This week, the UN continued to speak out on the global environment, from record greenhouse gas concentrations to a document adopted at the Convention on Biological Diversity meeting (COP17). Together with calls for humanitarian aid ahead of winter and a lecture and concert marking 70 years of Japan’s UN membership, we look back on the week through its headlines.
Greenhouse gas concentrations hit a new record; UN agency warns of extreme weather
From the editors: The article reports that greenhouse gas concentrations have reached a new record and that a UN agency has warned of extreme weather. It is a headline that reminds us once again of the importance of climate action.
“Deep concern” over achieving nature recovery targets: adopted at the UN Convention on Biological Diversity meeting
From the editors: The article reports that a document expressing deep concern about achieving nature recovery targets was adopted at the UN Convention on Biological Diversity meeting. How countries will advance their efforts to protect nature is now in question.
Ecosystem restoration at one-third of target; UN report calls for further action
From the editors: The article reports that a UN report found ecosystem restoration at only one-third of the target and called for further action. It points to the need to broaden restoration efforts.
UN: “9 million people face a harsh winter,” calls for support (FNN Prime Online)
From the editors: The article reports that the UN has called for support, saying 9 million people face a harsh winter. We hope assistance arrives before the cold sets in.
UN warns displaced people in Yemen exceed 290,000, including many women close to giving birth
From the editors: The article reports a UN warning that more than 290,000 people are displaced in Yemen, including many women close to giving birth. It suggests the need for humanitarian aid for people including mothers and children.
November 5: How a Japanese tsunami story became the UN’s “World Tsunami Awareness Day” [Everyday Disaster Preparedness] (Nagoya Broadcasting Network)
From the editors: The article explains how November 5 became a UN-designated day inspired by a story from a tsunami disaster in Japan. It may be a good opportunity to think about disaster preparedness.
Mr. Owada, former ICJ President, lectures on 70 years of UN membership and the role Japan plays in the international community
From the editors: The article reports that Mr. Owada, former President of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), gave a lecture on the role Japan plays in the international community, marking 70 years of Japan’s UN membership. It is an opportunity to look back on Japan’s ties with the UN in this milestone year.
All Japan Volunteer Federation takes part in “UN Choir Peace Concert in NAGASAKI” marking 70 years of Japan’s UN membership
From the editors: The article reports that the All Japan Volunteer Federation took part in a peace concert in Nagasaki commemorating the 70th anniversary of Japan’s UN membership. It is an event for sharing hopes for peace through music.
Training young animators in “Africa”: UNDP and partners offer course on in-between animation work with Japanese government support (Otaku Soken)
From the editors: The article reports that the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and partners, with support from the Japanese government, will offer a course to train young animators in Africa. It draws attention as an effort to develop people through the creative industries.
November 7 (Sat) and 8 (Sun): Moomin Valley Park × Japan for UNHCR, second collaboration!
From the editors: This is an announcement that Moomin Valley Park and Japan for UNHCR will hold their second collaboration on November 7 and 8. It may be a chance for families to learn about refugee support.
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.