Latest
Story
29 May 2023
UN Philippines chief bats for Philippines' ratification of treaty to stop acts of nuclear terrorism
Learn more
Story
18 May 2023
UN Philippines briefs 29 diplomatic delegations on the new UN Cooperation Framework with the Philippines
Learn more
Story
17 May 2023
Marine Renewable Energy in the Philippines: Sustainable Energy from Ocean Spaces and Resources
Learn more
Latest
The Sustainable Development Goals 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.
Data in this section is currently being updated and under review.
Story
06 April 2021
The United Nations in the Philipines - Get information on Resident Agencies in the country
The UN Country Team (UNCT) in the Philippines consists of eleven resident funds, programmes, and specialized agencies (FAO, IFAD, ILO, IOM, UNDP, UNFPA, UNHCR, UNICEF, UNIDO, WFP, and WHO), six project offices (UNAIDS, UNESCO, UN Habitat, UNODC, UNOPS, UN Women), and three secretariat offices (OCHA, UNIC and UNDSS). Standing invitees are ADB, IMF, and the World Bank. The UN assists and supports the Government of the Philippines in its important development, peacebuilding and humanitarian priorities.
Check out their websites for more information:
FAO
ILO
IOM
OCHA
UN-Habitat
UNAIDS
UNDP
UNFPA
UNHCR
UNICEF
UNIDO
UNOPS
WFP
WHO
1 of 2

Story
08 May 2020
A coordinated response to coronavirus
See how UN resident agencies in the Philippines are responding to COVID-19
FAO
ILO
IOM
OCHA
UN-Habitat
UNAIDS
UNDP
UNFPA
UNHCR
UNICEF
UNIDO
UNOPS
WFP
WHO
The global UN response to COVID-19
On 11 March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) characterized the coronavirus (COVID-19) viral disease a pandemic, but it is a pandemic that can be controlled. Coronavirus (COVID-19) is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who heads the UN agency, said, in his statement, “Let me be clear: describing this as a pandemic does not mean that countries should give up.”
The UN Secretary-General urged all countries to take a comprehensive approach tailored to their circumstances – with containment as the central pillar. Coronavirus (COVID-19) is affecting thousands of people, impacting countries’ health systems and having widespread social and economic effects. The UN entities working on development, the United Nations Sustainable Development Group, are supporting countries in their preparedness and response plans.
This page convenes sources of information and guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations (UN) regarding the current outbreak of novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
WHO is working closely with global experts, governments and partners to track the spread and to provide guidance to countries and individuals on measures to protect health and prevent the spread of this outbreak.
Response and Recovery Fund
“COVID-19 is the greatest test that we have faced together since the formation of the United Nations,” said Secretary-General António Guterres. “This human crisis demands coordinated, decisive, inclusive and innovative policy action from the world’s leading economies –and maximum financial and technical support for the poorest and most vulnerable people and countries.”
The United Nations system—and its global network of regional, sub-regional and country offices working for peace, human rights, sustainable development and humanitarian action, will support all governments and partners through the response and recovery.
To that end, the Secretary-General has established a dedicated COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund to support efforts in low- and middle-income countries. Its approach underpins the reformed UN with a coordinated multi-agency, multi-sectoral response for priority national and local actions to address the socioeconomic impact of the COVID-19 crisis. It will count on the country leadership of Resident Coordinators and UN Country Teams in swiftly supporting and enabling governments in this crisis, and recovery.To view the latest updates, facts and figures, please visit the UN COVID-19 Multi-Partner Trust Fund Portal.
To stay up to date with the latest information, please visit:
WHO's coronavirus portal
WHO's guidance for countries
UN's coronavirus portal
Latest news on the UN's response
Frequently asked questions
How to protect yourself
Coronavirus situation dashboard
Philippines situation reports
1 of 2

Story
29 May 2023
UN Philippines chief bats for Philippines' ratification of treaty to stop acts of nuclear terrorism
MANILA, 24 May 2023--United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator in the Philippines Gustavo Gonzalez advocated today for the ratification by the Philippines of the international treaty to suppress acts of nuclear terrorism during a national advocacy event hosted by the Philippines House of Representatives' Special Committee on Nuclear Energy.
The treaty, called the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism (ICSANT), obliges State Parties to extradite or prosecute acts of nuclear terrorism. It also calls for cooperation among State Parties to prevent terrorist attacks by sharing information and assisting each other with criminal investigations and extradition. The Philippines signed the convention in 2005, but it has yet to ratify it.
Just as importantly, Mr. Gonzalez called for "a human rights-based approach to countering terrorism." He added that "the effectiveness of conventions and treaties on security and counterterrorism also depends on a multisectoral, interagency and interdisciplinary work where the various government structures converge their actions under a solid and comprehensive human rights-based approach to protection."
The text of Mr. Gonzalez's Opening Remarks at the national advocacy event follows.
Excellencies, dear Partners, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is my pleasure to welcome you all to this event on the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism, known as ICSANT, kindly hosted by the House of Representatives of the Philippines.
As law- and policymakers, Members of the Congress play a crucial role in ensuring the effective implementation of United Nations resolutions on countering terrorism, as well as the international conventions and protocols related to terrorism, including ICSANT.
Equally important is the role of the relevant Departments and Agencies in translating those decisions and instruments into concrete actions.
The United Nations General Assembly adopted ICSANT by consensus in 2005. It entered into force in 2007 and currently has 120 Parties engaged in its implementation.
As a legally binding instrument, the Convention obliges State Parties to extradite or prosecute alleged offenders. It also calls for cooperation among State Parties to prevent terrorist attacks by sharing information and assisting each other with criminal investigations and extradition.
While the Philippines signed the convention in 2005, it has yet to ratify it.
Dear partners,
Today’s meeting is organized within the framework of a joint project of the European Union and the United Nations on Promoting the Universalization and Effective Implementation of ICSANT.
This global project, implemented as a partnership between the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre (UNCCT) of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), seeks to enhance appreciation of the importance of ratification and encourage an effective implementation of the Convention.
The objective of today’s event is to raise awareness on both the threat of nuclear terrorism and the path that the Philippines could undertake to join the Convention.
In addition to the United Nations entities, namely UNOCT, UNODC and UNICRI, I am pleased to acknowledge the contribution of INTERPOL and the International Atomic Energy Agency, to assist in this effort.
The risk of terrorists gaining access to nuclear and radiological materials poses a significant threat to humanity and international peace and security.
In 2014, it was reported that ISIL had seized 40 kilos of low enriched uranium from scientific institutions at the Mosul University in Iraq. This shows that the possibility of such materials falling into the hands of non-state actors, including terrorists, is real.
The Mosul incident was not an isolated case. The International Atomic Energy Agency, in its Incident and Trafficking Database, lists 4,075 confirmed incidents of illicit trafficking and other unauthorized activities involving nuclear and radioactive materials, which Member States have reported over the last 30 years.
In light of increasingly strong linkages between organized crime and terrorism, nuclear and radiological materials trafficked by criminal groups could easily end up in the hands of terrorists.
The implementation of ICSANT in the South East Asia region is of significant importance considering, amongst others, its volume of trade, shipment and trans-shipment; the extensive use of radiological sources for industrial, medical, agricultural and environmental purposes; the presence of critical infrastructure facilities including nuclear research reactors; as well the plan of some Member States, including the Philippines, to develop nuclear energy power plants. All these could be challenged by the presence in the region of terrorism and organized crime, including maritime piracy, increasing the risk of radiological and/or nuclear terrorism and illicit trafficking.
Moreover, implementing measures such as strengthening border and export controls; reinforcing detection and response mechanisms; securing materials (storage and transport) and critical infrastructure; and promoting radiological and nuclear security culture, could enhance regional security and have a positive effect on the region’s economic growth.
Finally, allow me to stress that preserving peace and protecting people's safety is not a pure security issue. They cannot be achieved at the expense of fundamental human rights.
In this sense, the effectiveness of conventions and treaties on security and counterterrorism also depends on a multisectoral, interagency and interdisciplinary work where the various government structures converge their actions under a solid and comprehensive human rights-based approach to protection.
It is my hope that you will find today’s event informative and useful and that it will reinforce the Philippines’s interest to consider ratification of this important Convention.
Through effective cooperation and partnerships, we hope to provide a collective response to this global challenge. Each of you have an important part to play in making the world safer from nuclear terrorism.
Thank you very much. [Ends]
1 of 5
Story
18 May 2023
UN Philippines briefs 29 diplomatic delegations on the new UN Cooperation Framework with the Philippines
MANILA, 18 May 2023--Representatives of 29 United Nations (UN) Member Countries, including nine ambassadors, participated in a dialogue with the UN Philippines on the new UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2024-2028.
The UNSDCF will serve as the compact between the Philippines and the UN, guiding the relationship between the UN and the Philippines for the next five years.
UN Philippines Resident Coordinator Gustavo Gonzalez explained 10 features of the UNSDCF, which make the latter unique from former UN Cooperation Frameworks.
The UNSDCF is among the new generation of Cooperation Frameworks under the UN Development System Reform. The new CF will make the UN more coordinated, integrated and effective.
Second, the new CF is aligned with the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) and the Bangsamoro Development Plan (PDP) and is therefore strongly based on the priorities of the country.
Third, the new CF is founded on a human rights based approach to development, and thus focuses not just on economic growth but on the right to food, the right to clean air, among others. The new CF also envisions to address inequalities and ensure the inclusion of groups that are left behind, including indigenous peoples, members of the LGBTQI+ community, and others.
Fourth, the new CF adopts a new business model, which will shift the focus of the UN's work from service delivery towards policy development and normative work.
Fifth, the UN will transition from funding to financing. In the context of increasingly reduced Official Development Assistance (ODA), the UN will promote the mobilization of domestic resources, vertical funds, and more strategic use of core resources.
Sixth, the UN will help to expand and systematize South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSTC) in close coordination with the Government.
Seventh, Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) accelerator will be a priority of the new CF.
Eighth, the UN will aspire to be a coalition-building partner, and engaging with the private sector and the multilateral development banks (MDBs) is part of the future that the UN Philippines envisions.
Ninth, the UN will enhance its normative support by ensuring that the country remains on track with various international conventions, such as on human rights, sustainable consumption and production, and biodiversity protection, among others.
Tenth, under the new CF the UN will contribute towards filling critical gaps as the Philippines undertakes to become an Upper Middle Income Country (UMIC).
Below are comments provided by a number of the participating diplomatic delegations:
H.E. Ambassador Marcela Ordonez of Colombia
The UN reform was undertaken for a much-needed purpose: to achieve the SDGs. Inter-agency work is not an option; it is a mandate under the UN reform.
H.E. Ambassador Juha Pyykko of Finland
I am happy that you are focusing on human rights based approach in the new Cooperation Framework. Human rights are conducive to a good business environment and thus make good economic sense, too.
Ms. Jennifer Bennett, Second Secretary (Political) of the Embassy of Australia
We appreciate the work of the UN. The new Cooperation Framework aligns with what Australia is supporting in the country.
H.E. Ambassador Ricardo Luis Bocalandro of Argentina
The new Cooperation Framework features a lot of innovative concepts and approaches. The UN has chosen to take the right road—listening to the government and to the international community. This consultation sets a promising partnership.
H.E. Ambassador Aagus Widjojo of Indonesia
I appreciate the UN Philippines for completing a comprehensive Cooperation Framework. We wish you success in its implementation.
M.E. Ambassador Marielle Geraedts of Netherlands
The business model for the new Cooperation Framework prioritizes the UN’s normative work. Lessons from the UNJP on Human rights will be useful.
Mr. Lloyd Cameron, Economic and Climate Counsellor of the Embassy of the UK
The aspirations of the new Cooperation Framework are long-term; thus, the UN might consider what it can accomplish by 2028.
H.E. Ambassador Antonio Jose Maria de Souza e Silva of Brazil
There is a window of opportunity for South-South and triangular cooperation and Brazil would like to explore this with UN agencies.
Ms Mojca Krisper Figueroa, Programme Manager of the EU
This Cooperation Framework is comprehensive and is aligned with our programme. We look forward to the implementation of the triple nexus approach.
Mr. John Luk, Counselor (Development) of the Embassy of Canada
We await the targets for the outcomes as this is where the rubber hits the road.
Mr. Zhu Min, Officer-in-Charge of Commercial Section, Embassy of China
Economic development is key to achieving the four priority areas of the Cooperation Framework. China wants to expand its South-South cooperation partnerships with UN agencies.
Ms. Violeta Dominguez, Head of Cooperation of the Embassy of Spain
Spain is exploring triangular cooperation (Spain-Latin-America-Philippines) in some of the areas identified by the UN cooperation framework.
Mr. Kwon Soonhyun, Counsellor and Chief of Economic Department, Embassy of Korea
"Korea is a strong supporter of South-South Cooperation and will seek synergies with other partners within the new UN Cooperation Framework."
Ms. Teresina Calabia, USAID
"The new UN Cooperation Framework shares similar areas of interest with USAID."
[Ends]
1 of 5
Story
17 May 2023
Marine Renewable Energy in the Philippines: Sustainable Energy from Ocean Spaces and Resources
The Southeast Asia Energy Transition Partnership, a multi-donor partnership pursuing acceleration in energy transition in the region, has published a stocktake and options report on Marine Renewable Energy (MRE) for the benefit of the Department of Energy (DOE). The Energy Transition Partnership (ETP) brings together the governments of Germany, France, the United Kingdom and Canada with Philanthropies such as the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, Sequoia Climate Foundation, and other foundations. The MRE study assesses various marine renewable energy technologies, their sustainability and suitability for power supply in the Philippines. The report presents opportunities for the Philippines to accelerate energy transition while ensuring energy security through optimizing use of abundant marine resources.
MRE harnesses energy from ocean resources and includes offshore wind, marine solar, wave and tidal motion energy, and differences in water temperatures, and more. DOE recognizes the benefits of MRE and is taking action to explore how these resources can be utilized. The Philippines’ geographical location and archipelagic features endow the country with significant MRE potential as initially outlined in the World Bank’s Offshore Wind Roadmap for the Philippines. The MRE report underscores the potential wave energy source and ocean renewable energy options in the country. These capacities can help augment renewable power supply and support the country’s goal to increase the share of renewable energy to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.
Among MRE technologies, the report denotes, offshore wind is the most commercially ready with numerous installations and well-developed supply chains. Currently, the DOE prioritizes offshore wind development given a high private-sector interest. This policy direction is particularly aimed at the development of offshore wind resources. The broader MRE technologies, such as marine solar, tidal in-stream, wave, and ocean thermal energy conversion, are at various phases of technological maturity. Small pilot systems can still be deployed in the Philippines to explore their economic supply of energy in off-grid areas such as islands and remote locations where energy dispersion is poor.
Developing the MRE offers co-benefits in addition to clean ocean-based energy production. MRE creates local jobs, expands supply chains, and enhances livelihood opportunities. These initiatives promise long-term sustainability and income, especially for the local and indigenous communities in isolated off-grid areas. Including indigenous communities within the project supports responsible use of energy supply, due to community understanding and knowledge of their environment.
“At ETP we aim to provide practicable but bold and pioneering solutions for advancing the Philippines' ambition to reach its renewable energy targets, deploy resilient and sustainable energy and to decarbonize the economy,” says Sirpa Jarvenpaa, Director of ETP.
MRE has the potential to contribute to achieving the Philippines’ Paris Climate commitment by substituting fossil fuels to reduce greenhouse gasses and other pollutants. Renewable Energy Management Bureau of DOE (REMB) Director Marissa Cerezo highlighted that it is the government’s endeavor to ensure stable and secure energy supply throughout the country. There are also synergies for the development of blue economy sectors (e.g. water, aquaculture, tourism, aquatic transportation).
However, significant challenges still exist in developing MRE in the Philippines. The technologies are relatively new and the financial institutions view these as high-risk projects. As such foreign direct investment and international support is likely to be needed to deliver the first generation of MRE projects, the ETP report notes. Particularly, technical capacity building, feasibility assessments, and financial assistance are still needed to support the establishment of the MRE testing and deployment. The Department of Justice opens doors to allow the 100 percent foreign ownership for RE projects. The corresponding DOE Circular in the same context helps the local MRE sector's establishment by learning from international companies. Also, additional grid connections and stability improvement through the use of digital technologies would be required for effective use of MRE supply. Preceding these, there is a need to improve guidelines for identifying suitable zones for MRE development to ensure that any risk of conflicts with protected seascapes and declared natural zones, trade routes, and other uses are avoided.
The next steps in advancing MRE are to provide a series of capacity development for the key stakeholders necessary in the MRE ecosystem, and to holistically engage them on strategic planning, road mapping, capacity training, market mechanisms, and financing investments. These steps will advance the development of MRE in the Philippines. Currently, ETP is engaging with two projects on MRE, namely, Marine Spatial Planning, and Offshore Wind Permitting in the second quarter of 2023. In addition, ETP can support and assist MRE-related programs of the donor community, aligned partners, and potential partnerships.
----------------------------------------------------
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) manages Southeast Asia ETP, a multi-donor regional platform, that supports the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia’s transition towards modern energy systems that can simultaneously ensure economic growth, energy security, and environmental sustainability. ETP supported the DOE in developing a stocktake report and analyzing MRE options for the Philippines. The report is available on the ETP website.
Marine Renewable Energy in the Philippines: Sustainable Energy from Ocean Spaces and Resources Stocktake report is available on Southeast Asia Energy Transition Partnership website. Our deepest gratitude to Dr. Michael Abundo and his team for producing the MRE stocktake report.
About UNOPS
UNOPS mission is to help people build better lives and countries achieve peace and sustainable development. We help the United Nations, governments and other partners to manage projects, and deliver sustainable infrastructure and procurement in an efficient way. Read more: www.unops.org
1 of 5
Story
16 May 2023
Philippine NGOs laud draft UN Cooperation Framework, seek sustained engagement with UN
MANILA, 16 May 2023--Over 50 representatives of non-government organizations (NGOs) participated in a dialogue and consultation workshop organized by the United Nations (UN) Philippines to get NGOs' feedback on the draft UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2024-2028 (UNSDCF).
This is the third such consultation organized by the UN. The first one was conducted with Government partners and with BARMM ministries in March this year.
On behalf of the UN Philippines, a summary of the comments and recommendations reported by the NGOs on the UNSDCF was provided by Maria Ermina Valdeavilla- Gallardo, Head of National Office of UNHCR in the Philippines.
Her summary, as prepared, follows:
Distinguished participants, colleagues, partners and friends... good afternoon. On behalf of the UN Country Team, I thank you most sincerely for your active participation in today’s consultation on the UNSDCF 2024-2028. Specifically, we are grateful for your time, your very insightful ideas, and your interest to support the attainment of the envisioned results of Cooperation Framework in the Philippines, which is to further improve the lives of the Filipinos, without leaving anyone behind.
It is worth noting that the Framework is the first of its kind in the Philippines. It was developed with UN agencies acting as one in accordance with UN reform. Together with the government, we agreed on key priority areas in the context of the UN Development System Reform. We have learned a lot in the implementation of the Partnership Framework for Sustainable Development (PFSD) and the Socio-economic Peace Building Framework, developed for 2019 to 2023, and we recognize that no strategy is complete without the strong ang competent partners that we have in the non-governmental sector. Thus, we are grateful for your sharing to your valuable time, your very insightful ideas, and your interest to support the attainment of the envisioned results of Cooperation Framework in the Philippines, which is to further improve the lives of the people in the Philippines, without leaving anyone behind.
I have keenly observed the discussions and listened with great interest on the thoughts and recommendations of each group. We are very lucky to have been favoured by the participation of stakeholder representatives who have immense understanding of the fast-evolving realities confronted by the most marginalized and vulnerable population groups, whose interests and concerns you competently raised in the group discussions.
Your participation in today’s event is a prime example of what is possible – of what we are capable of achieving – if we work together. For this, I thank each and every one of you and at the same time urge you all to continue to collaborate with us beyond this dialogue and workshop.
On the reflections ...
▪ First, we are happy to note that the Strategic Priorities and Outcome Areas of the Cooperation Framework are generally in harmony with your aspirations. This is reflective of our shared understanding of the challenges and the most effective ways on how to confront them. Be as it may, we recognize that you have also some priorities that the Cooperation Framework would need to consider, such as reformulating certain parts of the Cooperation Framework for inclusivity not only for purposes of leaving no one behind but addressing the “missing middle.” We also heard that representation of civil society organizations and non-governmental organizations and the very people that concerns the Cooperation Framework should be at the centre of the discussions and the decisions, providing clearer articulation on the vulnerable sectors that we serve, the importance of strengthening of data collection, including in climate action, balancing budget allocation for priorities that are in line with the Sustainable Development Goals, the importance of capacity development and provision of viable technologies for local governments, and the clear emphasis on the importance of financing. Along this line, the UN Country Team will endeavour to continue dialoguing among its member agencies and with all of you that are especially concerned with these priorities to ensure that they are duly incorporated into the Cooperation Framework, both in terms of the content and implementation.
▪ Second, you have brilliantly identified specific ways by which stakeholders could efficiently and effectively participate in the proposed Cooperation Framework platforms. You said bringing in CSOs and NGOs into a joint planning mechanism for the Cooperation Framework and regional and high-level discussions. You also mentioned having clear indicators for reviewing the Cooperation Framework, and better information dissemination, as well as inclusive and regular consultations with everyone, including the BARMM stakeholders. Your recommendations are not only very practical and doable; they are also potentially catalytic to the further strengthening of partnerships between and among the UN Country Team, non-governmental organizations, government agencies, and of course, the people that are covered by this Cooperation Framework. The UN Country Team can be instrumental in ensuring that these discussions on the holistic approach of the Cooperation Framework continue and are consistent throughout its planning, annual review, and implementation. In our efforts, there is emphasis on sustaining our discussions and collaboration for the people that we serve.
▪ Third, you have recommended innovative approaches to optimize the engagement of stakeholders in achieving the Cooperation Framework strategic priorities and outcomes. Among the most innovative approaches you recommended include raising the business sector’s awareness of the SDGs and the Cooperation Framework, engaging the youth and the most vulnerable, and sustaining discussions and collaboration with non- governmental groups. What I like about it is the consistent reference to ensuring that these consultations would look at technology – digital platforms – making it easier for us to have a two-way conversation. I think that is very important.
▪ Fourth, like you, we believe that the groups of people who are hardest to reach and have least time, energy, and information must be supported so that their participation could be more meaningful, not only to us, but more importantly, to themselves. And we can work together on better identifying who these most vulnerable are, and who belong to the middle group – the missing middle – to ensure inclusivity in the Cooperation Framework. I was listening to this and somehow, it has become an inspiration to me to reach out to each and every one in the organizations here because as the
representative of the UNHCR, I was not able to hear about forcible displacement. I’ve heard about migration, but in the essence of inclusivity, it would also be good to look at some of the vulnerable populations that are affected by forcible displacement. Your recommendations are impressive because they promise to ensure that the voice of the marginalized and vulnerable groups in hard to reach areas is heard in various levels and because they are likely to make these groups visible and participants to the process of change that affect their lives and well-being.
In the course of our work, we have met and collaborated with many of you who have brought value and important inputs to our efforts. And today, we have taken note of all these best practices and approaches as well as your suggestions in reinforcing pillars addressing development goals in the SDG pillars of People, Prosperity, Planet, Peace, particularly in empowering the vulnerable, marginalized, and those at risk and providing them with a more supportive environment where they can not only survive, but thrive.
This is the brand of cooperation that we wish to promote and further improve upon under the UN’s Cooperation Framework. With this in mind, we hope that our discussions from today do not end here but is instead the first step towards a stronger and more fruitful partnership.
Blaise Pascal, who is a French Mathematician, said that we only consult the ear because the heart is wanting. We consult you mainly because our heart wants to hear what you want to say. There are still many things to discuss, especially the implementation details. And the UN Country Team assures you that our door of consultation will always and be fully open, be it on small or big things. There must never be a final word among partners. Ideas evolve, implementation contexts evolve, and the needs of the people we serve continuously evolve. So, this is only the beginning. We extend to you our invitation for continuing dialogue and consultation until such time that we realize the vision of the Cooperation Framework.
Indeed, the UN has remained strong throughout the years and thanks largely to its long tradition of collaborating with civil society and non-governmental organizations with whom it shares its advocacies.
And we are optimistic that with your feedback and recommendations today which we hope will continue on in the future, we can achieve much more and continue building on what we have started towards the implementation of the Cooperation Framework; one that encourages everyone to take part and leave no one behind. As a member of the UN Country Team, we invite all of you to embark on this journey with us and to continue working together as we strive to deliver much- needed solutions in the Philippines under the Cooperation Framework.
Again, maraming salamat po and may we all be guided in our noble mission to bringing improvements to the lives of the people in the Philippines and leave no one behind. Magandang araw.
1 of 5
Story
10 May 2023
UN Philippines chief bats for "compassionate pragmatism" to address substance abuse
MANILA, 10 May 2023--The United Nations (UN) said on Monday it is targeting to have more public health-approach in handling the drug use problem in the Philippines.
Under the Antipolo Declaration issued on 8 May 2023, the UN stated that its Technical Working Group (TWG) on the Human Rights Based-Approach to Drugs aims to achieve the following objectives:
increase in the availability and voluntary access to a range of appropriate human rights-based and scientifically informed services that include health, social and developmental support for persons whose lives include drugs;
increase the capacity to address cross-cutting issues in drug control, according to the Nelson Mandela Rules, Bangkok Rules, and Havana Rules among others;
strengthen international cooperation on drug control based on the principle of common and shared responsibility and in line with international standards, strengthen joint action at national, regional and international levels to accelerate implementation of joint commitments to address the world drug problem; and
develop and implement a communication strategy on human rights based-approach to drugs.
UN Resident Coordinator Gustavo Gonzalez said that a "compassionate pragmatism" approach is more effective in addressing substance abuse.
He said, "If we just remain with a pure enforcement approach, that stigmatizes and discriminates, we will remain in our comfort zones of a simplistic approach but we will fail in finding solutions."
The text of Gonzalez's message follows:
Today’s workshop is of major importance for three reasons:
Number one, because it means a concrete step forward in considering substance use as a multisectoral issue and, particularly, as a public health challenge.
In this sense, we welcome the recent statements by the President of the Republic at the Center for Strategic Studies in the United States, on the critical importance of a “holistic approach” to the drugs challenge.
Number two, this unique workshop is important because it brings together those who contribute with technical and scientific knowledge, those who participate in decision-making, those who are confronted to the challenges of substance use at the local level, and those from the private sector, from civil society and the international cooperation are engaged in a human rights-based approach to drugs.
Number three, this event is an important step in the implementation of Human Rights Council’s resolution 33/45 of October, 2020, on technical cooperation to the Philippines.
My presence here is to confirm the commitment of the United Nations to be part of the solution -hand-in-hand with concerned partners- in addressing the human impact of the so-called war on drugs in the country.
The title of today’s event is intriguing: it combines two words that sometimes are on the opposite sites: “Compassionate” and “Pragmatism”.
“Compassionate” means a genuine concern for others, it reflects a deep sense of care, of empathy, and of attention to others.
To be compassionate, we start by recognizing we live in a diverse society, where we bring different cultural backgrounds, ideologies, gender, values, among others. We frequently say that diversity is our strength, not our weakness.
“Pragmatism”, on the other hand, centers on practical acts and beliefs.
To be pragmatic means to find concrete and factual ways to translate ideas and goals into action.
Pragmatism -in the context of today’s workshop- means finding solutions that are based on evidence, on facts and on the experience of people who are most involved in and affected by substance use.
“Compassionate Pragmatism” is an evidence-based and people-centered framework to address substance use as a fundamental public health issue.
And let me share with you an example of the importance of this approach that recognizes the specificity of each country:
The Philippines has an alarming and rapidly increasing HIV and hepatitis C prevalence. This is considered a twin epidemic, among people who use drugs. Many countries, including South-East Asian Member States, have implemented comprehensive and evidence-based interventions based on the guidelines of UNODC, UNAIDS, and WHO that have shown tremendous positive results.
If we just remain with a pure enforcement approach, that stigmatizes and discriminates, we will remain in our comfort zones of a simplistic approach but with the failure of not finding the solutions.
Last month, the United Nations Human Rights Council adopted a resolution on drug policy and human rights.
In this resolution, the Council recalled that efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to effectively address all aspects of the drug problem are complementary and mutually reinforcing, and that public health programmes should be available to all.
This needs to be implemented without discrimination, including for individuals with drug use disorders, as well as in prisons and other custodial settings,
It is crucial that we reflect and consider which responses will work most effectively in the Philippines, particularly to prevent and address drug use disorders from a holistic perspective.
And I go back to the recent statement of the President of the Republic (I quote) “We are looking at the problem as a whole … giving option to our young people so they are not tempted to indulge in these activities”.
Today’s workshop is also implemented as part of the UN Joint Programme for Human Rights in the Philippines, which is an important platform for crafting solutions to drug-related issues in the country.
I thank our development partners, including the Australian Embassy, the Royal Norwegian Embassy, and the Global Fund for their support in this endeavor.
I also commend the growing cooperation amongst the Philippine government, the Commission on Human Rights, and civil society on public health and human rights.
Dear partners, let’s show the world how we, in the Philippines, can work with compassion and with pragmatism which respect human rights of all, including people who use drugs, to implement the most effective solutions.
Thank you very much and welcome, once again.
1 of 5
Press Release
06 December 2022
European Union-Philippines Trade Conference highlights the need of going green for small businesses
MANILA, 6 December--As part of the EU-DTI Arise Plus Philippines project, the first European Union (EU)-Philippines Conference on green transition and trade was held in Manila during the ongoing National Exporters’ Week.
Under the theme, ‘The Green Transition: Opportunities and Challenges for Philippine MSMEs’, the discussions at the conference highlighted the importance and impact of ‘going green' for Philippine micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) exporting to the EU.
International and national experts and practitioners raised awareness on the new agenda for sustainable growth of the EU, also called the ‘Green Deal’ during various sessions.
The event provided an introduction to the circular economy, deforestation-free products and carbon adjustment. Discussions focussed on the opportunities and challenges this Green agenda entails for Philippine exporters and MSMEs.
“Having this “Green Deal” session is an opportunity for the Philippine MSMEs to be informed of the importance of sustainable production in enabling them to access more diverse and high-value markets, especially the EU,” DTI-Trade Promotions Group (TPG) Assistant Secretary Glenn G. Peñaranda said.
Philipp Dupuis, Minister Counsellor, Head of the Economic and Trade Section, Delegation of the EU to the Philippines speaking on the occasion, said : “Conferences like the one today are essential to inform exporters in our partner countries about what the Green Deal is and how it can affect the requirements of their EU business partners have towards them”.
Rajesh Aggarwal, Director Division of Market Development, International Trade Centre, ARISE’s main implementer, said: “This conference will pave the way for enabling Philippine SMEs to become export competitive and make their mark in international trade. We are grateful to be part of this initiative from the EU and DTI”
As part of the efforts to mainstream and support women entrepreneurs, the event also officialised the institutionalization of the ITC-DTI SheTrades Hub in the Philippines.
“With the institutionalization of the SheTrades Philippines Hub, the DTI-Export Marketing Bureau will work with ITC to further strengthen our country’s efforts in promoting women’s economic empowerment and lower or eliminate the barriers faced by women entrepreneurs, at home and internationally, to foster a more inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” DTI- TPG Assistant Secretary Peñaranda added.
About Arise Plus Philippines
With an allocation of 5.8 million euro, the European Union-funded ARISE Plus Philippines helps Philippine exporters take advantage of EU market access and of the trade privileges granted under the Generalized System of Preference (GSP+). ARISE promotes awareness of new trade opportunities in the private sector in the Philippines, but also helps local MSMEs upgrade their production processes to meet international quality standards. In this way, the project supports the overall EU-Philippines trade relationship and trade-related policies by improving trade performance of the Philippines and fostering inclusive economic growth.
ARISE Plus Philippines is a project of the EU and the Government of the Philippines, with the Department of Trade and Industry as the lead partner. Other government agencies involved are the Department of Agriculture, Food and Drug Administration, Bureau of Customs and the Department of Science and Technology. The International Trade Centre (ITC) is the technical agency supporting the project’s implementation.
About National Exporters’ Week (NEW)
The National Exporters’ Week is an annual event led by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), in partnership with the Export Development Council (EDC) and the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT). Presidential Proclamation 931, series of 1996 and House Resolution No.33 declared the first week of December as the Exporters’ Week in order to obtain total commitment of the government and the private sector to continuously work together to sustain export promotion and development.
Media contacts:
EU Delegation:
Thelma Gecolea
Thelma.gecolea@eeas.europa.eu
International Trade Centre:
Waqas Rafique
wrafique@intracen.org
Department of Trade and Industry:
DTI-Export Marketing Bureau
Kristina Noelle Andaya
kristinanoelleandaya@dti.gov.ph
Under the theme, ‘The Green Transition: Opportunities and Challenges for Philippine MSMEs’, the discussions at the conference highlighted the importance and impact of ‘going green' for Philippine micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) exporting to the EU.
International and national experts and practitioners raised awareness on the new agenda for sustainable growth of the EU, also called the ‘Green Deal’ during various sessions.
The event provided an introduction to the circular economy, deforestation-free products and carbon adjustment. Discussions focussed on the opportunities and challenges this Green agenda entails for Philippine exporters and MSMEs.
“Having this “Green Deal” session is an opportunity for the Philippine MSMEs to be informed of the importance of sustainable production in enabling them to access more diverse and high-value markets, especially the EU,” DTI-Trade Promotions Group (TPG) Assistant Secretary Glenn G. Peñaranda said.
Philipp Dupuis, Minister Counsellor, Head of the Economic and Trade Section, Delegation of the EU to the Philippines speaking on the occasion, said : “Conferences like the one today are essential to inform exporters in our partner countries about what the Green Deal is and how it can affect the requirements of their EU business partners have towards them”.
Rajesh Aggarwal, Director Division of Market Development, International Trade Centre, ARISE’s main implementer, said: “This conference will pave the way for enabling Philippine SMEs to become export competitive and make their mark in international trade. We are grateful to be part of this initiative from the EU and DTI”
As part of the efforts to mainstream and support women entrepreneurs, the event also officialised the institutionalization of the ITC-DTI SheTrades Hub in the Philippines.
“With the institutionalization of the SheTrades Philippines Hub, the DTI-Export Marketing Bureau will work with ITC to further strengthen our country’s efforts in promoting women’s economic empowerment and lower or eliminate the barriers faced by women entrepreneurs, at home and internationally, to foster a more inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” DTI- TPG Assistant Secretary Peñaranda added.
About Arise Plus Philippines
With an allocation of 5.8 million euro, the European Union-funded ARISE Plus Philippines helps Philippine exporters take advantage of EU market access and of the trade privileges granted under the Generalized System of Preference (GSP+). ARISE promotes awareness of new trade opportunities in the private sector in the Philippines, but also helps local MSMEs upgrade their production processes to meet international quality standards. In this way, the project supports the overall EU-Philippines trade relationship and trade-related policies by improving trade performance of the Philippines and fostering inclusive economic growth.
ARISE Plus Philippines is a project of the EU and the Government of the Philippines, with the Department of Trade and Industry as the lead partner. Other government agencies involved are the Department of Agriculture, Food and Drug Administration, Bureau of Customs and the Department of Science and Technology. The International Trade Centre (ITC) is the technical agency supporting the project’s implementation.
About National Exporters’ Week (NEW)
The National Exporters’ Week is an annual event led by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), in partnership with the Export Development Council (EDC) and the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT). Presidential Proclamation 931, series of 1996 and House Resolution No.33 declared the first week of December as the Exporters’ Week in order to obtain total commitment of the government and the private sector to continuously work together to sustain export promotion and development.
Media contacts:
EU Delegation:
Thelma Gecolea
Thelma.gecolea@eeas.europa.eu
International Trade Centre:
Waqas Rafique
wrafique@intracen.org
Department of Trade and Industry:
DTI-Export Marketing Bureau
Kristina Noelle Andaya
kristinanoelleandaya@dti.gov.ph
1 of 5
Press Release
20 July 2022
UN and humanitarian partners support 1M Odette-affected persons in last six months; recovery work continues till end of 2022
MANILA, 20 July 2022--Six months after Typhoon Odette (international name: Rai) left a trail of devastation in 11 of the country’s 17 regions, the United Nations (UN) and humanitarian partners in the Philippines, and in support of the Government-led response, have provided life-saving assistance to over a million people. Since April, following the announcement by the Government of the end of the response phase, the humanitarian community has since been supporting local governments to implement early recovery activities.
To mark six months since Typhoon Odette, the UN Philippines launched today the Typhoon Odette Six Months On Photo Exhibition at the Instituto Cervantes in Intramuros. This exhibition, hosted by the Embassy of Spain, the Instituto Cervantes and AECID and coordinated by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) on behalf of the Humanitarian Community, seeks to raise awareness of the increase in the occurrence of disasters as a direct impact of climate change and its effects on the development of societies. It will be open to the public until 20 August, to mark World Humanitarian Day on 19 August.
UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in the Philippines Gustavo Gonzalez said, “The Humanitarian Community will continue its support to the affected communities to ensure that progress made in the last six months is not rolled back.”
Gonzalez cited a recent report of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), which stated that damaged houses still number over 2.1 million. The revised Humanitarian Needs and Priorities (HNP) plan which was launched by the Humanitarian Country Team in the Philippines on 2 February committed to provide assistance to 840,000 people in Caraga, Southern Leyte, Cebu and Bohol. Shelter assistance, as one of the main needs, was provided to over 210,000 typhoon-affected households. To date, close to 66,000 families have received kitchen items, sleeping kits, and lighting items. More Shelter Repair Kits and other shelter materials for the rebuilding of homes are needed however.
At the same time, over 3,000 people remain displaced in five regions (Regions VI, VII, VIII, MIMAROPA, and Caraga). In order to relocate these internally displaced persons (IDPs), resettlement sites need to be prepared.
Gonzalez also noted that in the last six months over 1.2 million people have received livelihood support, particularly for agriculture. Humanitarian partners have started implementing cash-for-work activities in Bohol and Southern Leyte, and this has helped beneficiaries to restart fishing and farming livelihoods. However, restarting agricultural activities is hampered by a number of factors, including the unfinished clearing of debris left by Typhoon Odette, and challenges in operating farming equipment due to oil price increases.
Gonzalez said that some 84,000 healthcare workers have been deployed and have served in temporary health facilities. However, health facilities remain semi-functional in many areas, and communities continue to require support to access health services.
Close to 46,000 children aged 0-59 months have been screened for acute malnutrition. The quality and coverage of services for the early detection and treatment of life-threatening acute malnutrition in early childhood needs to be improved and prioritized.
Earlier, in the response effort, humanitarian partners deployed 562 trucks to deliver relief items. While logistics operations for Typhoon Odette have ended, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) had requested humanitarian organizations to move cargo in response to Tropical Storm Agaton. The goods were moved into areas also affected by Typhoon Odette, including the delivery of Government supplied food, hygiene items, and family/sleeping kits, among others.
Gonzalez acknowledged the support of donors such as USAID, the European Union, Japan, the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), Australia, Canada and Spain for enabling the UN and over 260 humanitarian partners to address urgent humanitarian needs and implement early recovery programmes through more than 15,000 activities in food security and nutrition, protection, shelter, WASH, education, health and Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM).
At the same time, Gonzalez said that while long-term and sustained recovery will be the focus of support to the Government until the end of the year, the Humanitarian Community will reinforce measures to strengthen preparedness and build resilience against future shocks.
“Humanitarian partners will continue to work closely with local authorities to pilot new approaches such as anticipatory action,” Gonzalez said.
“As nations continue to address the different impacts of the global pandemic, the reality is several hazards may strike at once. The Philippines has already experienced responding to catastrophes in a COVID-19 crisis scenario and amid difficult access to resources due to the war in Ukraine. This is forcing all of us to change the way operations are being conducted,” he added.
Notes to Editors
Revised Humanitarian Needs and Priorities (HNP) Plan
Latest OCHA Situation Report
Anticipatory Action
For more information, please contact:
Manja Vidic, Head of Office, UN OCHA Philippines
vidic@un.org
1 of 5
Press Release
21 December 2021
PHL, UN and partners endorse roadmap to accelerate implementation of human rights joint programme
MANILA, 20 December 2021—The Philippines-United Nations (UN) Joint Programme on human rights took its first major step today at the Steering Committee meeting of government and civil society partners and participating UN agencies, where they agreed on a roadmap to implement Human Rights Council (HRC) resolution 45/33, adopted on 7 October 2020, which outlined specific areas for capacity-building and technical cooperation for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Philippines.
The steering committee meeting today was participated in by Department of Justice Secretary Menardo I. Guevarra, UN Resident Coordinator Gustavo Gonzalez, and representatives of government, UN and civil society partners.
Guevarra said, "The Joint Programme seeks to affirm the commitment of the Philippines to the primacy of human rights, the importance of a free democratic space for civil society, and the principle of international cooperation—key values that the Philippines holds dear as a founding charter member of the UN." UN Resident Coordinator in the Philippines Gustavo Gonzalez said, “Today’s meeting is an important step forward in the implementation of Human Rights Council resolution 45/33. Concrete actions, milestones and tools have been discussed and adopted. Everyone has a role in the joint programme and is accountable for the expected results.”
The human rights joint programme received a boost recently with combined financial support from the governments of Norway and Australia of some Php29 million.
“I thank the Governments of Australia and Norway for their readiness in supporting the Joint Programme. They know that respect for human rights is a core component of sustainable and inclusive development,” Gonzalez said.
"Australia is committed to see this programme succeed and deliver tangible results. We congratulate the Government of the Pilippines for its efforts," said Ambassador Steven Robinson of the Embassy of Australia.
On 22 July 2021, the Philippines and the UN signed the UN Joint Programme Programme on Human Rights. The three-year UN joint programme was developed to implement Human Rights Council (HRC) resolution 45/33, adopted on 7 October 2020, which outlined specific areas for capacity-building and technical cooperation for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Philippines. The joint programme document was signed by Secretary Guevarra, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr.,and Gonzalez, with the late Jose Luis Gascon of the Commission on Human Rights in attendance.
Aside from the DoJ, the UN joint programme is being co-implemented by the Presidential Human Rights Committee Secretariat (PHRCS), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), the Department of Health (DOH), the Anti-Terrorism Council-Program Management Center (ATC-PMC), the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and the Commission on Human Rights (CHR). Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) as well as the academe will also be core partners in the implementation of the programme.
UN entities involved in the programme - the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR); United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO); the UN Office of Counter Terrorism (UNOCT); and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) – will work with the Government, drawing on expertise and best practices to apply human rights-based approaches in these areas. Gonzalez said, "The UN Joint Programme on Human Rights brings together different actors to find solutions to complex challenges. This is not always an easy task, but these challenges cannot be resolved by trainings and expertise alone. Resolving them requires leadership and courage." "This Joint Programme forges a lasting partnership for the advancement of the principles declared in the 1948 Universal Declaration on Human Rights and Article III of the 1987 Constitution--the Philippines’ own Bill of Rights," said Guevarra.
Through the joint programme, the UN in the Philippines will engage in capacity-building and technical cooperation in six areas, namely, strengthening domestic investigation and accountability mechanisms; data gathering on alleged police violations; civic space and engagement with civil society and the Commission on Human Rights (CHR); national mechanism for reporting and follow-up; counter-terrorism legislation; and human rights-based approaches to drug control. [Ends] For more information, please contact: Signe Poulsen (Ms) UN Philippines Senior Human Rights Adviser Email: signe.poulsen1@un.org
Guevarra said, "The Joint Programme seeks to affirm the commitment of the Philippines to the primacy of human rights, the importance of a free democratic space for civil society, and the principle of international cooperation—key values that the Philippines holds dear as a founding charter member of the UN." UN Resident Coordinator in the Philippines Gustavo Gonzalez said, “Today’s meeting is an important step forward in the implementation of Human Rights Council resolution 45/33. Concrete actions, milestones and tools have been discussed and adopted. Everyone has a role in the joint programme and is accountable for the expected results.”
The human rights joint programme received a boost recently with combined financial support from the governments of Norway and Australia of some Php29 million.
“I thank the Governments of Australia and Norway for their readiness in supporting the Joint Programme. They know that respect for human rights is a core component of sustainable and inclusive development,” Gonzalez said.
"Australia is committed to see this programme succeed and deliver tangible results. We congratulate the Government of the Pilippines for its efforts," said Ambassador Steven Robinson of the Embassy of Australia.
On 22 July 2021, the Philippines and the UN signed the UN Joint Programme Programme on Human Rights. The three-year UN joint programme was developed to implement Human Rights Council (HRC) resolution 45/33, adopted on 7 October 2020, which outlined specific areas for capacity-building and technical cooperation for the promotion and protection of human rights in the Philippines. The joint programme document was signed by Secretary Guevarra, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr.,and Gonzalez, with the late Jose Luis Gascon of the Commission on Human Rights in attendance.
Aside from the DoJ, the UN joint programme is being co-implemented by the Presidential Human Rights Committee Secretariat (PHRCS), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), the Department of Health (DOH), the Anti-Terrorism Council-Program Management Center (ATC-PMC), the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and the Commission on Human Rights (CHR). Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) as well as the academe will also be core partners in the implementation of the programme.
UN entities involved in the programme - the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR); United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO); the UN Office of Counter Terrorism (UNOCT); and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) – will work with the Government, drawing on expertise and best practices to apply human rights-based approaches in these areas. Gonzalez said, "The UN Joint Programme on Human Rights brings together different actors to find solutions to complex challenges. This is not always an easy task, but these challenges cannot be resolved by trainings and expertise alone. Resolving them requires leadership and courage." "This Joint Programme forges a lasting partnership for the advancement of the principles declared in the 1948 Universal Declaration on Human Rights and Article III of the 1987 Constitution--the Philippines’ own Bill of Rights," said Guevarra.
Through the joint programme, the UN in the Philippines will engage in capacity-building and technical cooperation in six areas, namely, strengthening domestic investigation and accountability mechanisms; data gathering on alleged police violations; civic space and engagement with civil society and the Commission on Human Rights (CHR); national mechanism for reporting and follow-up; counter-terrorism legislation; and human rights-based approaches to drug control. [Ends] For more information, please contact: Signe Poulsen (Ms) UN Philippines Senior Human Rights Adviser Email: signe.poulsen1@un.org
1 of 5
Press Release
28 June 2021
UN Secretary-General's Message for the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, 26 June
Science and trust in science are the hero and lesson of the pandemic; the world needs both to win against the virus. Scientists delivered safe and effective vaccines in record time. Access to reliable and verifiable information is making the difference between life and death.
Action based on evidence is crucial for our responses to drugs, too.
The world drug problem remains an urgent challenge that threatens to exacerbate pandemic impacts and hinder a healthy and inclusive recovery. The forthcoming World Drug Report 2021 from the United Office on Drugs and Crime shows that deaths attributed to disorders related to drug use have nearly doubled over the past decade. New HIV infections among adults worldwide have declined in recent years, but not among people who inject drugs, who accounted for 10 per cent of new infections in 2019.
International cooperation has helped to limit the proliferation of new psychoactive substances, but the problem is shifting to poorer regions where control systems are weaker. Dark web drug sales continue to rise, and non-medical use of pharmaceuticals, including opioids, is expanding.
Drug trafficking and organized crime fuel and perpetuate cycles of violence and conflict. Armed groups and terrorists profit from the illicit drug trade, and the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic has left millions of people even more vulnerable to drug crime and illicit crop cultivation.
Disparities in access to essential controlled medicines in low- and middle-income countries have been further heightened in the pandemic. For example, medical professionals in West and Central Africa in 2019 had four doses of pain medication every day for one million inhabitants; in North America, the number of doses was nearly 32,000.
Investing in balanced prevention as well as control of drug use and drug use disorders produces solid returns -- saved lives, healthier populations, improved workforce participation and productivity, and reduced criminal justice costs.
Many of the risk factors associated with crime and violent behaviour are also drivers of drug use, and targeted efforts focusing on these overlapping dynamics -- including childhood maltreatment and lack of social support -- can help to strengthen prevention.
Moreover, research suggests that law enforcement and policing need to go after the criminals at the upper levels of the drug trafficking chain, who reap the highest profits and wreak the greatest violence.
Public-private partnerships - with tech companies, postal and courier services, and shipping companies - represent an essential frontline response in the new fight against drug traffickers, who are increasingly exploiting the legal cargo trade and postal services to move their illicit product.
Better data is also helping to identify trends and enable real-time monitoring of rapidly shifting trafficking routes. Science-driven early warning systems are helping to predict emerging drug threats. Greater international cooperation and support are needed to help low-income countries to take advantage of these advanced capabilities.
The theme of this year’s observance of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, “Share facts on drugs. Save lives” is a call for solidarity. I urge all Member States to listen to the science and take action, building on agreed international frameworks and drawing on United Nations support for health and justice.
1 of 5
Press Release
18 June 2021
UN Secretary-General's Message for World Refugee Day, 20 June 2021
War, violence and persecution have forced more than 80 million people around the world to flee their homes, leaving everything behind to save themselves and their families.
Refugees must begin their lives anew.
But for so many, the pandemic has wiped out their livelihoods, led to stigmatization and vilification and exposed them disproportionately to the virus.
At the same time, refugees once again demonstrated their invaluable contribution to their adoptive societies as essential and frontline workers.
We have a duty to help refugees rebuild their lives.
COVID-19 has shown us that we can only succeed if we stand together.
On World Refugee Day, I call on communities and governments to include refugees – in health care, education, and sport.
We heal together when we all get the care we need.
We learn together when we are all given the chance to study.
We shine together when we play as a team and respect everyone.
On World Refugee Day, I commend the countries that have welcomed refugees. But we need more support – from States, the private sector, communities and individuals – if we are to move together towards a more inclusive future, free of discrimination.
The refugees I have met have shown me what it means to rebuild your own life while summoning the strength to enrich the lives of others.
As High Commissioner for Refugees for 10 years, I was inspired by their courage, resilience and determination.
I thank refugees and displaced persons across the world and reiterate my personal admiration for what they have taught us all about the power of hope and healing.
This World Refugee Day and every day, we stand together with refugees.
1 of 5
Latest Resources
1 / 11
1 / 11