This week marked UN Day on October 24, and a photo exhibition celebrating the 70th anniversary of Japan’s UN membership opened. We look back through the headlines at a week in which climate and humanitarian topics stood out, including a warning about food shortages caused by El Niño, projections of rising temperatures, and a UN fund’s first contribution to Nepal.
Message from UN Secretary-General António Guterres for United Nations Day (October 24)
From the editors: The UN Information Centre released Secretary-General Guterres’s message for United Nations Day. It is an occasion to reflect once again on the role of the UN.
“A giant monster”: UN warns El Niño could leave up to 50 million people facing food shortages
From the editors: The article reports a UN warning that up to 50 million people could face food shortages because of El Niño. It shows how strongly changes in the climate can affect people’s lives.
UN fund to make its first contribution to Nepal, securing 3.4 billion yen for damage caused by global warming
From the editors: The article reports that a UN fund addressing damage from global warming is expected to make its first contribution to Nepal. The headline suggests that a mechanism for supporting countries hit by climate change has begun to work.
Global temperatures to rise 2.6 degrees this century even if current targets are met; UN calls for action
From the editors: The article reports the UN’s projection that global temperatures will rise by 2.6 degrees this century even if countries meet their current targets, along with its call for action. It indicates that stronger climate action is needed.
UNHCR chief: “The situation in Yemen is escalating in an extremely dangerous way”
From the editors: The article reports that the head of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) said the situation in Yemen is deteriorating in a dangerous way. It conveys concern about the humanitarian situation on the ground.
UN committee: tradition cannot justify discrimination; general recommendation urges states parties to improve
From the editors: The article reports that a UN committee issued a general recommendation stating that tradition cannot be used to justify discrimination and calling on states parties to make improvements. It is part of the effort to build international standards that protect human rights.
Young people consider solutions for peace; proposals to be reflected in the Secretary-General’s report — UN Peace Circle
From the editors: The article reports that proposals from the UN “Peace Circle,” where young people discuss solutions for peace, are set to be reflected in the Secretary-General’s report. It draws attention as an effort to bring young people’s voices to the international stage.
Photo exhibition marks 70th anniversary of Japan’s UN membership in Tokyo, showcasing ties with Japan
From the editors: The article reports that a photo exhibition introducing the ties between Japan and the UN opened in Tokyo to mark the 70th anniversary of Japan’s UN membership. It looks like a chance to feel closer to the UN’s work.
Japan Association for the World Food Programme marks 15 years of its “Red Cup Campaign”; Marius Yo posts on social media
From the editors: The article reports that the Japan Association for WFP’s “Red Cup Campaign” has reached its 15th anniversary, with posts on social media as well. It shows that efforts to widen the circle of support from everyday life are continuing.
Former UAE ambassador declares candidacy in the stalled UN Secretary-General selection
From the editors: The article reports that the UAE’s former ambassador to the UN has declared her candidacy as the selection of the next Secretary-General remains stalled. Attention continues on who will take the helm of the UN.
Headlines belong to the respective news outlets and sources (copyright remains with each). Please read the full articles at the linked pages. The “From the editors” comments were written by the NGO Network Japan editorial team based on the headlines.