 3,000 fish species are found in their ecosystem.“Mangroves are an important tool in the fight against climate change. They reduce carbon in the atmosphere and they also make financial sense. Restoring mangroves is five times more cost effective than building ‘grey infrastructure’ such as flood walls, which also don’t help with climate change,” said Makkio Yashiro, regional ecosystems coordinator for UNEP.But mangroves are under threat. Climate change, logging, agriculture, aquaculture, pollution and coastal development are all eroding their habitats. UNEP and partners found thatover 67% of mangroves have been lost or degraded to date.Restoring a critical ecosystemRestoring mangroves helps support not only nature but also, economies. A hectare of mangroves is estimated to be worth between $33,000 and $57,000 per year. UNEP studies find that every dollar invested in mangrove restoration there is a benefit of four dollars. Simply put they are one of the most efficient, cost effectiveNature-based Solutions (NbS).In Pakistan, as well as the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami, organisations such as the IUCN have instigated a number of mangrove restoration projects. The IUCN has worked on projects including one with the Pakistani Navy to plant seven million mangrove plants and also public-private enterprises with Engro Elengy Terminal Private Limited (EETPL)in the Port Qasim area of Karachi.As we enter theUN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, which will run from 2021 to 2030 and aims to prevent, halt and reverse the degradation of ecosystems worldwide, mangroves have a key role to play in its success.Story via UNEP Read more 1 of 5 Story 10 December 2020 UNHCR’s skills project empowered refugee woman to ‎earn at home amid coronavirus outbreak QUETTA, 08 April 2020 – Saleema Habibullah, an Afghan refugee, has faced enormous struggles in her lifetime. Despite the tragic losses that she experienced, she leads a life free from fear and full of hope for the future, even in the most difficult of times.“I was only twenty when all the men in my family where killed in a bombing incident in Quetta,” Saleema lamented. She described how her paternal uncle was so heart-broken that he died from a heart attack.At the time, she fought for her family – a paralyzed aunt and cousin, whom were her only remaining relatives – by taking a bold step to leave her home and seek opportunities. Thanks to UNHCR’s Safe from the Start (SFS) programme, she learned new skills, such as embroidery, tailoring and kilim-making, and applies them daily.The new skills enabled Saleema to become a master trainer at UNHCR’s programme being run by its partner. She has also established a centre at her house to provide skills to girls and run a small business. Saleema earns from the job and home-based business.“Even at this challenging time, when the coronavirus outbreak has affected the country, I’m able to earn a decent living while staying at home,” she said.Generously funded by the United States of America in 2019, the SFS is a livelihoods, hygiene and sexual violence awareness-raising project. Its aim is the economic empowerment of vulnerable women in the Afghan refugee community in Quetta.Since the start of the programme in 2016, SFS trained 740 beneficiaries in marketable skills such as kilim and carpet weaving, tailoring, hand embroidery, machine embroidery as well as computer and English language courses (for literate beneficiaries).All trainees participate in numeracy, literacy and health classes as well. A nursery is also available for young children accompanying their mothers during the day. Most of the beneficiaries are not only skilled artisans but aspiring female agents of change.Originally from Kunduz in northern Afghanistan, Saleema could not continue her studies beyond primary school due to poverty. However, her life took a turn for the better when she got the opportunity to become a trainer with SFS. Today, she’s the sole bread winner in her family, paying off all of the heavy debt that they accumulated over time.At first, her community didn’t respond well to her decision to pursue skills training. In fact, they didn’t even approve of a girl leaving the home, but Saleema stood firm against the frowning faces and unfriendly gestures. She kept working hard, learning new skills.“Someday, I look forward to becoming a successful businesswoman,” mused Saleema. She says that women should be brave, lead prosperous lives and pursue their dreams.By Humera Karim, UNHCR, Quetta, Pakistan Read more 1 of 5 Story 09 December 2020 Social inclusion of vulnerable transgenders in times of COVID-19‎ Continuing with its commitment to ‘Leave No One Behind’, UNDP in Pakistan, with UNFPA’s support, conducted a rapid preliminary socio-economic assessment to gauge the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on transgender persons living in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.This initiative is the first outcome of the Ministry of Human Rights (MoHR) and UNDP Human Rights Taskforce on COVID-19 for collaboration on efforts through a human rights lens.The assessment was conducted with representative sampling of 75 transgender persons (50 individuals in Rawalpindi and 25 in Islamabad), through transgender focal points of Islamabad and Rawalpindi— who are also members of the National Implementation Committee of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2018. The Ministry of Human Rights (MoHR) was on board to ensure ownership from the government.All geographical areas of Islamabad and Rawalpindi were a part of the assessment while the assessment itself was disaggregated along multiple categories including, but not limited to, key-informants’: age, disability if any, health status, pre-COVID19 employment/income generation capacity, residence, and any experience of Gender Based Violence (GBV)).The sample-size was loosely based onCensus 2017-18findings[1] and in consultation with the trans-community, measuring at 50 key informants from Rawalpindi and 25 key informants from Islamabad-ICT. The findings of the assessmnet reveal serious socio-economic impact of the already marginalised communities of trangender persons; with limited mobility due to COVID-19, their earnings have declined considerably and they are facing issues of shelter, food and access to mandatory hygiene products such as masks, gloves and sanitizers.National Consultation in 2018 on Political inclusion and Electoral participation of transgender community in Pakistan. © UNDP Pakistan/Shuja HakimThe first assessment had the following findings and recommendations:´ Trans-persons in the twin-cities have been gravely, disproportionately affected by socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.´ Measures to address the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic should consider the particular vulnerabilities of the trans-people, including older persons, those living with disabilities, compromised immune systems and the homeless, and ensure that trans-people are fully covered by relief to recovery packages and not rendered invisible or unheard at any stage.´ All development partners, including decision-makers, must speak out against stigmatization and discrimination directed at the trans-people in the context of the pandemic.´ Shelters, support services, and other measures to address gender-based violence during the COVID-19 pandemic and must take urgent steps to include the trans-population.´ Measures restricting movement should provide protection for transgender and gender non-conforming persons. Law enforcement officials should be instructed and trained not to discriminate against this segment of the population.The immediate needs identified through the assessment are:The initial findings pointed out the challenges faced by the transgender community which includes:´ Stigma and discrimination makes transgender people reluctant to disclose their health and socioeconomic status, and get help.´ Transgender persons continue to experience discrimination from service providers and staff across the social protection and health care settings and social security safety nets – this leaves them poorer and more vulnerable in the face of COVID-19 pandemic.´ Existing socio-economic marginalization and health conditions mean more of trans-persons live in a state of invisible multi-dimensional vulnerability and compromised health.´ Transgender and non-binary persons living with hostile families under the current lockdown have to deal with stress and trauma, especially those who have recently come out as trans-persons, those who have recently undergone sex reassignment surgery or are taking hormones.´ Most trans-persons are either living in temporary residences with other transgender persons in cramped-unsafe conditions or alone in locations other than their places of origin.´ Most trans-community members are semi or poorly educated, therefore there are obvious and serious gaps in understanding written information and precautionary guidelines with regards to COVID-19. A community-based awareness mechanism should be introduced to educate them on COVID-19 prevention and response. This should be clubbed with the basic training on preparing cost-effective masks, disposing of masks and gloves, maintaining physical distance and keeping themselves safe in their personal spaces.´ A group from this community has reported their unmet long-term medication needs which have been disrupted due to closure of OPDs in government hospitals. This requires urgent re-prioritisation of health services for those in need of chronic medical care.The majority of trans-people have reported either none or limited funds available at their disposal to purchase basic necessities of life. Considering the uncertainty about ending the Corona Virus pandemic there is a dire need to look for alternative livelihood options for trans-people to enable them to earn their living.MoHR with the support of UNDP in Pakistan and UNFPA Pakistan distributed Eid Relief Packages for COVID-19 affected transgender persons. © UNDP Pakistan/Shuja HakimIn light of the assessment findings, UNDP with the support of UNFPA and in collaboration with Ministry of Human Rights will distributeassistance packagesto the most vulnerable transgender persons living in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.UNDP and MoHR have been collaborating for the past two years for effective implementation of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2018. This is possible by social inclusion of transgender persons through capacity building, institutional and policy support. UNDP Pakistan is also supporting the establishment of the first ever protection centre for vulnerable transgender persons living in the twin cities with the support of UNFPA. Discussions are currently underway on the structure and setup of the centre with MoHR and UNFPA. Read more 1 of 5 View all Press Release 19 November 2021 Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 18 November 2021 THE SECRETARY-GENERALMESSAGE ON WORLD TOILET DAY 19 November 2021Life without a toilet is dirty, dangerous and undignified.Everyone should have access to hygienic, safe, and sustainable sanitation. Yet 3.6 billion people still live without safely managed sanitation, threatening health, harming the environment, and hindering economic development.Every day, 700 children under five years old die from diseases linked to unsafe water and sanitation.Toilets save lives and drive improvements in gender equality and in society as a whole.We need urgent and massive investment and innovation along the entire ‘sanitation chain’, from toilets to the transport, collection and treatment of human waste.Delivering on this basic human right – the right to water and sanitation – is good for people, business and our planet.For every $1 invested in toilets and sanitation, up to $5 is returned in saved medical costs, better health, increased productivity, education and jobs.History teaches us that rapid progress is possible. Many countries have transformed their health systems by acting on sanitation facilities and ensuring everyone has access to toilets.On World Toilet Day, let us keep our promise to leave no one behind and take action to deliver health and sanitation for all.***UNICEFPRESS RELEASELandmark intergenerational pollshows young people are 50% more likely than older generations to believe the world is becoming a better place – yet impatient for action on mounting crises Amid COVID-19 pandemic, younger generation also more likely to trust scientists and embrace international cooperation, according to a UNICEF-Gallup international surveyof more than 21,000 children and adults released for World Children’s DayNEW YORK, 18 November 2021–Children and young people are nearly 50 per cent more likely than older people to believe that the world is becoming a better place with each generation, according to a new international survey by UNICEF and Gallup released ahead of World Children’s Day.The survey shows thatyoung people are also more likely to believe childhood itself has improved, with overwhelming majorities believing that healthcare, education, and physical safety are better for today's children than for their parents' generation.Yet,despite their optimism, young people are far from naïve, expressing restlessness for action on climate change, skepticism about information they consume on social media, and struggling with feelings of depression and anxiety. They are far more likely than older people to see themselves as global citizens, and more likely to embrace international cooperation to tackle threats like the COVID-19 pandemic.“There is no shortage of reasons for pessimism in the world today: Climate change, the pandemic, poverty and inequality, rising distrust, and growing nationalism. But here is a reason for optimism: Children and young people refuse to see the world through the bleak lens of adults,” said UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore. “Compared to older generations, the world’s young people remain hopeful, much more globally minded, and determined to make the world a better place. Today’s young people have concerns for the future but see themselves as part of the solution.”The poll, The Changing Childhood Project, is the first of its kind to ask multiple generations for their views on the world and what it is like to be a child today. It surveyed more than 21,000 people across two age cohorts (15-24 years old and 40 years old and up) in 21 countries. Nationally representative surveys were undertaken in countries across all regions – Africa, Asia, Europe, and North and South America – and income levels.Overall, the data paint a picture of young generations as products of globalization. For example, young people (39 per cent) are on average almost twice as likely as older people (22 per cent) to identify most with being part of the world, versus their own nation or locale. With each additional year of age, people are on average about one per cent less likely to identify as a global citizen.The survey – conducted during the pandemic – also finds that children and young people are generally more trusting of national governments, scientists and international news media as sources of accurate information.And yet, the poll shows, young people today are aware of problems the world is facing:· The majority of young people see serious risks for children online, such as seeing violent or sexually explicit content (78 per cent) or being bullied (79 per cent).· Just 17 per cent of young people say they trust social media platforms “a lot” to provide accurate information.· While 64 per cent of young people in low- and middle-income countries believe children in their country will be better off economically than their parents, young people in high-income countries have little faith in economic progress. There, fewer than a third of young respondents say children today will grow up to be better off economically than their parents.· More than a third of young people report often feeling nervous or anxious, and nearly one in five say they often feel depressed or have little interest in doing things.· On average, 59 per cent of young people say children today face more pressure to succeed than their parents did growing up.The poll also finds young peoplewant faster progress in the fight against discrimination, more cooperation among countries, and for decision-makers to listen to them:· On average, nearly three-quartersof young people who are aware of climate change believe governmentsshould take significant action to address it.The share isevenhigher in low- and lower-middle income countries (83 per cent) where the impact of climate change is expected to be greatest.· In nearly every country surveyed,largemajoritiesof young peoplereportthat their countries would be safer from threats like COVID-19 if governments worked in coordination with other countries rather than on their own.· Young people demonstrate stronger support for LGBTQ+ rights, with young women leading the fight for equality.· On average, 58 per cent of 15-24-year-olds believe it is very importantfor political leaders to listen to children.“We cannot know what is on the minds of young people if we do not ask them. UNICEF's survey reinforces the importance of hearing from the next generation and understanding their perspectives,” said Joe Daly, Senior Partner at Gallup. “The children of today are the leaders of tomorrow; it is crucial for older generations to do their part to ensure our children inherit a better world.”The survey finds some areas of strong alignment between young and older generations – notably around climate, the importance of education, global collaboration and children’s agency. By contrast, optimism, global mindedness and recognition of historical progress reflect some of the deepest divides.“While this research paints a nuanced view of the generational divide, a clear picture emerges: Children and young people embody the spirit of the 21st century far more readily than their parents,” said Fore. “As UNICEF prepares to mark its 75th anniversary next month, and ahead of World Children’s Day, it is critical we listen to young people directly about their well-being and how their lives are changing.”World Children’s Day – celebrated every year on 20th November – aims to raise awareness for the millions of children that are denied their right to adequate health care, nutrition, education and protection, and to elevate young people’s voices as critical to any discussions about their future.###Notes to EditorsAlongside the release of thesurvey, UNICEF is launching a new interactive platform,http://changingchildhood.unicef.org/, containing the full set of data from the survey and the project report.The Changing Childhood Project is thefirst survey to ask multiple generations of people across the world for their views on what it’s like to be a child today.For the project, UNICEF partnered with Gallup to survey more than 21,000 adults and children in 21 countries between February and June 2021. All samples are probability-based and nationally representative of two distinct populations in each country: people aged 15-24 and people aged 40 and older. The coverage area is the entire country, including rural areas, and the sampling frame represents the entire civilian, non-institutionalized, population within each age cohort with access to a telephone.The countries surveyed are: Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, Cameroon, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Japan, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Lebanon, Mali, Morocco, Nigeria, Peru, Spain, United Kingdom, Ukraine, USA and Zimbabwe.About UNICEFUNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone.For more information about UNICEF and its work for children visitwww.unicef.org
Follow UNICEF onTwitter,Facebook,InstagramandYouTubeAbout GallupGallup delivers analytics and advice to help leaders and organizations solve their most pressing problems. Combining more than 80 years of experience with its global reach, Gallup knows more about the attitudes and behaviors of employees, customers, students and citizens than any other organization in the world.For further information, please contact:Helen Wylie, UNICEF New York, Tel: +1 917 244 2215,hwylie@unicef.org‎ Read more 1 of 5 Press Release 19 November 2021 Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 19 November 2021 THE SECRETARY-GENERALMESSAGE ON WORLD DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FORROAD TRAFFIC VICTIMS21 November 2021Every 24 seconds a life is cut short because of a road traffic collision.The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims is a time to reflect on the tragic deaths of millions of people.This year’s theme highlights the importance of reducing traffic speeds to prevent death and serious injury – in particular of young women and men at the start of their adult lives, pedestrians and other vulnerable road users such as children, older persons and persons with disabilities.I urge every country, company and citizen to support local and global efforts to make roads safer, especially in low- and middle-income countries where more than 90 per cent of the world’s road fatalities occur. I also encourage all Member States to accede to United Nations road safety conventions and implement whole-of-society action plans – and urge all donors to scale up much-needed financial and technical contributions through the United Nations Road Safety Fund.As we look ahead to next year’s High-level meeting of the UN General Assembly to improve road safety, let us remember that every one of us has a role to play in keeping roads safe.Today and every day, let us commit to make roads safer for everyone, everywhere.***UNICEFMEDIA ADVISORY30 monuments to turn blue across Pakistan on Saturday nightThis Saturday night, 30 iconic landmarks and monuments will turn blue in Pakistan to celebrate World Children’s Day and UNICEF’s 75th anniversary.Monuments will go blue in Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Ziarat and Peshawar.This initiative is led by the Federal Ministry of Human Rights, UNICEF and partners, to mark Pakistan’s collective commitment to child rights.Pakistan has set a world record in the number of buildings turning blue on 20 November since 2019. Since 2018, buildings, monuments and landmarks across the world have turned blue to mark World Children’s Day as part of a global initiative led by UNICEF.The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)has been working tirelessly for child rights all over the world since 1946. UNICEF opened its first office in Karachi in 1948, in the year following Pakistan’s independence.###High resolution photos from monuments lit up last year are available here: Go Blue Campaign
Photos of monuments lit up this Saturday night will be shared as soon as available.For more information, please contact:UNICEF Pakistan
Arsalan Khalid, arsalanksr@hotmail.com, +92 333 525 1175
Abdul Sami Malik, asmalik@unicef.org, +92 300 855 6654About UNICEF
UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone. For more information about UNICEF and its work for children, visitwww.unicef.org and www.unicef.org/pakistan. For more information about COVID-19, visitwww.unicef.org/coronavirus. Find out more about UNICEF’s work on the COVID-19 vaccineshere,ہفتے کی رات کو پاکستان کی 30 یادگاری عمارات کا رنگ نیلا کردیا جائے گا۔ اس ہفتے کی رات، پاکستان کی 30 تاریخی اور یادگاری عمارات کا رنگ نیلا کردیا جائے گا۔ یہ تبدیلی بچوں کا عالمی دن اور یونیسف کی 75 ویں سالگرہ منانے کے لئے عمل میں لائی جائے گی۔اسلام آباد، کراچی، لاہور ، کوئٹہ ، زیارت اور پشاور میں تاریخی و یادگاری عمارات کا رنگ نیلا کردیا جائے گا۔ اس اقدام کی قیادت وفاقی وزارت برائے انسانی حقوق، یونیسف اور دیگر شراکت دار کریں گے اور اس کا مقصد بچوں کے حقوق کے تحفظ کے لئے اجتماعی عزم کا اظہار ہوگا۔پاکستان نے 20 نومبر کی رات زیادہ سے زیادہ عمارتوں کا رنگ نیلا کرکے 2019 سے عالمی ریکارڈ قائم کیا ہے۔ 2018 سے دنیا بھر میں عمارات ، یادگاریں اور تاریخی مقامات بچوں کا عالمی دن منانے کے لئے نیلے کردیے جاتے ہیں اور اس عالمی اقدام کی قیادت یونیسف کرتا ہے۔اقوامِ متحدہ کا بچوں کا فنڈ (یونیسف) 1946 سے دنیا بھر کے بچوں کے لئے انتھک جدوجہد میں مصروف رہا ہے۔ یونیسف نے پاکستان کے قیام کے ایک سال بعد 1948 میں اپنا پہلا دفتر کراچی میں کھولا تھا۔ گذشتہ برس یادگاری عمارتوں کی نیلے رنگ میں تصاویر یہاں دسیتاب ہیں۔ Go Blue Campaign
ہفتے کی رات نیلے رنگ میں نہائی ہوئی عمارتوں کی تصاویر بہت جلد یہاں دستیاب ہوں گی۔ مزید معلومات کے لئے رابطہ کریں: یونیسف پاکستانارسلان خالدای میل: arsalanksr@hotmail.comفون نمبر: +92 333 525 1175عبدالسمیع ملکای میل: asmalik@unicef.orgفون نمبر: +92 300 855 6654یونیسف کے بارے میں یونیسف دنیا کے مشکل مقامات میں کام کرتے ہوئے دنیا کے سب سے زیادہ محروم بچوں تک رسائی حاصل کرتا ہے۔ دنیا بھر کے 190 ممالک میں ہم ہر جگہ ہر بچے کے لئے کام کرتے ہیں تاکہ ہر ایک کے لئے ایک بہتر دنیا کا قیام ممکن ہوسکے۔ یونیسف اور بچوں کے لئے اس ادارے کے کام کے بارے میں مزید جاننے کے وزٹ کریں www.unicef.org اور www.unicef.org/pakistan۔کووڈ 19 کے بارے میں مزید معلومات کے لئے وزٹ کریں: www.unicef.org/coronavirus.کووِڈ 19 ویکسین کی فراہم کے سلسلے میں یونیسف کے کام کے بارے میں مزید جاننے لئے یہاں کلک کریں یا پھر یونیسف کے مامون کاری(ویکسینیشن) کے کام کے سلسلے میں مزید جاننے کے لئے یہاں کلک کریں۔ ٹویٹر، فیس بک اور انسٹا گرام پر یونیسف کو فالو کریں۔*** UNDPPRESS RELEASEUNDP, INLand KP PoliceInauguratethe Joint Police Training Center Phase-IINowshera, 19thNovember 2021—The newly constructed Phase-II of the Joint Police Training Center (JPTC) Nowshera was inaugurated byInspector General of Police Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mr. Moazzam Jah Ansari, U.S. Consul General Peshawar Mr. Richard H. Riley, and UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Knut Ostby in Nowshera, yesterday.Spread over 88 acres, Phase-II of the center has doubled the capacity of JPTC. This phase includes an academic block, barracks, a quarter guard, multipurpose hall, an assembly hall, health care centre, separate hostels, and residences for both men and women officers.The construction of JPTC Phase-II also includedan additional Academic Block for 500 students, a hostel for 60 officers, another barrack for 200 students and an additional floor of the Quick Response Force building, which were not of the initial plan.The American Embassy’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Section (INL) DirectorMr. Mark A. Tervakoski said that this facility will help in developing a more effective, professional and a transparent criminal justice system. “Since 1989, INL has provided over 292 million USD in aid and military assistance to Pakistani law enforcement agencies. United States will continue to support capacity building and training of the law enforcement sector across the country.”“Today marks yet another step in the longstanding partnership between the United States of America and Pakistan. This facility is a result of the efforts of Unites States, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government and UNDP’s working together to achieve the same objective; increasing security and prosperity for the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Newly Merged Districts”, saidU.S. Consul General Peshawar Mr. Richard H. Riley.Speaking at the occasion, UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Knut Ostby saidthat the Joint Police Training Center is now a state of the art training facility of the KP Police. “UNDP will support the KP Police to provide specialized trainings to 2000 police personnel from the Newly Merged Districts in 2022 and 2024. These trainings enable them to deliver services in an effective manner. I want to especially emphasize the importance of women in police. I appreciate INL and KP Police for developing a facility that has offers an enabling environment to women police officers”.JPTC is a remarkable addition to police force because it provides specialized training facilities to meet the challenging training needs of KP Police men and women.For additional information, please contact Ayesha Babar atayesha.babar@undp.org or +92 (51) 835 5650 Read more 1 of 5 Press Release 17 November 2021 Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 17 November 2021 WFPJOINT NEWS RELEASE‎KSRELIEF SUPPORTS LIFESAVING WFP OPERATIONS IN JORDAN AND ‎PAKISTAN ‎ROME – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomes a timely and generous contribution ‎of US$16.8 million from Saudi Arabia’s King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) to assist ‎Syrian refugees in Jordan and to support nutrition programmes for women and children in Pakistan.‎The contribution, signed in Rome by WFP Executive Director David Beasley and KSrelief’s Supervisor-‎General, His Excellency Dr Abdullah Al Rabeeah, comes as WFP struggles to secure funds to continue ‎support to some 465,000 vulnerable refugees in Jordan – most of them from Syria - and to assist more ‎than 66,000 of the most vulnerable children and women in Pakistan.‎Out of the donation, US$12.8 million, will be allocated to help meet the monthly food needs of 112,000 ‎Syrian refugees living in camps in Jordan for four months; and US$ 4 million will support WFP’s nutrition ‎programmes in 14 of the most vulnerable districts of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Azad ‎Jammu Kashmir (AJK).‎‎“Building on our long-lasting and strong partnership with WFP, KSrelief reconfirms its commitment to join ‎hands with WFP to address food insecurity and improve the health and living conditions of vulnerable ‎communities around the world. We understand that, now more than ever, it is our primary responsibility ‎to come together and increase our efforts, to deploy more impactful and long-lasting sustainable ‎solutions to fight hunger, restore dignity and provide hope,” said His Excellency Al Rabeeah, speaking ‎from Rome where he addressed the opening session of WFP’s Executive Board meeting. ‎‎“The COVID-19 pandemic and its devastating economic fallout have pushed the most vulnerable ‎communities in Jordan and Pakistan deeper into poverty. Many of them are struggling to survive day-to-‎day. They cannot cope without assistance,” said Beasley. “We are grateful to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ‎and its people for this contribution which will allow WFP to continue providing vital support where it is ‎needed most.”‎In Jordan, the funds will enable WFP to continue providing monthly assistance to Syrian refugees living in ‎Zaatari, Azraq, and King Abdulla Park camps through food-restricted e-vouchers. These vouchers – ‎operated with blockchain technology – are loaded with 23 Jordanian Dinars (US$32.49) per person each ‎month enabling families to buy their choice of food at camp supermarkets and bakeries. ‎In Pakistan, the contribution will ensure integrated and lifesaving nutrition services to more than 66,000 ‎acutely malnourished children under five and to pregnant and lactating women as part of WFP’s ‎programme for community-based management of acute malnutrition. The services will be carried ‎through the Government’s primary health care system, using 186 health facilities.‎The contribution will ensure specialized nutritious food is provided for vulnerable women and children in ‎‎14 priority districts for a period of one year. It will also strengthen the capacity to screen and treat ‎malnutrition in community health care facilities and enhance the preparedness and safety measures for ‎targeted programmes to prevent malnutrition.‎The strong partnership between WFP and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia goes back to 1973 and witnessed ‎a historic transformation with the establishment of KSrelief in 2015. WFP has been one of the center’s ‎strongest and most effective partners in addressing challenges caused by hunger, food insecurity and ‎the devastating effects of malnutrition. Since its inception, KSrelief has contributed USD 1.23 billion to ‎WFP for food assistance programs in 24 countries. ‎‎#‎ ‎ ‎‎ #‎ ‎ ‎ ‎#‎About WFPThe United Nations World Food Programme is the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate. We are the world’s largest ‎humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, ‎stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change.‎Follow us on Twitter @wfp_media ‎About KSreliefThe purpose of King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief (KSrelief) is to provide humanitarian aid and relief to those ‎in need outside of the Kingdom’s borders. The center’s activities are founded upon noble fundamental humanitarian ‎goals and principles. KSrelief's activities are founded upon noble fundamental humanitarian goals and principles. ‎Elements needed to carry out our programs include the detailed monitoring of all aid, the highly coordinated and ‎advanced transportation of aid through highly trusted UN agencies and local and international non-profit ‎organizations in the recipient countriesFor more information please contact (email address: firstname.lastname@wfp.org):‎Zeina Habib, WFP/GCC, Mob: +971 52 4724971‎Mahira Afzal, WFP/Islamabad, Mob. +92 300 8559 333‎Reem Nada, WFP/Cairo, WFP MENA, Mob. +20 106 6663 4522‎Martin Penner, WFP/ Rome, Tel. +39 345 6142074Tomson Phiri, WFP/ Geneva, Mob. +41 79 842 8057‎Jane Howard, WFP/ London, Tel. +44 (0)20 3857 7413, Mob. +44 (0)796 8008 474Martin Rentsch, WFP/Berlin, Tel +49 (0)30 206 1 4929, Mob +49 160 99 26 17 30Shaza Moghraby, WFP/New York, Mob. + 1 929 289 9867‎Steve Taravella, WFP/ Washington, Mob. +1 202 770 5993 Read more 1 of 5 Press Release 17 November 2021 Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 16 November 2021 UNICEFPRESS RELEASEWorld Prematurity Day
November 17, 2021

Preterm Birth Complications is One of the Main Causes for Under Five Child Mortality in PakistanUNICEF is supporting Govt of Pakistan to expand Kangaroo Mother Care facilities to save children born prematurelyIslamabad - 16 November 2021: The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) calls for accelerated efforts to save precious lives of children born prematurely as World Prematurity Day (WCD) is commemorated on November 17, 2021. The theme this year is, Zero Separation Act now! Keep parents and babies born too soon together.In Pakistan, where preterm birth is one of the three leading causes for neonatal mortality and accounts for more than one third of all deaths in newborns, UNICEF is collaborating with the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations Coordination and provincial health departments to established Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) units in health facilities across the country to save lives of children born too soon.KMC is one of the best options to provide care for babies born before time in low and middle-income countries.“Scaling up Kangaroo Mother Care in health facilities across Pakistan, is a cost-effective intervention to save preterm infants,” said Aida Girma, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan.“Introduced in Pakistan by UNICEF a few years back, KMC has become increasingly popular with health professionals caring for children born before time. The essence of KMC is to keep parents and babies born before time, together as against the past practice of separating small and sick babies from their mothers. The physical and emotional closeness of baby and parents during birth, delivery and hospitalization has long-term health benefits for the child. Additional care during pregnancy, complete antenatal care, nutritious food, mental and psychosocial support to pregnant women and birth spacing can reduce premature births,” Ms. Girma added.In KMC, newborn is held closely to the chest by the parent, mother or father, with a blanket wrapped around both. The skin-to-skin contact provides warmth and prevents hyperthermia. It is medically beneficial for the baby and good for parent-child bonding.So far, 30 KMC units have been established in Pakistan with support from UNICEF and other development partners for round the clock service delivery. UNICEF has provided all the necessary equipment and materials to help establish 24 units in various public health centres - 16 in Punjab, 4 in Sindh, 1 in KP, 1 in AJK and 2 in Islamabad Capital Territory. It is collaborating with the Government to scale up KMC unites across the country.Government of Pakistan and its development partners are trying to reduce preterm births and newborn mortality due to related complications such as Birth Asphyxia, Prematurity and Sepsis. These efforts have helped reduce newborn mortality from 55 to 42 deaths per 1,000 live births during the last five years. It has also had a remarkable impact on morbidity in preterm newborns.The most vulnerable newborns are those born in marginalized groups, rural areas, urban slum environments and humanitarian settings. UNICEF emphasises that the reduction in premature births and newborn deaths can be achieved by strengthening health policies and services with focus on maternal nutrition and improving access and care for mothers and new-borns, particularly in rural and underserved areas.Globally, preterm birth is one of the leading causes of child deaths under age 5 as almost 15 million babies in the world are born prematurely and nearly 1 million die due to related complications. Across 184 countries, the rate of preterm birth ranges from 5% to 18% of babies born. Small and sick newborns, most of whom are born preterm, have the highest risk of death and contribute to the majority of the world’s disabled children.Inequalities in survival rates around the world are stark. In low-income settings, half of the babies born at or below 32 weeks die due to a lack of feasible, cost-effective and basic care, e.g. warmth, breastfeeding support, basic care for infections and breathing difficulties.###
For more information, please contact:
Catherine Weibel, Chief, Advocacy and Communication: Tel: 0300 500 2595, Email: cweibel@unicef.orgA. Sami Malik, Communication Specialist, Tel; 0300 8556654, Email: asmalik@unicef.org Read more 1 of 5 Press Release 15 November 2021 Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 15 November 2021 UNITED NATIONSSECRETARY-GENERAL STATEMENTSecretary-General's statement on the conclusion of the UN Climate Change Conference COP26Let me begin by thanking our hosts —the UK government and the people of Glasgow — for their tremendous hospitality.I salute Alok Sharma and his team. This was an extremely challenging conference. They have shown remarkable expertise in reaching consensus among parties.

I am grateful to Patricia Espinosa and all my colleagues of the United Nations Climate Change team.And I express my gratitude to all delegates — and all those on the outside who have put pressure on this COP to deliver.The approved texts are a compromise. They reflect the interests, the conditions, the contradictions and the state of political will in the world today.They take important steps, but unfortunately the collective political will was not enough to overcome some deep contradictions.As I said at the opening, we must accelerate action to keep the 1.5 degree goal alive.Our fragile planet is hanging by a thread.We are still knocking on the door of climate catastrophe.It is time to go into emergency mode — or our chance of reaching net zero will itself be zero.I reaffirm my conviction that we must end fossil fuels subsidies.
Phase out coal.Put a price on carbon.Build resilience of vulnerable communities against the here and now impacts of climate change.And make good on the $100 billion climate finance commitment to support developing countries.We did not achieve these goals at this conference. But we have some building blocks for progress.Commitments to end deforestation. To drastically reduce methane emissions. To mobilize private finance around net zero.And the texts today reaffirm resolve towards the 1.5 degree goal. Boost climate finance for adaptation. Recognize the need to strengthen support for vulnerable countries suffering from irreparable climate damage. And for the first time they encourage International Financial Institutions to consider climate vulnerabilities in concessional financial and other forms of support, including Special Drawing Rights.And finally close the Paris rule book with agreement on carbon markets and transparency.These are welcome steps, but they are not enough.Science tells us that the absolute priority must be rapid, deep and sustained emissions reductions in this decade.Specifically — a 45% cut by 2030 compared to 2010 levels.But thepresent set ofNationally Determined Contributions--even if fully implemented-- willstillincreaseemissionsthis decade on a pathway that will clearly lead us to well above 2 degrees by the end of the century compared to pre-industrial levels.I welcome the agreement between US and China here in Glasgow that — like the text today — pledges to accelerate action to reduce emissions in the 2020s.To help lower emissions in many other emerging economies, we need to build coalitions of support including developed countries, financial institutions, those with the technical know-how.This is crucial to help each of those emerging countries speed the transition from coal and accelerate the greening of their economies. The partnership with South Africa announced a few days ago is a model for doing just that.I want to make a particular appeal for our future work in relation to adaptation and the issue of loss and damage.Adaptation isn’t a technocratic issue, it is life or death.I was once Prime Minister of my country. And I imagine myself today in the shoes of a leader from a vulnerable country.COVID-19 vaccines are scarce. My economy is sinking. Debt is mounting. International resources for recovery are completely insufficient.Meanwhile, although we contributed least to the climate crisis, we suffer most.
And when yet another hurricane devastates my country, the treasury is empty.Protecting countries from climate disaster is not charity. It is solidarity and enlightened self-interest.We have another climate crisis today. A climate of mistrust is enveloping our globe. Climate action can help rebuild trust and restore credibility.That means finally delivering on the $100 billion climate finance commitment to developing countries.No more IOUs.It means measuring progress, updating climate plans every year and raising ambition. I will convene a global stock-taking summit at the heads of state level in 2023.And it means– beyond the mechanisms alreadyset outin the Paris Agreement– establishing clear standards tomeasure and analyze net zero commitments fromnon-state actors. I will createaHigh-LevelExpert Groupwith that objective.Finally, I want to close with a message of hope and resolve to young people, indigenous communities, women leaders, all those leading the climate action army.
I know many of you are disappointed.Success or failure is not an act of nature. It’s in our hands.The path of progress is not always a straight line. Sometimes there are detours. Sometimes there are ditches.As the great Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson said: “Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds that you plant.”We have many more seeds to plant along the path.We won’t reach our destination in one day or one conference.But I know we can get there.

We are in the fight of our lives.

Never give up. Never retreat. Keep pushing forward.I will be with you all the way.COP 27 starts now.***UNICEFPRESS RELEASEMore than 45,000 children released from detention during COVID-19 pandemic; evidence that child-friendly justice solutions are possible – UNICEFAhead of the World Congress on Justice with Children, a new UNICEF analysis estimates more than 261,000 children are held in detention globally; calls for juvenile justice reform to end detention of all childrenMultimedia content available to download here NEW YORK,15 November 2021– More than 45,000 children have been released from detention and safely returned to family or an appropriate alternative since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to new data released by UNICEF today.Detention of children in the time of COVID reveals that governments and detaining authorities in at least 84 countries have released thousands of children since April 2020 when UNICEF drew attention to their increased risk of contracting COVID-19 in confined and overcrowded spaces, and called for their immediate release. The study is one of two analyses that illustrate the situation for hundreds of thousands of children deprived of their liberty every year. Both reports are released ahead of the World Congress on Justice with Children.“We have long known that justice systems are ill-equipped to handle the specific needs of children – a situation further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore. “We commend countries which heeded our call and released children from detention. By protecting children from conditions that could have exposed them to grave illness, these countries were able to overcome public resistance and spur innovative, age-appropriate justice solutions. This has proved something we already knew – child friendly justice solutions are more than possible.”Children in detention – including in pre- and post-trial custody, immigration detention, held in relation to armed conflict or national security, or living with parents in detention – are often held in confined and overcrowded spaces. They lack adequate access to nutrition, healthcare and hygiene services, and are vulnerable to neglect, physical and psychological abuse, and gender-based violence. Many are denied access to lawyers and family care, and unable to challenge the legality of their detention.COVID-19 has profoundly affected justice for children, shuttering courts and restricting access to essential social and justice services. Evidence shows that many children, including children in street situations, have been detained for violating pandemic curfew orders and movement restrictions.Worldwide, an estimated 261,000 children in conflict with the law – those who have been alleged, accused or recognized as having committed an offence – are held in detention, according to the second UNICEF analysis. Estimating the number of children deprived of their liberty in the administration of justice – the first such analysis since 2007 – warns that incomplete record-keeping and undeveloped administrative data systems in many countries mean the number is likely to be much higher. To reimagine justice for children and safely end detention of all children, UNICEF is calling on governments and civil society to:· Invest in legal rights awareness for children in justice and welfare systems, especially for the most marginalized children.· Expand free legal aid, representation, and services for all children.· Prioritise prevention and early intervention in child offending and diversion to appropriate alternatives.· End the detention of children, including through legal reforms to raise the age of criminal responsibility.· Ensure justice for child survivors of sexual violence, abuse or exploitation, including investing in child and gender-sensitive justice processes.· Establish specialised child-friendly courts, and virtual and mobile courts.“Any child detained is evidence of failed systems, but that failure is then compounded further. Justice systems meant to protect and support children often add to their suffering,” said Fore. “As policymakers, legal practitioners, academics, civil society, and children and young people convene at the World Congress this week, we must work together to end the detention of children.”###Notes to editors:Download the two reports here: Detention of children in the time of COVIDEstimating the number of children deprived of their liberty in the administration of justiceData for Detention of children in the time of COVID were derived from a UNICEF survey among its network of 157 country offices. These programme countries – including all 138 low- and middle-income countries plus 19 high-income countries – are home to 90 per cent of the world’s population of children.Data for Estimating the number of children deprived of their liberty in the administration of justice were compiled from January 2017 to October 2021 through both web research and country-level solicitation. The sources of data include administrative records from government ministries mandated to oversee justice systems, such as ministries of justice, home affairs or social affairs; websites maintained or national statistical reports distributed by national statistical offices; centralized databases such as EuroStat, TransMonEE.About UNICEFUNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone.Follow UNICEF on Twitter and FacebookFor more information please contact:Helen Wylie, UNICEF New York, Tel: +1 917 244 2215,hwylie@unicef.org***WFPPRESS RELEASEPAKISTAN SUPPORTING WFP AS IT RAMPS UP HUMANITARIAN OPERATIONS IN AFGHANISTANISLAMABAD – The Government of Pakistan is supporting United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) operations to address critical food shortages in Afghanistan as the country faces a rapidly escalating humanitarian crisis. According to the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) assessment, some 22.8 million people in Afghanistan face acute food insecurity, including 8.7 million at emergency level (IPC phase 4). Without immediate humanitarian action, the situation will quickly become a matter of life or death.WFP is rapidly expanding its operations to provide emergency food assistance to the most vulnerable Afghan people. With the support of the Government of Pakistan, WFP has started dispatches of wheat flour from Pakistan to Afghanistan. The wheat has been milled and fortified in Pakistan to improve the nutritional value for consumers.WFP’s first consignment of wheat flour is being transported fromMultan city in Eastern Pakistan to Jalalabad via Peshawar in Northwestern Pakistan. Approximately200trucks carrying 10,000 MTofwheat flour will leave from Pakistan to Afghanistan inthe comingdays.“WFP Pakistan has worked closely with the Ministry of Food Security and the Ministry of Commerce to procure and secure the earliest dispatch of the wheat flour to Afghanistan”, said Chris Kaye, WFP Pakistan’s Representative and Country Director. “WFP’s food assistance to the Afghan people now is a critical life-saver. It will reduce the likelihood of people having to migrate to survive.”In addition to providing a vital source of food commodities, Pakistan provides a vital corridor for humanitarian assistance for the Afghan people from the rest of the world. WFP and other humanitarian organizations rely on the efficient clearance and movement of shipments through Karachi port and onwards through the Chaman and Torkham border crossing. The Government is also facilitating UN Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) operations between Islamabad-Kabul. The air-bridge serves as a vital component in supporting assistance efforts into and across Afghanistan by the humanitarian community.“Pakistan’s support for WFP’s work in Afghanistan is vital. We are very appreciative of the assistance we have received so far,” added Kaye.***The United Nations World Food Programme is the 2020 Nobel Peace PrizeLaureate. We are the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.Follow us on Twitter @WFPPakistanFor more information please contact: Dr. Mahira Afzal, Communications Officer, WFP/ Islamabad, Mob. +92 300 8559 333, Email: mahira.afzal@wfp.org Read more 1 of 5 View all Latest Resources 1 / 11 Resources 25 October 2021 COVID-19 RESPONSE UPDATES ON THE ONE UN PROGRAMME III - September 2021 Resources 14 April 2021 One UN Pakistan : Annual Report 2020 Resources 12 April 2021 Partners Platform for the Pakistan Preparedness and Response Plan (PPRP) - April 2021 Resources 04 March 2021 Partners Platform for the Pakistan Preparedness and Response Plan (PPRP) - 2 March 2021 Resources 22 February 2021 Brief: United Nations response to Covid-19 in Pakistan, January 2021 Resources 21 January 2021 Brief: United Nations response to Covid-19 in Pakistan, December 2021 Resources 17 December 2020 Photo Exhibition: Celebrating 75 years of the United Nations ‎ Resources 15 December 2020 Brief: United Nations response to Covid-19 in Pakistan, December 2020 Resources 19 November 2020 Brief: United Nations response to Covid-19 in Pakistan, November 2020 Resources 05 November 2020 Partners Platform for the Pakistan Preparedness and Response Plan (PPRP) - 1 November 2020 Resources 09 October 2020 Brief: United Nations response to Covid-19 in Pakistan, October 2020 1 / 11