Category: Africa Press Organisation – English

Source: United Nations – English

emale genital mutilation is a horrific act of gender-based violence.

More than 230 million girls and women alive today are survivors of this abhorrent practice.  

As one of the most brutal manifestations of gender inequality, female genital mutilation inflicts profound, lifelong physical and mental harm, carries life-threatening health risks, and violates the rights of women and girls to bodily autonomy, safety, and dignity.

Eradicating this vicious human rights violation is urgent, and it is possible.

As this year’s theme reminds us, we are making progress, but we must pick up the pace. We must strengthen global movements to break down harmful attitudes, beliefs and gender stereotypes. And we need to bolster strong partnerships between governments, grassroots organizations and survivors to supercharge efforts and eliminate this scourge by 2030.  

The Pact for the Future, agreed at the United Nations last September, includes a commitment by Member States to eliminate female genital mutilation by tackling negative social norms and gender discrimination.  

Let’s join forces to make female genital mutilation history and ensure a brighter, healthier, and more just future for all women and girls everywhere.

*****

Les mutilations génitales féminines sont d’atroces actes de violence de genre.

Plus de 230 millions de filles et de femmes actuellement en vie ont réchappé à cette pratique abominable.

Les mutilations génitales féminines sont l’une des manifestations les plus brutales de l’inégalité entre les genres : elles infligent des blessures physiques et psychologiques profondes et irréversibles, elles engendrent des risques mortels pour la santé et elles portent atteinte aux droits des femmes et des filles de disposer de leur corps et de vivre en toute sécurité et dans la dignité.

Il est urgent, et de surcroît possible, de faire disparaître cette violation barbare des droits humains.

Comme nous le rappelle le thème de cette année, nous avançons, quoiqu’il faille accélérer la cadence. Il nous faut renforcer les mouvements qui, à travers le monde, viennent à bout des comportements néfastes et déconstruisent les croyances pernicieuses ainsi que les stéréotypes préjudiciables liés au genre. Il nous faut en outre consolider les partenariats entre les pouvoirs publics, les organisations citoyennes et les survivantes pour amplifier les efforts et extirper ce fléau d’ici à 2030.

Dans le Pacte pour l’avenir adopté sous les auspices de l’Organisation des Nations Unies en septembre dernier, les États Membres se sont notamment engagés à éliminer les mutilations génitales féminines en luttant contre les normes sociales négatives et la discrimination fondée sur le genre.

Unissons nos forces pour reléguer les mutilations génitales féminines aux oubliettes de l’histoire et pour assurer à toutes les femmes et à toutes les filles, partout dans le monde, une meilleure santé ainsi qu’un avenir plus radieux et plus juste.

Source: United Nations – English

r. Chair, Ambassador Coly Seck,

Bureau members,

Let me begin by congratulating you on your election.

I want to salute this Committee for its work.

At its essence, the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people is about the right of Palestinians to simply live as human beings in their own land.

We have seen the realization of those rights steadily slip farther out of reach.

We have seen a chilling, systematic dehumanization and demonization of an entire people.

Of course, nothing justifies the horrific Hamas attacks of October 7.

And nothing justifies what we have seen unfold in Gaza over the last many months. 

We all know too well the catalogue of destruction and unspeakable horrors.

The nearly 50,000 people — 70% of them women and children — who have been reported killed.

The majority of Gaza’s civilian infrastructure — hospitals, schools, and water facilities – that has been destroyed.

The overwhelming majority of the entire population who have faced displacement after displacement, hunger, and disease.

Children, out of school for over a year.

A generation, left homeless and traumatized.

I welcome the ceasefire and hostage release deal. 

I thank the mediators —Egypt, Qatar, and the United States— for the continued efforts to ensure implementation.

Now it is time to be crystal clear about objectives going forward. 

First, we must keep pushing for a permanent ceasefire and the release of all hostages without delay.

We cannot go back to more death and destruction.

For our part, the UN is working around the clock to reach Palestinians in need and scale up support. 

That requires humanitarian access that is rapid, safe, unimpeded, expanded, and sustained.

I call on Member States, donors, and the international community to fully fund humanitarian operations and meet urgent needs.

And I once again urge Member States to support the essential work of UNRWA.

Second, in the search for solutions, we must not make the problem worse. 

It is vital to stay true to the bedrock of international law.  It is essential to avoid any form of ethnic cleansing. 

Third, we must reaffirm the two-State solution. 

Any durable peace will require tangible, irreversible and permanent progress toward the two-State solution, an end to the occupation, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian State, with Gaza as an integral part.

A viable, sovereign Palestinian State living side-by-side in peace and security with Israel is the only sustainable solution for Middle East stability.

Excellencies,

Beyond Gaza, the situation continues to unravel in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem.

I am gravely concerned by rising violence by Israeli settlers and other violations.

The violence must stop.

As affirmed by the International Court of Justice, Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian Territory must end.

International law must be respected, and accountability ensured.

We must work toward preserving the unity, contiguity, and integrity of the Occupied Palestinian Territory and the recovery and reconstruction of Gaza.

A strong and unified Palestinian governance is crucial.

The international community must support the Palestinian Authority to this end.

Excellencies,

The UN is fully committed to peace, stability, and the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people.

I commend this Committee for its steadfast dedication to these goals and call on the international community to fully support these efforts.

And I thank you. 

Source: United Nations – English

he Secretary-General expresses his profound sadness at the passing of His Highness the Aga Khan IV, a global spiritual leader, philanthropist, and advocate for peace, development, and pluralism. For decades, the Aga Khan dedicated his life to improving the quality of life for millions around the world, particularly in the most vulnerable communities, through his unwavering commitment to humanitarian work, education, and cultural preservation.

The Aga Khan’s leadership extended beyond his role as the Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. He was a bridge-builder between cultures and faiths, promoting mutual understanding and respect in an increasingly interconnected world. His efforts to address poverty, advance gender equality, and foster sustainable development have left an indelible mark on the global community.

The United Nations recognizes the Aga Khan’s invaluable contributions to the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and his partnership with the UN in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges. 

The Secretary-General extends his deepest condolences to the Aga Khan’s family, the Ismaili community, and all those who were touched by his vision, compassion, and leadership.
 

Source: United Nations – English

n this International Day of Human Fraternity, we celebrate the values of equality, unity and mutual respect.

Yet today, all over the world, we see a surge of discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance driving people apart and tearing at the fabric of societies.

It is the duty of all of us, including religious leaders, to seek dialogue over division, and confront hatred wherever we find it, before it takes hold and spreads.  

The Declaration “Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together” – co-authored by His Holiness Pope Francis and His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Sheikh Ahmed El-Teyeb – is a blueprint for interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence. It is a powerful reminder that our shared commitment to human rights and dignity is the foundation of a better future for all.

Inspired by this Declaration, let us recognize that we are one human family — rich in diversity, equal in dignity and rights, and united in solidarity.

Together, we can pave the way for a more peaceful, inclusive and just world for all people.

*****
La Journée internationale de la fraternité humaine est l’occasion de célébrer les valeurs d’égalité, d’unité et de respect mutuel.

Pourtant, aujourd’hui, nous assistons partout dans le monde à une montée de la discrimination, de la xénophobie et de l’intolérance, lesquelles viennent semer la discorde et déchirer le tissu social.

Il est de notre devoir à tous – y compris aux chefs religieux – de rechercher le dialogue plutôt que la division et de nous opposer à la haine partout où nous la rencontrons pour l’empêcher de s’installer et de se propager.

La déclaration intitulée « La fraternité humaine pour la paix mondiale et la coexistence commune », cosignée par Sa Sainteté le Pape François et Son Éminence le Grand Imam d’Al-Azhar, le cheik Ahmad Al-Tayyeb, est un modèle d’harmonie interconfessionnelle et de coexistence pacifique. Elle nous rappelle avec force que notre engagement commun en faveur des droits humains et de la dignité humaine est le fondement d’un avenir meilleur pour toutes et tous.

Inspirés par cette déclaration, reconnaissons que nous formons une seule et unique famille humaine, riche de sa diversité, égale en dignité et en droits, et unie dans la solidarité.

Ensemble, nous pouvons jeter les bases d’un monde plus pacifique, plus inclusif et plus juste pour toutes et tous.
 

Source: United Nations – English

he Secretary-General was saddened to learn of the death of Horst Köhler, the former President of the Federal Republic of Germany.  Former President Köhler was a champion of the United Nations, deeply committed to global partnerships, sustainable development and creating new perspectives for youth in Africa.  He served as the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy on Western Sahara from 2017 to 2019, during which he sought to help resolve the long-standing conflict there. 

The Secretary-General extends his sincere condolences to the family of former President Köhler, as well as the Government and people of Germany.
 

Source: United Nations – English

our years since the military seized power and arbitrarily detained members of the democratically elected Government on 1 February 2001, the situation in Myanmar continues to deteriorate, with devastating consequences for civilians.
 
The Secretary-General condemns all forms of violence and calls on all parties to the conflict to exercise maximum restraint, uphold human rights and international humanitarian law, and prevent further incitement of violence and intercommunal tensions. He reiterates his concern regarding the military’s stated intention to hold elections amid intensifying conflict, including aerial bombardment and widespread human rights violations and without conditions that permit the people of Myanmar to freely and peacefully exercise their political rights, including safety and security. 
 
Over 19.9 million people in Myanmar – more than one-third of its population – need humanitarian assistance, compared to one million before the military took over four years ago. Unimpeded access must be assured to enable the UN and its partners to continue to deliver humanitarian assistance and essential services.
 
The Secretary-General renews his calls for greater cooperation among all stakeholders to bring an end to the hostilities and help the people of Myanmar forge a path towards an inclusive democratic transition and return to civilian rule.  The Secretary-General also appeals to countries in the region to grant access to safety and protection for those fleeing conflict and persecution and for the international community to provide greater support to countries, including Bangladesh, hosting refugees from Myanmar.
 
The Secretary-General’s Special Envoy, Julie Bishop, remains actively engaged with all stakeholders, in close cooperation with ASEAN, in the search of a Myanmar-led resolution to the crisis. 
 
A viable future for Myanmar must ensure safety, accountability, and opportunity for all its communities, including the Rohingya, and address the root causes of conflict, discrimination and disenfranchisement in all its forms. The Secretary-General reaffirms the unwavering support of the United Nations to the people of Myanmar in these efforts.
 

Source: United Nations – English

t is a pleasure to be here with you today.

I wish to start by congratulating the Member States that have recently been elected to the Peacebuilding Commission.

I also congratulate Brazil for leading the PBC during its 18th session and welcome Germany’s candidacy for the chair of the 19th session.

Excellencies,

Our world is in trouble. 

We see spreading conflicts and widening geopolitical divisions.

We face a deepening climate crisis and widening inequalities.

We are confronting the proliferation of weapons and the spread of disinformation.

All of this and more makes the work of the Peacebuilding Commission more critical than ever.

I want to salute the Commission for its vital advisory role to the Security Council, including in the context of UN mission transitions.

I also recognize your important convening role within the UN and beyond – engaging civil society, the private sector, international and regional organizations, and financial institutions.

Now we have the chance to consolidate and expand that work. 

The Pact for the Future charts a course to reforming international cooperation – including by prioritizing prevention, mediation and peacebuilding.

It seeks to break siloes by advancing coordination with regional organizations, developing innovative approaches and fostering the full participation of women, youth and marginalized groups in peace processes.

And, fundamentally, the Pact calls for strengthening the Peacebuilding Commission.
This year’s Review of the Peacebuilding Architecture offers an opportunity to further advance these efforts and strengthen the role of the PBC – namely its relationship with the Security Council.

My recent report on Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace lays out concrete suggestions around inflection points where the Commission can help catalyze national efforts.

This includes working to fully empower the Commission to mobilize political and financial support for nationally-owned peacebuilding and prevention strategies.

As the review unfolds, I encourage the Commission to draw on its rich experience to guide deliberations at the General Assembly and Security Council – with actionable recommendations towards strengthening the peacebuilding architecture and transforming people’s lives.

Excellencies,

This brings me to a vital issue: financing.

The General Assembly’s approval of assessed contributions to the Peacebuilding Fund marks an important step.

But it is still a far cry from the “quantum leap” of $500 million per year that is needed.

As many Member States have highlighted, voluntary contributions remain paramount – and I encourage countries to provide additional support to the Fund.

Given the urgent and expanding needs for peacebuilding support, I trust that the Review of the Peacebuilding Architecture will further examine how to ensure the predictability, adequacy and sustainability of the Fund – including by exploring innovative financing mechanisms, public-private partnerships and blended funding models.

Excellencies,

We must never waver in our commitment to pursue, achieve and sustain peace.

The Peacebuilding architecture – consisting of the Peacebuilding Commission, the Peacebuilding Support Office and the Peacebuilding Fund – working together with UN Country Teams, are essential tools to help translate aspirations into reality.

I look forward to continuing to work with you all to strengthen our peacebuilding architecture and help build a world of peace and prosperity for all largely thanks to your precious intervention.

Thank you very much. 

Source: United Nations – English

strong>Download the video:
https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+Luna+New+Year+29+Jan+25/MSG+SG+Lunar+New+Year+2025+Global+Version+CLEAN+16+DEC+24.mp4

Happy Lunar New Year.

I am pleased to send my warmest wishes to everyone celebrating Lunar New Year – and this Year of the Snake.

The snake symbolizes wisdom, resilience, and renewal. 

In these trying times, let us be guided by these qualities and renew our commitment to peace, equality, and justice.

Let us embrace this time of new beginnings with hope and determination to create a better future for all.

May the Year of the Snake bring good health, happiness, prosperity, and new beginnings.

Thank you.
 

Source: United Nations – English

he Secretary-General notes with concern the announcement of a pause in US foreign assistance. 

The Secretary-General calls for additional exemptions to be considered to ensure the continued delivery of critical development and humanitarian activities for the most vulnerable communities around the world, whose lives and livelihoods depend on this support.

The Secretary-General looks forward to engaging with the new United States administration on the provision of much needed development support to people grappling with the most difficult challenges confronting the developing world. The United States is one of the largest aid providers and it is vital that we work constructively to jointly shape a strategic path forward.

Source: United Nations – English

t is an honour to be here with you.

 
I am humbled to have Holocaust survivors and their families with us today.
 
Before we begin, I want to acknowledge that more than a year has passed since the appalling 7th October terror attacks by Hamas.
 
We welcome, at long last, the ceasefire and hostage release deal.
 
The deal offers hope, as well as much needed relief.
 
We will do our utmost to ensure it leads to the release of all hostages.  Since the beginning, we have asked for the unconditional immediate release of all hostages and a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
 
Dear Friends,
 
Every year on this day, we come together to mark the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau.
 
We mourn the six million Jews murdered by the Nazis and their collaborators, as they sought to destroy an entire people.
 
We grieve the Roma and Sinti also targeted for genocide, the people with disabilities, LGBTIQ+ people, and all those enslaved, persecuted, tortured, and killed. 
 
We stand alongside victims, survivors and their families. 
 
And we renew our resolve never to forget:
 
Never to forget the atrocities that so “outraged the conscience” of humankind.
 
And never to forget their putrid foundations: millennia of antisemitic hate – manifest in marginalisation, discrimination, expulsions, and murder.
 
Dear Friends,
 
This year, our commemoration marks a milestone.
 
80 years ago, the Holocaust ended.
 
And our efforts began to keep the terrible truth alive; building on the work of those who chronicled Nazi atrocities as they were perpetrated around them – and against them.
 
The courage of survivors in telling their stories has played an enormous role.
 
We are deeply grateful to them all. 
 
But the responsibility belongs to every one of us.
 
Remembrance is not only a moral act. Remembrance is a call to action.
 
To allow the Holocaust to fade from memory would dishonour the past and betray the future.
 
The extraordinary Auschwitz survivor, Primo Levi – who bore witness to all he had seen and endured – urged us to carve the knowledge into our hearts.
 
And we must.
 
To know the history of the Holocaust is to know the depths to which humanity can sink.
 
It is to understand how the Nazis were able to commit their heinous crimes, with the complicity of others.
 
And it is to comprehend our solemn duty to speak-up against hate, to stand-up for the human rights of all, and to make those rights a reality.
 
Dear Friends,
 
Following the hell of the Holocaust, countries came together:
 
They created the United Nations and our Charter 80 years ago – affirming the worth of every human person…
 
They adopted the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide – for which we owe a debt of gratitude to the Polish Jewish lawyer Raphael Lemkin…
 
And they established the Universal Declaration of Human Rights – the foundation of all international human rights law.
 
As one of the drafters, Lebanese diplomat and intellectual, Charles Malik, said, the Declaration was:
 
“…Inspired by opposition to the barbarous doctrines of Nazism and fascism.”
 
The dignity of every member of our human family is enshrined in that document, which draws from traditions around the world.
 
It is a pure expression of our shared humanity.
 
And in dark times it remains a shining light.
 
Dear Friends,
 
Today, our world is fractured and dangerous.
 
Eighty years since the Holocaust’s end, antisemitism is still with us – fuelled by the same lies and loathing that made the Nazi genocide possible.
 
And it is rising.
 
Discrimination is rife.
 
Hatred is being stirred-up across the globe.
 
One of the clearest and most troubling examples is the spreading cancer of Holocaust denial.
 
Indisputable historical facts are being distorted, diminished, and dismissed.
 
Efforts are being made to recast and rehabilitate Nazis and their collaborators. 
 
We must stand up to these outrages.
 
We must promote education, combat lies, and speak the truth.
 
And we must condemn antisemitism wherever and whenever it appears – as we must condemn all forms of racism, prejudice and religious bigotry which we see proliferating today.
 
Because we know these evils wither our morality, corrode our compassion, and seek to blind us to suffering – opening the door to atrocities.
 
The United Nations has long worked to combat antisemitism, through a wide range of activities, including our Holocaust Outreach programs.
 
And we recently launched our Action Plan on antisemitism, recommending the ways the United Nations System can further enhance those efforts.  
 
In these days of division it is all the more important – that we hold fast to our common humanity… 
 
And renew our resolve to defend the dignity and human rights of all.
 
Every one of us has a duty.
 
The history of the Holocaust shows us what can happen when people choose not to see and not to act.
 
And the Universal Declaration of Human Rights prescribes that:
 
“…every individual and every organ of society… shall strive by teaching and education to promote respect for these rights and freedoms…”
 
Each of us must answer that call: denounce lies; resist hate; and ensure our common humanity overcomes division.  
 
These causes are at the very core of the United Nations.
 
We will never forget. And we will never waver in that fight.