United Nations in Philippines

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in the Philippines.

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Press Release

31 January 2025

New programme to close digital gap for 15,000 small businesses

A new program, supported by the United Nations, was launched today to provide digital tools and training to at least 15,000 small businesses in underserved communities. The launch event was attended by officials from the government, development and diplomatic communities, and the private sector. The ultimate objective is to strengthen the competitiveness of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through improved connectivity.The United Nations Joint Programme on Inclusive, Competitive, and Responsible Digital Philippines (Digital PINAS) will build a digital ecosystem for MSMEs in remote regions that face barriers to connectivity. The programme will also provide training to help entrepreneurs to grow their businesses in the digital economy. The initiative is being implemented jointly by three UN entities: the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the International Trade Centre (ITC), and the International Labour Organization (ILO), in collaboration with the government, led by the DICT, and potential private sector partners. “Despite advances in connectivity and digital adoption, millions remain disconnected from progress. Women, indigenous communities, small entrepreneurs, and those in remote areas still struggle with limited access to digital tools and skills,” said Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) Secretary Ivan John Uy at the launch. “Digital PINAS is a declaration that we refuse to let barriers hold back our people. We are not just closing gaps; we are tearing down walls that have long excluded Filipinos from the opportunities they deserve.”With a total budget of US$5 million, the joint programme will address policy, regulatory and systemic barriers to digital inclusion.To achieve these goals, the Digital PINAS programme will use a three-pillar strategy: capacity building, support for the establishment of Digital Transformation Hubs in at least 30 geographically remote and underserved areas, and advocacy for policies and regulations that will promote digitalization and encourage investment in an inclusive digital ecosystem.“The promotion of digital transformation as a catalytic opportunity is critical to accelerate the Sustainable Development Goals. This is especially relevant in the context of the Philippines and critical to supporting its ambition to be an upper-middle-income country… We are positioning Digital PINAS as a convergence point for integrated UN Country Team action to support a unified digital transformation agenda for the Philippines,” said Khalid Hassan, Director of ILO in the Philippines, who opened the launch on behalf of the United Nations Resident Coordinator in the Philippines, Gustavo Gonzalez. Digital PINAS is funded through the United Nations’ Joint SDG Fund, an inter-agency mechanism for strategic financing of transformative actions toward achieving SDGs by 2030. The Fund is supported by the European Union (EU), which pledged an initial 30 million euros for digital transformation efforts across the developing world, including the Philippines. Other supporters to the Fund include Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Republic of Korea, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.Speaking at the programme launch, EU Head of Cooperation in the Philippines Marco Gemmer said: “We envision this initiative to inspire entrepreneurs, especially at the margins to take advantage of technology and innovation to grow their businesses and build confidence to showcase their products and services before a boundless digital marketplace.”Farmer-entrepreneurs shared how simple digitalization efforts have helped their businesses grow. “We have farmers from Zambales who found a market in Manila by promoting their produce on social media,” shared Ms. Mary Elaine Timbal, founder of the agribusiness startup Sakahon. With a wider reach for their produce, “Our federation can now focus on strategizing for other things, like increasing our production to meet the demand created by our online presence,” said Ms. Fatima Ibanen, President of the Igbaras Federation of Farmers.To complement the programme’s investment, a key component of the initiative involves the mobilization of an anticipated $21 million in local government and private sector investments for digital products., filtered_html

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Press Release

22 January 2025

The Philippines operationalizes policy on terrorism and terrorism financing

Manila (Philippines), 17 January 2025 – The Department of Justice (DOJ), alongside key Philippine criminal justice agencies, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today to operationalize a policy on terrorism and terrorism financing cases. This milestone will allow experts to adopt Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that focus on case build-up, which involves gathering all the necessary evidence, facts, and information to support a legal case, making the prosecution and investigation of terrorism more effective.“These SOPs provide much-needed clarity and structure to the processes of investigation and prosecution in terrorism and terrorism financing cases. They reaffirm our commitment to delivering justice with precision, fostering collaboration across agencies, and upholding the fundamental principles of human rights,” said Department of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla. The initiative operationalizes DOJ Department Circular No. 20 (DC 20), issued in March 2023, which emphasizes the proactive role of prosecutors in case build-up for serious offenses.The SOPs were collaboratively developed over 2024 by a technical working group comprising the DOJ, the Anti-Money Laundering Council, the Philippine National Police, the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and the Philippine Coast Guard. The process was supported by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in the Philippines and funded by the Australian Government.The SOPs are envisioned to be institutionalized through targeted training and workshops, equipping agencies to integrate them into daily operations and ensuring alignment with national and international standards for handling terrorism and terrorism financing cases.A holistic approach to justiceBy providing clear, actionable steps for case build-up, evidence handling, and inter-agency coordination, the SOPs aim to ensure that complex cases are handled effectively while safeguarding human rights, including due process rights. “These SOPs equip Philippine agencies with a comprehensive, rights-based framework tailored to meet the complex challenges of counterterrorism. By promoting operational coordination and embedding human rights safeguards, this initiative reinforces the Philippines’ commitment to a justice system that is both resilient and principled,” said UNODC Philippines Country Manager Daniele Marchesi. The SOPs reinforce existing guardrails intended to protect the rights of individuals accused of any violation of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 or the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act throughout investigations and prosecutions. These include strict adherence to the right against unlawful detention, protection of personal data in line with international privacy standards, and mechanisms to prevent coercion or the use of evidence obtained through torture. In cases involving vulnerable groups or witnesses, the SOPs provide additional layers of protection, such as access to psychological support and confidentiality measures.Building a sustainable frameworkBeyond supporting the Philippines’ efforts to exit the Financial Action Task Force ‘grey list’, in which the country has been since 2021, they aim to establish a sustainable, rights-based framework for effectively addressing terrorism and terrorism financing through enhanced coordination and accountability.“Australia is proud to have supported the development of these SOPs, which demonstrate how inter-agency collaboration can help to address terrorism and terrorism financing. This framework will improve the quality of cases, generate better justice outcomes and enable a justice-led approach that upholds the rule of law and human rights.[U2] ,” said Australia’s Ambassador to the Philippines, HK Yu.UNODC has been an integral partner in this process, she added, facilitating technical working groups and workshops providing expertise to align the SOPs’ framework with international best practices. Advancing Justice for AllThe SOPs are designed not only to address the immediate needs of terrorism-related cases but also to serve as a model for broader institutional reforms within the Philippine’s criminal justice system. As these SOPs are adopted into the operations of each agency, the DOJ and its partners aim to institutionalize the framework through policy issuances, ensuring its sustainability and impact. This institutionalization underlines the Philippine government’s commitment to enhance its criminal justice mechanisms, address national security concerns, and ensure that human rights remain a central tenet of its counter-terrorism strategies, Marchesi added. , filtered_html

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Press Release

20 January 2025

Vulnerable communities in Surigao find new livelihood opportunities and improved housing with UN support

SURIGAO CITY, PHILIPPINES – A United Nations joint programme launched in Surigao in October 2024 is already showing tangible results: families from vulnerable communities in the city have identified entrepreneurial and business opportunities to improve their living conditions. The “Localize to Realize: Accelerating Sustainable Development Goals’ (SDG) implementation for local and vulnerable groups and communities of women, indigenous peoples and informal settler families” (L2R SDG) implemented by UN Habitat and UN Women and funded by the global Joint SDG Fund focuses on supporting Sama Bajau and informal settler families in the city. Aquaculture development, a materials recovery facility, and a neighborhood store that can be upscaled to an e-commerce platform are some of the initial livelihood programs proposed by at least 80 families during community consultations. L2R SDG follows a participatory and community-driven model where indigenous groups and informal settler families can engage with local and national governments in SDG-based planning, budgeting, and decision-making activities. “Localizing the SDGs is about empowering communities to shape their own futures. By tailoring SDG initiatives to the unique cultural and socio-economic contexts of each community through involvement in decision-making, we pave the way for greater inclusion of vulnerable communities,” according to UN Philippines Resident Coordinator Gustavo Gonzalez.Representatives from the Sama Bajau Council and informal settler associations are members of the L2R SDG steering committee and are an inherent part of decision making. “Dako kaayo nig [tabang] sa amoa kay mavoice-out namo among gusto. Pasalamat kaayo mi na beneficiary mi sa mga balay ug naa pay SDG para sa among kabataan. (This is a big help for us because we can voice out what we want. We are thankful that we are beneficiaries of the housing project plus the SDGs which will benefit our youth),” Sama Bajau Council member Ronald Bastiong said. They are also given a platform to provide inputs on how local initiatives can be aligned with their realities on the ground."The city government of Surigao wholeheartedly commits to support the initiatives that uplift marginalized communities - particularly the Sama Bajau who contribute so much to the culture fabric of our city," Surigao City Mayor Pablo Yves Dumlao II said. Housing improvementsThe Sama Bajau indigenous group is actively involved in the design and construction of culturally sensitive settlements under the Huy-anan nan Bajau sa Surigao (Home for Bajaus in Surigao) Project implemented by UN Habitat and funded by the Spanish Government through the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID). "We have a fantastic partnership here - not many events have so many stakeholders engaged with that level of commitment and for UN Habitat, we need to follow through at many different levels. Our commitment to the communities is to continue the people's process and we are extremely proud and happy of the partnership that we have," UN Habitat Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific Human Settlements Officer Bernhard Barth said. Through the project, Sama Bajau families will move to a resettlement area which is also being developed as an ecovillage by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).Currently, these groups reside in neighborhoods with no proper access to basic water and sanitation facilities.As of this year, four housing units have been built - with one under construction. 20 units or five quadruplex stilt houses are targeted under the project.“The desire and the wish of the Spanish Cooperation is to try to be with you [Sama Bajau] in the future to be possible to build double or triple of these houses. It is not only a house - it is a future, it is a better life,” according to Violeta Dominguez Acosta, Head of AECID Philippines.Bringing SDGs to the familiesA better understanding of development principles enables vulnerable communities to overcome stigma and help themselves. This is why the communities in the city received training on sustainable development goals and its impact on the lives of the communities organized by UN Women and UN Habitat.This included a facilitated discussion on the rights of women, and children and highlighted the essential role of women-led households in improving living conditions. Trainers showed parents how to monitor the development of their children under a new scheme called Family Actions for Children and their Environs in Surigao (FACES). Over 80 families are participating in the programme.“It is a privilege to work and be part of Localize to Realize project where we hope to see lived realities and vulnerabilities of women and IP communities surfaced and addressed with an SDG lens. We know that local women and IPs when informed, engaged, and empowered will not just be beneficiaries but key contributors to inclusive and sustainable development,” according to UN Women Philippines Country Coordinator Rosalyn Mesina.The implementation of the L2R SDG joint programme and its complementing projects represent a significant step towards achieving the SDGs in Surigao City. “This collaborative approach fosters inclusivity, empowers local voices, and builds resilient communities. Joint programmes such as the L2R SDG is a driver for meaningful, fit-for-purpose development," Gonzalez added.The L2R SDG joint programme aims to localize the SDGs by establishing a participatory and community-driven model that can unlock and support vulnerable communities to engage with local and national governments in SDG-based planning and budgeting and access programs and services that are responsive to the differentiated socio-economic needs and priorities of population groups.It is funded through the Joint SDG Fund using funding from Spain as well as the governments of Belgium, Denmark, the European Union, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Sweden and Switzerland., filtered_html

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06 May 2025

Stuck in the middle? Indebted nations plot path to growth amid global trade upheaval

Faced with mounting debt and economic stagnation, middle-income countries have issued a call for financial reform, sustainable investment, and a roadmap to escape the so-called “middle-income trap,” at a UN-backed international conference held in Manila, Philippines, which concluded on Tuesday. The High-Level Conference of Middle-Income Countries (MICs), held on 28 and 29 April, was attended by senior representatives from 24 MICs, many of which are highly indebted, leaving them little room for spending on developing their economies.Since 2000, only 27 countries transitioned from middle income to high-income status, and many have experienced reversals back to middle-income level: 11 nations switched back and forth at least once before reaching their current high-income status.Around 60 per cent of the world's poor live in MICs, indicating that fighting poverty is not achievable by focusing only on the lowest income nations. “The transition of middle-income countries to high-income status while meeting sustainable development ambitions calls for the bolstering of financing for development,” said Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) at the opening of the event. “This calls for domestic policy reforms aimed at expanding fiscal space, maintaining debt sustainability and channeling resources towards productive investments.”The Makati Declaration on Middle-Income Countries calls for the UN to support MICs in accessing development financing, including via innovative financing mechanisms, and to provide support in a number of areas, ranging from programmes and initiatives to mitigate and adapt to the climate crisis to digital transformation and making countries more resilient to global shocks (see full list of measures below). “We recognise that middle-income countries experience frequent growth slowdowns, and if left unaddressed, this loss of economic dynamism can cause countries to get stuck in what is referred to as the “middle-income trap,” the Declaration states. “We stress that middle-income countries continue to face specific challenges related to, inter alia, high levels of inequalities, low growth, persistent poverty, unemployment, loss of biodiversity, the adverse effects of disaster risks and climate change, reliance on primary commodity exports, high levels of external debt and the volatility of exchange rates and capital flows, and digital divide.”MICs will strengthen cooperation among themselves and offer increasing resources under technical cooperation between countries in the global South, which could become particularly important given the recent reduction in development support from traditional donors of the global North.“We are re-moulding traditional development partnerships as more MICs, including the Philippines, increase resources for South-South and technical cooperation,” said Enrique Manalo, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Philippines at the event. “This is a trend that, if scaled up, could potentially result in game-changing dividends for the global development system.”The Like-Minded Group of MICs are “as champions of multilateralism,” he added. “Carving a steady path for all middle-income countries behooves us to support strongly an international rules-based order underpinned by equity and justice.” The Makati Declaration on Middle-Income CountriesThe list of measures adopted at the High-Level Conference of Middle-Income Countries:Productive capacity developmentHuman and social developmentEnvironment and climate changeScience, technology and innovation and digital transformationInclusive development cooperationGlobal multi-stakeholder partnershipsSouth-South and Triangular cooperation (SSTC)Measures for sustainable development beyond GDPBuilding resilience to global shocks and multidimensional crisis. This article was first published by UN News. , filtered_html

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06 May 2025

Middle Income Countries (MICs) can lead shift to green industrial development

Manila, 28-29 April, 2025 - Middle-income countries (MICs) can increase their competitiveness and lead the global shift towards a green industrial system by ensuring that policies on climate resilience are integrated into their industrial planning, concluded experts at a panel discussion organized by the UN Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) as a side event to the High-Level Conference on Middle-Income Countries (HLC-MIC). The panel focused on industries’ role in the transition to a green economy. Fatou Haidara, UNIDO Deputy Director General, explained that MICs currently produce a large share of the world’s economic goods, but also high carbon emissions; by implementing clear and coherent policies and investments for low-carbon, resource-efficient production, these developing countries are in a strategic position to advance sustainable industrialization.“By aligning industrial expansion with environmental stewardship, MICs can unlock a new era of shared prosperity that safeguards our planet for generations to come,” she said.UNIDO supports MICs in making the green transition through targeted policy advice, capacity building initiatives and facilitating investment and technological advancements. Programmes and strategies for MICs encourage decarbonization of industrial processes and promote circular economy business models.In the Philippines, the organization’s technical assistance includes low-carbon cold storage solutions, initiatives on safe and sustainable industrial waste disposal, and support towards a shift to renewable energy.“UNIDO's strategic framework for MICs is a shining example of how the UN system can provide dedicated and tailored support to industrial development in MICs,” said Ambassador Antonio Lagdameo, Chair of the Like Minded Group of MICs, and the Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the United Nations in New York.Marcel Silvius, Country Representative for the Philippines of the Global Green Growth Institute, cautioned that while MICs have the opportunity to lead efforts for green industrialization, these countries must still overcome many challenges.These include the difficulties of phasing out old-fashioned high-carbon ways of production and creating enabling policies and financing strategies for development. They also need to overcome a perception that the green transition is a risk rather than an opportunity and increase their capacity to carry out this transition, he added.One tangible initiative developed by UNIDO to help MICs navigate the green transition has been the creation of an international framework for the development of eco-industrial parks, providing a holistic approach to sustainable industrial production. The framework includes 64 benchmarks and detailed guidance to governments and industrial park managers on how to meet them. According to Salil Dutt, Chief Technical Adviser of UNIDO’s Eco-Industrial Parks Programme, the programme has been implemented in 12 countries across Latin America, East Europe, Africa and Southeast Asia, the project aims to support policy and regulatory framework to incentivize industrial parks to transform into eco-industrial parks. He said the industrial parks have sparked innovation in countries like Indonesia, Egypt, Colombia and other participating countries in the programme, which may be replicated in other MICs.(For more on how eco-industrial parks support sustainable development, see this article from Indonesia.) Knowledge exchange among eco-industrial parks is an example of south-south and triangular Industrial cooperation (SSTIC), which refers to exchanges of resources, technology, and skills between developing countries in the Global South that are facilitated by multilateral organizations like the United Nations. UNIDO SSTIC Director Shenhong Yao emphasized that SSTC enables the transfer of knowledge across borders and builds capacities to allow MICs to become engines of innovation.“SSTC is vital and effective in promoting inclusive, sustainable industrial development in the Global South,” he said.Philippine industry representative Danilo Lachica, President of the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries Association, echoed the sentiment that knowledge sharing is critical to boost the country’s sustainability initiatives. He said the country’s industrial sector has slowly begun adopting greener practices, but more needs to be done so these can be adapted by both smaller enterprises and large-scale industries. The successful side-event panel discussion marks a significant step forward in UNIDO’s ongoing partnership with MICs. As a co-organizer of the HLMIC and a collaborator in shaping the action plan for MICs, UNIDO has further solidified its commitment to supporting sustainable economic and industrial development in these countries. This engagement not only reinforces the organization’s strategic framework for partnering with MICs but also ensures that UNIDO remains responsive to their evolving priorities and challenges, paving the way for deeper cooperation and impactful outcomes in the years ahead. This article was first published by UNIDO News. , filtered_html

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06 May 2025

Innovative UN approaches to support Middle-Income Countries showcased at high-level conference

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Representatives from 19 countries gathered in Manila from 28 to 29 April for the High-Level Conference of the Like-Minded Group of Middle-Income Countries, organized by the Government of the Philippines with the support of the United Nations. The conference included discussions on innovative ways to support middle-income countries (MICs) and their key role in driving sustainable development.Scaling innovative approaches for UN support for MICsThe Conference noted that over 100 countries are classified by the World Bank as middle-income, with Gross National Income per capita between $1,146 and $14,005. They account for around 75 per cent of global population, 60 per cent of the world's poor and one-third of global gross domestic product (GDP).Since 2000, only 27 countries have transitioned from middle-income to high-income status. Many of them experienced reversals back to the middle-income level, with 11 countries switching back and forth at least once before reaching their current high-income status. In fact, the Conference recognised that middle-income countries experience frequent growth slowdowns and, if left unaddressed, this loss of economic dynamism can cause countries to get stuck in what is referred to as the "middle-income trap." Member States of this like-minded group stress that middle-income countries continue to face specific challenges related to, inter alia, high levels of inequalities, low growth, persistent poverty, unemployment, loss of biodiversity, the adverse effects of disaster risks and climate change, reliance on primary commodity exports, high levels of external debt and the volatility of exchange rates and capital flows, and the digital divide. Speakers at a panel entitled "New Generation Partnerships with the UN Development System", including David McLachlan-Karr, Regional Director for Asia-Pacific at the UN Development Coordination Office, highlighted how the UN has re-oriented its respective in-country development frameworks to address their evolving needs. "Middle-Income Countries are vital engines for global development, and they face complex, evolving challenges that require equally dynamic and tailored support," he said. Therefore, we need solutions tailored to these countries' diverse realities.He added that the future of the UN’s support to MICs is built on a new generation of partnerships that are strategic, catalytic and fully aligned with national needs and priorities. These approaches include support to national leadership and amplifying country-driven initiatives, as well as advancing innovative solutions in financing, climate resilience, and inclusive growth with Resident Coordinators as enablers of these pathways to sustainable development."There has recently been more clarity in terms of the role of the Resident Coordinators in positioning the UN system in strengthening coordination," said Maria Teresa Almojuela, Assistant Secretary of the Office of United Nations and International Organizations at the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs, who moderated the panel. “A united proposition from the UN increases effectiveness of support.” Shifting perspectives in development supportTraditionally, the UN has provided official development assistance to support developing countries, including MICs. But as the development needs of these countries become more complex and diverse, the UN has transformed its approach by focusing more on integrated policy advice, innovative financing, and strengthening institutions. Neville Gertze, Namibia's Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, highlighted that Namibia is an example of such a partnership.“That relationship of an aid model is no longer the case [for Namibia]. Today, we have a very strategic partnership of cooperation with the UN on the ground that enables us to develop our own capacity with the help of the UN systems,” Ambassador Gertze said. Namibia has sub-Saharan Africa's eighth highest per capita GDP, around five times higher than that of Africa’s least developed countries. However, inequalities persist, and the majority of the population is still engaged in subsistence agriculture. Supporting Namibia's efforts to lift them out of poverty is a key target of the UN’s Cooperation Framework in the country.McLachlan-Karr emphasized the importance of making full use of the Cooperation Frameworks as a way of rethinking engagement with MICs and moving towards transformational, rather than transactional, partnerships.Leveraging unified development approaches for MICsEmbedding national priorities in the Cooperation Framework highlights the crucial role of the UN development system in supporting MICs, said UN Resident Coordinator in Indonesia, Gita Sabharwal.“We are only as effective as the partnerships of trust that we foster. These broad-based partnerships are what MICs need in becoming developed nations, and the Resident Coordinators must stand at the heart of those,” she said.Dirk Wagener, UN Resident Coordinator in Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu, highlighted the diverse nature of MICs, including those in the Pacific, which are also classified as Small Island Developing States (SIDS) with unique challenges.“Pacific middle-income countries face a development paradox: while income-based metrics classify them as middle income, the realities on the ground reveal acute vulnerabilities,” he said. “These countries remain highly exposed to climate change impacts and natural disasters, compounded by geographical isolation and limited economic diversification.”Regional solutions for shared challengesMiddle-Income Countries are strengthening cooperation among themselves and offering increasing resources under a model called South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSTC), which is expected to become increasingly important given the reduction in development support from traditional donors of the global North.Brian Wallace, Permanent Representative of Jamaica to the United Nations in New York, said SSTC benefits all those involved and the wider multilateral system.“Certainly, one area of SSTC is advocacy — on the strengthening and stable resourcing of the UN development system,” he said.At the Conference’s conclusion, delegates from the Like-Minded Group of Middle-Income Countries adopted the Makati Declaration on Middle-Income Countries, which commits to advancing the elaboration of a Strategic Programme of Action (SPOA) for middle-income countries, inclusive of concrete proposals to reform the development financing architecture for Middle-Income Countries and building on the commitment in the Rabat Declaration towards the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development. This article was first published by DCO News. , filtered_html

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22 April 2025

UN Philippines Engages Youth as Champions of Disaster Preparedness

Manila, Philippines – Acting before an imminent disaster saves lives and money. As the Philippines enters the drought season, the United Nations Philippines – in collaboration with the government – has launched a campaign to advocate for increased disaster preparedness. At a forum at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), around 500 students and disaster risk reduction focal persons learned about the importance of anticipatory action (AA) – a series of early, proactive steps based on forecasts before a disaster happens. The forum was organized jointly with the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).The forum, entitled “One Step Ahead”, raised awareness about the crucial role of youth in reducing the impacts of natural and man-made shocks through disaster preparedness frameworks. It also served as an opportunity to encourage young people to become champions of proactive interventions within their social circles and larger communities. For Gabrielle Montiel, a Communication Research student, the forum's lessons were particularly relevant as she lives in Romblon, a coastal province frequently affected by tropical cyclones. “It’s been a big help for me as it gave me an idea of how we can apply AA to different areas and what we can do as students in advocating for preparedness in our communities,” she said.Expert Insights and Practical KnowledgeExperts from PAGASA, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the World Food Programme shared valuable insights on disaster preparedness and AA.PAGASA Senior Weather Specialist Aldczar Aurelio explained various hydrometeorological hazards affecting the country and how communities can prepare for their impacts through early warning systems.OCHA Humanitarian Affairs Officer Melissa Correa discussed the basics of AA – that it involves evidence-based actions to mitigate the impacts of hazards even before they hit.“Advocating for AA as early as now is relevant since we encounter different climate hazards all year round. Having the youth equipped with the knowledge on AA can help us reduce the effects of the current heatwave season, for example,” Correa said.“The UN recognizes the Philippines' efforts in disaster preparedness and response and advocates for sustained investments,” she added. “Today’s forum supports the Government’s plan for increased action on disaster risk reduction.”WFP Senior Programme Associate Zuhaina Abubacar provided examples of AA activities, such as supplying cash transfers to people who are expected to be impacted by a disaster, to help the youth understand how AA works in practice. She also briefed participants on the AA Bill, titled the 'Declaration of State of Imminent Disaster,' which has been filed in both the Senate and the House of Representatives and is currently under deliberations. The AA Bill on the Declaration of State of Imminent Disaster will help create protocols and establish workflows for the government to follow – including making funding available before disasters for people to buy supplies and move livestock and boats into safe locations, and other AA interventions.Engaging Discussions and a Movement for the FutureStudents asked questions on AA interventions for mental health and asked for more details on the drought season. They also shared their insights on how disaster preparedness is localized in their home areas and their role in documenting cultural practices that can be considered AA and how it can be upscaled.The forum demonstrated the capacity of young people to drive disaster preparedness into the mainstream consciousness of the country, PUP Associate Professor Emy Ruth Gianan said. “We are happy to host this kind of event as it is a wonderful opportunity for us to help spread awareness on disaster preparedness and anticipatory action to our stakeholders,” she said.PUP is developing a disaster risk reduction plan for the whole school system, and the forum reinforced the importance of incorporating AA initiatives in their preparedness framework, Prof. Gianan added.Click here to view a video recap of the event. The campaign on Anticipatory Action continues online., filtered_html

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28 February 2025

"We Stand Together": Communities Lead the Way in Creating Gender- and Disability-Inclusive HIV Services in the Philippines

In a powerful demonstration of this year's Zero Discrimination Day theme "We Stand Together,” communities of people living with HIV, persons with disabilities and key populations convened with government agencies and civil society organizations to validate findings of a national assessment on how discrimination continues to create barriers in accessing HIV services in the Philippines.This assessment was done by the National HIV Program in the Philippines with the support from the Australian Government. It aims to identify population-specific and cross-cutting barriers to accessing HIV care, explore existing initiatives and strategies to address these barriers, and develop community-engaged recommendations for more available and accessible HIV services.The assessment cited several examples and root causes of discrimination. Healthcare providers may lack relevant sensitivity training. Deaf individuals often face challenges in accessing confidential HIV services due to language barriers. Transgender women encounter difficulties when facilities fail to recognize their identity. Cisgender women are often excluded from HIV prevention programs.At an online validation workshop, participants suggested remedies to some of these barriers. Deaf participants emphasized how the lack of sign language interpreters and deaf-inclusive HIV centers creates significant barriers, especially outside Metro Manila. “One-day sign language training for healthcare workers is ineffective,” a participant noted, recommending instead to increase the number of deaf counselors and establish dedicated deaf-inclusive HIV facilities.“If we can tap into the local initiatives, we would be able to reach the movers in the community that people with disabilities actually follow,” shared Louie Teng, President of TBPeople Philippines, during a separate hybrid workshop, highlighting the importance of community engagement in addressing discrimination and improving HIV knowledge. Other concrete recommendations to address discrimination included:Developing a Framework to improve HIV service accessibility for allSensitivity and disability inclusion training for healthcare providersStrengthening partnerships between HIV organizations and disability groupsDeveloping disability-specific health promotion materialsThe Assessment exemplifies the principle that communities must be at the center of developing sustainable solutions to discrimination in HIV services. As the Philippines joins the Global Partnership to eliminate HIV-related stigma and discrimination, this assessment provides a roadmap for ensuring that community-led responses receive the recognition, resources, and support they need to create more accessible services for all populations affected by HIV.As we commemorate Zero Discrimination Day 2025, the message is clear: Standing together with communities is not just a theme—it's the only way to ensure a sustainable and equitable response to HIV that truly leaves no one behind., filtered_html

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Press Release

28 May 2025

Press Release: UN report maps pathway to fulfill aspirations for peace, inclusivity and democracy

GENEVA (26 May 2025) – In the face of years of suffering and abuse, the vast majority of the people of Myanmar are united in their defiance of military authoritarianism and violence, a report by the UN Human Rights Office finds, calling for renewed international resolve to end the military’s stranglehold on power and to support the democratic aspirations of the Myanmar people.“Ever since the military disrupted Myanmar’s democratic path in 2021, the country has endured an increasingly catastrophic human rights crisis marked by unabated violence and atrocities that have affected every single aspect of life,” said UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk.“Over the past months, my Office has consulted with Myanmar people across all ethnic communities, sectors and demographics, particularly listening to the voices of young people, on their vision for the future,” the High Commissioner said. “They have been united in one message: they don’t want to be ruled by guns, but, rather, yearn for a peaceful, inclusive and democratic society.”Due to be presented to the Human Rights Council on 1 July 2025, the report underscores the importance of tackling the root causes of the crisis, including unchecked political and economic power concentrated in the military’s hands, generalised impunity, instrumentalization of laws and institutions to serve military interests, and an overall system of governance based on structural racial discrimination, exclusion and division.It identifies four key areas to the path forward: accountability, good governance, sustainable development and the actions of international and regional stakeholders.The report also identifies the “constituents for change” -- namely women, youth, civil society organisations and grassroots networks, pro-democracy actors and the media. The voices in the report call for dismantling military-controlled institutions and economic structures, pointing in particular to the military’s domination and exploitation of the economy and natural resources for their own enrichment.Former political prisoners emphasized the role of an instrumentalized judiciary as complicit in human rights violations, with judges viewed as systematically failing to exercise independent authority, convicting individuals on scant evidence of guilt, and sending thousands to jail. Lawyers highlighted that the judicial system has become entirely subordinated to the military, and will need a complete overhaul to regain people’s trust.There is also a growing recognition of past human rights violations and abuses, including against minority and other marginalized communities like the Rohingya. Perpetrators from all sides must be brought to justice, according to international standards. The report emphasises the importance of criminal accountability, whether through domestic, international, or hybrid legal systems, as part of a wider set of transitional justice measures. Freeing all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi, was consistently indicated as a also being necessary, the report added. Noting achievements made by communities in establishing local institutions and forms of governance, the report highlighted that many areas of the country have begun to build bottom-up democratic structures, often with increased participation of women.It also documented that people who have fled their homes indicated nearly unanimously their intention to return home, whenever safe, and to contribute to the establishment of a just and democratic society. A key practical way to support these individuals in the meantime is the provision of formal longer-term legal status in countries where they have sought refuge and protection, with the possibility to access healthcare, education, and employment. This particularly applies to the Rohingya for whom the pre-conditions of safety, citizenship and rights necessary for any sustainable return still do not exist.Due to deepening food insecurity in Rakhine and drastic cuts to humanitarian aid in Bangladesh, it is imperative that support is maintained and increased, the report states. The ASEAN group of States and other stakeholders should explore options for cross-border assistance to alleviate the suffering of the Rohingya.The Myanmar people, it adds, call for a more effective and decisive approach by the wider international community, including through appropriate targeted sanctions, as well as political engagement with democratic forces and emerging governance structures.“This report underscores the importance of planning for the day-after, where human rights are the front and centre of the new Myanmar,” Türk said. “There are strong, resourceful and principled individuals and groups rallying and creating the conditions for an inclusive and democratic future. They are a shining example of hope for a peaceful future.” ENDS For more information and media requests, please contact:Ravina Shamdasani - + 41 22 917 9169 / ravina.shamdasani@un.orgLiz Throssell - + 41 22 917 9296 / elizabeth.throssell@un.orgJeremy Laurence - +41 22 917 9383 / jeremy.laurence@un.org Tag and shareX @UNHumanRightsFacebook unitednationshumanrightsInstagram @unitednationshumanrights, filtered_html

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Press Release

17 February 2025

UN Women, gov't and CSO partners tackle online GBV and why it keeps women away from politics

Manila, Philippines -- Ahead of the 2025 mid-term elections, UN Women Philippines, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), and civil society partners are taking a stand against online abuse and harassment targeting female politicians. This form of gender-based violence threatens women’s leadership by discouraging their participation in governance and public life. At a forum held on February 7, 2025, at the National Cybercrime Hub in Taguig City, UN Women Philippines’ Women, Peace, and Security Programme Specialist, Catherine Rose Torres, highlighted how disinformation campaigns disproportionately harm women. “There is no shortage of discussions about online disinformation and online incivility or hate speech, but they often lack a gendered lens and fail to recognize that most of these harmful behaviors are directed at women—as usual,” Torres said. Timely conducted ahead of the Philippines’ mid-term elections, the forum explored how technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) deters women from entering and thriving in politics—and what can be done to stop it. How TFGBV Keeps Women Away from Politics Technology-facilitated gender-based violence, as defined by the United Nations Population Fund, is “an act of violence perpetrated by one or more individuals that is committed, assisted, aggravated, and amplified in part or fully by the use of information and communication technologies or digital media against a person on the basis of gender.” Government and civil society have documented cases of TFGBV in the Philippines, including disinformation attacks targeting women in public office, members of the press, and women running for election. The UN Secretary-General’s October 2024 report underscores that technology-facilitated violence against women is not just random but well-funded and well-organized, reinforcing discriminatory norms and promoting misogynistic attitudes. This form of online abuse intensifies during elections. The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) had already issued warnings against “the objectification of women during election season” during the 2022 Presidential polls. PCW Chairperson Ermelita Valdeavilla outlined two major barriers to women’s political participation, saying that very few women are elected to public office because very few women run for elective posts, and that the culture of politics is not women-friendly. “It is characterized by aggression, atrocities, wasteful spending, character assassination, and all types of psychological, verbal, physical, direct, and digitally-mediated gender-based violence. These are all antithetical to the values that women generally uphold. The very culture of politics disempowers women, to the point that they shun away from it,” she said. The numbers further highlight the issue. PNP Women and Children Protection Chief, PBGen. Portia Manalad, revealed that they recorded 1,294 cases in 2023 and 1,333 cases in 2024 involving violations of the Safe Spaces Act (which penalizes online gender-based sexual harassment) and the Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act. Meanwhile, Liza Garcia, Executive Director of the Foundation for Media Alternatives, cited real-world examples of TFGBV during past elections, including baseless accusations, viral scandal fabrications involving a politician’s daughter, red-tagging, and rape threats. Mel Migriño, President of the Women in Security Alliance Philippines, shared her personal experience as a victim of online impersonation and character assassination, further emphasizing how digital spaces remain hostile to women leaders. Despite its devastating impact, TFGBV is often underestimated. Dhyta Caturani, Helpline Southeast Asia Regional Coordinator of Access Now, pointed out that many dismiss it as a mere “consequence of being online” rather than recognizing its real-world harm. Dr. Jaimee Stuart of the United Nations University Macau explained that TFGBV stems from deeply ingrained gender norms that objectify women and undermine their credibility as leaders. She identified several manifestations of TFGBV, including doxing, non-consensual intimate image abuse, sextortion, online sexual harassment, cyberstalking, shallowfakes, deepfakes, misogynistic hate speech, and defamation—all of which push women out of public life. What Can We Do About TFGBV and Its Effects on Women’s Political Participation? DICT Undersecretary for ICT Industry Development Jocelle Batapa-Sigue made a strong call to action, stating, “Technology should never be a weapon against women; rather, it should be a tool that amplifies their voices.” She emphasized that addressing TFGBV and promoting women's political participation requires a multi-stakeholder approach integrating digital safety, policy reforms, and capacity-building initiatives. The DICT is at the forefront of this effort through the Digital Innovation for Women Advancement (DIWA) project, which enhances digital literacy, cybersecurity protections, and gender-sensitive policies in the ICT sector. DICT is also pushing for AI-driven content moderation to curb online harassment, stronger enforcement of digital harassment laws, and cybersecurity education programs to equip women leaders with essential digital safety skills. Beyond online protection, women must be empowered to lead confidently in the digital era. DICT and PCW believe that webinars and training sessions or even courses on political participation are essential in building women’s confidence. Commission on Elections’ Director for Barangay & SK Elections, Michelle Frances Morales-Paredes, stressed that programs tha help build the confidence of women in pursuing politics can enable them to break free from stereotypes that keep them out of politics. From a legal standpoint, Atty. Ona Caritos of the Legal Network for Truthful Elections (LENTE) highlighted that while existing laws—such as the Omnibus Election Code, Safe Spaces Act, and Cybercrime Law—offer protections, enforcement must be strengthened. Meanwhile, PBGen. Manalad assured that the PNP Women and Children Protection Center is intensifying enforcement efforts through rescue operations, legal action, investigations, capacity-building, and awareness campaigns. The tech industry must also step up. Dhyta Caturani advocated for a feminist approach to technology—one that prioritizes care and joy over profit. Dr. Stuart reinforced this by promoting human-centric cybersecurity, which means positioning people (rather than technology) as the primary subjects of cybersecurity, "protecting systems and networks so that they can support and create a foundation for the expression and exercise of human rights." On a hopeful note, Tez Cruz, Co-founder of the Feminist Media Lab, shared inspiring case studies demonstrating the impact of feminist community care. Utilizing technology, their initiatives have empowered survivors by believing them and amplifying their voices, supported feminist organizations in building safe digital communities, promoted women’s leadership through training, mentorship, and fellowships, and documented TFGBV cases among women in politics. For its part, the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) is taking proactive steps to combat TFGBV. Deputy Executive Director Assistant Secretary Mary Rose Magsaysay shared that the agency is enhancing cybersecurity protections, strengthening investigations, capacitating agencies, and enforcing digital safety laws. Through partnerships with law enforcement, ICT agencies, and advocacy groups, the CICC is improving mechanisms for reporting, detecting, and prosecuting cybercrimes targeting women. A Call to Action In closing, Rosalyn Mesina, Country Programme Coordinator of UN Women Philippines, urged participants to reflect on their families and loved ones, reminding them that the fight against TFGBV is deeply personal and affects everyone. She shared UN Women Philippines' vision of building a women-led, multisectoral community of practice—one that not only fights TFGBV but also amplifies women’s political participation, creating safer and more inclusive digital and governance spaces. The “Disinformed, Disempowered, Disenfranchised” forum was jointly organized by UN Women, DICT, and CICC, with the support of the Australian Government’s Cyber and Critical Tech Cooperation Program. , filtered_html

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Press Release

17 February 2025

Boost road safety for people, planet and prosperity

If you had to guess the leading cause of death for children and young people globally, what would you say?Malaria? Pneumonia? Suicide? They’re all up there, but no, it’s road crashes.Cars have been around for over 120 years, and we know how to prevent these tragedies. Yet road crashes still claim more than two lives every minute, and nearly 1.2 million lives every year.If these deaths were caused by a virus, it would be called a pandemic and the world would scramble to develop vaccines to prevent them.And yet reducing road deaths has long been overlooked, misunderstood and underfunded.People will always make mistakes on the roads, but we have proven solutions that ensure our transport systems can absorb these errors in a way that significantly reduces the risk of death.As part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, the world has set an ambitious target of halving road deaths worldwide by 2030.Just ten countries - including some hard-hit low and middle-income countries – managed to reduce road deaths by more than 50% in a decade, and more than 30 countries are close behind. This shows that the target can be met but it is nowhere near enough. We need urgent action.Key to meeting this goal is the decision to design and build our transport systems for people - not for motor vehicles - and to make safety paramount in all decisions and actions.This is especially important for the most vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcycle riders, who are often left dangerously exposed.Advancing road safety is crucial in itself, but it is also key to sustainable development overall.The world is going through an unprecedented wave of motorization. More than a billion vehicles are on the roads. This is unsustainable, so we must focus on moving people, not cars, motorbikes and trucks.Transport accounts for one quarter of global carbon emissions, and fuels congestion in our cities. Yet when mobility is made safe and accessible, people choose the greener options of public transport, walking and cycling.Designing cities around sustainable transport - with cycling lanes, pedestrian zones, and accessible public transport - also strengthens communities by making spaces safer and more livable, while improving access to adequate housing and basic services for all.Safe roads power economies. Road deaths can cost countries around 3 to 5% of GDP, and ensuring more people can move safely to their jobs, schools and vital services drives development.Safe, accessible and affordable transport also breaks down barriers to jobs, schools and opportunities for disadvantaged groups. This helps ensure everyone can reach their potential.The same holds true for gender equality, and in some countries up to 80% of women report suffering harassment on public transport, so we must make transport safe for women and girls.Road safety is everyone’s business and to succeed we need a range of sectors to be involved.Urban planners and engineers must ensure safety is built into infrastructure. Academia and civil society can generate evidence. The media can dig deeper into what works, what doesn’t and why.The private sector has tremendous influence. Businesses can contribute to safe and sustainable mobility by applying proven principles and practices throughout their value chains. They must only sell vehicles that meet United Nations safety standards.Yet the role of government is paramount. Governments must provide strategic and well-coordinated approaches, strong policy and legal frameworks that enforce safety standards and safe behaviors, and sufficient funding. Law enforcement and education are also key.This vision is right at the heart of the Global Plan for the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, which offers a blueprint for governments to reduce road deaths.This week, world leaders will meet for a Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety in Morocco. They will assess progress, share knowledge, and advance actions to halve road deaths by 2030.They are set to adopt a new Marrakech Declaration, which recognizes road safety as an urgent public health and development priority, and that our efforts must be guided by the principles of equity, accessibility, and sustainability.The Declaration calls on leaders to step up efforts to action the Global Plan for the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety. We need a step change in political will, a sense of urgency, evidenced-based, strategies that are costed and implemented, strong coordination and adequate financing.Road safety is a crisis that has gone on far too long. No road deaths are necessary or acceptable.Yet it is also much more than that. Safe and sustainable mobility can power a better future for us all. Op-Ed co-signed by the 15 Heads of UN agencies/departments in Morocco, Jean Todt, UN Special Envoy on Road Safety, Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs. Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) and by H.E. Mr. Abdessamad Kayouh, Minister of Transport and Logistics of the Kingdom of Morocco, Host of the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety. , filtered_html

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Press Release

11 February 2025

Spain and WFP partner to strengthen resilience of indigenous women in the Philippines' Bangsamoro region

The project will reach 28,000 people from indigenous and rural communities. It also aims to promote leadership opportunities for women and strengthen their skills for adapting to climate change that threatens food and nutrition security. “Despite significant progress at the global level, no country in the world has achieved gender equality. That is the reason why Spanish Cooperation aims to not only boost but also accelerate the progress of women's participation and leadership at all decision-making levels. If we are talking about climate resilience in a country most at risk of extreme climate, we must put indigenous women and their communities at the centre of the action,” said Violeta Dominguez Acosta, Head of Spanish Cooperation in the Philippines.Climate change is impacting food security, nutrition and gender equality in conflict-affected BARMM. In 2024, WFP conducted a ‘Leaving No One Behind’ study that showed barriers such as climate-related risks hinder rural and indigenous women from accessing resources and decision making processes, resulting in the loss of livelihood opportunities and poverty.Under the AECID-funded project, rural and indigenous women will undergo training in climate-resilient agriculture and leadership skills. The project will aim at strengthening women’s cooperatives by linking their agricultural production to reliable markets. The activities will also incorporate social behavior change to improve local food and nutrition practices.“WFP thanks AECID for their important contribution to enhancing resilience in BARMM. With the increasing frequency and intensity of climate emergencies in the Philippines, women are especially vulnerable. It is urgent that we strengthen their capacities and so that they can withstand shocks better,” said WFP Philippines Representative and Country Director Regis Chapman.In partnership with the BARMM Government, WFP will work closely with other UN agencies, community-based organizations and indigenous communities to ensure greater participation and grassroot implementation.Since 2006, WFP has been supporting the Philippine Government in augmenting emergency response operations, enhancing disaster management capacities, conducting resilience-building activities and strengthening food and social protection systems to improve development.# # #The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.Follow WFP on Twitter @wfp_media @wfp_philippines , filtered_html

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Press Release

04 February 2025

Asia-Pacific region to chart bold path for migration governance

The second Regional Review of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) in Asia and the Pacific opened today with a call for migration policies that prioritize the needs and rights of migrants while ensuring broad collaboration across governments, communities and key stakeholders.

The region, home to over 40 per cent of the world’s international migrants, is witnessing significant shifts driven by demographic changes, rapid digital transformation and the increasing effects of climate change and other crises. Intraregional migration remains predominant, with 70 per cent of migrants moving within the region.

Much of international migration is propelled by the search for decent work, with women migrants playing a critical yet often undervalued role in sectors such as care and domestic work. Children also make up a significant proportion of migrants in the region, with unique needs for services and protection due to their heightened vulnerability.

“Migration, if managed in a well-informed, planned and voluntary manner, with full respect and protection of human rights, can bring benefits to all. Migrants should have their potential fully harnessed to play key roles in enhancing sustainable development in countries of origin and destination,” said Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in her opening remarks.

"With over 40 per cent of the world’s migrants calling Asia and the Pacific home, the region has a unique opportunity to lead by example—expanding regular pathways, protecting lives and ensuring migration benefits all," said Catalina Devandas, representing IOM Director General Amy Pope in her capacity as Coordinator of the UN Network on Migration.

Expected outcomes and commitments

Over the next three days, participants will share progress, challenges and good practices in implementing the 23 objectives of the GCM. Discussions will focus on the critical role of migrants in the region’s resilience and sustainable development, particularly in light of lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In host countries, migrants bring with them not only the needed manpower, but also skills, expertise and social interactions, that can help accelerate economic and social development. Meanwhile, home countries can enjoy the economic boost from remittances from migrant workers and diaspora,” shared Eksiri Pintaruchi, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs of Thailand.

Speaking on behalf of the Stakeholder Action Group, migrant domestic worker and member of the International Domestic Workers Federation Nasrikah highlighted the importance of having segregated data on migration to inform policymakers on the key needs and situations of migrants and their families and take action based on analysis and true stories of unsafe migration.

Recognizing the importance of addressing the interconnected challenges shaping migration dynamics such as rapid digital transformation, climate change, demographic shifts and economic disparities, several key commitments are expected to emerge from the review including:Protecting migrants’ rights and saving lives: Governments are expected to renew their commitments to policies that uphold migrants’ rights, promote gender equality, tackle discrimination and ensure access to health care, education, decent work and social protection for all migrants, including their children.Using technology to improve migration systems: Key priorities include reducing remittance transfer costs, promoting digital and financial inclusion, closing gender gaps in financial access, simplifying migration processes and increasing transparencyPreparing for crises and climate impacts: Governments are expected to recognize the need for migration policies that help migrants and communities better withstand climate change, economic shocks and health emergencies, using reliable, timely and disaggregated data.Strengthening regional cooperation: The meeting will highlight cross-border collaboration, stronger partnerships and meaningful engagement with migrants, civil society, women’s rights organizations and the private sector to improve migration governance.The outcomes of this meeting will contribute to global discussions at the 2026 International Migration Review Forum. Governments are also expected to reaffirm their commitment to aligning migration governance with the Sustainable Development Goals, recognizing that protecting all migrants and enabling their full contributions to society are essential to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.Note to Editor:
The second Regional Review benefited from insights shared in the Asia-Pacific Migration Report 2024, developed by ESCAP and the Regional United Nations Network on Migration for Asia and the Pacific, as well as extensive stakeholder consultations held in its lead-up.

For more information: https://www.unescap.org/events/2025/second-asia-pacific-regional-review-implementation-global-compact-safe-orderly-and

For media enquiries or UN expert interview requests, please contact:
Kavita Sukanandan
Public Information Officer
Communications and Knowledge Management Section, ESCAP
E: escap-scas@un.org

Florence Kim
Sr Strategic Communications and Advocacy Coordinator
UN Network on Migration secretariat
E: fkim@iom.int, filtered_html

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