In his first major speech of the year, the UN Secretary-General underlined the need for global cooperation to address today’s challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change. More
WHO warns of COVID-19 ‘tipping point’ as cases rise across Europe
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of a “tipping point” in the fight against COVID-19, amid surging cases in Europe and the fresh challenge of a mutating virus. More
Saudi Arabia: UN rights expert welcomes ‘positive first step’ toward détente in Gulf
Saudi Arabia’s action in lifting sanctions against Qatar is a “positive first step” towards normalized relations in the Gulf region, a UN independent human rights expert said on Thursday, urging the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain and Egypt to follow suit. More
Top UN officials saddened at mob violence during US Capitol breach; Bachelet decries ‘incitement’ by political leaders
Top UN officials, including the Secretary-General and the President of the General Assembly have expressed sadness over the violence that erupted on Wednesday when supporters of President Trump stormed the US Capitol building, temporarily bringing to a halt the disputed certification of November’s presidential election result. More
Note to correspondents on the situation in Washington, D.C.
In answers to questions asked about the situation in Washington DC, the Spokesman had the following to say:
The Secretary-General is saddened by the events at the US Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday.
In such circumstances, it is important that political leaders impress on their followers the need to refrain from violence, as well as to respect democratic processes and the rule of law.
Stephane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General
New York, 6 January 2021
Security Council has critical role in addressing fragility and conflict: UN chief
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has underlined the critical role of the Security Council in addressing links between fragility and conflict, two of the greatest obstacles to achieving sustainable development across the world. More
UN chief welcomes declaration on resolving the ‘Gulf rift’
The United Nations Secretary-General has welcomed the al Ula declaration on “solidarity and stability”, announced at the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit on Tuesday, aimed at strengthening peace and prosperity in the region. More
WHO chief begins 2021 with plea for ‘less politicking’ over health
In a race to “save lives, livelihoods and end this pandemic”, the head of the UN heath agency said on Tuesday that it was important to remember COVID-19 was just one of a number of major disease outbreaks facing communities across the world. More
World Bank expects global economy to expand by 4% in 2021
The World Bank Group on Tuesday issued a guarded growth forecast for the global economy this year, saying that a four per cent overall expansion was likely, although the recovery will likely be a “subdued” one. More
World Braille Day highlights importance of accessible information
The United Nations is commemorating World Braille Day on Monday, highlighting the importance of the universal touch-based communication system for the full realization of human rights for blind and partially sighted people. More