"We're all guilty of doing something that despite our (most likely) sweet intentions is taken the wrong way. Nothing a quick explanation can't clear up, right? Well, when we're traveling abroad, it's not always that simple. Many of our everyday actions that we don't give a second thought to can be interpreted as downright offensive in certain countries. Although we think we're minding our best manners, some of those so-called manners can be taken as impolite when traveling abroad. Just think of how we might scoff at a tourist who doesn't tip the waitstaff here in the US or feel burning annoyance when having to dodge visitors walking at a turtle's pace blocking your path. But it goes both ways, so it's key to do your homework before heading to faraway lands so you don't, in the words of Stephanie Tanner, come off as "how rude!"
1. Thumbs up
This nonverbal super-American sign of positivity is taken oh so negatively in South America and a slew of other places, including Africa, the Middle East, and Greece. So keep those thumbs tucked in for safety.
2. Jaywalking
Why walk the extra eight feet to the crosswalk when the stars have aligned, traffic is clear, and we can just cross right here, right now? Not in Germany, folks. Sticklers for the rules, it's a culture serious about being orderly. You will get a ticket if you get caught averting the crosswalk.
3. Utensils
Some foods just taste better when eaten with our hands: fact. Pizza, grilled cheese sandwiches, and all other toddler favorites considered "finger foods" here in the US pepper the list. Not so in Norway! This is a country that always employs utensils . . for everything. BRB, figuring out how to eat french fries with a fork and knife.
4. Chopsticks
Who knew that the stick duo meant as a vehicle for shoveling food could have its own book of etiquette? Your placement of chopsticks in between delicious bites needs to be well thought out to avoid being disrespectful or, even worse, inadvertently part of a funeral ritual. For instance, innocently sticking your chopsticks upright in your bowl of rice may look like a cool sculpture but is considered an offering to the spirit of someone who has passed. Among the other rules? No spearing, crossing, pointing, or general tomfoolery.
5. Clean plate club
Depending on your geographic location, this elite club you were praised for as a youngin' can be interpreted on opposing ends of the negative to positive spectrum. In Italy, you best scrape that plate clean to avoid being rude. However, it's observed much differently in parts of China, the Philippines, and Thailand. If you've finished every last bite, it signifies you're still hungry, in turn saying you haven't been provided with a sufficient feed. In these portions of the world, it's best to leave that last enticing morsel.
6. Sole baring
In India, the Middle East, and most Asian countries, it's seen as a ginormous insult to show the soles of your feet or point them toward someone. Considering the disgusting crap we romp all over with the bottoms of our shoes on the regular, it makes total sense. Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist cultures perceive the feet as extremely unclean, which is why it's expected to remove your shoes before entering an establishment.
7. Gifts
We may have been taught to never to show up empty handed when invited over to someone's home. Although this rings true, be cautious of what you choose to give if visiting someone's home in China. Whatever you do, do NOT bring a clock or a watch. It's considered horrible luck and, well, that's a fair bet to dampen the good vibes.
8. Compliments
Seemingly a safe bet, paying someone a compliment could only be taken in a positive light . . . so you'd think. In the Middle East and some African countries, declaring that you just love their kitchen table means that you desire that item. Their strong hospitality culture makes them feel obligated to then offer you said item. As much as the fantasy of going on a compliment spree sounds fun, respect is crucial here - and plus, not enough luggage space.
9. Okie dokie
Giving the "OK" sign with our hands is not only considered slightly high on the nerd scale, but in Brazil and Germany, it actually means something that rhymes with bass + mole. Doesn't take a genius to figure that one out.
10. Silence is not golden
We can't think of anything more annoying than loud eating noises - however in Japan and China, obviously audible slurping is a sure sign that you're thoroughly enjoying your meal. So, when in Asia, slurp as the locals do. Eating silently in this case will be the opposite of polite. Hats off to the chef.
11. Riding shotgun
We're not starring in a remake of Driving Miss Daisy here. However, at home we're used to hopping in the backseat of a taxi. In New Zealand, Australia, as well as parts of Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands, it's seen as rude not to join your driver up front. We're all friends here, right?
12. One hand in my pocket
Don't channel your inner Alanis Morissette when in Turkey and South Korea, as you'll come off as arrogant instead of that supercool '90s-style thing you were going for."
'via Blog this' Source: You're Probably Doing These Offensive Things During Your Travels Without Realizing It:
Friday, July 21, 2017
Thursday, July 20, 2017
How to Recognize If You Have A Cosmic Connection With Someone
"We have long acknowledged that there is an overarching, complex web of connections between everything in our universe, working together to help guide us towards our destiny. This includes not only the events that occur in our lives but also the people that enter into our lives. These people play an important role in teaching us lessons and guiding us along our individual journeys.
To better understand this concept, we must first acknowledge the distinct difference between the material plane and the spiritual realm. While we exist in the spiritual realm our souls are determining what our next life will entail – where we will end up, what end goal we will accomplish and other important ‘big picture’ plans. This is where our soul resides between lives on the material plane.
On the material plane we are not as aware and in tune to the big picture that we are such an important part of. Our spirits are aware of how we fit into the complex, universal puzzle, however, this knowledge isn’t readily available to us during our material lives. We focus instead on the world around us and where we are at today.
This is where cosmic connections become important. These people are brought into our life specifically to guide us and lead us along the path as set out by that universal puzzle. They may be positive people that inspire and motivate us or even those that are difficult to deal with, teaching us valuable lessons from our interactions. These connections were specifically chosen by our spirits while in the spiritual realm, each with its own distinct purpose in our lives.
How, then, do you know if someone is a chance meeting, or a cosmic connection entering your life?
Watch for these 7 signs:
They Motivate and Inspire Us
Often a connection is brought to us that is currently living some aspect of life in a way that we should be aspiring to or working towards. Seeing that they can live this dream life is often the reminder that we too can obtain that lifestyle if we only focus and work towards it. They help us remember that anything is possible.
They Help Us Slow Down
The material plane has become a fast-paced whirlwind of information, often grabbing us and sweeping us up in the flow. If we aren’t careful we can be swept far off our spiritual course with the blink of an eye! These connections will help us to stop, slow down, and make conscious decisions in our lives.
They Teach Us Through Pain
Not all lessons from our cosmic connections will come to us in the form of happy experiences and positive inspiration. There are some connections that enter our lives to force us out of our comfort zones and challenge us to truly examine ourselves, and that’s not always an easy process! When kind words and motivation won’t work, sometimes we need the proverbial kick in the pants.
They Disrupt Our Routines
When a cosmic connection enters our life, they aren’t focused on the mundane routines we have created during this period on the material plane, but rather the overall journey. They shake up our life as we know it, forcing us to re-examine and reconsider the way that we are currently living.
They Help Us to Open Our Hearts
When you find yourself overwhelmed by the material world, it can be easy to fall into the trap of closing ourselves off to protect our hearts. In order for us to continue on our spiritual journey and find our ultimate place in the universe, we must have our hearts open to the higher purpose behind every experience.
They Remind us of Our Purpose
Each of us was placed on this earth with a spiritual purpose, however, that purpose can easily be forgotten in the hustle and bustle of life. When we listen to the influences of those around us we can get off course, and it takes a close, instant cosmic connection suddenly in our lives to remind us of who we really are at the spiritual level.
They are Healers
There is no greater obstacle for our spiritual journey than the pain from our past. Some cosmic connections are brought into our lives with the purpose of healing our souls, allowing us to face and overcome these past experiences, and in doing so move forward confidently."
'via Blog this' Source: How to Recognize If You Have A Cosmic Connection With Someone – Evolve Me:
To better understand this concept, we must first acknowledge the distinct difference between the material plane and the spiritual realm. While we exist in the spiritual realm our souls are determining what our next life will entail – where we will end up, what end goal we will accomplish and other important ‘big picture’ plans. This is where our soul resides between lives on the material plane.
On the material plane we are not as aware and in tune to the big picture that we are such an important part of. Our spirits are aware of how we fit into the complex, universal puzzle, however, this knowledge isn’t readily available to us during our material lives. We focus instead on the world around us and where we are at today.
This is where cosmic connections become important. These people are brought into our life specifically to guide us and lead us along the path as set out by that universal puzzle. They may be positive people that inspire and motivate us or even those that are difficult to deal with, teaching us valuable lessons from our interactions. These connections were specifically chosen by our spirits while in the spiritual realm, each with its own distinct purpose in our lives.
How, then, do you know if someone is a chance meeting, or a cosmic connection entering your life?
Watch for these 7 signs:
They Motivate and Inspire Us
Often a connection is brought to us that is currently living some aspect of life in a way that we should be aspiring to or working towards. Seeing that they can live this dream life is often the reminder that we too can obtain that lifestyle if we only focus and work towards it. They help us remember that anything is possible.
They Help Us Slow Down
The material plane has become a fast-paced whirlwind of information, often grabbing us and sweeping us up in the flow. If we aren’t careful we can be swept far off our spiritual course with the blink of an eye! These connections will help us to stop, slow down, and make conscious decisions in our lives.
They Teach Us Through Pain
Not all lessons from our cosmic connections will come to us in the form of happy experiences and positive inspiration. There are some connections that enter our lives to force us out of our comfort zones and challenge us to truly examine ourselves, and that’s not always an easy process! When kind words and motivation won’t work, sometimes we need the proverbial kick in the pants.
They Disrupt Our Routines
When a cosmic connection enters our life, they aren’t focused on the mundane routines we have created during this period on the material plane, but rather the overall journey. They shake up our life as we know it, forcing us to re-examine and reconsider the way that we are currently living.
They Help Us to Open Our Hearts
When you find yourself overwhelmed by the material world, it can be easy to fall into the trap of closing ourselves off to protect our hearts. In order for us to continue on our spiritual journey and find our ultimate place in the universe, we must have our hearts open to the higher purpose behind every experience.
They Remind us of Our Purpose
Each of us was placed on this earth with a spiritual purpose, however, that purpose can easily be forgotten in the hustle and bustle of life. When we listen to the influences of those around us we can get off course, and it takes a close, instant cosmic connection suddenly in our lives to remind us of who we really are at the spiritual level.
They are Healers
There is no greater obstacle for our spiritual journey than the pain from our past. Some cosmic connections are brought into our lives with the purpose of healing our souls, allowing us to face and overcome these past experiences, and in doing so move forward confidently."
'via Blog this' Source: How to Recognize If You Have A Cosmic Connection With Someone – Evolve Me:
Wednesday, July 19, 2017
UN: PEACE VIGIL: UN conference adopts treaty banning nuclear weapon...
UN: PEACE VIGIL: UN conference adopts treaty banning nuclear weapon...: “The treaty represents an important step and contribution towards the common aspirations of a world without nuclear weapons,” the spokespers...
Wellness for Peace Education on Climate Change: The multilateral system has a responsibility to br...
The multilateral system has a responsibility to bring together governments, youth, employers, educators, and innovators to demystify the labour markets of the future, and to find innovative ways of building digital skills across the world, all in support of the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
THE YOUTH: “As the main beneficiaries of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and as the drivers of innovation and change, it is vital that the enthusiasm and ingenuity of youth are harnessed to transform the world for the better,” Peter Thomson said at an event held at UN Headquarters in New York on the theme Skills for the future of work.
“Just as youth need education and training to access decent jobs in and of the future, they also require skills development to fulfil their vital role in SDG implementation,” he added.
In his remarks, Mr. Thomson called for targeted policies and resources to develop the digital skills of today’s youth, as well as for specific programmes to ensure that women and girls have access to education, health and employment opportunities.
Doing so, he said, would make sure they secure decent jobs and are never left behind again.
“We must see investing in quality education and training as fundamental for a world of sustaining peace and sustainable development,” he noted.
In particular, Mr. Thomson highlighted the need to work cooperatively with all stakeholders in building the education and training systems that are responsive to the needs, and given the complexities involved, called for international cooperation, strategic partnerships, and transfer of technology.
“The multilateral system has a responsibility to bring together governments, youth, employers, educators, and innovators to demystify the labour markets of the future, and to find innovative ways of building digital skills across the world, all in support of the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,” he stressed.
Peter Thomson, President of the seventy-first session of the General Assembly, makes remarks during the opening of the Ministerial segment of the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development. Photo: UN Photo/ Manuel Elias
Speaking alongside Mr. Thomson, Jayathma Wickramanayake, the UN Envoy on Youth, also called for greater and more coherent efforts to better forecast the skills that will be needed in the future.
“We must adapt existing policies and initiatives to be fit for the digital era and ensure that we remain flexible enough, to adapt these further in the future,” she said, citing the example of the technological advances made since the turn of the millennium and signs that this will not slow down in the years ahead.
“We must [also] ensure that national youth policies are integrated, holistic and funded,” she added.
In her remarks, the Youth Envoy also underscored the need for holistic education to address evolving technical skills as well as impart competencies required to adapt to changing and demanding workplaces.
In this regard, she highlighted that formal education alone would not be enough, and stressed the importance of non-formal and informal education.
“With all this talk of change in such little time, one truth remains: there is no better investment a country can make than in the capacities and potential of its young people,” she stated.
“Just as youth need education and training to access decent jobs in and of the future, they also require skills development to fulfil their vital role in SDG implementation,” he added.
In his remarks, Mr. Thomson called for targeted policies and resources to develop the digital skills of today’s youth, as well as for specific programmes to ensure that women and girls have access to education, health and employment opportunities.
Doing so, he said, would make sure they secure decent jobs and are never left behind again.
“We must see investing in quality education and training as fundamental for a world of sustaining peace and sustainable development,” he noted.
In particular, Mr. Thomson highlighted the need to work cooperatively with all stakeholders in building the education and training systems that are responsive to the needs, and given the complexities involved, called for international cooperation, strategic partnerships, and transfer of technology.
“The multilateral system has a responsibility to bring together governments, youth, employers, educators, and innovators to demystify the labour markets of the future, and to find innovative ways of building digital skills across the world, all in support of the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,” he stressed.
Peter Thomson, President of the seventy-first session of the General Assembly, makes remarks during the opening of the Ministerial segment of the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development. Photo: UN Photo/ Manuel Elias
Speaking alongside Mr. Thomson, Jayathma Wickramanayake, the UN Envoy on Youth, also called for greater and more coherent efforts to better forecast the skills that will be needed in the future.
“We must adapt existing policies and initiatives to be fit for the digital era and ensure that we remain flexible enough, to adapt these further in the future,” she said, citing the example of the technological advances made since the turn of the millennium and signs that this will not slow down in the years ahead.
“We must [also] ensure that national youth policies are integrated, holistic and funded,” she added.
In her remarks, the Youth Envoy also underscored the need for holistic education to address evolving technical skills as well as impart competencies required to adapt to changing and demanding workplaces.
In this regard, she highlighted that formal education alone would not be enough, and stressed the importance of non-formal and informal education.
“With all this talk of change in such little time, one truth remains: there is no better investment a country can make than in the capacities and potential of its young people,” she stated.
Wellness for Peace Education on Climate Change: The multilateral system has a responsibility to br...: THE YOUTH: “As the main beneficiaries of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and as the drivers of innovation and change, it is vital ...
Tuesday, July 18, 2017
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the lens of students
"Prize-winning photographs taken by students from around the world – currently exhibited at United Nations Headquarters in New York – encapsulate their own ideas and feelings about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“Photos have the power to go beyond borders, which makes it an ideal medium to connect young people from all over the world,” said Kaoru Nemoto, Director of the UN Information Centre (UNIC) in Tokyo, which organized the exhibition “Spotlight on SDGs.”
With 17 goals and 169 targets, communicating the SDGs to the public has proven to be a challenge in many countries.
But engaging youth is vital to successful implementation of those objectives by 2030, a target year for the international community to eradicate poverty, address climate change and build peaceful, inclusive societies for all.
In fact, young people played a key part in shaping the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and they, as agents of change, are expected to lead efforts to translate this vision into reality.
With this in mind, UNIC Tokyo and Sophia University put their heads together and came up with a student photo contest with special cooperation from Getty Images Japan.
“This partnership-driven photo contest encouraged young students to think hard about SDGs at their doorstep, visualize their perspective through their creativity, and have fun,” Ms. Nemoto told UN News.
Titled “My View on SDGs,” the contest encouraged students to reflect on the Goals, communicate their feelings in a photograph and share it with other people.
Over 600 submissions were received from students from 47 countries on five continents.
First prize went to a photo portraying a volunteer removing a tire from a beach in Lima, Peru, taken by a local university student, Nicolas Monteverde Bustamante.
“I was shocked and saddened by the number of tires strewn across the beach in a conservation area in Callao, near Lima,” said the 23 year old.
“The pollution of the ocean is one of the worst problems humanity faces at this time. Our culture of consuming and throwing away indiscriminately is poisoning our cities, our lands, our ocean, and finally, ourselves. It is in our hands to make our ocean a better place for all, without tires and trash.”
Photo/Pang Yunian, 25, China (Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan)
“In the town of Shwe Kyin, in Myanmar, households have no electricity,” said 25-year-old Pang Yunian, from China, who was among the contest winners. “Yet, the villagers decided to prioritize education and used limited resources to build a primary school a few years ago.”
Photo/Karin Imai, 20, Japan (Sophia University, Tokyo, Japan)
“My photo is simply a snapshot of a normal landscape in Japan,” said 20-year-old Karin Imai, Japan, whose entry also won a prize. “Yet for some reason, this tiny plant growing in the midst of tall trees caught my eye.”
She said its relative size seemed to emphasize, rather than diminish, its strength and willpower to grow.
“I also wanted to convey the importance of small discoveries as the same philosophy applies to the furthering of the SDGs… The accumulation of these small discoveries and actions will carry us towards a brighter and more sustainable future.”
The exhibition is on view through 10 August at UN Headquarters.
Ms. Nemoto said that the exhibition coincides with the convening of the High-Level Political Forum on sustainable development – a mechanism UN Member States have mandated to carry out regular voluntary reviews of implementation of the 2030 Agenda.
“These prize-winning photos have been brought to UN Headquarters with an aim to encourage viewers to take ownership of SDGs as change makers,” she said.
UNIC Tokyo and Sophia University are co-sponsoring a second SDGs Student Photo Contest and are calling for entries by the 31 August deadline."
'via Blog this'United Nations News Centre - FEATURE: Sustainable Development Goals through the lens of students:
PEACE INSPIRATION: 'Happy' Afghan girls compete at robotics meet after US visa woes
'Happy' Afghan girls compete at robotics meet after US visa woes: "Huddled around a small table in the halls of a cavernous Washington concert hall, a group of Afghan teenage girls tweak gears and sprockets on their radio-controlled robot, hoping to best the competition.
But the six proud nerds from war-torn Afghanistan's western province of Herat almost didn't make it to the US capital for the chance to take on other high school students from around the world.
Twice denied US visas until a late intervention by President Donald Trump's administration, they are now hoping to set an example for girls in their ultra-conservative country.
Even in a venue crowded with hundreds of teens, the Afghans were difficult to miss on Monday in their bright blue T-shirts paired with white hijabs -- and trailed wherever they go by a throng of journalists.
"Robotics is a field that is part of my life. I'm so happy to be here and participate against the other teams," 15-year-old Lida Azizi told AFP, adding she was a "bit nervous" about taking part in her first competition.
"I'm happy to come and represent Afghanistan," chimed in 14-year-old Fatema Qaderyan.
The plight of the Afghan team had made headlines around the world after it appeared to underscore the negative consequences of stricter visa policies for Muslim countries under Trump.
The US leader recently succeeded in passing a limited version of a long-touted travel ban -- temporarily barring visitors from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen without a "bona fide" US connection and all refugees -- pending a hearing by the Supreme Court.
Afghanistan was not on the list, but critics contended the frequency of such refusals undermined the administration's pledge to empower women. A team from Gambia was also temporarily barred.
Eventually, however, all 163 teams -- including those from Iran, Sudan and a team of Syrian refugees -- were granted visas.
- Unique challenges -
On Monday, teams from around the world jostled into Washington's historic DAR Constitution Hall, excited to test their skills on laser-lit stages as a sportscaster provided live commentary.
Between rounds, some traded tips and tricks on modifications to make the most of their kit-built devices.
The competition tests multiple skill sets -- programming the machines, adjusting the hardware to maneuver more efficiently, and dexterity in controlling the devices while under time pressure.
Alireza Mehraban, the Afghan team "mentor", explained his team was selected from a tough school competition featuring 150 students. The group was cut to a shortlist of 20 before the final six were picked.
And unlike their counterparts from wealthier countries, the Afghans had unique problems they had to contend with, such as a lack of some basic equipment.
"We up-cycled material and used trash," said Mehraban, explaining how the team created a simple suction device using a Coca-Cola bottle.
They also lacked match preparation, added Roya Mahboob, an Afghan tech entrepreneur who helped organize the visit.
"When they built their robot, they had to ship it straight to the US so they didn't have the opportunity to really play and practice."
- First-round win -
With two 'drivers' and a tactician overseeing the action, the Afghans narrowly prevailed in their first round in a timed match against a rival team that involves scooping up scoring balls and placing them in bins while avoiding penalty balls.
But the result was less significant than its symbolism for a country that ranks a dismal 152 out of 155 nations in the global Gender Inequality Index despite moderate gains among the urban middle classes.
"Fifteen years ago, Afghan women couldn't read and write and they didn't have any rights," said Mahboob.
"And today with the help of the international community, we have a lot of women going to school, going to university -- they are becoming ministers."
Mahboob predicted the girls' efforts at the Washington event, which runs through Tuesday, would "have a big positive message for the Afghan community."
"We are the same as the boys and they should give us the same opportunity. If you give access to education and technology it doesn't matter what your gender is," she said.
"
'via Blog this'
Peace Innovation: Technology: World's First Child Hand Transplant a 'Success'
Peace Innovation: Technology: World's First Child Hand Transplant a 'Success': ""The first child in the world to undergo a double hand transplant is now able to write, feed and dress himself, doctors said Tuesday, declaring the ground-breaking operation a success after 18 months.
The report in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health provides the first official medical update on 10-year old Zion Harvey, who underwent surgery to replace both hands in July 2015.
"Eighteen months after the surgery, the child is more independent and able to complete day-to-day activities," said Sandra Amaral, a doctor at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, where the operation took place.
"He continues to improve as he undergoes daily therapy to increase his hand function, and psychosocial support to help deal with the ongoing demands of his surgery."
Harvey had his hands and feet amputated at the age of two, following a sepsis infection. He also had a kidney transplant.
Harvey was already receiving drugs to suppress any immune reaction to his kidney, which was a key factor in his selection for the 10-plus hour hand transplant surgery.
Immunosuppressive drugs must be taken continuously to prevent a patient's body from rejecting the transplant. These drugs carry risks, including diabetes, cancer and infections.
Doctors reviewed both the successes and challenges Harvey and his family have faced, noting that a large team of specialists was hard at work supporting them through all the ups and downs.
The child has "undergone eight rejections of the hands, including serious episodes during the fourth and seventh months of his transplant," said the report.
"All of these were reversed with immunosuppression drugs without impacting the function of the child's hands."
Harvey continues to take four immunosuppression drugs and a steroid.
"While functional outcomes are positive and the boy is benefitting from his transplant, this surgery has been very demanding for this child and his family," said Amaral.
- Post-surgery progress -
Before the double hand transplant, Harvey had "limited ability to dress, feed and wash himself through adapted processes, using his residual limbs or specialist equipment," said the report.
His mother hoped he would one day be able to dress himself, brush his teeth, and cut up his own food.
Harvey, for his part, wanted to climb monkey bars and grip a baseball bat.
The donor hands became available in July 2015 from a deceased child.
Within days of the surgery, Harvey discovered he could move his fingers, using the ligaments from his residual limbs.
"Regrowth of the nerves meant that he could move the transplanted hand muscles and feel touch within around six months, when he also became able to feed himself and grasp a pen to write," said the report.
Eight months after the operation, Harvey was using scissors and drawing with crayons.
Within a year, he could swing a baseball bat using both hands.
He also threw out the first pitch at a Baltimore Orioles game last August.
Regular meetings with a psychologist and a social worker were part of the recovery process, aimed at helping him cope with his new hands.
Scans have shown his brain is adapting to the new hands, developing new pathways to control movement and feel sensations.
Researchers cautioned that more study is needed before hand transplants in children become widespread.
"The world's first double hand transplant in a child has been successful under carefully considered circumstances," said the report.
The first successful hand transplant in an adult was completed in 1998."
"
'via Blog this'
The report in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health provides the first official medical update on 10-year old Zion Harvey, who underwent surgery to replace both hands in July 2015.
"Eighteen months after the surgery, the child is more independent and able to complete day-to-day activities," said Sandra Amaral, a doctor at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, where the operation took place.
"He continues to improve as he undergoes daily therapy to increase his hand function, and psychosocial support to help deal with the ongoing demands of his surgery."
Harvey had his hands and feet amputated at the age of two, following a sepsis infection. He also had a kidney transplant.
Harvey was already receiving drugs to suppress any immune reaction to his kidney, which was a key factor in his selection for the 10-plus hour hand transplant surgery.
Immunosuppressive drugs must be taken continuously to prevent a patient's body from rejecting the transplant. These drugs carry risks, including diabetes, cancer and infections.
Doctors reviewed both the successes and challenges Harvey and his family have faced, noting that a large team of specialists was hard at work supporting them through all the ups and downs.
The child has "undergone eight rejections of the hands, including serious episodes during the fourth and seventh months of his transplant," said the report.
"All of these were reversed with immunosuppression drugs without impacting the function of the child's hands."
Harvey continues to take four immunosuppression drugs and a steroid.
"While functional outcomes are positive and the boy is benefitting from his transplant, this surgery has been very demanding for this child and his family," said Amaral.
- Post-surgery progress -
Before the double hand transplant, Harvey had "limited ability to dress, feed and wash himself through adapted processes, using his residual limbs or specialist equipment," said the report.
His mother hoped he would one day be able to dress himself, brush his teeth, and cut up his own food.
Harvey, for his part, wanted to climb monkey bars and grip a baseball bat.
The donor hands became available in July 2015 from a deceased child.
Within days of the surgery, Harvey discovered he could move his fingers, using the ligaments from his residual limbs.
"Regrowth of the nerves meant that he could move the transplanted hand muscles and feel touch within around six months, when he also became able to feed himself and grasp a pen to write," said the report.
Eight months after the operation, Harvey was using scissors and drawing with crayons.
Within a year, he could swing a baseball bat using both hands.
He also threw out the first pitch at a Baltimore Orioles game last August.
Regular meetings with a psychologist and a social worker were part of the recovery process, aimed at helping him cope with his new hands.
Scans have shown his brain is adapting to the new hands, developing new pathways to control movement and feel sensations.
Researchers cautioned that more study is needed before hand transplants in children become widespread.
"The world's first double hand transplant in a child has been successful under carefully considered circumstances," said the report.
The first successful hand transplant in an adult was completed in 1998."
"
'via Blog this'
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in South Sudan: Thousands of Civil...
Pray for Peace in South Sudan: Thousands of Civilians fleeing to neighbouring Ethiopia as Government troops advance on a rebel stronghold in the Upper Nile region
Reports from the UN International Organization on Migration (IOM) “suggest that Government forces are now approaching the town of Maiwut, 25 kilometres north-west of Pagak. I’m gravely concerned by this ongoing situation,” the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in South Sudan, David Shearer, told reporters from Juba, the capital.
He added that while it is unclear which side began the fighting, the military advance by the South Sudan forces “is not in the spirit of the unilateral ceasefire” declared by the Government in May.
Mr. Shearer said there has been “active military engagement” over the past week north of Pagak, and at least 25 aid workers have relocated in the area as a result of the insecurity.
The senior UN official, who is also the head of the UN Mission in the country, or UNMISS, also voiced great concern about an orphanage near Torit, south of Juba, surrounded by Government and rebel fighters who are preparing to fight.
“It’s unacceptable that 250 innocent children, and the people who care for them, find themselves in no-man’s land between the warring parties,” Mr. Shearer stressed.
RELATED: South Sudan: UN, partners seek $1.4 billion for 'world's fastest growing refugee crisis'
Requests by UNMISS to access the Hope for South Sudan Orphanage have been denied “locally, on the ground.”
The Government forces central command in Juba yesterday gave UNMISS “the go-ahead to send peacekeepers to the orphanage. I’m hopeful that will happen today,” he added.
Mr. Shearer urged both sides to reflect on President Salva Kiir’s Independence Day message of peace and withdraw from the facility.
In addition to accessing the orphanage, a group of Nepalese peacekeepers have been sent to protect civilians and the UN base in Torit.
“The number of patrols we can undertake in the town will increase with the additional peacekeepers. In turn, that should provide more security and boost confidence,” said Mr. Shearer.
He noted that his deputy, Moustapha Soumaré, is travelling to Torit tomorrow and will report back."
He added that while it is unclear which side began the fighting, the military advance by the South Sudan forces “is not in the spirit of the unilateral ceasefire” declared by the Government in May.
Mr. Shearer said there has been “active military engagement” over the past week north of Pagak, and at least 25 aid workers have relocated in the area as a result of the insecurity.
The senior UN official, who is also the head of the UN Mission in the country, or UNMISS, also voiced great concern about an orphanage near Torit, south of Juba, surrounded by Government and rebel fighters who are preparing to fight.
“It’s unacceptable that 250 innocent children, and the people who care for them, find themselves in no-man’s land between the warring parties,” Mr. Shearer stressed.
RELATED: South Sudan: UN, partners seek $1.4 billion for 'world's fastest growing refugee crisis'
Requests by UNMISS to access the Hope for South Sudan Orphanage have been denied “locally, on the ground.”
The Government forces central command in Juba yesterday gave UNMISS “the go-ahead to send peacekeepers to the orphanage. I’m hopeful that will happen today,” he added.
Mr. Shearer urged both sides to reflect on President Salva Kiir’s Independence Day message of peace and withdraw from the facility.
In addition to accessing the orphanage, a group of Nepalese peacekeepers have been sent to protect civilians and the UN base in Torit.
“The number of patrols we can undertake in the town will increase with the additional peacekeepers. In turn, that should provide more security and boost confidence,” said Mr. Shearer.
He noted that his deputy, Moustapha Soumaré, is travelling to Torit tomorrow and will report back."
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in South Sudan: Thousands of Civil...: Reports from the UN International Organization on Migration (IOM) “suggest that Government forces are now approaching the town of Maiwut, 25...
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in Ukraine: More than 1.7 million p...
Pray for Peace in Ukraine: More than 1.7 million people have been displaced since the start of the conflict.....UN chief Guterres urges full respect for ceasefire
"Speaking to the press in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called on all sides to fully respect the ceasefire and underscored the Organization's support to the country and its people.
“You can be sure that for us this is something that we keep in the agenda. It is not a forgotten situation,” said Mr. Guterres at a press conference, alongside Petro Poroshenko, the President of Ukraine.
“The human rights bodies of the UN are, of course, active in relation to the situation, and, as it is known, the High Commissioner [for human rights] will be providing also his report on the human rights situation in Crimea in due time,” he noted.
He added that the UN is ready to support all efforts, including those of the Normandy Four, the Trilateral Contact Group and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).
In his remarks, the Secretary-General also highlighted the UN's support to humanitarian activities in the country and said that it would enhance its cooperation with the Government and that it will work to overcome any challenges in reaching the populations in distress.
More than 1.7 million people have been displaced in Ukraine since the start of the conflict."
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in Ukraine: More than 1.7 million p...: "Speaking to the press in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called on all sides to fully r...
“You can be sure that for us this is something that we keep in the agenda. It is not a forgotten situation,” said Mr. Guterres at a press conference, alongside Petro Poroshenko, the President of Ukraine.
“The human rights bodies of the UN are, of course, active in relation to the situation, and, as it is known, the High Commissioner [for human rights] will be providing also his report on the human rights situation in Crimea in due time,” he noted.
He added that the UN is ready to support all efforts, including those of the Normandy Four, the Trilateral Contact Group and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).
In his remarks, the Secretary-General also highlighted the UN's support to humanitarian activities in the country and said that it would enhance its cooperation with the Government and that it will work to overcome any challenges in reaching the populations in distress.
More than 1.7 million people have been displaced in Ukraine since the start of the conflict."
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in Yemen: Increasing battles of att...
Pray for Peace in Yemen: Increasing battles of attrition are extracting a terrible toll on the country’s women, men and children....calling for concrete action to end the fighting
“The country is not suffering from a single emergency but a number of complex emergencies,” said Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, noting that more than 20 million across the country are affected, including almost seven million at the risk of famine.
Of most concern is the rapid spread of cholera across the country, with at least 300,000 suspected cases and over 1,700 deaths. Tackling the disease has become even more complicated with the Yemen’s health system tethering on the verge of collapse.
“Tens of thousands of healthcare workers have not been paid for many months, more than half of the country's health facilities have closed and supplies of medicine and medical equipment remain severely limited,” added Mr. Cheikh Ahmed.
In his remarks, the Special Envoy also commended the efforts of Yemeni civil society for peace in spite of many security challenges there and called on the political leadership to recognize that the continuation of the conflict would lead only to more human and physical loss.
“Yemen’s political leaders must listen and heed the calls of the Yemeni people demanding peace. History will not judge kindly those who have used the war to increase their influence or profit from the public finances, and Yemenis’ patience will not last,” he underscored.
Also at today’s Security Council briefing, the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, Stephen O’Brien, noted the work done by UN and humanitarian agencies but warned that they “cannot replace State functions.”
José Graziano da Silva (left on screen), Director-General of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), addresses via video conference the Security Council meeting on the situation in Yemen. Next to him Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (centre on screen), Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO). Photo: UN Photo/Eskinder Debeb
‹›
Underscoring the need to ensure payments to the country’s public servants and ensuring operations of its health services, Mr. O’Brien called for predictable and stable access for both humanitarian and commercial imports through Yemen’s land and port routes.
In particular, he stressed the need to ensure that Yemeni people and critical infrastructure are protected.
“For as long as military actions continue, all parties must comply with their responsibilities under international humanitarian and human rights law, and all States must exert their influence to ensure the parties do so. Today, they are not doing so. This must change,” he said.
“As I have said before, this is a man-made crisis, and the sheer scale of humanitarian suffering of the Yemeni people is a direct result of the conflict and serious violations of international law. Humanity simply cannot continue to lose out to politics,” he underlined.
Also briefing the 15-member Security Council today, via video conference, José Graziano da Silva, the Director-General of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) noted that the conflict in Yemen had disrupted agricultural livelihoods, exasperating food insecurity.
The latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification conducted in March this year, registered a 20 percent increase in the number of people estimated to be severely food insecure (IPC Phase 3 and above). Seven million are in IPC Phase 4 meaning they are a step away from being classified to be in Famine (IPC Phase 5).
Furthermore, in addition to dwindling agricultural produce, meat and livestock products have also sharply declined on the back of disease surveillance and vaccination programmes have come to a halt pushing the risk of disease outbreaks higher, noted the UN agriculture agency.Of most concern is the rapid spread of cholera across the country, with at least 300,000 suspected cases and over 1,700 deaths. Tackling the disease has become even more complicated with the Yemen’s health system tethering on the verge of collapse.
“Tens of thousands of healthcare workers have not been paid for many months, more than half of the country's health facilities have closed and supplies of medicine and medical equipment remain severely limited,” added Mr. Cheikh Ahmed.
In his remarks, the Special Envoy also commended the efforts of Yemeni civil society for peace in spite of many security challenges there and called on the political leadership to recognize that the continuation of the conflict would lead only to more human and physical loss.
“Yemen’s political leaders must listen and heed the calls of the Yemeni people demanding peace. History will not judge kindly those who have used the war to increase their influence or profit from the public finances, and Yemenis’ patience will not last,” he underscored.
Also at today’s Security Council briefing, the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, Stephen O’Brien, noted the work done by UN and humanitarian agencies but warned that they “cannot replace State functions.”
José Graziano da Silva (left on screen), Director-General of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), addresses via video conference the Security Council meeting on the situation in Yemen. Next to him Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (centre on screen), Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO). Photo: UN Photo/Eskinder Debeb
‹›
Underscoring the need to ensure payments to the country’s public servants and ensuring operations of its health services, Mr. O’Brien called for predictable and stable access for both humanitarian and commercial imports through Yemen’s land and port routes.
In particular, he stressed the need to ensure that Yemeni people and critical infrastructure are protected.
“For as long as military actions continue, all parties must comply with their responsibilities under international humanitarian and human rights law, and all States must exert their influence to ensure the parties do so. Today, they are not doing so. This must change,” he said.
“As I have said before, this is a man-made crisis, and the sheer scale of humanitarian suffering of the Yemeni people is a direct result of the conflict and serious violations of international law. Humanity simply cannot continue to lose out to politics,” he underlined.
Also briefing the 15-member Security Council today, via video conference, José Graziano da Silva, the Director-General of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) noted that the conflict in Yemen had disrupted agricultural livelihoods, exasperating food insecurity.
The latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification conducted in March this year, registered a 20 percent increase in the number of people estimated to be severely food insecure (IPC Phase 3 and above). Seven million are in IPC Phase 4 meaning they are a step away from being classified to be in Famine (IPC Phase 5).
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in Yemen: Increasing battles of att...: “The country is not suffering from a single emergency but a number of complex emergencies,” said Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, the Special Envoy...
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in Central African Republic (CAR): ...
Pray for Peace in Central African Republic (CAR): Children increasingly targeted for murder, rape
: "Renewed fighting in the Central African Republic (CAR) is increasingly targeting children, while there are concerns that the humanitarian needs in the country could escalate to levels not seen since the crisis four years ago, United Nations humanitarian officials today said.
Months of renewed fighting have led to an “increasing number of violent acts” targeting the youngest population, including murders, abductions, rape and recruitment into armed groups, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said.
Christine Muhigana, UNICEF Representative in CAR warned that “armed groups and parties to the conflict must cease these flagrant violations of children’s rights and make every effort to keep children safe.”
The exact numbers of attacks on children is unknown because fighting prevents humanitarian access to many areas, the UN agency said, but “is almost certain to be much higher than officially reported figures.”
In addition to brutal crimes, the intensified violence is preventing children from going to school or even getting basic vaccines.
In the southern areas of CAR, the fighting is driving people to flee into remote areas of northern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where they are nearly out of reach of the humanitarian community.
As of the end of June, some 103,000 CAR refugees were registered in the DRC, said William Spindler, spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
“Refugees are staying everywhere they can – in churches, in buildings used as schools, in the only health centre, or sleeping in the open. People desperately need more healthcare, food and shelter,” Mr. Spindler told journalists in Geneva about the situation in Ndu, which is barely more than a village.
Also today, the UN’s top humanitarian official expressed extreme concern about the upsurge in fighting since the start of the year, and warned that it puts at risk the gains made since 2015.
“If we do not act now and keep the faith, we will see increasing need and even greater vulnerability of already weakened people. We risk seeing even greater stress on the capacities of humanitarian actors and funding mechanisms,” said the UN Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Stephen O’Brien.
Speaking to reporters in Bangui on the last of his three-day visit, Mr. O’Brien urged the international community to sustain its efforts for the sake of CAR’s people and the future of the country.
The continued deterioration has led the humanitarian community to revise its Humanitarian Response Plan, which now requires $497 million, but is only 24 per cent funded, he said."
Months of renewed fighting have led to an “increasing number of violent acts” targeting the youngest population, including murders, abductions, rape and recruitment into armed groups, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said.
Christine Muhigana, UNICEF Representative in CAR warned that “armed groups and parties to the conflict must cease these flagrant violations of children’s rights and make every effort to keep children safe.”
The exact numbers of attacks on children is unknown because fighting prevents humanitarian access to many areas, the UN agency said, but “is almost certain to be much higher than officially reported figures.”
In addition to brutal crimes, the intensified violence is preventing children from going to school or even getting basic vaccines.
In the southern areas of CAR, the fighting is driving people to flee into remote areas of northern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where they are nearly out of reach of the humanitarian community.
As of the end of June, some 103,000 CAR refugees were registered in the DRC, said William Spindler, spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
“Refugees are staying everywhere they can – in churches, in buildings used as schools, in the only health centre, or sleeping in the open. People desperately need more healthcare, food and shelter,” Mr. Spindler told journalists in Geneva about the situation in Ndu, which is barely more than a village.
Also today, the UN’s top humanitarian official expressed extreme concern about the upsurge in fighting since the start of the year, and warned that it puts at risk the gains made since 2015.
“If we do not act now and keep the faith, we will see increasing need and even greater vulnerability of already weakened people. We risk seeing even greater stress on the capacities of humanitarian actors and funding mechanisms,” said the UN Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Stephen O’Brien.
Speaking to reporters in Bangui on the last of his three-day visit, Mr. O’Brien urged the international community to sustain its efforts for the sake of CAR’s people and the future of the country.
The continued deterioration has led the humanitarian community to revise its Humanitarian Response Plan, which now requires $497 million, but is only 24 per cent funded, he said."
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in Central African Republic (CAR): ...: : "Renewed fighting in the Central African Republic (CAR) is increasingly targeting children, while there are concerns that the humanit...
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in West Africa and Sahel region: Te...
Pray for Peace in West Africa and Sahel region: Terrorism and violent extremism, which aggravate humanitarian crises and erode the integrity of the region's States, have exacerbated traditional threats in Mali, Mauritania, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Nigeria and Niger and Chad
"Amid rising terrorism and violent extremism in West Africa and the United Nations envoy for the region called on the Security Council to further support national and Regional efforts to combat this "serious threat", including strengthening the UN Integrated Strategy for the Sahel.
The efforts of the region's States towards broader development, increased investment, improved infrastructure and job creation are being undermined by factors of insecurity “both traditional and new,” warned Mohamed Ibn Chambas, the head of the UN Office for West Africa (UNOWAS).
Terrorism and violent extremism, which aggravate humanitarian crises and erode the integrity of the region's States, have exacerbated traditional threats in West Africa and the Sahel region, which includes Mali, Mauritania, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Nigeria and Niger and Chad.
“These factors, combined with climate change, youth bulge and unemployment and unchecked urbanization constitute veritable push factors underpinning the surge in irregular migration and human trafficking,” he explained to the Council.
In the Sahel, the envoy continued, instability in Mali continues to spread into north-eastern Burkina Faso and western Niger, as evidenced by the recent deadly attacks in the border areas between these three countries. In the Liptako-Gourma region, which links Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, the past month has been marked by an intensification of terrorist activities and violent extremism, including coordinated cross-border attacks on border crossings.
The leaders of those three countries met in Niamey on 24 January, and announced the formation of a multinational security force. The announcement came in the context of ongoing discussions on the operationalization of the G5 Sahel Joint Force (FC-G5S), an initiative that also includes, in addition to Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, Chad and Mauritania. He called on the Security Council to further support the national and regional initiatives of the Sahel States against violent extremism and terrorism.
Turning to the situation in the Lake Chad Basin, Mr. Chambas said that despite the remarkable efforts of the Multinational Joint Force against Boko Haram, recent attacks demonstrated that the terrorist group remains a “serious threat” to the region. The mode and sophistication of these attacks, he added, suggest that the terrorist group has benefited from reinforcements.
The attacks, the UNOWAS chief stressed, have “devastating humanitarian consequences” in the Lake Chad Basin, where 5.2 million people, many of whom are displaced, are in a vulnerable situation.
At the same time, the threats posed by extremists and terrorist groups should not obscure other traditional threats to security in the region, such as the rise of inter-communal tensions in several countries, including clashes between herders and farmers. Also of concern is the intensification of smuggling, cross-border crime and human trafficking in areas where State structures are scarce.
“This insecurity,” he said, “also extends to the Gulf of Guinea, where piracy is increasing.”
In view of these threats, he considered that the UN Integrated Strategy for the Sahel presents an effective multidimensional response to streamline efforts and reduce duplication between the various initiatives in the Sahel.
In that context, Mr. Chambas said he is ready to continue working with the States of the region to strengthen justice, the rule of law, security reform and national reconciliation"
The efforts of the region's States towards broader development, increased investment, improved infrastructure and job creation are being undermined by factors of insecurity “both traditional and new,” warned Mohamed Ibn Chambas, the head of the UN Office for West Africa (UNOWAS).
Terrorism and violent extremism, which aggravate humanitarian crises and erode the integrity of the region's States, have exacerbated traditional threats in West Africa and the Sahel region, which includes Mali, Mauritania, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Nigeria and Niger and Chad.
“These factors, combined with climate change, youth bulge and unemployment and unchecked urbanization constitute veritable push factors underpinning the surge in irregular migration and human trafficking,” he explained to the Council.
In the Sahel, the envoy continued, instability in Mali continues to spread into north-eastern Burkina Faso and western Niger, as evidenced by the recent deadly attacks in the border areas between these three countries. In the Liptako-Gourma region, which links Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, the past month has been marked by an intensification of terrorist activities and violent extremism, including coordinated cross-border attacks on border crossings.
The leaders of those three countries met in Niamey on 24 January, and announced the formation of a multinational security force. The announcement came in the context of ongoing discussions on the operationalization of the G5 Sahel Joint Force (FC-G5S), an initiative that also includes, in addition to Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, Chad and Mauritania. He called on the Security Council to further support the national and regional initiatives of the Sahel States against violent extremism and terrorism.
Turning to the situation in the Lake Chad Basin, Mr. Chambas said that despite the remarkable efforts of the Multinational Joint Force against Boko Haram, recent attacks demonstrated that the terrorist group remains a “serious threat” to the region. The mode and sophistication of these attacks, he added, suggest that the terrorist group has benefited from reinforcements.
The attacks, the UNOWAS chief stressed, have “devastating humanitarian consequences” in the Lake Chad Basin, where 5.2 million people, many of whom are displaced, are in a vulnerable situation.
At the same time, the threats posed by extremists and terrorist groups should not obscure other traditional threats to security in the region, such as the rise of inter-communal tensions in several countries, including clashes between herders and farmers. Also of concern is the intensification of smuggling, cross-border crime and human trafficking in areas where State structures are scarce.
“This insecurity,” he said, “also extends to the Gulf of Guinea, where piracy is increasing.”
In view of these threats, he considered that the UN Integrated Strategy for the Sahel presents an effective multidimensional response to streamline efforts and reduce duplication between the various initiatives in the Sahel.
In that context, Mr. Chambas said he is ready to continue working with the States of the region to strengthen justice, the rule of law, security reform and national reconciliation"
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in West Africa and Sahel region: Te...: "Amid rising terrorism and violent extremism in West Africa and the United Nations envoy for the region called on the Security Council ...
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in DR Congo: Violence on rise amid ...
Pray for Peace in DR Congo: Violence on rise amid little political progress
"The security situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues to be a major source of concern, with violence in the Kasai provinces, in the western part of the vast country, reaching “disturbing” levels, the United Nations Security Council was told today.
Presenting the latest report of the Secretary-General on the situation in the DRC, Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix, who recently visited the country, urged the Council to support the Government and the people to preserve the gains of the past 17 years.
“The current political impasse, the rising insecurity, and the worsening human rights and humanitarian situation in the DRC require a concerted response from regional and international partners,” Mr. Lacroix said.
“This response must aim to help to create the conditions for a successful transition and the holding of free, fair and inclusive elections, in accordance with the Constitution,” he stressed, with a nod to a political agreement signed last year which specified that elections would be held by the end of this year.
The agreement – facilitated by Conférence Episcopale Nationale du Congo (CENCO) mediators, and reached in DRC’s capital, Kinshasa, on 31 December 2016 – allowed President Joseph Kabila to stay in power beyond the end of his term.
In today’s statement, Mr. Lacroix said implementation of the Agreement “remains largely inadequate.”
“At a time when the DRC is at the mid-point of its transition, it is more necessary than ever for national political actors and international partners, including the members of the Council, to remobilize the political agreement of 31 December 2016,” the senior UN official stressed.
Supporting the implementation of the Agreement – in addition to paving the way for elections and protecting civilians – remains a key priority of the UN peacekeeping mission in the country, known as MONUSCO, Mr. Lacroix said.
He underscored his commitment “to ensuring that MONUSCO delivers on its core mandated objectives as efficiently and effectively as possible” while responding to the changing situation on the ground.
MONUSCO is currently undergoing a strategic review, which will likely result shifts in its structure and mandate, based on options presented to the Security Council by 30 September.
Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, briefs the Security Council on the situation concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Photo: UN Photo/ Manuel Elias
‘Reports of daily human rights violations and abuse’
Amid the political impasse, the focus in the country faces rising insecurity, with particular concern over violence in the Kasai provinces, and a recent increase in inter-ethnic violence there.
“Disturbing reports of human rights violations and abuses continue to be received on a daily basis,” Mr. Lacroix said.
Dozens of mass graves have been reported so far, and the national investigation efforts are “slow,” he said, adding that “MONUSCO has also received disturbing reports of summary executions and rapes including of civilians by the security forces.”
Between May and June, the number of displaced persons in the DRC increased by 26 per cent to 1.3 million, according to UN figures.
Noting that he visited the country last month, Mr. Lacroix said he had stressed the need to prioritize political means to address the situation in the Kasais and emphasized the urgency of ensuring accountability.
He also stressed UN’s continued focus on ensuring that those responsible for the killing of UN human rights colleagues, Michael Sharp and Zaida Catalan, are brought to justice.
Despite the insecurity, MONUSCO has been able to support pockets of stability, such as in the town of Tshimbulu, where some schools and churches have reopened.
“Through a combination of human rights monitoring and political outreach, supported by a light but increasing military presence, the Mission is helping to bring back some measure of stability wherever it can,” Mr. Lacroix said."
Presenting the latest report of the Secretary-General on the situation in the DRC, Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix, who recently visited the country, urged the Council to support the Government and the people to preserve the gains of the past 17 years.
“The current political impasse, the rising insecurity, and the worsening human rights and humanitarian situation in the DRC require a concerted response from regional and international partners,” Mr. Lacroix said.
“This response must aim to help to create the conditions for a successful transition and the holding of free, fair and inclusive elections, in accordance with the Constitution,” he stressed, with a nod to a political agreement signed last year which specified that elections would be held by the end of this year.
The agreement – facilitated by Conférence Episcopale Nationale du Congo (CENCO) mediators, and reached in DRC’s capital, Kinshasa, on 31 December 2016 – allowed President Joseph Kabila to stay in power beyond the end of his term.
In today’s statement, Mr. Lacroix said implementation of the Agreement “remains largely inadequate.”
“At a time when the DRC is at the mid-point of its transition, it is more necessary than ever for national political actors and international partners, including the members of the Council, to remobilize the political agreement of 31 December 2016,” the senior UN official stressed.
Supporting the implementation of the Agreement – in addition to paving the way for elections and protecting civilians – remains a key priority of the UN peacekeeping mission in the country, known as MONUSCO, Mr. Lacroix said.
He underscored his commitment “to ensuring that MONUSCO delivers on its core mandated objectives as efficiently and effectively as possible” while responding to the changing situation on the ground.
MONUSCO is currently undergoing a strategic review, which will likely result shifts in its structure and mandate, based on options presented to the Security Council by 30 September.
Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, briefs the Security Council on the situation concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Photo: UN Photo/ Manuel Elias
‘Reports of daily human rights violations and abuse’
Amid the political impasse, the focus in the country faces rising insecurity, with particular concern over violence in the Kasai provinces, and a recent increase in inter-ethnic violence there.
“Disturbing reports of human rights violations and abuses continue to be received on a daily basis,” Mr. Lacroix said.
Dozens of mass graves have been reported so far, and the national investigation efforts are “slow,” he said, adding that “MONUSCO has also received disturbing reports of summary executions and rapes including of civilians by the security forces.”
Between May and June, the number of displaced persons in the DRC increased by 26 per cent to 1.3 million, according to UN figures.
Noting that he visited the country last month, Mr. Lacroix said he had stressed the need to prioritize political means to address the situation in the Kasais and emphasized the urgency of ensuring accountability.
He also stressed UN’s continued focus on ensuring that those responsible for the killing of UN human rights colleagues, Michael Sharp and Zaida Catalan, are brought to justice.
Despite the insecurity, MONUSCO has been able to support pockets of stability, such as in the town of Tshimbulu, where some schools and churches have reopened.
“Through a combination of human rights monitoring and political outreach, supported by a light but increasing military presence, the Mission is helping to bring back some measure of stability wherever it can,” Mr. Lacroix said."
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in DR Congo: Violence on rise amid ...: "The security situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues to be a major source of concern, with violence in the K...
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in East Africa: Worsening Hunger am...
Pray for Peace in East Africa: Worsening Hunger amid third consecutive failed rainy season
"The third consecutive failed rainy season in East Africa has seriously eroded families' resilience, and urgent and effective livelihood support is required, the United Nations agricultural agency has warned.
According to an alert released today by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), poor rains have worsened hunger and left crops scorched, pastures dry and thousands of livestock dead.
“This is the third season in a row that families have had to endure failed rains – they are simply running out of ways to cope,” said FAO's Director of Emergencies Dominique Burgeon in a news release. “Support is needed now before the situation rapidly deteriorates further.”
Families are simply running out of ways to cope
The most affected areas, which received less than half of their normal seasonal rainfall, are central and southern Somalia, southeastern Ethiopia, northern and eastern Kenya, northern Tanzania and northeastern and southwestern Uganda.
Increasing humanitarian need
The number of people in need of humanitarian assistance in these five countries, currently estimated at about 16 million, has increased by about 30 per cent since late 2016.
In Somalia, almost half of the total population is lacking reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food.
Read more on: UN urges 'reboot' of drought responses to focus more on preparedness
The food security situation for pastoralists is of particular concern, in Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia, where animal mortality rates are high and milk production from the surviving animals has declined sharply with negative consequences on food security and nutrition.
“When we know how critical milk is for the healthy development of children aged under five, and the irreversible damage its lack can create, it is evident that supporting pastoralists going through this drought is essential,” said Mr. Burgeon.
AUDIO: Hunger rising sharply across East Africa due to third failed rains.
Poor crop prospects
In several cropping areas across the region, poor rains have caused sharp reductions in planting, and wilting of crops currently being harvested. Despite some late rainfall in May, damage to crops is irreversible.
In addition, fall armyworm, which has caused extensive damage to maize crops in southern Africa, has spread to the east and has worsened the situation.
Cereal prices are surging, driven by reduced supplies and concerns over the performance of current-season crops. Prices in May were at record to near-record levels in most markets and up to double their year-earlier levels."
According to an alert released today by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), poor rains have worsened hunger and left crops scorched, pastures dry and thousands of livestock dead.
“This is the third season in a row that families have had to endure failed rains – they are simply running out of ways to cope,” said FAO's Director of Emergencies Dominique Burgeon in a news release. “Support is needed now before the situation rapidly deteriorates further.”
Families are simply running out of ways to cope
The most affected areas, which received less than half of their normal seasonal rainfall, are central and southern Somalia, southeastern Ethiopia, northern and eastern Kenya, northern Tanzania and northeastern and southwestern Uganda.
Increasing humanitarian need
The number of people in need of humanitarian assistance in these five countries, currently estimated at about 16 million, has increased by about 30 per cent since late 2016.
In Somalia, almost half of the total population is lacking reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food.
Read more on: UN urges 'reboot' of drought responses to focus more on preparedness
The food security situation for pastoralists is of particular concern, in Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia, where animal mortality rates are high and milk production from the surviving animals has declined sharply with negative consequences on food security and nutrition.
“When we know how critical milk is for the healthy development of children aged under five, and the irreversible damage its lack can create, it is evident that supporting pastoralists going through this drought is essential,” said Mr. Burgeon.
AUDIO: Hunger rising sharply across East Africa due to third failed rains.
Poor crop prospects
In several cropping areas across the region, poor rains have caused sharp reductions in planting, and wilting of crops currently being harvested. Despite some late rainfall in May, damage to crops is irreversible.
In addition, fall armyworm, which has caused extensive damage to maize crops in southern Africa, has spread to the east and has worsened the situation.
Cereal prices are surging, driven by reduced supplies and concerns over the performance of current-season crops. Prices in May were at record to near-record levels in most markets and up to double their year-earlier levels."
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PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in Syria: Despite some improvements...
Pray for Peace in Syria: Despite some improvements, food security remains dire in Syria
"In spite of improvements in wheat production in war-torn Syria – about 12 per cent more than last year's record low – the overall food security situation remains far worse than before the conflict, the United Nations food security and emergency food relief agencies have said.
According to UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP), total wheat production estimates for 2017 stand at 1.8 million tonnes, in part due to an improved security situation. The estimate is, however, less than half of the pre-conflict ten-year average.
“The small improvement in the availability of food for Syrians is promising, but the needs remain high and more must be done to provide food for families affected by the crisis,” said Jakob Kern, WFP Country Director in Syria, said in a joint news release from the two UN agencies.
“With the evolving security situation, more farmers are expected to have access to cultivate their land again. Now is the time to step up our support, as agriculture is more important than ever for the livelihoods of many,” added Adam Yao, Acting FAO Representative in the country.
The improvements are also in part due to better rains which have increased water flows and water levels in many reservoirs, benefiting crops like wheat and barley, however high cost or unavailability of inputs, such as seeds and fertilizer, and the destruction of irrigation and storage infrastructure have added to the already complicated challenges before food growers.
Furthermore, opening of some supply routes have allowed trade to slowly recover but in many parts such as in eastern Aleppo, where the entire infrastructure and markets were devastated, the recovery has been at a very slow pace.
In the news release, the two UN agencies also noted that humanitarian access to some besieged areas has improved compared to last year but access to some places such as Deir-ez-Zor and Raqqa remain severely constrained.
Across the country, food prices continue to remain at record highs and an estimated 6.9 million Syrians are still food insecure and an additional 5.6 million people are likely to become food insecure without the regular food assistance they receive every month, they added.
The information provided by the UN agencies was gathered during their latest Crop and Food Security Assessment Mission (CFSAM), which visited Syria in May, this year. This is the fourth food security mission to the country since the onset of the crisis and each mission provides an impartial and balanced assessment of the agricultural and food security situation."
According to UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP), total wheat production estimates for 2017 stand at 1.8 million tonnes, in part due to an improved security situation. The estimate is, however, less than half of the pre-conflict ten-year average.
“The small improvement in the availability of food for Syrians is promising, but the needs remain high and more must be done to provide food for families affected by the crisis,” said Jakob Kern, WFP Country Director in Syria, said in a joint news release from the two UN agencies.
“With the evolving security situation, more farmers are expected to have access to cultivate their land again. Now is the time to step up our support, as agriculture is more important than ever for the livelihoods of many,” added Adam Yao, Acting FAO Representative in the country.
The improvements are also in part due to better rains which have increased water flows and water levels in many reservoirs, benefiting crops like wheat and barley, however high cost or unavailability of inputs, such as seeds and fertilizer, and the destruction of irrigation and storage infrastructure have added to the already complicated challenges before food growers.
Furthermore, opening of some supply routes have allowed trade to slowly recover but in many parts such as in eastern Aleppo, where the entire infrastructure and markets were devastated, the recovery has been at a very slow pace.
In the news release, the two UN agencies also noted that humanitarian access to some besieged areas has improved compared to last year but access to some places such as Deir-ez-Zor and Raqqa remain severely constrained.
Across the country, food prices continue to remain at record highs and an estimated 6.9 million Syrians are still food insecure and an additional 5.6 million people are likely to become food insecure without the regular food assistance they receive every month, they added.
The information provided by the UN agencies was gathered during their latest Crop and Food Security Assessment Mission (CFSAM), which visited Syria in May, this year. This is the fourth food security mission to the country since the onset of the crisis and each mission provides an impartial and balanced assessment of the agricultural and food security situation."
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Peace in Syria: Despite some improvements...: "In spite of improvements in wheat production in war-torn Syria – about 12 per cent more than last year's record low – the overall ...
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"Some evacuees are selling junk foods and other basic needs at evacuation centers to earn money.
Another evacuee, Mercy Dibay, said she’s doing it so that her family won’t always have to depend on the aid the government gives.
“If we will not do this, we will have no money. We have children who go to school. . We have no source of income. That’s why we think of something to help us survive,” said Dibay Other evacuees are now asking for additional capital from donors.
“We are calling on those who want to help us improve our mini store,” said evacuee Zenaida Mesama.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is glad with the initiative and positive outlook of the “bakwits”.
DSWD noted this is an indication that they are rising up from the tragedy they have experienced.
“I am happy that the displaced people have creativity and resourcefulness. We really need to act. What the IDPs (internally displaced persons) are doing is a positive step. I believe and I trust that the people of Maranao, that they can stand and build back their lives better,” DSWD Undersecretary Hope Hervilla said.
Another evacuee, Mercy Dibay, said she’s doing it so that her family won’t always have to depend on the aid the government gives.
“If we will not do this, we will have no money. We have children who go to school. . We have no source of income. That’s why we think of something to help us survive,” said Dibay Other evacuees are now asking for additional capital from donors.
“We are calling on those who want to help us improve our mini store,” said evacuee Zenaida Mesama.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is glad with the initiative and positive outlook of the “bakwits”.
DSWD noted this is an indication that they are rising up from the tragedy they have experienced.
“I am happy that the displaced people have creativity and resourcefulness. We really need to act. What the IDPs (internally displaced persons) are doing is a positive step. I believe and I trust that the people of Maranao, that they can stand and build back their lives better,” DSWD Undersecretary Hope Hervilla said.
PRAYERS FOR PEACE: Pray for Marawi: Displaced Marawi residents find w...: "Some evacuees are selling junk foods and other basic needs at evacuation centers to earn money. Another evacuee, Mercy Dibay, said...
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