International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict, November 6th.

FORUM: “Protecting the natural resources that sustain livelihoods and ecosystems is essential for lasting peace.’’ International Day for preventing the protection of the environment in war and conflicts 2024. The international community need to act urgently and actively to address the isues of environmental degradation during armed conflicts, if these issues are ignored, we all have to face severe consequences not for ourselves but also for upcoming generations. For the implementation of agenda 2030 Sustainable Development we need to integrate natural resources and environmental issues into planning and conflict assessment. There is dire need to place a mechanism for collecting, monitoring and sharing information of the potential environmental impacts and protect natural resources in armed conflicts. it is needed to show commitment towards protection of our planet from devastating effects of war and in the times when the planet is warming up. Protecting the Natural environment is integral to Conflicts prevention, peacebuilding and sustainable development.. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #EnvironmentalProtection, #EnvironmentconflictDay, #6november.

EVENTS: On November 6th at United Nations Headquarters in New york;The UNEP, the UNDP, the UN-HABITAT, the PBSO, the DPA and the UNDESA will organize a webinar to observe the International Day for preventing the protection of the environment in war and conflicts 2024.The topics of the discussions will showcase how to use all of the tools at our disposal, from dialogue and mediation to preventive diplomacy, to keep the unsustainable exploitation of natural resources from fueling and financing armed conflict and destabilizing the fragile foundations of peace.

Yearly on November 6st, the world observes the International Day for Preventing theExploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict. This day serves as a reminder of the devastating impact that war and conflict can have on our environment. The UNGA resolution 56/4 that established this Day in 2001, stresses that damage to the environment in times of armed conflict impairs ecosystems and natural resources long beyond the period of conflict, and often extends beyond the limits of national territories and the present generation. The UNEA resolution 2/15 recognized the role of healthy ecosystems and sustainably managed resources in reducing the risk of armed conflict. More recently, in March 2024, UNEA6 adopted a resolution 6/12 on Environmental assistance and recovery in areas affected by armed conflict: 

• highlighted that environmental degradation in situations of armed conflict and post-conflict can have an impact on human health, well-being and livelihoods 

• acknowledged that the important role that effective, inclusive and sustainable environmental assistance can play in conflict recovery and sustainable development in areas affected by armed conflict.

 In action 10 of the UN Pact for the Future, the states expressed deep concern about rapid environmental degradation and committed to accelerating efforts to restore, protect, conserve and sustainably use the environment. Among other international organizations, IAEA plays an important role in environmental protection, including in promoting radiation safety, environmental remediation, monitoring emissions, treating nuclear waste. War against Ukraine caused large-scale environmental damage resulted in unprecedented pollution, disruption of ecosystems and physical destruction of biological species both on the territory of Ukraine and on the scale of the entire region and the world. Destruction of the environment is prohibited in the international law. Ukraine’s "Peace Formula" attaches great importance to the issue of environmental security as one of the elements of the peace framework. In its point 8 entitled “Ecological safety”, key directions are highlighted on ensuring environmental security and countering the environmental consequences of the war. The side-event also serve as a follow-up discussion to the thematic conference on Environmental Safety, hosted by Finland, co-organized by Germany, Bulgaria and Ukraine in Helsinki on 19 October 2024. 

Objectives 

- Assess and raise awareness of the environmental damage and its immediate consequences to human health inflicted on Ukraine by the Russian war of aggression. Emphasize its regional and global impact including on climate change and biodiversity conservation. 

- Highlight the necessity of appropriate legal assessment of caused environmental damage for the sake of bringing perpetrators to accountability. 

- Provide updates on measures undertaken by the Government of Ukraine with the support of international partners to address the environmental recovery and renewal, including land remediation and demining, revival of destroyed forests and nature reserves, creation of new national parks and nature protection zones, rivers, lakes and sea waters purification. Highlight important role of green economy transition. 

- Promote global cooperation and international action with the aim of protection of environment in war and armed conflict

Co-sponsors 

Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine 

Permanent Mission of Ukraine to the UN Permanent Mission of Finland to the UN 

Permanent Mission of Bulgaria to the UN Permanent Mission of Germany to the UN 

World Information Transfer Ukrainian Peace Council PAX

"If we are to achieve the SDGs, we need to act boldly and urgently to reduce the risks that environmental degradation and climate change present for conflict and commit to protecting our planet from the debilitating effects of war." António Guterres Secretary-General of the United Nations message on International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict 2024; November 6th.

World Tsunami Awareness 2024; November 5th.

FORUM: “Empowering the next generation with the lessons of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami.“ World Tsunami Awareness Day 2024. The theme of this year’s WTAD is aligned with the theme of the IDDRR and the Summit of the Future, in September 2024, where ‘youth and future generations’ are a priority. It has been nearly 20 years since the onset of the Indian Ocean Tsunami, which tragically impacted countless lives and communities in South and South-East Asia in late December of 2004. The figures remain sobering and instructive: wave heights across the region exceeded 30 meters, inflicting widespread coastal destruction in Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Thailand – as well as 12 additional countries. Total casualties exceeded 230,000 persons, many who were tragically in the direct path of the surging ocean waters. On this year’s World Tsunami Awareness Day; Asia’s coastal and island communities can look back and take pride in having rebuilt their ways of life and regional economies, but much still needs to be done to achieve early warning services and greater preparedness. This year commemorations aim to honor the memory of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami on its 20th anniversary, to highlight its lessons for children and youth around the world and to celebrate the success of progress made in advancing early warning system coverage. Empowering them with this knowledge, which is captured in the #GetToHighGround campaign, can be the difference between life and death when tsunamis emerge.Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #GetToHighGround, #Ocean&ClimateChange, #TsunamiSafety, #TsunamiAlert, #WaterLevels, #TsunamiCoastalObservations, #WorldTsunamiAwarenessDay, #5november, #TsumaniDay, #DisasterResponse, #DisasterResilience.

EVENTS: On November 5th; The UNESCO and UNDRR regional offices will organize a webinar to observe the World Tsunami Awareness Day 2024. WTAD 2024 activities will commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Indian Ocean Tsunami by passing its lessons to a new generation of children and youth. On this day, We are calling on all countries at risk from tsunami to take action today: to develop new/revised strategies on tsunami risk, update evacuation routes, to install new tsunami warning sensors and warning systems. We are calling on all actors in all coastal communities to raise the awareness of their children and youth of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami and to conduct, if possible, evacuation drills to higher ground any time during the year. We are calling in youth, children and learning institutes to play and learn to Stop Disasters, The Stop Disasters online game teaches children how disasters strike, including tsunamis, and how early warning systems, evacuation plans and education save lives. Get the concept note and Register to participate!

Among other observances, we got the CARIBE WAVE 2024; This annual Tsunami Regional Exercise will take place on March 21, starting at 1500 UTC. The 2024 Alaska’s Tsunami Preparedness Week from March, from 26 to 31, have urged all Alaskans to be aware of, and prepared for, a tsunami hazard in their local regions. the California’s Tsunami Preparedness Week from March 23 to 31, 2024; All Californians are encouraged to plan and register their TsunamiPrep activities (at work, school, and home) to be counted as part of.the activities and the Hawaii’s Tsunami Awareness Month from April 7 to 13; The Pacifex 2024 will be held on May 23rd and the LANTEX 2024 on November 7th.

Ongoing activities: Visit the Virtual Fair hosted by the Redwood Coast Tsunami Work Group to learn about earthquake and tsunami hazards of California’s North Coast.

STATEMENTS: Read the Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the World Tsunami Awareness Day 2024; November 5th.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Indian Ocean Tsunami – one of the deadliest disasters in recent history. More than 230,000 people lost their lives.

On this World Tsunami Awareness Day, we honour the victims and recommit to protecting the 700 million people around the world who are at risk from tsunamis.

The best way to do so is by all partners delivering on the United Nations Early Warnings for All initiative that helps ensure every person on Earth is alerted when tsunamis and other disasters are on the way.

Education is vital to saving lives, and as this year’s theme reminds us, the participation of children and young people is critical. I urge governments and partners in coastal communities to raise awareness, so children and young people know how and where to evacuate to higher ground.

Together, let’s ensure people’s futures are not swept away by tsunamis. Let’s build resilience – now.

Mr António Guterres; Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Message from the head of the UNDRR on “World Tsunami Awareness Day 2024; November 5th.

Twenty years ago, the Indian Ocean tsunami which emanated as a result of an earthquake that occurred off the coast of Indonesia had devastating consequences.

We lost so many lives, across so many countries.

The worst impacts were of course in Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Maldives and India.

But countries as far as Tanzania, from where I am recording this video, were also very badly impacted. It really showed us how sometimes, hazardous events, particularly some low frequency, high impact kind of hazards can have impacts that will ripple across the entire global system and across multiple geographies.

In so many ways, that Indian Ocean Tsunami was a wake up call for humanity to do more, to have a much better understanding of disaster risks.

People who were impacted in that disaster were not just from the five countries that I listed, the worst affected countries, but from across the world.

People who've been warned have taken the right kinds of steps to protect themselves. So this is a huge progress we've made in the last 20 years, and it's an example of unprecedented global collaboration for an important area of common good.

We have to do more. We have to continue to keep the awareness of tsunami risk high because tsunamis do not occur frequently, but when they occur, their effects can be devastating.

So it's really important that we do not forget the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and continue to do everything we can do to protect ourselves, our children, our future generations, from the impact of future tsunamis.

Head of UNDRR.

International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists 2024; November 2nd.

FORUM: “Safety of Journalists in Crises and Emergencies.” International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists 2024. The IDEI 2024 Global Commemoration is therefore an opportunity to reaffirm commitments to promoting and guaranteeing freedom of expression worldwide, strengthening international cooperation in ensuring the safety of journalists and media workers in crises and emergencies, and engaging national, regional and international stakeholders in finding solutions to address issues and challenges specific to Africa. The theme of IDEI 2024, Safety of Journalists in Crises and Emergencies, is aligned with the objectives of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, specifically Sustainable Development Goal 16, to “promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels”. It also corresponds to the objectives of the UN Plan of Action on Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity, which calls for a coalition-based and holistic approach to ensuring a free and safe environment for journalists and media workers. The theme also aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, under Aspiration 3, which seeks to promote “an Africa of good governance, democracy, respect for human rights, justice and the rule of law”, as well as Aspiration 4, which seeks to promote “a peaceful and secure Africa”, with the goal of “strengthening governance, accountability and transparency as a foundation for a peaceful Africa”. Furthermore, the theme is aligned to Principle 20 on Safety of journalists and other media practitioners contained in the Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa (the 2019 Declaration), adopted by the ACHPR in 2019, which provides, inter alia, that “States shall guarantee the safety of journalists and other media practitioners.” Therefore, this year’s theme reaffirms and reinforces the common purpose between the UN system and the AU in promoting an enabling environment for journalists as the foundation of peace, democracy, accountability, transparency, and good governance. Follow the conversations with the hashtags: #EndimpunityDay, #CrimesAgainstJournalists, #2november, #DefendPressFreedom, #ProtectJournalists.

EVENTS:
At UN Geneva, on November 1st 2024 at the Palais des Nations, Room XXVI. The 2024 United Nations International Media Seminar on Peace in the Middle East is organized by the United Nations Department for Global Communications, as part of its Special information programme on the question of Palestine. The annual seminar was created over three decades ago to provide a platform that aims to sensitize public opinion to the question of Palestine, enhance dialogue and understanding between media practitioners, and foster and encourage their contribution in support of a peaceful settlement to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. At a time of alarmingly escalated crisis, this year’s seminar will bring together journalists, media professionals, scholars and diplomats from Israel, the State of Palestine, Switzerland, and other parts of the world to examine two very pertinent themes: “Freedom of the Press and Safety of Journalists in a Time of War” and “Behind the Headlines of Gaza: Media Challenges and Perspectives.” This public event will take place on 1 November at the Palais des Nations, Geneva, in Room XXVI. Simultaneous interpretation will be provided in Arabic.To attend in person, please register here.

In Washington D.C; The commemoration of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists 2024 will take place on November 2nd at the headquarters of the Organization of American States (OAS) Organized by UNESCO, in partnership with the Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) and its Office of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression (RELE), the event will focus on the violence against journalists, the integrity of elections, and the role of public leadership. This important event will include multiple panels and discussions, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders including former special rapporteurs, academia, civil society organizations, states, United Nations agencies, and any other individuals dedicated to improving journalist safety worldwide. The day will furthermore commemorate the 26th anniversary of the establishment of the OAS Special Rapporteurship and celebrate the 31th anniversary of the United Nations Special Procedure, two specialized offices that hold a pivotal role in promoting and safeguarding freedom of expression globally.

At the African Union Headquarters in Ethiopia; On November 6 and 7th, from 9:00 am -18:00 pm; The UNESCO and the African Union will also co-organize a congress and a DayofAction” to allow stakeholders and participants to organise and attend different types of activities. These activities will be action-oriented initiatives, such as the launch of reports and projects, a chance to hold strategic partnership meetings, trainings, workshops, and exhibitions, discussing continental, regional, and subregional action plans, and conducting information sessions. In the context of the rise of conflicts and other crises, UNESCO and the African Union will join efforts with media stakeholders globally, to promote a broader discussion on the safety of journalists working in these contexts, including the prevention, protection and prosecution concerns of journalists affected by such challenges. With the UN Plan of Action on the safety of journalists in its second decade of implementation, IDEI 2024 is an opportunity to strengthen stakeholder cooperation in the implementation of the Plan, particularly in Africa. The occasion will also serve to strengthen the AU’s contribution to the implementation of the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity, building upon the cooperation as part of the IGOs ‘Light Touch’ Task Force on the Safety of Journalists, and partnership with the PRC Sub-Committee on Human Rights, Democracy and Governance. The IDEI global commemoration again serves as an opportunity to advance UNESCO’s planned Global Roadmap for Information as a public good in the face of the environmental crisis, which was announced at the World Press Freedom Day 2024 in Santiago, Chile, and seeks to address various aspects to promoting safety of journalists covering environmental issues, as well as ways to advance information integrity, including countering disinformation on climate change. These include addressing the different threats to environmental information, such as climate disinformation and misinformation, climate change denial, and violence against environmental journalists, among others. Furthermore, IDEI 2024 will be an occasion to take stock of the action plan developed by stakeholders during the 3rd African Media Convention, which took place in Ghana in May 2024. Progress reports from African media stakeholders will be presented during the IDEI, particularly on (i) Progress on the Development of the Pan-African Strategy on Media Information Literacy and Digital Competencies led by the AU Directorate of Information and Communication in partnership with UNESCO; and, (ii) Progress made in establishing a multi-stakeholder coalition to mainstream Freedom of Expression, Access to Information and the Safety of Journalists in the Africa Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process, African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Voluntary Self-Assessments processes led by UNESCO and AU APRM. In addition, IDEI 2024 will provide an opportunity to address broader issues of the integrity of information within the framework of UNESCOs role as a knowledge partner to the G20. This will include discussing the implementation of the Guidelines for the Governance of Digital Platforms, and the specific actions that stakeholders must take to mitigate the risks associated with online harmful content in the context of crises and emergencies, while safeguarding freedom of expression and the right to access to information. Furthermore, ensuring mitigation measures are in place to protect journalists and public-interest information. Articulating the place of Africa in conversations regarding information integrity, South Africa will hold the G20 Presidency in 2025. It will be the first time an African country leads the Group of 20, coinciding with the African Union becoming a permanent member of the G20. This event will commemorate the 10th anniversary of the first IDEI, held in 2014 at the European Court of Human Rights, after the landmark establishment of the November 2nd as the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists (IDEI) by the United Nations General Assembly in Resolution 68/163. This event will also commemorate the 20th anniversary of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights in 2004, whose role is pivotal in safeguarding freedom of expression and safety of journalists in Africa.

From 9:00 am - 12:45 pm,

DAY I (6 November) - Opening ceremony - Location: Nelson Mandela Conference Hall.

Session 1: Safety of journalists in Conflicts: Risks, Protections, and the role of the international community.
Session 2: Safety of Journalists in environmental crises and disasters: Defending the defenders
Session 3: Safety of Women Journalists in crises and emergencies: Tackling gendered dimensions of safety.
Session 4: High-Level Panel On Leveraging African Union Structures to Promote Global Solidarity on Safety of Journalists.
Session 5: Circumventing “Zones of Silence”: Protecting Press Freedom in the Sahel.
Session 6: Sustaining journalism and humanitarian information in times of crisis: Best Practices from Africa.
Session 7: Strengthening Pan-African Mechanisms and synergies for Monitoring and Reporting on Safety of Journalists.

Day II (7 November) - Official Closing Ceremony - Location: African Union - Caucus Rooms 26-31 and Lobby D. The Day of Action offers a unique chance for stakeholders and participants to organise and attend different types of action-oriented activities held on the premises of the African Union Headquarters. More than 15 activities will take place!

9:00 am - 11:00 am - Morning Activities.

Journalist Safety: How Long Until We End the Killings and Impunity? | Organized by the Al Jazeera Center for Public Liberties and Human Rights and Al Jazeera Media Network | Caucus Room 31


Safeguarding journalists’ safety online: Creating gender-sensitive newsroom protocols | Organized by the International Press Institute and The African Editor Forum | Caucus Room 30


State of Media Freedom and Journalist Safety in Africa | Organized by the Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA) | Caucus Room 27


Workshop on Fact Checking and Journalism in sensitive context | Organized by the CFI, French Media Development Agency | Caucus Room 29


Journalists on the Front Line: Addressing Threats to Press Freedom in Eastern Africa and the Sahel Region | Organized by the ARTICLE 19 (Eastern Africa/Senegal and West Africa) | Caucus Room 26


Consultation on UNESCO’s Framework for Human Rights Risk Assessment in the Context of Journalists Safety Online | Organized by the UNESCO | Caucus Room 28


Digital security walk-in clinic/help-desk | Organised by Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa | Lobby D

11:15 am - 1:00 pm - Mid-Morning Activities.

Consultation on UNESCO’s Framework for Human Rights Risk Assessment in the Context of Journalists Safety Online | Organized by the UNESCO | Caucus Room 28


The impact of Crises and emergencies on the Safety of Journalists in the Arab Region | Organized by the UNESCO | Caucus Room 26


Working together to protect journalists: What’s happened, and what’s possible, through the Media Freedom Coalition | Organized by the Media Freedom Coalition and Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany | Caucus Room 27


Conference on Fact Checking and Journalism in sensitive context | Organized by the CFI, French Media Development Agency | Caucus Room 29


Orientation and review of Safety of Journalists Platform | Organized by The African Editor Forum | Caucus Room 30


Consultation for inputs on SR's thematic report to the Human Rights Council on freedom of expression and elections in the digital age | Organized by the Special Rapporteur Irene Khan on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression - Only by invitation. | Caucus Room 31

2:00 pm - 5:00 pm - Afternoon Activities.

Consultation on World Trends in Freedom of Expression and Media Development Report 2025 | Organised by UNESCO | Caucus Room 28


The Official Launch of Media- Lawyers Alliance in Ethiopia | Organised by Consortium of Ethiopian Human Rights Organization | Caucus Room 29


UNESCO-African Union Media Fellowship Curriculum, Development Consultations | Organised by UNESCO and the African Union | Caucus Room 26


Showcasing the challenges on the safety of journalists in the Sahel and Eastern DRC and launching the Declaration on the right to information | Organised by Reporters Without Borders | Caucus Room 26


Ensuring the Safety and Protection of Journalists by Addressing Impunity: A Responsibility for the World | Organised by Federation of African Journalists and International Federation of Journalists | Caucus Room 27


Breaking the Silence | Organised by Sudan Media Forum | Caucus Room 30

Read more in the practical information note. All participants must complete their registration form by latest 18 October 2024. Kindly note that the IDEI will also offer virtual participation.

Commemorations Around the world: Discover the events in your area.

STATEMENTS: Read the Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists 2024; November 2nd 

On this International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, we reaffirm our commitment to press freedom and the safety of journalists worldwide.

A free press is fundamental to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. Yet journalists around the world are prevented from doing their job and often face threats, violence, and even death in their mission to bring truth to light and hold the powerful to account.  

Recent years have seen an alarming rate of fatalities in conflict zones – in particular in Gaza, which has seen the highest number of killings of journalists and media workers in any war in decades. 

Worldwide, an estimated 9 out of 10 of journalist murders go unpunished. Impunity breeds further violence. This must change.  

The Pact for the Future adopted last month calls for respecting and protecting journalists, media professionals and associated personnel working in situations of armed conflict.

I call on governments to bring these commitments to life by taking urgent steps to protect journalists, investigate crimes against them, and prosecute perpetrators – everywhere. 

Together, let’s end the cycle of violence, uphold freedom of expression, and ensure that journalists can carry out their essential work safely and without fear – everywhere.  

United Nations Secretary-General.

Statement of the UNESCO Director-General on the occasion of the International Day to End Impunity for crimes against journalists 2024.

Since 2013, UNESCO and the United Nations have commemorated 2 November every year as the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists. In a world plagued by an upsurge in armed conflicts and the massive dissemination of false information, the role of journalists has never been more crucial. Through their essential work of documentation, investigation and verification, they guarantee freedom of expression and access to quality information, the bedrock of democratic life. Yet journalists are increasingly subjected to violence – arbitrary arrest, cyberbullying, physical assault and even murder. A recent UNESCO report listed 162 journalists murdered in 2022-2023, an increase of almost 40% on the previous two years. This phenomenon is growing in the age of climate change, with journalists playing a key role in exposing environmental crimes. For example, UNESCO recently recorded an increase in attacks on “green” journalists, with 305 occurrences recorded between 2019 and 2023, a 42% increase on the 2014-2018 period. These crimes must not and cannot go unpunished. Yet this is still the case for almost 85% of them. UNESCO has systematically condemned the nearly 900 murders of journalists recorded since 2013 and is committed to breaking this impunity. The Organization works daily to ensure the safety and integrity of journalists. It trains and assists them in the field, and it also supports law enforcement authorities, judges and prosecutors so as to better protect journalists and ensure that those who silence them are systematically brought to justice. With the Crimes against Journalists Training Programme, launched in Latin America in 2013, nearly 36,000 magistrates around the world have been trained in this way. UNESCO also informs the actions of political and judicial decision-makers, by investigating emerging risks such as the cyberbullying of women journalists, and by raising public awareness of press freedom issues – notably through initiatives such as this International Day. This year’s event will be followed by the Days of Action and Commemoration at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa on 6 and 7 November 2024, under the auspices of UNESCO, to take specific measures for the safety of journalists in times of crisis and emergency. These initiatives are a joint call to end impunity. On this International Day, let us remember the importance of their security, independence and protection in carrying out their mission, which is so crucial to peace and social progress.

UNESCO Director-General.

CONFERENCES AND SEMINARS

At UN Geneva, on November 1st 2024 at the Palais des Nations, Room XXVI.

The 2024 United Nations International Media Seminar on Peace in the Middle East is organized by the United Nations Department for Global Communications, as part of its Special information programme on the question of Palestine. The annual seminar was created over three decades ago to provide a platform that aims to sensitize public opinion to the question of Palestine, enhance dialogue and understanding between media practitioners, and foster and encourage their contribution in support of a peaceful settlement to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. At a time of alarmingly escalated crisis, this year’s seminar will bring together journalists, media professionals, scholars and diplomats from Israel, the State of Palestine, Switzerland, and other parts of the world to examine two very pertinent themes: “Freedom of the Press and Safety of Journalists in a Time of War” and “Behind the Headlines of Gaza: Media Challenges and Perspectives.” This public event will take place on 1 November at the Palais des Nations, Geneva, in Room XXVI.  Simultaneous interpretation will be provided in Arabic.

To attend in person, please register here.

OPENING SESSION


10:30-11:00: Opening session

Opening Statements

Ms. Melissa Fleming, Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications, United Nations
Ms. Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva
H.E. Dr. Riyad Mansour, Permanent Observer of the State of Palestine to the United Nations

Messages

H.E. Mr. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations
H.E. Mr. Cheikh Niang, Permanent Representative of Senegal to the United Nations, Chairman of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People


SESSION I – Freedom of the Press and Safety of Journalists in a Time of War (11:00-12:30)


Moderator: Ms. Melissa Fleming, Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications, United Nations

11:00-12:00 | Statements by:

Ms. Ameera Harouda, Freelance Journalist
Professor Colleen Murrell, Professor, International and Broadcast Journalism, Dublin City University
Ms. Jodie Ginsberg, Chief Executive Officer, Committee to Protect Journalists
Mr. Guilherme Canela, Chief of Section, Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

12:00-12:30 | Questions and Answers

At a time of alarmingly escalated crisis, this year's event will bring together journalists, media professionals, scholars and diplomats from Israel, the State of Palestine, Switzerland, and other parts of the world to examine two very pertinent themes: "Freedom of the Press and Safety of Journalists in a Time of War" and "Behind the Headlines of Gaza: Media Challenges and Perspectives."

 

SESSION II – Behind the Headlines of Gaza: Media Challenges and Perspectives (15:00–16:30)                                        

Moderator: Ms. Nanette Braun, Director, Communication Campaigns Service, Campaigns and Country Operations Division, UN Department of Global Communications 

15:00-16:00  | Statements by:

Mr. Omar Baddar, Political Analyst and Digital Producer 

Ms. Anat Saragusti, Director, Press Freedom, Union of Journalists in Israel

Mr. Mohammad Ali Alnsour, Chief, the Middle East and North Africa Section, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

Ms. Lila Hassan, Independent Investigative Journalist

 

16:00-16:30  | Questions and Answers

SEMINAR CLOSES

PUBLICATIONS: UNESCO Director-General's Report on the Safety of Journalists and the Danger of Impunity.

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).