World Cities Day 2024. October 31st.

FORUM: “Youth climate changemakers: Catalysing local action for urban sustainability.” World Cities Day 2024. With urban areas projected to accommodate 70% of the global population by 2050, cities face unprecedented challenges, particularly in the context of climate change. In cities worldwide, youth represent a significant demographic, with their voices and actions pivotal in shaping urban futures. It has been estimated that 60% of the world’s population will live in cities by 2030 and that as many as 60% of urban dwellers will be under the age of 18. Despite progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals, urban areas continue to grapple with poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation, necessitating urgent and transformative actions. In the Global South, these challenges are often more pronounced due to rapid urbanization, limited infrastructure, and insufficient resources. Cities in these regions frequently face severe housing shortages, inadequate access to clean water and sanitation, and higher vulnerability to climate-related disasters. Youth in these areas are particularly affected, experiencing high levels of unemployment and limited educational opportunities. Therefore, addressing the unique needs and leveraging the potential of young people in the Global South is crucial for achieving sustainable urban development and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Engaging youth meaningfully in urban decision-making processes is essential for fostering inclusive and resilient cities. By empowering and enabling young people to participate actively, cities can tap into their creativity, innovation, and commitment to drive sustainable development. Moreover, involving youth in policymaking ensures that urban strategies reflect their aspirations and concerns, leading to more effective and equitable future. Through the Pact for the Future and the Declaration on Future Generations, the imperative is to establish frameworks that prioritize the voices of youth and future generations, ensuring their active participation in shaping sustainable urban landscapes. The Pact for the Future aims to strengthen the multilateral system to address current and future challenges, explicitly recognizing the crucial role of youth and future generations. This commitment is reflected in the Declaration on Future Generations, which seeks to safeguard the rights and interests of those yet to be born by promoting long-term, responsible decision-making. As we prepare for the Summit of the Future, these frameworks will be critical in shaping the discussions and outcomes. The Summit of the Future is an opportunity to integrate youth perspectives into global policy, ensuring that the multilateral system is responsive to the needs and aspirations of the younger generation. By adopting these frameworks at the Summit, we commit to creating pathways for young people to influence urban policies and strategies actively. This includes establishing youth councils, integrating youth representatives into local government bodies, and ensuring continuous dialogue between young people and policymakers. These actions will help build cities that are not only sustainable and resilient but also reflective of the diverse voices and needs of all their inhabitants, present and future. The 2024 World Cities Day (WCD) will be held right before the World Urban Forum 12 (WUF 12) in Cairo. This event will energize youth to engage actively in WUF 12. As part of the agenda, the Youth Forum will tackle many of these pressing challenges. The discussions and outcomes from the Youth Forum will feed directly into the declaration and outcome document of WUF 12, shaping the future cities forum and ensuring that youth perspectives are integral to urban planning and policy decisions. The objectives of this year’s observance is to Recognize the leadership of local governments and potential of youth in advancing climate and local action for cities; Facilitate dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders to accelerate climate action and sustainable urban developmen; Celebrate successful city projects and youth-led initiatives and contributions to urban sustainability. and to Highlight the importance of integrating youth perspectives in urban planning, policymaking, and implementation processes. As cities around the world continue to grow, they are increasingly home to a new wave of young leaders committed to addressing the pressing issues of climate change. Youth are at the forefront of local action and innovation, playing a catalytic role in shaping sustainable urban futures. This year’s celebration is a call to action for youth and local governments to work hand-in-hand to address the climate crisis. With climate change intensifying urban challenges, particularly in rapidly growing cities, this year’s observance will emphasize the power of youth to lead in urban adaptation and climate resilience. By taking the lead, today’s youth can shape their cities to be inclusive, equitable, and environmentally sustainable for generations to come. Follow the conversation with the hashtags: #WorldCitiesDay, #31October, #UrbanOctober, #sustainableurbanfuture, #Cities.

EVENTS: On October 31st, from 08:30 AM-16:00 PM (UTC+03) at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Alexandria, Egypt, the UN-Habitat invites everyone committed to urban resilience and climate action to join the Global Observance of World Cities Day, under the theme “Youth climate changemakers: Catalysing local action for urban sustainability.” This year’sevent is taking place in the historic city of Alexandria, Egypt and will highlight the leadership of young people in driving bold, transformative actions that contribute to building more sustainable and climate-resilient cities. The celebration will bring together leaders of sovereign wealth funds, development finance institutions, private sector and governments to focus on the World Cities Day 2024 theme. During the Global Observance, participants will engage in high-level discussions, youth panels, and dialogues that explore innovative solutions for building resilient urban spaces. The event will also feature the prestigious Shanghai Award presentation, recognizing outstanding urban initiatives that support sustainable development. Watch the livestream!

Agenda Programme:

10:00 – 10:45: Welcome Notes of World Cities Day 2024 Youth climate changemakers

10:50 – 12:00: High-level Ministerial Panel for Youth Climate Change Makers: Different Perspectives

12:00 – 12:30: Shanghai Award and Shanghai Manual presentation

13:30 – 14:30: Youth panel discussion on climate and cities (Youth on the Front Lines: Leading Climate Change in Cities)

14:30 – 15:30: Public-Private Sectors Dialogue (Public-private dialogue: Sustainable Investments for Climate Resilience)

15:30 – 15:50: A joint presentation and closing remarks for the day - World Cities Day 2024

To Participate Get the concept note, the Information for the participants; Register to attend the Global Observance at events.unhabitat.org, Download the programme. Please feel free to contact us on our email address: unhabitat-wcd@un.org.

PUBLICATIONS: Get the Urban October Toolkit 2024 and Explore the Journals of Urban Policy, Planning and Development.

Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on World Cities Day 2024; October 31st.

On this World Cities Day, we recognize the role of young people in driving climate action and shaping urban futures. With more than half of the world’s population and 70 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, cities are at the forefront of the climate crisis. And they need the energy and vision of youth leading the charge for change.

From grassroots movements to innovation labs, young people are pushing for ambitious climate action. They are championing renewable energy integration, green jobs, clean public transportation, and climate adaptation measures – contributing to shape sustainable cities where everyone can thrive.

We must amplify their voices, invest in their ideas, and promote their meaningful participation in urban decision-making. By empowering young people, we can accelerate climate action and drive global progress for the Sustainable Development Goals.

As we mark World Cities Day, let us celebrate the power of youth to build green, resilient and inclusive cities that meet the needs and aspirations of future generations.

António Guterres

Message of the UN-Habitat Executive Director on World Cities Day 2024; October 31st.

Youth climate changemakers: Catalysing local action
for urban sustainability
Our house is on fire, and inaction is making it worse for both people and the planet.
Young people like Greta Thunberg and other activists worldwide are mobilizing in
communities across the globe. They are proving that age is no barrier to making a lasting
impact. The young generation is determined to do everything in their power to create a
better future for all.
This World Cities Day, we are celebrating you – the young leaders, bold advocates, and
changemakers driving the climate action we urgently need. You are the face and energy
of our cities and towns.
World Cities Day was established to reflect on the state of our cities. Today, however, the
youth are calling for action, not just reflection.
This year’s theme, “Youth climate changemakers: Catalysing local action for urban
sustainability”, invites young people to lead the charge.
By 2050, cities are expected to house 70 per cent of the global population, and youth
represent a significant share of the urban population. That’s why your voices and actions
have never been more critical. From housing and clean water to renewable energy and
disaster resilience, local climate action must become a reality.
In the Global South, where the impacts of climate change are often most severe, young people are already leading. These are real stories of hope and transformation, driven by
youth.
On this World Cities Day, we invite you to lead, share your ideas, and take bold action.
Together, we can create cities that are not just liveable but resilient, equitable, and
sustainable.
The time is now. Let’s shape the cities we want to live in – together.

Statement by the Executive Director of UN-Habitat.

LIVESTREAM

Welcome Notes of World Cities Day 2024 Youth climate changemakers

 

High-level Ministerial Panel for Youth Climate Change Makers: Different Perspectives

 

Shanghai Award and Shanghai Manual presentation

 

Youth panel discussion on climate and cities (Youth on the Front Lines: Leading Climate Change in Cities)

 

Public-Private Sectors Dialogue (Public-private dialogue: Sustainable Investments for Climate Resilience)

 

 

A joint presentation and closing remarks for the day - World Cities Day 2024.

International Day of Care and Support 2024; October 29th.

FORUM: “Transforming care systems to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals in the context of Beijing+30.“ International Day of Care and Support 2024. Care work, both paid and unpaid, is crucial to the future of decent work. Growing populations, ageing societies, changing families, women’s secondary status in labour markets and shortcomings in social policies demand urgent action on the organization of care work from governments, employers, trade unions and individual citizens. If not adequately addressed, current deficits in care service provision and its quality will create a severe and unsustainable global care crisis and increase gender inequalities at work. Care work consists of two overlapping activities: direct, personal and relational care activities, such as feeding a baby or nursing an ill partner; and indirect care activities, such as cooking and cleaning. Unpaid care work is care work provided without a monetary reward by unpaid carers. Unpaid care is considered as work and is thus a crucial dimension of the world of work. Paid care work is performed for pay or profit by care workers. They comprise a wide range of personal service workers, such as nurses, teachers, doctors and personal care workers. Domestic workers, who provide both direct and indirect care in households, are also part of the care workforce. The care economy is growing as the demand for childcare and care for the elderly is increasing in all regions. It will thus create a great number of jobs in the coming years. However, care work across the world remains characterized by a void of benefits and protections, low wages or non-compensation, and exposure to physical, mental and, in some cases, sexual harm. It is clear that new solutions to care are needed on two fronts: in regards to the nature and provision of care policies and services, and the terms and conditions of care work. With the global demand for domestic workers likely to grow, the International Labour Organization steps up action to ensure they have access to decent work. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #Dayofcare, #29october, #careworkers, #InvestInCare.

EVENT: On October 29th; from 10:00 am to 12:00 am EST; The International Labour Organization (ILO), the UN Women, and the UNDP will mark International Day of Care and Support 2024 by spotlighting the Resolution concerning Decent Work and the Care Economy, adopted by the ILO International Labour Conference in June 2024. The Assembly invited stakeholders to observe the International Day of Care and Support on an annual basis in an appropriate manner in order to raise awareness of the importance of care and support and its key contribution to the achievement of gender equality and the sustainability of our societies and economies, as well as of the need to invest in a resilient and inclusive care economy, including the development of strong and resilient care and support systems.The focus of this year's celebration will be on transforming care systems to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals in the context of Beijing+30, elaborating on the recent UN system-wide policy guidance on Transforming Care Systems in the Context of the SDGs and Our Common Agenda. Watch the live observance!

Opening remarks by Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of UN Women, Sima Bahous, at the United Nations Observance of the International Day of Care and Support 2024.

Today, and every day, we recognize the skilled and the essential work of paid and unpaid care workers around the world.

Care work is the backbone of our well-being and prosperity. Without it, our societies and economies would simply not function. Yet, it often remains invisible. The significance of unpaid care has been enormously undervalued and overlooked in public policy and excluded from metrics of economic progress. Paid care work, meanwhile, continues to be undervalued and underpaid.

Care work is a gender equality issue.

We all know the data: women and girls remain the default providers of this essential labour, engaging in more than 2.5 times as many hours a day in unpaid care work than men. An estimated 80 per cent of paid domestic workers worldwide are also women, with 9 out of 10 of them working without social protection.

It is women living in poverty, migrant women, and women informal workers who shoulder the largest share of unpaid or under-paid care work.

These numbers are not just numbers. They reflect deep structural barriers that create unequal opportunities and outcomes for women and girls in education, in employment, in leadership and in financial security across their life.

They reflect a profound disconnect between what is essential for societies and economies to thrive and what is prioritized in policies and budgets.

We know that investing in robust care policies, quality care services, and basic time-saving care infrastructure is a triple win for individuals, for communities and for economies. These investments can simultaneously reduce women’s time and income poverty and enhance their labour market participation.

Evidence shows us that investing in care can increase the number of decent care jobs, potentially creating 300 million jobs by 2035.

Today, we are calling for care work to be valued as a public good, as skilled and essential work, and for quality care and support to be recognized as the basis for equal participation in society.

UN Women stands committed to working with you to transform care systems and to build thriving, equitable and sustainable economies and societies for generations of today and tomorrow.

We are making great strides. Countries such as Australia, Brazil, Cape Verde, Chile, Colombia, Kenya, Panama, Uruguay, among many others, are progressing national care policies or strategies, and I applaud these efforts.

UN Women is further advancing this critical work through our global initiative TransformCare, working with our partners and allies, Member States, civil society organizations, the private sector and UN agencies to advance valuing care through comprehensive policies.

The new UN system-wide policy guidance on transforming care systems – developed under the leadership of the Deputy Secretary-General, Ms. Amina Mohammed, which UN Women proudly co-led with ILO, OHCHR, UNDP and ECLAC – gives us a roadmap for getting there.

Next year, we will approach 30 years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. Let us leverage this opportunity, continue to build momentum and push for stronger commitments to action to transform care systems.

Let us commit to build caring, thriving, equitable and sustainable economies and societies for today’s and tomorrow’s generations.

I thank you.

Statement of the UN Women on the occasion of the International Day of Care and Support; October 29th.

World Day for Audiovisual Heritage Day 2024; October 27th.

FORUM: “Your widow to the world.” World Day for Audiovisual Heritage Day 2024. As a window to the world, audiovisual heritage enables us to witness events we do not attend, listen to voices of the past, and create narratives that inform and entertain. Through the exploration of recorded sounds and visual imagery captured on film and video, we not only gain an appreciation for the cultural wealth but also extract valuable lessons from it. Audiovisual materials can tell your story, your truth, and your presence. They provide a window to the world, allowing us to observe events we cannot attend, hear voices from the past who can no longer speak, and craft stories that inform and entertain. By listening to recorded sounds and looking at images captured on film and video we can not only appreciate the richness of this culture but also learn from it. Audiovisual archives tell us stories about people’s lives and cultures from all over the world. They represent a priceless heritage which is an affirmation of our collective memory and a valuable source of knowledge since they reflect the cultural, social and linguistic diversity of our communities. They help us grow and comprehend the world we all share. Conserving this heritage and ensuring it remains accessible to the public and future generations is a vital goal for all memory institutions as well as the public at large. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #WorldDayforAudiovisualHeritage, #WDAH, #audiovisual ,#27october, #AudiovisualHeritageDay #AudiovisualHeritage.

EVENTS: WDAH 2024 - Celebrations around the world.

On and around the Octobe 27th; Celebrations around the world of the World Day for Audiovisual Heritage Day 2024 will be held in many countries and organized by national and regional sound and film archives, broadcasters, museums and libraries, and major audiovisual associations to honor audiovisual preservation professionals and institutions that safeguard our heritage for future generations. The nine associations forming the CCAAA (AMIA, ARSC, FIAF, FIAT-IFTA, FOCAL International, IASA, ICA, SEAPAVAA, IFLA) strongly encourage all their members (and any other institutions) to Participate to the global celebrations of the World Day. You can now visualize all events on a dedicated world map that is updated in real time. Explore the world map of WDAH 2024 events.

On July 2nd, 2024 - Panel Discussion on how Library Translates Essential Resources in the Field of Audiovisual Heritage Preservation - The Qatar National Library partnered with IASA to complete Arabic translations of four pivotal publications from IASA’s Technical Committee.


From 15 to 18 May 2024; ARSC's 58th Annual Conference - The Call for presentations for ARSC's 58th Annual Conference to be held in St. Paul, Minnesota is open until 12 January. The Association for Recorded Sound Collections welcomes all who are interested in any aspect of sound recording to attend or present at the conference. The program will include individual presentations, posters, and panel discussions with sound recording scholars, collectors, preservationists, and creators engaged in a broad range of topics that cross geographic, cultural, and collection boundaries. There will also be a silent auction and social events (screenings, Ask the Technical Committee, a Collector's Roundtable) offered each evening. Get the Conference Flyer and the Call for Presentations.


From 22 to 23 April 2024, 2024 FIAF Congress: The call for papers for the symposium of the 2024 International Federation of Film Archives (FIAF) Congress in Bangkok on the theme "Film Archives in the Global South" is now open. In 2023, out of the 173 FIAF members and associates, 41 affiliates were located in what is being referred to as the "Global South", spreading predominantly across Latin America, Asia, and Africa. Despite struggling with developmental and economic challenges, alongside political and social instability, these collections are significant for their cultural diversity, local history, and poignant reflections of societal and political issues experienced by the vast majority of the world's population. As they continue their work on the preservation of the world's audiovisual memory, film archives of the Global South have become important centers for developing specific strategies, approaches and concepts of preservation beyond hegemonic models. More than that, these developments may expand preservation practices to areas and contexts that were previously ignored or considered unreachable through traditional methods and ideas, highlighting the resourcefulness and ingenuity of archival practices in the often under-resourced contexts of the Global South. Participants must fill out the online form before 8 January 2024.


On March 8th - Participate to the 2024 FIAT-IFTA Conference. The Call for Papers of the 2024 FIAT-IFTA World Conference, set to take place in Bucharest in October 2024, is open until 31 March.

PUBLICATIONS: Read the Guidelines on the Production and Preservation of Digital Audio Objects Published by the International Association of Sound and Audio Visual Archives (web edition).

World Development Information Day 2024; October 24th.

FORUM: “Strengthen international cooperation to solve trade and development problems.” World Development Information Day 2024. The Commitment to Development Index ranks 40 of the world’s most powerful countries on their dedication to policies that affect more than five billion people living in poorer nations. The CDI scores countries relative to their size and economic weight to measure countries according to their potential to help. CDI Countries range from middle to high-income; to level the playing field, we have an option to income-adjust, or rank relative to income-predicted scores. Sweden takes first place. France is second and Norway is in third place. Sweden and France also top the environment component, each applying a relatively high price to carbon and Sweden has relatively low emissions per head. The US ranks 22nd, with strong contributions on security and trade, but low scores on diffusing technology and safeguarding the environment. It scores ahead of China, which ranks 36th, but behind most EU countries, who take 6 of the top 10 spots. Follow the conversations with the hashtags #DevinfoDay, #Development, #macroeconomics, #DevelopmentIndex; #24October.

EVENTS: on October 24th; A High-level event to mark World Development Information Day 2024 will be held at UNHQ by the United Nations General Assembly, the United Nations Office for Sustainable Development (UNOSD), the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations Development (UNPD).

On October 29th; You are invited to join the 2024 UN SDG Action Campaign to celebrate changemakers who are wielding the power of creativity and innovation to bring us closer to a more sustainable, equitable and peaceful world. The UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony will unveil the winners of the 2024 edition with the presence of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy Antonio Tajani (TBC), and UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the UNDP Bureau for External Relations and Advocacy Susan Brown, as well as Canon Ambassador Muhammed Muheisen, Italian song writer and singer Noemi, Paralympian and Disability Advocate Jessica Smith OAM, award-winning film director and producer Farhoud Meybodi, among many others. The UN SDG Action Awards programme is made by the generous financial support of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) and the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Watch the UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony live!

• 14 October 2024 - 16 December 2024 Online course on trade policy frameworks - Online
• 26 October 2024 - Trade Day at Convention on Biological Diversity COP16 - Cali, Colombia
• 28 - 29 October 2024 - Training Webinar: The relationship between trade and environment in international trade Online and Lima, Peru.
• 29 October 2024 - Launch of the Trade and Development Report 2024.
• 29 - 30 October 2024 - Workshop on ISO 50001 energy management systems to promote sustainable practices and energy efficiency in African ports - Online.
• 30 October 2024 - Attracting finance and investment for the energy transition in Namibia: Stakeholders’ meeting in Windhoek, Namibia.
• 30 October 2024 - Webinar on Consumer Protection in Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) in Latin America.
• 31 October 2024 - Online course webinar on trade and development - Online, Switzerland.
• 1 - 29 November 2024- Training session on science, technology and innovation policy and practice in South Africa, Seychelles, Zambia.
• 4 November 2024 - Launch of the Least Developed Countries Report 2024.

CONFERENCES & WORKSHOPS

Explore the list of upcoming UN Development & Trade events and meetings!

Register to participate to the upcoming webinar series of the Center of Global Development.

INITIATIVE ;Advancing dissemination of SDGs.

Secretary-General's remarks to the 16th BRICS Summit;

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
I am grateful to participate in the 16th BRICS Summit.
Collectively, your countries represent nearly half of the world’s population. And I salute your valuable commitment and support for international problem-solving as clearly reflected in your theme this year. But no single group and no single country can act alone or in isolation. It takes a community of nations, working as one global family, to address global challenges. Challenges like the rising number of conflicts. The devastation of climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss… Rising inequalities and lingering poverty and hunger… A debt crisis that threatens to smother plans for the future of many vulnerable countries... The fact that fewer than one-fifth of the Sustainable Development Goals are on-track... A growing digital divide, and a lack of guardrails for artificial intelligence and other frontier technologies... And a lack of representation and voice for developing countries at global decision-making tables. From the Security Council to the Bretton-Woods institution and beyond. This must change. September’s Summit of the Future offered a roadmap for strengthening multilateralism, and advancing peace, sustainable development and human rights.

I see four areas for action.

First — finance.

Today’s international financial system is not offering many vulnerable countries the safety net or level of support they need. The Pact for the Future calls for accelerating reform of the international financial architecture that is outdated, ineffective and unfair. And it includes a commitment to move forward with an SDG Stimulus to change the business model to substantially increase the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks to developing countries. To recycle more Special Drawing Rights… To restructure loans for countries drowning in debt... And to mobilize more international and domestic resources, public and private, for vital investments in developing countries. Next year’s Conference on Financing for Development and the Summit on Social Development are two milestones to carry these efforts forward. We must also recognize the importance of South-South cooperation. It doesn’t replace the commitments and obligations of developed countries. But it is providing a growing contribution to supporting developing countries in overcoming obstacles to reaching the SDGs.

Second — climate.

Every country has committed to limit temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius. That requires dramatic action to reduce emissions now — with the G20 in the lead. COP29 is just weeks away. That starts the clock for countries to produce new Nationally Determined Contributions plans with 2035 targets that are aligned with the 1.5 degree goal. COP29 must deliver an ambitious and credible outcome on the new climate finance goal. Developed countries must also keep promises to double adaptation finance, and ensure meaningful contributions to the Loss and Damage Fund, which was not the case when it was created.

Third — technology.

Every country must be able to access the benefits of technology.
The Global Digital Compact commits to enhanced global cooperation and capacity-building. It includes the first truly universal agreement on the international governance of Artificial Intelligence to give every country a seat at the AI table. It calls for an independent international Scientific Panel on AI and initiating a global dialogue on its governance within the United Nations with the participations of all countries And it requests options for innovative financing for AI capacity-building in developing countries.

And fourth — peace.

We must strengthen and update the machinery of peace. This includes reforms to make the United Nations Security Council reflective of today’s world. The Pact for the Future includes important steps on disarmament — including the first multilateral agreement on nuclear disarmament in more than a decade — and steps that address the weaponization of outer space and the use of lethal autonomous weapons. Across the board, we need peace. We need peace in Gaza with an immediate cease-fire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, the effective delivery of humanitarian aid without obstacles, and we need to make irreversible progress to end the occupation and establish the two state solution, as it was recently reaffirmed once again by a UN General Assembly resolution. We need peace in Lebanon with an immediate cessation of hostilities, moving to the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701. We need peace in Ukraine. A just peace in line with the UN Charter, international law and General Assembly resolutions. We need peace in Sudan, with all parties silencing their guns and committing to a path towards sustainable peace. Those were the messages I have delivered to the High-Level segment of the General Assembly in September in New York. Unfortunately, they remain valid here and now. Everywhere, we must uphold the values of the UN Charter, the rule of law, and the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of all States. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, The Summit of the Future charted a course to strengthen multilateralism for global development and security. Now we must turn words into deeds and we believe BRICS can play a very important role in this direction.

Thank you.

United Nations Day 2024; October 24th.

FORUM: “Marking the 79th Anniversary of the Organization.” United Nations Day 2024. The date of October 24th marks the entry into force of the United Nations Charter exactly 79 years ago. The United Nations serves as a global forum where countries can raise and discuss the most difficult issues, including problems of war and peace. In addition to maintaining international peace and security, the Organization protects human rights, delivers humanitarian aid, promotes sustainable development and upholds international law. The pandemic is not the only issue the world faces. Racism, intolerance, inequality, climate change, poverty, hunger, armed conflict, and other ills remain global challenges. These challenges call for global action, and the General Assembly is a critical opportunity for all to come together and chart a course for the future. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #24October; #SDG16. #unday #cultureofpeace.

EVENTS: On October 24th will be held in the General Assembly Hall of the Organization at Headquarters, a concert with the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS) to celebrate the United Nations Day 2024; Partners are organising an exciting programme on the topic “Culture of Peace”.

EXIBITIONS. Explore the UN Exhibits.

STATEMENT: Read the statement by the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on UN Day 2024, October 24th and Statement from Mr Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan; Special Rapporteur of the Secretary-General for Iraq on United Nations Day 2024; October 24th.

The United Nations was built by the world, for the world.

Since 1945, it has been the place for countries to unite behind global solutions to global problems.

Solutions that ease tensions, build bridges and forge peace.

Solutions to eradicate poverty, spur sustainable development, and stand up for the most vulnerable.

Solutions that deliver lifesaving relief to people living through conflicts, violence, economic hardship, and climate disasters.

Solutions that level the scales of justice and equality for women and girls.

Solutions that tackle issues that were unimaginable in 1945 — climate change, digital technology, artificial intelligence, and outer space.

In September, the General Assembly adopted the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact, and the Declaration on Future Generations.

Together, these milestone agreements will help ensure that the United Nations system adapts, reforms, and rejuvenates, so it is fit for the changes and challenges around us and delivers solutions for all.

But our work will always be rooted in the timeless values and principles of the UN Charter and international law, and in the dignity and human rights of every person.

In today’s troubled world, hope is not enough.

Hope requires determined action and multilateral solutions for peace, shared prosperity and a thriving planet.

Hope requires all countries working as one.

Hope requires the United Nations.

On United Nations Day, I call on all countries to keep this beacon for the world, and its ideals, shining.

United Nations Secretary-General.

Statement from Mr Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan; Special Rapporteur of the Secretary-General for Iraq on United Nations Day 2024; October 24th.

Today marks a cherished and precious anniversary in the course of nations to end conflicts, spare the generations the scourge of war, and work to build a more secure, stable and developed world.

United Nations Day reminds us of the importance of peace and stability for the good of humanity. We shall not forget those who served in this Organization and those who made great sacrifices to support peace and establish security and prosperity.

The United Nations works to serve people in defusing conflicts and in time of peace, in order to promote sustainable peace, justice and development. In Iraq, this is what we are doing as well: we serve all sectors of society, through sustainable development, support and humanitarian action, as well as through efforts to promote human rights, just as we stood with the Iraqi people in past times of conflict.

As a founding member of the United Nations, Iraq plays its role in upholding the values, principles and rights encapsulated in the UN Charter which all 193 member states have committed to.

In his UN Day message, Secretary-General António Guterres sums up who we are and what we do. He says: “The United Nations was built by the world, for the world. Since 1945, it has been the place for countries to unite behind global solutions to global problems.”

We all belong to these United Nations. We are proud of this day, and we shall not forget the memory of all those who worked to uphold the name and values of the United Nations, and to defend the security and fundamental rights of all humanity.

Happy United Nations Day.

SRSG for Iraq Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2024; October 17th.

FORUM: ''Ending Social and Institutional Maltreatment Acting together for just, peaceful and inclusive societies.'' International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2024. This day provides a platform for people experiencing poverty to voice their concerns and recognizes their crucial role in combating poverty. Importantly, the chosen theme will underscore the necessity for collaborative efforts to eradicate poverty and discrimination, ultimately paving the way for a sustainable future where the needs of all are met without compromising the well-being of future generations. In our efforts to move forward, let us use dignity as our compass, so the attainment of fundamental human rights and social justice is at the heart of national and global decision making. Using dignity as our compass will also help shape a global economy that prioritises the wellbeing of the people and planet over maximisation of corporate profits and ensure social justice, peace and prosperity. In moving forward, strong partnerships are needed. In this regard, Global Partnership for Universal Social Protection, and Global Coalition for Social Justice to reduce and prevent inequalities should be supported. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #Dignity4All, #PovertyDay, #17october, #EndingPoverty, #GlobalGoals, #SDG1.

EVENTS: This year marks the 37th anniversary of the World Day to Overcome Extreme Poverty and the 32nd edition of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. During the day; We will honor the millions of people suffering from poverty and their daily courage and recognize the essential global solidarity and shared responsibility we hold to eradicate poverty and combat all forms of discrimination. More information about initiatives, events and activities to mark October 17 around the world can be found at UNDESA and overcoming poverty website.

New York Commemoration: On October 17th from 1:15 pm to 2:30 pm, to mark the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2024 under the theme “Ending Social and Institutional Maltreatment.” The event will put a spotlight on a widespread but often ignored aspect of poverty: social and institutional mistreatment. This hidden violence, which includes stigma, discrimination, and the denial of basic rights, causes deep harm to individuals and communities already struggling with poverty. .People gather around the world to listen to those in poverty, and to reaffirm the collective commitment to end poverty. This event emphasized the need for collective action to ensure these rights are respected. Since then, people of diverse backgrounds have united annually to express solidarity with those living in poverty. Replicas of a commemorative stone, unveiled during the initial gathering, serve as focal points for these global observances, including one at the United Nations Headquarters. Download Flyer, Get the Agenda Programme!

On october 17th 2024; A Global Policy Dialogue entitled ‘‘New Pathways to End Poverty Amid Converging Crises’’ starting at 10:00 AM - The UN DESA will host a Global Policy Dialogue on 17 October, the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. The dialogue will be divided into two panels that will draw on the key findings and recommendations of the World Social Report 2024 and to ensure transformations at the necessary scale and speed, particularly in relation to achieving SDG 1, No Poverty. This dialogue is made possible by the UN Peace and Development Trust Fund and is free to join. It will be in English with captioning available in 20+ languages in Zoom. Register to participate!

Press conference for the Launch of the World Social Report 2024 starting at 12:30 pm EST UN Press Briefing Room, S-237 - Multiple converging crises are undermining social progress around the world, hitting the most vulnerable people and societies the hardest. This must be a critical wake-up call for global action. The World Social Report 2024 makes the case for comprehensive changes that both national and international actors can make to effectively eradicate poverty, foster inclusive and job-rich growth, while promoting equality of opportunity and universal access to quality services. The new World Social Report 2024 from the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) illustrates how shocks hit the most vulnerable people and societies the hardest, with both short- and long-term impacts on social development. Developing countries, particularly those in special situations such as least-developed countries, landlocked developing countries and small island developing States (SIDS) are among the worst affected. Advancing social development during recurrent and converging crises requires investment in building resilience and coping capacities at the national level, and supportive collective actions at the global level. National development strategies that seek to eradicate poverty; ensure inclusive, job-rich growth; and promote equality of opportunity and universal access to quality services, among others, must now be reviewed to ensure they can succeed in accelerating social development in the new crisis context. At the same time, the cascading effects of crises across systems highlight the need for strengthened global action to reduce systemic risks and enhance resilience. To further support the UN in its efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) amid these interconnected crises; Get the flyer and watch the livestream!

PUBLICATION: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative are glad to present the Global Multidimensional Poverty Index 2024 report entitled’’Poverty amid conflict.’’ The MPI uses the most recent comparable data available for 112 countries—21 low-income countries, 87 middle-income countries and 4 high-income countries. These countries are home to 6.3 billion people, about 92 percent of the population in developing regions, and of these 1.1 billion people are poor. Global MPI values, incidence and intensity of poverty, and component indicators are disaggregated for 1,359 subnational regions as well as by age group, rural-urban area and gender of the household head. In Table 6, we publish harmonised estimates for 86 countries, which provide results for trends over time. Forty have harmonized data for two points in time, 36 countries have trends data for three points in time, six have data for four points in time, three (Ghana, Mexico and Peru) have data for five points in time and Nepal has trends data for six points in time. Read the Global Multidimensional Poverty Index 2024.

Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2024; October 17th.


Poverty is a global plague, affecting hundreds of millions of people around the world. But poverty is not inevitable. It is the direct result of the choices that societies and governments make — or fail to make. This year’s theme reminds us that people mired in poverty contend with societal discrimination and systemic barriers that make it more difficult to access vital services and support. Ending global poverty — and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals — requires governments shaping institutions and systems that put people first. It demands that we prioritize investments in decent work, learning opportunities and social protection that offer ladders out of poverty. And it calls on us to fully implement the new Pact for the Future by supporting an SDG Stimulus and reforming the global financial architecture to help developing countries invest in their people. Eradicating poverty is an essential foundation for humane, dignified societies that leave no one behind. On this important day, let’s re-commit to making poverty history.

United Nations Secretary-General.

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 

Ending Social and Institutional Maltreatment 

Thursday, October 17th, 2024 ECOSOC Chamber, UNHQ,  1:15-2:30 pm Commemorative Stone in Honor of the Victims of Extreme Poverty UN Garden, North lawn 3-3:30 pm 

Part one ECOSOC Chamber 

1:15: Introduction of Co-Mc’s by Maryann Broxton, Main Representative of the United Nation, International Movement ATD Fourth World.

 1:19: Introduction and welcome by Co-Master of Ceremony, Ms Stacy White, ATD Fourth Word Activists, and Ms Clara Ceravolo, UNICEF 

1:24: Ms. Wenyan Yang, Chief, Global Dialogue for Social Development Branch, UN DESA’s Division for Inclusive Social Development (DISD) reading of Secretary General Antonio Guterres’ statement on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

. 1:26: Mr. Charles Katoanga, Director, Division for Inclusive Social Development (DISD), UN DESA offers remarks on the theme of the day. 

Keynote speakers 

1:30-1:41 Ms. Asha Mohamed, ATD Fourth World Activist, Tanzania offers a statement. Mr. Alain Meylan, ATD Fourth World Activist, Switzerland offers a statement. Mr Tyler Byrd, Housing Advocate and Activist, New York, offers a statement. 

1:43-1:48 Musical performance ALBA Musik performs “Rise up” by Audra Day 

1:50 - 2:18 Guest speakers Ms Nancy Santos, Assistant Director, Project Access, Roxbury Community College, Boston, offers a statement. Ms. Rashmi Banga, Chief, Development Research Branch in Economic Analysis and Policy Division, UN DESA Mr. Olivier Richard, Head of the Climate and Development Team, Permanent Mission of France to the United Nations offers reflection on keynote speakers statements and theme of the day. 

2:25-2:30 MC’s thanks speakers, direct attendees to the Poverty Stone, UN Garden, North Lawn for the second part of the commemoration, and invites attendees to reception at ATD Fourth World House at 4:30pm. 

Part two 

Poverty Stone, UN Garden, North Lawn 

3pm: ALBA Musik performs original song, “Paradoja" (Paradox) 

3:06pm: Mr Donld Lee, President, ATD Fourth World offers a statement on the spirit of the day. 3:11pm: School children reading the Poverty Stone inscription in the six UN languages 

3:20p: Moment of silence. 

3:21: Laura Inesta, Bella Meese, and Asher Holland perform “Hallelujah” by Rufus Wainwright. 3:26pm: Gesture 

3:29pm: Co-MC’s thanks speakers and attendees, invites people to attend the reception at the ATD Fourth World House, Group photo by stone. 

4:30-7:30: Reception at ATD Fourth Word House, 172 First Ave (between 10th and 11th St), New York.

CELEBRATING PROGRESS, DRIVING PRIVATE SECTOR SOLUTION

Press Conference: UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) on the launch of the World Social Report 2024 - Social Development in Times of Converging Crises: A Call for Global Action.

    

 Speakers: Shantanu Mukherjee, Director, Economic Analysis and Policy Division, UN DESA, and Wenyan Yang, Chief, Global Dialogue for Social Development Branch (GDSDB), Division for Inclusive Social Development, UN DESA. 

 New Pathways to End Poverty Amid Converging Crises: A UN DESA Global Policy Dialogue.

   

 The new "World Social Report 2024" from the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) illustrates how shocks hit the most vulnerable people and societies the hardest, with both short- and long-term impacts on social development. This session, held on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, will feature conversations with experts and people with lived experience of poverty to showcase ways to ensure transformations at the necessary scale and speed to improve lives. Ending Social and Institutional Maltreatment | Acting together for just, peaceful and inclusive societies - UN International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2024.

   

 People living in poverty face negative attitudes. They are stigmatised, discriminated against, judged for example by their appearance, accent, address (or lack of it), blamed for their situation, and treated with disrespect. The maltreatment is more pronounced for people who face other forms of prejudice as well, including gender, sexual orientation, race, or ethnicity. SDG 16 aims to achieve peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice for all and building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. People everywhere should be free of fear from all forms of violence including the sustained violence of poverty. Freedom from the violence of poverty will be achieved only if discussions and actions around poverty eradication are no longer carried out without the people the most directly impacted. 

 Taking firm steps towards just, peaceful, and inclusive societies include: 

 1/ putting in place conditions for people with lived experience of poverty to share their knowledge and for that knowledge to be recognised and valued;

 2/ supporting actions to enable the people living in poverty to regain confidence and agency to act and 3/ recognising the contributions that people experiencing poverty bring to society and their invaluable experiential knowledge of policy and practices related to poverty. To correct the collective failure of poverty, we call on everyone to take these firm steps and act together to promote effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions that will appropriately, effectively, and respectfully respond to the needs of the people left furthest behind

World Food Day 2024; October 16th.

FORUM: ”Right to Foods for a better life and a better future, Leave no one behind.” World Food Day 2024. The world’s farmers produce enough food to feed more than the global population yet, hunger persists. Around 733 million people are facing hunger in the world due to repeated weather shocks, conflicts, economic downturns, inequality, and the pandemic. This impacts the poor and vulnerable most severely, many of whom are agricultural households, reflecting widening inequalities across and within countries. Food is the third most basic human need after air and water – everyone should have the right to adequate food. Human rights such as the right to food, life and liberty, work and education are recognised by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and two legally binding international covenants. Over 2.8 billion people in the world are unable to afford a healthy diet. Unhealthy diets are the leading cause of all forms of malnutrition – undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies and obesity, which now exist in most countries, cutting across socio-economic classes. Yet today, too many people suffer from hunger and are unable to afford healthy diets. More vulnerable people are often forced to rely on staple foods or less expensive foods that can be unhealthy, while others suffer from the unavailability of fresh or varied foods, lack the information they need to choose a healthy diet, or simply opt for convenience. ‘Foods’ stands for diversity, nutrition, affordability, accessibility and safety. A greater diversity of nutritious foods should be available in our fields, fishing nets, markets, and on our tables, for the benefit of all. Hunger and malnutrition are further exacerbated by protracted or prolonged crises that are driven by a combination of conflict, extreme weather events and economic shocks. Agrifood systems, as a whole, are vulnerable to disasters and crises, particularly the impacts of climate change but at the same time, they are generating pollution, degrading soil, water and air, and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, and biodiversity loss. By transforming agrifood systems, there is great potential to mitigate climate change and support peaceful, resilient and inclusive livelihoods for all. It’s time to work together and create a better, more sustainable future for all. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #WorldFoodDay, #16october, #Leavenoonebehind, #FutureofFood.

EVENT: On October 16th; The FAO will hold a high-level event to celebrate the World Food Day 2024 under the theme ”Right to Foods for a better life and a better future, Leave no one behind.” The celebration will shine a spotlight on food as a human right. The campaign aims to raise awareness worldwide about the need for everyone to have access to a variety of nutritious, affordable, safe, and sustainable foods. Register to participate!

The FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific will host an event in Bangkok, Thailand to mark World Food Day under the global theme of “Right to foods for a better life and a better future, leaving no one behind.” Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand, who is FAO’s Regional Goodwill Ambassador for Asia and the Pacific, will preside over the event, which will be opened by Jong-Jin Kim, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative. The event will take place on 7 October, a few days prior to the global observance of World Food Day on 16 October.

Right to Foods for a better life and a better future

World Food Day this year talks about “the Right to Foods” to underscore how everyone, everywhere, should have access to a variety of diverse and nutritious foods that are affordable and safe. A greater diversity of nutritious foods should be grown in our fields, made available in our markets and on our tables, for the benefit of all. The Asia-Pacific Regional World Food Day event will draw attention to the right to foods, discussing the issues of achieving food and nutrition security in the world’s most populous region, while sustainably managing natural resources and the impacts of climate change. It will also highlight the voices of youth from Asia and the Pacific, recognizing four young innovators who are mobilizing communities, and harnessing technology and digital solutions towards an agrifood systems transformation.

Keynote speaker:

Luke Tay - Singapore Futures Fellow, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy

KEY FACTS

• Around 733 million people are facing hunger in the world.
• Some 2.5 billion adults and 37 million children under the age of five are overweight.
• Yearly, 600 million people fall ill and 420 000 die from eating contaminated food.
• Some 22.3% children under the age of five are too short for their age and 6.8% are too thin for their height.
• Some 890 million adults are living with obesity.
• Indigenous Peoples represent more than 19% of the extreme poor.
• Over 2.8 billion people in the world are unable to afford a healthy diet.
• Conflict and violence are primary causes of hunger. Nearly half of all people suffering acute hunger in 2023 were caught in conflict – almost 135 million people in 20 countries.
• The world’s smallholder farmers produce around a third of the world’s food.
• Worldwide, women are 1.3% more likely to be moderately or severely food insecure than men.
• Climate change disproportionately affects the rural poor and their agricultural yields and productivity.
• Globally, 13% of food is lost during harvest and transport, and 19% is wasted at the retail and consumer stage
• More than 1.6 billion women and children across all world regions are deficient in one or more vitamins or minerals.

ACTIONS

Collective action across over 150 countries worldwide is what makes World Food Day one of the most celebrated days in the United Nations calendar. Hundreds of events and outreach activities bring together governments, businesses, civil society organizations, the media, and the public, including many young people. They promote worldwide awareness of hunger and spark action for the future of food, people and the planet.


What can you do?

Only when everyone enjoys the human right to adequate food will we be able to achieve other human rights and the Sustainable Development Goals. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a blueprint for a more equal and just future for all people everywhere. And we all have a role to play. As consumers, we can exercise rights and call on governments to tackle inequality and poverty, make healthy food choices to increase their availability, reduce food waste and protect the environment. Read more

What does FAO do?

FAO provides countries with technical assistance on policy and legislation, strengthens governance and monitoring mechanisms, develops capacities and promotes multi-stakeholder policy dialogue to transform agrifood systems for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life for all. They also provide humanitarian and resilience building assistance to the most vulnerable, crisis-hit people and their communities, providing time-critical agricultural support to almost 57 million people in 2023. A food secure and nutritious world for all requires massive investment, innovation, science, technology and wide collaboration between a range of actors including governments, the private sector, academic and research institutions and civil society.

Make World Food Day YOUR day!

Farmers

• Practice sustainable agriculture that enhances biodiversity and manages natural resources responsibly.
• Produce more diverse foods.
• Advocate for policies that empower small-scale producers, family farmers and women.
• Reduce food loss.
• Follow regulations and good practices to make sure foods produced are safe

Private Sector

• Make more nutritious and diverse foods available at affordable prices.
• Support small-scale food producers and family farmers.
• Promote corporate social responsibility through ethical, sustainable production and inclusive business models.
• Apply all standards and good practices to make sure foods produced are safe.
• Market foods responsibly and avoid promoting unhealthy foods to children.

Academia & Civil Society Organizations

• Hold governments accountable by collecting data, identifying areas for improvement, and measuring progress towards targets and goals.
• Collaborate with policymakers to base policies and strategies on data and evidence.
• Promote healthy diets and sustainable agrifood systems.
• Transfer the latest knowledge and technology to farmers and decision-makers through partnerships and trainings.

All Of Us

• Raise your voice to influence decision-making.
• Choose local and seasonal foods to support biodiversity.
• Embrace healthy diets and lifestyles.
• Understand food labels to make healthy food choices.
• Learn ways to identify food safety issues and to keep food safe.

 Join an event or an activity nearby you and and show how you are taking action.

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LIVETREAM: The Heads of the Rome-based UN agencies and other special guests will speak at the ceremony on the theme Right to 'foods' for a better life and a better future, which will feature special messages from Pope Francis and the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, as well as the presentation of FAO awards. Watch the livestream!