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11 February 2025
UN Reviews Support to Saint Lucia under 2024-2025 Country Implementation Plan
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10 February 2025
Bequia's children gain access to clean water through UNICEF and Water Mission partnership
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31 January 2025
2025 Model United Nations (MUN) Launched
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The Sustainable Development Goals in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean
The United Nations Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean in collaboration with its partners is supporting implementation of the sustainable development goals across the 10 countries covered by our multi-country office (MCO). These 17 Global Goals are a roadmap to address the most pressing challenges facing Caribbean citizens and persons all over the world, to create a sustainable future for all.
Kindly note that the data visualizations show an aggregate of the Caribbean. To view the disaggregated data per country, please click on the name of the country or territory you wish to explore.
Publication
08 January 2025
2023 Development Partners Landscape Assessment for the Eastern Caribbean
This report is a comprehensive effort to map, analyze, and contextualize the contributions of development partners to the Eastern Caribbean. It provides insights into funding trends, emerging priorities, and areas of strategic alignment. By examining the diverse range of actors, from bilateral and multilateral agencies, this report highlights the evolving dynamics of development financing in the Eastern Caribbean.Moreover, the report provides a basis for increased strategic cooperation and coordination amongst governments in the sub-region and development partners through open and intentional sharing of information on current project portfolios and future needs.
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Publication
09 January 2025
Snapshot of Loss and Damage in SIDS under the Climate Promise
As discussions on climate-related loss and damage evolve, due in large part to the leadership of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and frontline communities, increasing emphasis is being placed on the needs of countries and communities to respond to loss and damage. Loss and damage has been identified as an emerging area of interest in SIDS’ national climate plans.This report provides an analysis and overview of loss and damage concerns in the 32 SIDS supported by UNDP's Climate Promise initiative., filtered_html
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Publication
17 December 2024
Rural poverty in the Caribbean – Assets, social exclusion and agricultural livelihoods
Environmental shocks and stresses directly affect livelihoods in rural communities reliant on agriculture and fisheries, making the income-poor and those facing inequality especially vulnerable. The complex relationships between the environment, climate change, and agriculture can lead to food insecurity, poverty, and inequality, underscoring the need for better-informed policies and effective programmes. In the Caribbean, poverty is often hidden, particularly in middle- to high-income countries, where inequalities and deprivations hinder efforts to tackle climate change, resource degradation, and access to sustainable food. However, there is insufficient data for poverty analysis in the agricultural and environmental sectors, especially for marginalized populations. This report examines the links between rural inequality, food security, agriculture, and the environment in Barbados and Grenada. It highlights the importance of physical, financial, human, and social assets for sustainable livelihoods. Conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, the study uses in-depth interviews to offer policy recommendations aimed at improving access to assets and enhancing the resilience of farmers and fisherfolk, supporting social mobility and protection against future crises., filtered_html
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Publication
09 January 2025
Grenada Economic Costs of Violence Study 2023
Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) has economic costs for individuals (e.g., victims and their children), families, communities and society at-large. Several countries have estimated the costs of VAWG, in an effort to understand the economic impacts of VAWG on the national economy and to determine investments needed to lessen, if not eliminate VAWG.The direct costs of VAWG include costs that impact the health, police, justice and social welfare systems, as well as costs of victim support services (e.g., shelters, counselling, legal aid). There are also indirect costs related to VAWG, such as: lost employment, wages and productivity; learning time lost; and harm to VAWG survivors and their children. Ultimately, VAWG has negative effects on the lives of women and their children, which undermines poverty reduction measures.Estimating the economic costs of VAWG enables governments to understand the importance of enacting legislation, policies, action plans and programmes aimed at ending VAWG, and allocating an appropriate budget to support effective implementation of such initiatives and provision of quality essential services to VAWG survivors and their children. Estimating the economic costs of VAWG provides a basis for evidence-based decision- and policy-making, and programme development.This VAWG costing study was one of three costing studies conducted in the Caribbean. , filtered_html
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Publication
27 November 2024
Making a Case for Investment in Universal Childcare in Barbados
Author(s)/editor(s)Authors: Dr. Mahalia Jackman, PhD and Dr. Simon Naitram, PhD, Editor: Dr. Robin Haarr, PhDThis report makes an argument for public investment in universal childcare in Barbados; specifically, it explores the potential effects and benefits of investing in universal childcare. Effective provision of universal childcare is defined as one that eliminates barriers to equitable access and participation.In recent years, there has been substantial effort to increase public childcare provision in Barbados. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to a re-emergence of discussion about the need for affordable, high-quality childcare. Many parents struggle with the increased demands of childcare and paid employment brought about by government-imposed measures, such as school closures and ‘stay at home’ orders. Universal childcare does not necessarily mean achieving full coverage, but implies making childcare accessible to all children whose parents wish for them to participate. Universal childcare should not be equated with free childcare or even compulsory childcare, rather it suggests that an effective universal childcare service eliminates barriers to equitable access and participation.The study was carried out with funding support by UN Women and the Joint SDG Fund., filtered_html
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Story
11 February 2025
UN Reviews Support to Saint Lucia under 2024-2025 Country Implementation Plan
CASTRIES: Government officials, UN representatives and project beneficiaries in Saint Lucia today participated in a hybrid meeting to review United Nations support to the country in 2024, relative to progress made under the 2024–2025 Country Implementation Plan (CIP), and within the context of the regional UN Multi-Country Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (MSDCF).Addressing the UN accountability session at Saint Lucia's Finance Administrative Centre in Castries, Permanent Secretary in the Department of Economic Development, Paul Hilaire, thanked the United Nations for its support in advancing the country's sustainable development agenda, and for adhering to the principles of transparency and accountability. “This multi-sectoral approach has served to advance the sustainable development of Saint Lucia, socially, economically and ecologically, whilst benefitting the most vulnerable and marginalized in our society, including children, persons with disabilities, women and girls and the less fortunate."Mr. Hilaire, who is also Saint Lucia’s MSDCF Focal Point, told the gathering that as of March 2024, the UN had undertaken some 50 interventions in-country, covering myriad sectors, including: agriculture health, education, citizen security, social protection, climate resilience, biodiversity, natural resource management, gender equality and many other areas. He, however, called for an even greater focus on on boys."We are losing our young boys and there needs to be more interventions to ensure that they take their proper place…and not at the jail where many of them are heading today."While pledging his department's commitment to ensuring that Saint Lucia’s cooperation with the UN is “mutually rewarding and synergistic,” Mr. Hilaire urged beneficiaries to be “open, candid, and solutions-oriented, in an effort to strengthen the cordial relations between the UN and Saint Lucia.” In addressing the forum , Head of the UN Resident Coordinator Office, Kenroy Roach, thanked the Saint Lucia Government for its strong partnership with UN Development System over the years. He noted that the review process was very timely as the UN prepared to embark on the new Cooperation Framework. Mr. Roach also commended the Government, for its continued strong leadership on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and for being the first country in the OECS which will submit a second Voluntary National Review (VNR) before the UN’s High Level Political Forum in July this year, thus giving frequent accounts of national SDG progress.“There is a symbiotic relationship between the VNR and the CIP review that we are undertaking today, in that they both support the Government in achieving the SDGs. The reviews today, should serve as valuable inputs for Saint Lucia’s VNR report."The UN Head also lauded the Saint Lucia Government for submitting its revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) earlier this month, and for its bold steps and ambitions towards climate resilience, in terms of preparing its Multi-Vulnerability Climate Response Profile and pledging to reduce greenhouse gases by 2034. “This has reinforced your position as a leader in climate development, you are providing a good model for the region,” he concluded.UN Country Coordination Officer, Dr. Lorraine Nicholas, who is based in Saint Lucia, welcomed the initiative as another strategic opportunity to co-create strategies on how the UN could enhance its cooperation with Saint Lucia.“While as a region we share common development challenges, these vary from country to country. For instance, while citizen security may be a general challenge to the region , it may be of greater concern for some countries than others. For this reason, the CIP seeks to localize this regional MSDCF framework to ensure that it is aptly tailored to the individual country context.” Noting the current scope of UN support in country, the Saint Lucia-based official maintained: "every nook and cranny in Saint Lucia is impacted by the work of the UN."The highly-interactive session, saw input from beneficiaries, government stakeholders, as well as representatives of UN Agencies , Funds and Programmes, who discussed current initiatives, existing needs, as well as pending and future programmatic strategies aimed at enhancing SDG progress, and building resilience across Saint Lucia, in keeping with the principle of leaving no one behind. , filtered_html
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Story
10 February 2025
Bequia's children gain access to clean water through UNICEF and Water Mission partnership
Children living on the Grenadine Island of Bequia now have access to cleaner, safer water thanks to an ongoing partnership between UNICEF and the Christian non-profit organisation, Water Mission.In July 2024, Hurricane Beryl wreaked havoc on the Eastern Caribbean, disrupting water access for thousands and exposing deficiencies in existing systems. The people of the Grenadines are still in the process of rebuilding their lives. In a significant move to improve the quality of safe drinking water in Bequia, UNICEF, in collaboration with Water Mission and other critical partners, facilitated the successful transfer of resources to local ownership of water supply systems. This initiative follows recommendations from a comprehensive water analysis report for schools in the area.In early January, following active engagement with school administrators and teachers, advanced water purification systems, including filters, UV light, and chlorination units, were installed. The local Seventh-Day Adventist Secondary School, Paget Farm Primary School, Anglican Primary School, and Community High School are among the institutions now able to provide improved water quality to hundreds of children during school hours.The installation process was supported by the Roads, Buildings & General Services Authority (BRAGSA), plumbing personnel, and school and hospital staff, ensuring a smooth handover of resources. Additional resources were also distributed, including a chlorinated water purification system for Bequia Hospital and water filters for the health clinic, dentist's office, Sunshine School for Special Needs, and Glen Pre-School. Hand soap dispensers were also installed in the staff and public bathrooms at the health clinic in Port Elizabeth.UNICEF's Country Coordinator for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Nicolle Trudeau, met with members of the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) community team and local government to ensure seamless coordination. Meanwhile, BRAGSA has been engaged to take ownership of the installations at public facilities.The installation of these water systems is expected to significantly increase access to safe water for nearly 2,000 students and teachers. Additionally, the improved access to clean water at the clinic and hospital will benefit the 5,000 residents of Bequia who utilise these health facilities.This initiative marks a crucial step towards ensuring the health and well-being of Bequia's residents through sustainable and locally managed water resources., filtered_html
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Story
31 January 2025
2025 Model United Nations (MUN) Launched
The opportunity comes as the Rotary Club of Barbados launched the 2025 Model United Nations Assembly, now in its 12th year. The students, drawn from across nine public and private schools across the island, will spend the next six weeks honing their diplomatic and public speaking skills, while serving as Ambassadors for UN member states which they randomly selected. The 2025 session will culminate in March, with a Security Council debate on 'War and Conflict Resolution'. UN Resident Coordinator, Simon Springett, welcomed MUN participants to UN House. He told students many of today's leaders in various sectors, and within the UN itself, participated in Model UN as students. With hundreds of thousands of students worldwide taking part annually, to learn about the values and principles of the UN, he stressed that its aim was also for students to come together to propose actions to address the world's current challenges. "You will also have the possibility to understand the crucial importance of international cooperation and multilateralism – or how countries work together - and the role everyone, including you, plays in it. This is especially important at this moment in time when we require diplomacy to steer us towards a more peaceful and prosperous future for all." Mr. Springett told MUN participants, the world, and Barbados, are facing a multitude of inter-related challenges, described by the UN as the triple planetary crisis: climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. He, however, described the war in Ukraine as one of the greatest challenges ever to the international order and the global peace, founded on the UN Charter, which was inflaming a three-dimensional crisis - food, energy and finance – which is affecting every country and everyone.The well-being of people around the world and here in Barbados, the health of our planet, depends on the choices we make – or fail to make. These are difficult conversations, and every country has different views. It also depends on the willingness of Nations to come together and discuss, which is pre-requisite to come to agreements. This is not always easy, difficult conversations are just that, difficult. Which is also something you will be learning firsthand during the next few weeks in your negotiations.Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Donna Forde, who is one of the MUN facilitators for 2025, briefly addressed students, highlighting the importance of having a global outlook. She also pledged her support in helping them on their journey to acquire or develop their diplomacy skills.As you learn to understand better Barbados' foreign policy, and as you learn more about the partners with whom we engage, and about the partnerships which Barbados has with other countries in the world, it could help you also to develop a global focus , and not just a domestic insular focus , which tends to be a bit of a challenge when we are engaging with the world.Some of the schools represented during the 2025 session include: Alleyne School, Christ Church Foundation, Codrington, Harrison College, Princess Margaret Secondary School, Queen's College, St. Winifred's School, The Alexandra School, and The St. Michaels School. View the album from the launch of the 2025 Model UN below:https://www.flickr.com/photos/168786193@N04/albums/72177720323434462/with/5429121913 , filtered_html
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Story
21 January 2025
Adia Daniel named Vincentian Youth Ambassador at Youth Excellence Awards 2024
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines' own Adia Daniel has been named Vincentian Youth Ambassador at the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines' Prime Ministerial Advisory Council Youth Excellence Awards 2024. At just 18, Adia has already made significant strides in youth advocacy and mental health, and this latest accolade highlights her continued commitment to making a difference.In a post on social media following the announcement, Adia shared her deep gratitude and vision for change: "I am so deeply honoured and grateful to have been awarded Vincentian Youth Ambassador at the ... Youth Excellence Awards 2024. What a distinct honour it is to represent my country regionally and globally, passionately advocating on issues affecting our islands and youth.
I truly believe in goodness and being the change you want to see. I still believe in making those ‘invisible’—visible and creating belonging for those who are excluded."Adia, a UNICEF x Let's Unpack It (LUI) Mental Health Focal Point, has represented her peers at major global events, including the SIDS Global Children and Youth Action Summit and the UNICEF Executive Board meeting at the UN Headquarters in New York. Her unwavering commitment to advocating for youth, mental health, and climate change continues to inspire and empower young leaders across the Caribbean and beyond., filtered_html
I truly believe in goodness and being the change you want to see. I still believe in making those ‘invisible’—visible and creating belonging for those who are excluded."Adia, a UNICEF x Let's Unpack It (LUI) Mental Health Focal Point, has represented her peers at major global events, including the SIDS Global Children and Youth Action Summit and the UNICEF Executive Board meeting at the UN Headquarters in New York. Her unwavering commitment to advocating for youth, mental health, and climate change continues to inspire and empower young leaders across the Caribbean and beyond., filtered_html
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Story
20 January 2025
Gender Equality in the Caribbean Requires a Transformative Approach says former UN Women Caribbean Head
Achieving true gender equality in the Caribbean requires more than just responsive actions—it demands a transformative shift in how institutions and governments address the barriers that perpetuate inequality.This was the key message from Tonni Brodber, former Representative, UN Women Multi-Country Office (MCO) – Caribbean, as she addressed over 40 UN staff members during an inaugural staff Community of Practice session at UN House themed: From Resolution to Action: Gender Equality as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development.The hybrid initiative, which saw participation from UN staff across the Eastern Caribbean, seeks to bridge gaps across UN Agencies, Funds, and Programmes, providing staff with greater insight into Agency-specific priorities and updates on emerging global issues that may be outside of their mandates. Moreover, it aims to strengthen internal communications and build synergies to enhance joint approaches to UN work in the region.Leading the participatory session, which included staff surveys and a high-level of engagement, Ms. Brodber said the Caribbean requires gender-transformative actions that tackle the deep-rooted barriers to equality. “Gender responsiveness means acting on the issue, but gender-transformative actions are what we need, especially with states. We must address the barriers that states may not even realize are keeping certain groups out,” she underlined.Using an example from the COVID-19 pandemic, when some regional leaders allowed workers to return to work while keeping schools closed, Ms. Brodber noted that this posed a major challenge, particularly for caregivers, who were predominantly women. “When leaders across the region said you can go back to work after COVID-19 but schools were closed… people said you know, we are depending on you, the older women in society, [to help take care of the children] but some of them were also working.”For Ms. Brodber, being gender-transformative means creating systems that allow both women and men to participate equally in the workforce, such as opening schools, adjusting work hours, and recognising the structural burdens on caregivers.She emphasized that gender equality also entailed ensuring that the needs of men were also taken into consideration . Unpaid Care WorkThe session also brought to the fore the issue of unpaid care work, which was the focus of a recent UN Women-led study on the topic ‘Assessing the Impact of Unpaid Care Work on Families in Barbados’. Ms. Brodber told the forum: “We still have serious gaps as it pertains to women's empowerment, and you won't have gender equality without us addressing these gaps right now, like unpaid care work.” She noted that unpaid care work disproportionately affects women, who are often expected to organize after-school activities, cook, and manage household tasks. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO) and UN Women, unpaid work refers to tasks such as caregiving, household chores, and community service that are performed without financial compensation.Ms. Brodber also highlighted the challenges women face in business and entrepreneurship. “In the Caribbean, women own only 8% of registered businesses, most of which are sole proprietorships. If these women fall ill or need to care for a child, their businesses suffer,” she explained, emphasizing the structural barriers to entrepreneurial success.Turning to systemic disadvantages, Brodber remarked, “Historically, our institutions have privileged men.” She cited an example from the 1980s, when women in many Caribbean countries were required to have male family members co-sign loans or open bank accounts—an issue more rooted in gender than ability. Beijing +30: Progress and ChallengesThe discussion also focused on the broader global movement for gender equality, particularly the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action. Ms. Brodber underscored the significance of the 1995 Beijing Conference, where world leaders committed to addressing gender inequality in areas such as education, health, violence, and economic participation. Despite some progress, many of the issues outlined in the Beijing Platform remain unresolved. “We’re still talking about women’s representation in leadership, pay gaps, and unpaid care work,” Ms, Brodber observed making the point that the Beijing Platform is a reminder that gender equality isn’t a one-time effort but requires sustained commitment.The forum, which was organized by the UN Communications Group, is expected to be a bi-monthly initiative , to be led by various UN AFPs. Some of the Agencies represented at the inaugural session included the UN Resident Coordinator Office, UN Women, UNDP, PAHO, UNICEF, FAO, WFP, ILO, and the UN Information Centre (UNIC). , filtered_html
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Press Release
29 January 2025
FAO Training Enhances Post-Harvest Practices in Dominica
18 January 2024 – Dominica, Roseau – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) held its first post-harvest technology and collaborative training session of the year with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy for extension officials, processors, and farmers on January 15 at the Fisheries Complex in Roseau, Dominica. During the week-long training led by FAO, the group of 25 participants gained thorough understanding of harvest and post-harvest technology and best practices, with an emphasis on lowering product losses, boosting value chain efficiency, and improving crop quality and safety. Dr Mohammed Majeed, Post-Harvest Specialist, drilled down on critical topics such as post-harvest loss quantification, pre-harvest factors affecting shelf life, quality measurement procedures, packaging, cooling, temperature management and transportation. This approach was successful in providing participants with comprehensive insights on methods to increase the yields of high-value vegetables such as tomatoes, sweet peppers, lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, carrots, and cucumbers. Ahead of the customized training, the Ministry of Agriculture sought FAO’s technical assistance to evaluate the feasibility of growing a variety of vegetables, including imported temperate crops, across Dominica’s diverse agroclimatic zones back in 2023. This scoping study considered key factors such as elevation, year-round water availability for irrigation, and the quality and varieties of seeds available. Findings from the study identified specific agroclimatic zones suitable for cultivating specialty vegetable crops which have the potential to reduce imports, increase farmers’ incomes, and create opportunities for export to neighboring countries. In speaking about the success of the training which considered the island's high susceptibility to climate change and scarcity of arable land, among other agricultural issues, Mrs Anne Desrochers, FAO’s Plant Production and Protection Specialist stated, “improved harvest and post-harvest practices are important to improve quality, minimize food waste and achieve food safety. This training will increase local capacities and knowledge within the Ministry of Agriculture as part of the objectives agreed in the current project of the Technical Cooperation Programme to boost high value vegetable crop production”. Grand Fond farmer Mr Marcus Cuffy who attended the training benefited significantly from the information he learnt, especially about cold storage. He expressed, “the session was very informative. I intend to share the knowledge with other farmers and put what I learnt into practice”. Mr Keian Stephenson, Technical Extension Officer with the Ministry of Agriculture and FAO National Correspondent stated that, "the farmers demonstrated a great deal of interest in ways they can reduce harvest loss during the training,". They learnt simple, but practical methods that will increase the amount of produce that reaches the market and put more money in their pockets. On the other hand, exporters and handlers gained knowledge on how to enhance their packaging and minimize losses in their pack houses”. By applying the skills and insights gained from this training, stakeholders in Dominica’s agricultural sector are now better equipped to strengthen local food production, enhance food security, build a sustainable and resilient future. Contact for more information:Ann DesrochersPlant Production and Protection SpecialistAnne.Desrochers@fao.org, filtered_html
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Press Release
11 December 2024
Towards a more resilient Caribbean: How EU-CA-RES is Making a Difference
The intervention aims to build a Caribbean that is not only prepared for the challenges of today but ready to face the uncertainties of tomorrow. These challenges and uncertainties include earthquakes, flooding, drought and hurricanes. Recent devastation wrought by Hurricane Beryl in July this year was a stark reminder of the risks the region faces. EU-CA-RES, which was launched in Saint Kitts and Nevis on 2 December, brings together a broad range of partners for maximum reach and influence. The European Union is joined by UNICEF, the World Food Programme (WFP), the UN Development Programme (UNDP), and the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). The initiative will pave the way for a region more able to recover from adversity - such as the ravages of climate change, whether slow and creeping or sudden and catastrophic - with even greater strength and resilience. European Union Ambassador to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Malgorzata Wasilewska declared that while all partners are clearly working towards the same goal, it is imperative that they all work together. “The region has to work closely together, international partners are here to assist,” said Wasilewska. “Every life we help to save, every house we rebuild should always be our motivation to work on these issues.” Enhancing social protection, which provides a safety net for those in need, is critical and EU-CA-RES works to strengthen systems that can provide immediate financial support to families affected by disasters - especially the most vulnerable like women, children, and people with disabilities - who often bear the brunt of these extreme events. Quick access to resources can make a huge difference in helping communities recover. he programme is committed to ‘building back better’ which develops what has gone before. By implementing improved building standards, investing in disaster-proof infrastructure, early warning systems and strengthening institutional policy, planning, financial arrangements, and data gathering and dissemination, the initiative helps to ensure that when the next emergency strikes, the damage will be less severe, with faster recovery processes reducing loss and suffering. Simon Springett, UN Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean thanked the EU for generously supporting “one United Nation delivering for a collective good.” “We are working collectively every day to reduce that level of fragility and it’s really imperative that we don’t look away, that we really tackle these issues.”, filtered_html
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Press Release
02 December 2024
Barbados and Montserrat Strengthen Data Capacity for Health and Social Policies through Joint SDG Fund Programme
Bridgetown, November 29, 2024: The Governments of Barbados and Montserrat are better equipped to collect and analyze data, to foster gender equality and advance inclusive health and social development policies, thanks to a recently concluded Joint SDG Fund Programme for Integrated Population Data and Policy Solutions. This marks a significant step forward in sustainable development for both countries.The two-year programme was implemented under the leadership of UNFPA (the United Nations Population Fund), in collaboration with UN Women (the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women), and in partnership with government stakeholders and civil society. With focus on improving access to real-time, disaggregated demographic data, it sought to enable policymakers to create evidence-based policies and programmes in support of the most vulnerable populations. The initiative addressed key priorities under Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and 5 (Gender Equality).Addressing a hybrid Strategic Dialogue and Close-Out Meeting, held at UN House in Barbados, Jenny Karlsen, Deputy Director, UNFPA Sub-Regional Office for the Caribbean, pledged continued support to the Governments of Barbados and Montserrat to build on the Project’s achievements. She commended national partners for their champion role in its execution: “This programme stands as a testament to your vision and commitment to your national priorities, and what can be achieved when we work together with a shared purpose” , she said. Based on the programme’s execution in Montserrat, significant strides have been made in advancing sexual and reproductive health, population policy and data systems. A draft Sexual and Reproductive Health Policy, supported by UNFPA, is awaiting Cabinet submission, alongside a Population Situation Analysis and National Population Policy, currently under public review. A National Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) System Study and Action Plan is also poised for Cabinet review. Technical guidance and training on the measurement of SDG 5 indicators were provided to the Montserrat Statistics Department. Data collection on this indicator was successfully implemented through their national census, which concluded in November 2023.An analysis of the 2023 Census data on unpaid domestic and care work was also conducted, and steps taken to strengthen national data systems through enhanced disaggregation by sex, age, and disability, integration of GIS and geospatial tools, and targeted training to monitor SDG indicators pertaining to Goals 3 and 5. Meanwhile, in Barbados, UNFPA supported completion of a Baseline Study on Priority Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Indicators for Barbados, with capacity building provided in the National Transfer Accounts Model to help assess the economic impacts of demographic shifts. For the first time Barbados has a national measurement of the time spent by women and men on unpaid domestic and care work. UN Women supported the Barbados Statistical Service with the capture and analysis of the data on the SDG Indicator related to unpaid domestic and care work, providing computer tablets, and facilitating the engagement of six enumerators/field officers and preparation of the final report.Isiuwa Iyahen, Deputy Representative, UN Women Multi-Country Office (MCO) - Caribbean, highlighted the vital intersection of population dynamics and the care economy during her remarks. She noted the concern with declining fertility rates but emphasised that policy solutions to encourage family formation do not infringe on the sexual and reproductive rights of women: “Let’s look at the mix of policy solutions that will encourage you to participate in the paid care economy but meet your obligations to your families.”In addressing the forum, Simon Springett, UN Resident Coordinator for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean reflected on the programme’s completion as a steppingstone for future progress and building more resilient, prosperous and equitable societies. He maintained: “We must sustain this momentum and continue to prioritize data-driven solutions, gender-sensitive policies, and inclusive approaches to development.” The Project also came in for high praise from national partners attending the Close-out in person at UN House. Patrick McCaskie, Permanent Secretary, Economic Affairs and Investment, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Investment in Barbados underlined the importance of celebrating the programme’s successes, while assessing challenges and lessons learned. He also reaffirmed his government’s dedication to inclusive development: “The Government of Barbados is fully committed to the continued pursuance of programmes and policies that are fully inclusive, people-centered, and resilient—economically, socially, and environmentally—in a way that leaves no one behind.”Meanwhile, Teresena Fergus, Director of Social Services in Montserrat, underscored the programme’s role in advancing rights-based population policies and enhancing national capacities for data-driven decision-making. “Let us celebrate our progress, examine the challenges, and set a robust course for sustaining the strides we have made together,” she encouraged.The Joint Programme is expected to have continued impact through the frameworks and tools developed, which promise to drive inclusive growth and equitable development on the road to 2030. Supported by UNFPA and UN Women’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plans, and the continued partnership of the UN Development System, the results achieved under this initiative will serve as a model for sustainable development strategies across the region. , filtered_html
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Press Release
05 November 2024
Caribbean Immunization Managers Commended for Beginning Turnaround in Vaccination Coverage
During the 38th Caribbean Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) Managers meeting held in St Kitts and Nevis, from October 28-30, PAHO Assistant Director, Dr Rhonda Sealy, commended the Caribbean Immunization managers for beginning to turn around vaccination coverage across CARICOM Member States, after a decline in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and stressed the need to strengthen the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program.Noting that there were still significant challenges, including vaccine hesitancy and disruptions in school and health facility access, she called for a revitalization of this essential program, particularly within the Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative, and as many countries are transitioning to a one-dose schedule as recommended.To ensure our continued success, I’d like to highlight several recommendations. Firstly, we need unwavering political commitment and financial resources to maintain our targets for eliminating polio, measles, and rubella, as well as controlling other vaccine-preventable diseases. It’s imperative to strengthen our vaccination operations to achieve and sustain a 95% coverage rate for all antigens. Additionally, we must develop targeted strategies to reach children under five years old, enhancing our surveillance capabilities for vaccine-preventable diseases. Training healthcare workers in effective risk communication and community engagement is vital for improving HPV vaccine coverage. Finally, we must invest in robust data systems and infrastructure to support adult immunization without jeopardizing childhood vaccination programs.” Dr Sealy noted in a video message. Dr. Daniel Salas, Executive Manager, Special Program on Comprehensive Immunization, PAHO, emphatically reiterated PAHO’s support for HPV vaccination programs in the Caribbean stating that “the Caribbean is known to be a leader in vaccination and disease elimination, I urge you to be the first subregion to eliminate cervical cancer reducing morbidity and mortality associated with this preventable disease”. During the meeting, Jamaica won the coveted Harry Smith Award for most improved immunization coverage in 2023 while the inaugural Beryl Irons Award went to Grenada for achieving their surveillance targets in 2024 and improved immunization coverage in 2023. Three countries also took away surveillance awards. In first place was Barbados, second place went to St Kitts and Nevis and third place went to Belize. The dedicated healthcare professionals of the EPI program and PAHO were praised by Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health in St Kitts and Nevis, Curtis Martin. He emphasized that national health stewardship requires partnership. “PAHO is a blessing. Its technical support of the EPI ranks as a global best practice. Transfer of knowledge and skills have yielded measurable results including the regard for research rigor and the imperative of data and evidence-guided planning and performance assessment and improvement. Through PAHO and other public health protection, prevention and health promotion are in our DNA. PAHO cannot become weary in Caribbean well-being because in our jurisdictions, health is too big to fail,” he asserted.Advisor, Family and Life Course for Primary Health Care, Dr Solange Kobi-Jackson, who delivered remarks on behalf of PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries, Dr Amalia Del Riego, described the implementation of solid vaccination programs as one of the noblest commitments to the population, especially protecting the health of children.“The positive result for 2023, reflects the efforts of professionals and the health system, as well as the government’s clear political commitment to invest in health, along with an engaged population that recognizes the importance of vaccination. Nonetheless, it is necessary to continue making progress to bring the Region of the Americas back to the top of the global ranking in immunization coverage, maintain our achievements, and advance in the strategy to eliminate communicable diseases,” Dr Kobi Jackson stressed.While aware of polio, pertussis and measles cases worldwide, Chair of the Meeting and the Caribbean Immunization Technical Working Group (CITaG), Prof Peter Figueroa, praised the EPI Program for contributing considerably to the decrease in deaths and an improvement in the health of children globally and within the Caribbean. “An estimated 154 million deaths averted – that is remarkable and represents the true value of vaccines… However, we cannot be complacent. We have to be alert.” He stressed, while calling on Caribbean countries to maintain vaccination rates of 95% or higher and increase surveillance.The meeting also included an ‘Effective Communication for Vaccine Uptake for Caribbean EPI Managers workshop’ which included presentations on risk communication and community engagement, increasing vaccination coverage using the behavioural and social drivers of vaccination, crisis communication and vaccination messaging. The group also participated in a panel discussion that highlighted the risk communication strategies used in the measles case management employed by Turks & Caicos, plans to create a risk communication plan for new vaccine rollouts by Grenada and the role of communications during an ESAVI by Suriname.Caribbean EPI meetings are held annually, and this year’s theme was Stronger Together: Advancing Immunization, Eliminating Disease., filtered_html
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Press Release
24 September 2024
United Nations adopts ground-breaking Pact for the Future to transform global governance
New York, 22 September 2024 – World leaders today adopted a Pact for the Future that includes a Global Digital Compact and a Declaration on Future Generations. This Pact is the culmination of an inclusive, years-long process to adapt international cooperation to the realities of today and the challenges of tomorrow. The most wide-ranging international agreement in many years, covering entirely new areas as well as issues on which agreement has not been possible in decades, the Pact aims above all to ensure that international institutions can deliver in the face of a world that has changed dramatically since they were created. As the Secretary-General has said, “we cannot create a future fit for our grandchildren with a system built by our grandparents.”
Overall, the agreement of the Pact is a strong statement of countries’ commitment to the United Nations, the international system and international law. Leaders set out a clear vision of an international system that can deliver on its promises, is more representative of today’s world and draws on the energy and expertise of governments, civil society and other key partners.
The Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact, and the Declaration on Future Generations open the door to new opportunities and untapped possibilities,” said the Secretary-General during his remarks at the opening of the Summit of the Future. The President of the General Assembly noted that the Pact would “lay the foundations for a sustainable, just, and peaceful global order – for all peoples and nations.”
The Pact covers a broad range of issues including peace and security, sustainable development, climate change, digital cooperation, human rights, gender, youth and future generations, and the transformation of global governance. Key deliverables in the Pact include:
In the area of peace and securityThe most progressive and concrete commitment to Security Council reform since the 1960s, with plans to improve the effectiveness and representativeness of the Council, including by redressing the historical under-representation of Africa as a priority.The first multilateral recommitment to nuclear disarmament in more than a decade, with a clear commitment to the goal of totally eliminating nuclear weapons.Agreement to strengthen international frameworks that govern outer space, including a clear commitment to prevent an arms race in outer space and the need to ensure all countries can benefit from the safe and sustainable exploration of outer space.Steps to avoid the weaponization and misuse of new technologies, such as lethal autonomous weapons, and affirmation that the laws of war should apply to many of these new technologies.
On sustainable development, climate and financing for developmentThe entire Pact is designed to turbo-charge implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.The most detailed agreement ever at the United Nations on the need for reform of the international financial architecture so that it better represents and serves developing countries, including: Giving developing countries a greater say in how decisions are taken at international financial institutions;Mobilizing more financing from multilateral development banks to help developing countries meet their development needs;Reviewing the sovereign debt architecture to ensure that developing countries can borrow sustainably to invest in their future, with the IMF, UN, G20 and other key players working together;Strengthening the global financial safety net to protect the poorest in the event of financial and economic shocks, through concrete actions by the IMF and Member States;and accelerating measures to address the challenge of climate change, including through delivering more finance to help countries adapt to climate change and invest in renewable energy. Improving how we measure human progress, going beyond GDP to capturing human and planetary wellbeing and sustainability.A commitment to consider ways to introduce a global minimum level of taxation on high-net-worth individuals.On climate change, confirmation of the need to keep global temperature rise to 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels and to transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
On digital cooperationThe Global Digital Compact, annexed to the Pact, is the first comprehensive global framework for digital cooperation and AI governance.At the heart of the Compact is a commitment to design, use and govern technology for the benefit of all. This includes commitments by world leaders to: Connect all people, schools and hospitals to the Internet;Anchor digital cooperation in human rights and international law;Make the online space safe for all, especially children, through actions by governments, tech companies and social media;Govern Artificial Intelligence, with a roadmap that includes an International Scientific Panel and a Global Policy Dialogue on AI;Make data more open and accessible, with agreements on open-source data, models, and standards;This is also the first global commitment to data governance, placing it on the UN agenda and requiring countries to take concrete actions by 2030.
Youth and future generationsThe first ever Declaration on Future Generations, with concrete steps to take account of future generations in our decision-making, including a possible envoy for future generations.A commitment to more meaningful opportunities for young people to participate in the decisions that shape their lives, especially at the global level.
Human rights and genderA strengthening of our work on human rights, gender equality and the empowerment of women.A clear call on the need to protect human rights defenders.Strong signals on the importance of engagement of other stakeholders in global governance, including local and regional governments, civil society, private sector and others.
There are provisions across the Pact and its annexes for follow-up action, to ensure that the commitments made are implemented.
Summit Process
The Summit process and the Pact have been deeply enriched by the contributions of millions of voices and thousands of stakeholders from around the world.
The Summit brought together over 4000 individuals from Heads of State and Government, observers, IGOs, UN System, civil society and non-governmental organizations. In a broader push to increase the engagement of diverse actors, the formal Summit was preceded by the Action Days from 20-21 September, which attracted more than 7,000 individuals representing all segments of society. The Action Days featured strong commitments to action by all stakeholders, as well as pledges of USD 1.05 billion to advance digital inclusion.###
For more information: https://www.un.org/en/summit-of-the-future
Media contacts:
Francyne Harrigan, United Nations Department of Global Communications | harriganf@un.org
Stefania Piffanelli, Executive Office of the Secretary-General, United Nations | piffanelli@un.org
Jackquelyn Kay Topacio, Executive Office of the Secretary-General, United Nations | jackquelyn.topacio@un.org
, filtered_html
Overall, the agreement of the Pact is a strong statement of countries’ commitment to the United Nations, the international system and international law. Leaders set out a clear vision of an international system that can deliver on its promises, is more representative of today’s world and draws on the energy and expertise of governments, civil society and other key partners.
The Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact, and the Declaration on Future Generations open the door to new opportunities and untapped possibilities,” said the Secretary-General during his remarks at the opening of the Summit of the Future. The President of the General Assembly noted that the Pact would “lay the foundations for a sustainable, just, and peaceful global order – for all peoples and nations.”
The Pact covers a broad range of issues including peace and security, sustainable development, climate change, digital cooperation, human rights, gender, youth and future generations, and the transformation of global governance. Key deliverables in the Pact include:
In the area of peace and securityThe most progressive and concrete commitment to Security Council reform since the 1960s, with plans to improve the effectiveness and representativeness of the Council, including by redressing the historical under-representation of Africa as a priority.The first multilateral recommitment to nuclear disarmament in more than a decade, with a clear commitment to the goal of totally eliminating nuclear weapons.Agreement to strengthen international frameworks that govern outer space, including a clear commitment to prevent an arms race in outer space and the need to ensure all countries can benefit from the safe and sustainable exploration of outer space.Steps to avoid the weaponization and misuse of new technologies, such as lethal autonomous weapons, and affirmation that the laws of war should apply to many of these new technologies.
On sustainable development, climate and financing for developmentThe entire Pact is designed to turbo-charge implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.The most detailed agreement ever at the United Nations on the need for reform of the international financial architecture so that it better represents and serves developing countries, including: Giving developing countries a greater say in how decisions are taken at international financial institutions;Mobilizing more financing from multilateral development banks to help developing countries meet their development needs;Reviewing the sovereign debt architecture to ensure that developing countries can borrow sustainably to invest in their future, with the IMF, UN, G20 and other key players working together;Strengthening the global financial safety net to protect the poorest in the event of financial and economic shocks, through concrete actions by the IMF and Member States;and accelerating measures to address the challenge of climate change, including through delivering more finance to help countries adapt to climate change and invest in renewable energy. Improving how we measure human progress, going beyond GDP to capturing human and planetary wellbeing and sustainability.A commitment to consider ways to introduce a global minimum level of taxation on high-net-worth individuals.On climate change, confirmation of the need to keep global temperature rise to 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels and to transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
On digital cooperationThe Global Digital Compact, annexed to the Pact, is the first comprehensive global framework for digital cooperation and AI governance.At the heart of the Compact is a commitment to design, use and govern technology for the benefit of all. This includes commitments by world leaders to: Connect all people, schools and hospitals to the Internet;Anchor digital cooperation in human rights and international law;Make the online space safe for all, especially children, through actions by governments, tech companies and social media;Govern Artificial Intelligence, with a roadmap that includes an International Scientific Panel and a Global Policy Dialogue on AI;Make data more open and accessible, with agreements on open-source data, models, and standards;This is also the first global commitment to data governance, placing it on the UN agenda and requiring countries to take concrete actions by 2030.
Youth and future generationsThe first ever Declaration on Future Generations, with concrete steps to take account of future generations in our decision-making, including a possible envoy for future generations.A commitment to more meaningful opportunities for young people to participate in the decisions that shape their lives, especially at the global level.
Human rights and genderA strengthening of our work on human rights, gender equality and the empowerment of women.A clear call on the need to protect human rights defenders.Strong signals on the importance of engagement of other stakeholders in global governance, including local and regional governments, civil society, private sector and others.
There are provisions across the Pact and its annexes for follow-up action, to ensure that the commitments made are implemented.
Summit Process
The Summit process and the Pact have been deeply enriched by the contributions of millions of voices and thousands of stakeholders from around the world.
The Summit brought together over 4000 individuals from Heads of State and Government, observers, IGOs, UN System, civil society and non-governmental organizations. In a broader push to increase the engagement of diverse actors, the formal Summit was preceded by the Action Days from 20-21 September, which attracted more than 7,000 individuals representing all segments of society. The Action Days featured strong commitments to action by all stakeholders, as well as pledges of USD 1.05 billion to advance digital inclusion.###
For more information: https://www.un.org/en/summit-of-the-future
Media contacts:
Francyne Harrigan, United Nations Department of Global Communications | harriganf@un.org
Stefania Piffanelli, Executive Office of the Secretary-General, United Nations | piffanelli@un.org
Jackquelyn Kay Topacio, Executive Office of the Secretary-General, United Nations | jackquelyn.topacio@un.org
, filtered_html
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