Launch of the National Action Plans on Education for Peace and Sustainable Development

 

Temple Trees, 30 January 2012 

--

Your Excellency, The President - Hon. Mahinda Rajapaksa

 

Guest of Honour, Mr. Q Tang, Assistant Director General for Education, UNESCO

 

Hon Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Governors and Chief Ministers

 

Secretaries to Ministries, Provinces and Districts

 

Your Excellencies, High Commissioners and Ambassadors

 

Heads of Corporations, Government Agencies and Non Governmental Organisations

 

Distinguished Invitees, Ladies and Gentlemen

 

And UN Agency Colleagues

 

---

Ayubowan

 

Vannakkam

And

Good morning. It is a great pleasure to be here today for this important launch.

--

 

Sri Lanka today stands at a critical juncture. Having recently ended the war and transitioned to middle income status, the country is poised for rapid human development and a new era of peace and prosperity.

 

The launch of this plan, with the emphasis on both Peace and Sustainable Development, therefore comes at a very opportune time. Our hope is that it will help Sri Lanka build a path to prosperity that ensures a brighter future for its people that includes upholding the dignity and rights of fellow beings, and a process of economic development fully respectful of the environment.

 

Being anchored in the education sector, the plan, I believe, is well positioned to have great impact. The education sector in Sri Lanka has a tremendous track record of success with the country having achieved universal access and high literacy rates well ahead of its peers. Indeed, the UN is proud to have been a partner in this sector, most recently working closely with the Ministry of Education to instigate policies and systems aimed at increasing the retention rate in schools and the quality of education, though the national child friendly schools framework. It is also noteworthy the priority that Sri Lanka has placed on education even in difficult times when a humanitarian situation has prevailed, and again we are proud to have supported the Government to establish temporary learning spaces allowing children affected by the tsunami, conflict and floods to continue their education while at the same time supporting the reconstruction and repair of damaged schools and teaching quarters. 

 

As we move forward, the UN we would very much like to work with the Government to see the elements of its success in the education sector disseminated through south-south exchange to other countries wishing to make a similar transition.

 

Through the education sector, we are also assured that the messages will reach out to those who will drive the future of Sri Lanka, the youth. Today’s children will grow up with a strong understanding of the principles of justice, democracy, human rights, tolerance and equity and with enhanced awareness of different societies and cultures – all contributing to the foundations for social harmony and a peaceful future. Likewise, early education on the central role that the environment plays in the overall development of the country will help ensure that tomorrow’s leaders and a labour force appreciate the risks associated with neglecting environmental concerns, and produce advocates willing to stand strong in promoting green growth policies.

 

Indeed, it is fortunate that this launch takes place in 2012. This is not only the UN’s ‘year of sustainable development’ but also the year for the RIO +20 Conference where Heads of State and Government will meet in June to secure renewed political commitment for sustainable development. For these reasons, we can expect strong global interest on individual country achievements, and with this plan and the other many environmentally friendly initiatives that Sri Lanka has launched – the country has a lot to share.

 

Finally, let me touch on how we as the UN can work together with the Government to implement the plan. Having reviewed the main focus areas of the plan, I am pleased to note the many areas of convergence with the new UN Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) for 2013-2017, currently being finalised in consultation with the Government. The vital sectors of education, health, environment, economy and social services, which comprise the pillars of Sustainable Development, are all within the fields of competence of the UN Country Team. As we move forward the UN Country Team looks forward to exploring opportunities for partnership and stands committed to supporting the implementation of the National Action Plans on Education for Peace and Sustainable Development.

 

 

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL

--

MESSAGE FOR HUMAN RIGHTS DAY

10 December 2011

 

 

Human rights belong to every one of us without exception. But unless we know them, unless we demand they be respected, and unless we defend our right -- and the right of others --  to exercise them, they will be just words in a decades-old document.

 

That is why, on Human Rights Day, we do more than celebrate the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 – we acknowledge its enduring relevance for our own times.

 

The importance of human rights has been underlined over and over again this year.  Across the globe, people mobilized to demand justice, dignity, equality, participation -- the rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration.

 

Many of these peaceful demonstrators persevered despite being met with violence and further repression.  In some countries, the struggle continues; in others, important concessions were gained or dictators were toppled as the will of the people prevailed.

 

Many of the people seeking their legitimate aspirations were linked through social media. Gone are the days when repressive governments could totally control the flow of information. Today, within their existing obligation to respect the rights of freedom of assembly and expression, governments must not block acces to the internet and various forms of social media as a way to prevent criticism and public debate.

 

We know there is still too much repression in our world, still too much impunity, still too many people for whom rights are not yet a reality. 

 

Yet at the end of an extraordinary year for human rights, let us take strength from the achievements of 2011:  new democratic transitions set in motion, new steps to ensure accountability for war crimes and crimes against humanity, new and ever-spreading awareness of rights themselves. 

 

As we look to the challenges ahead, let us take inspiration from the example of human rights activists and the timeless power of the Universal Declaration, and do our utmost to uphold the ideals and aspirations that speak for every culture and every person.

 

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL

--

MESSAGE FOR INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER DAY

5 December 2011

 

 

Beginning with the words “We the peoples”, the United Nations Charter reminds us that crafting solutions to global challenges is a job not only for Governments, but for people, communities and civil society.

 

On International Volunteer Day, we recognize the dedication of volunteers, their admirable spirit of service, and their wide-ranging efforts to promote the goals of the    United Nations.

 

With the world population having surpassed seven billion this year, we must tap every person’s potential to help others.  Everyone can make a difference.  Volunteering matters.

 

All over the globe, millions of volunteers are helping to advance sustainable development and peace.  This engagement takes many forms: volunteering organizations, individuals working on their own in their communities, and service with us and our partners as UN Volunteers.

 

This year’s first-ever State of the World’s Volunteerism Report showcases the impact that volunteers have made.  I congratulate the UN Volunteers programme and commend the many millions of volunteers working for sustainable development, humanitarian assistance, environmental preservation, and progress towards the Millennium Development Goals.

 

With passion and commitment, they are helping to show how volunteering can change the world.  As we mark International Volunteer Day, I encourage policymakers to do even more to support and welcome volunteerism, and I urge everyone to consider what they can do to join the movement. 

  

 

             BAN Ki-moon

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL

--

MESSAGE ON The International Day

of Persons with Disabilities

“Together for a better world for all

including persons with disabilities in development”

3 December 2011

 

It is thirty years since the United Nations first observed the International Year of Disabled Persons under the theme “Full Participation and Equality”.  During that period, there has been significant progress in raising awareness about the rights of persons with disabilities and in strengthening the international normative framework to realize those rights – from the World Programme of Action (1982) to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006).

 

More and more countries are committing to protecting and promoting the rights of persons with disabilities.  However, many challenges remain.  Persons with disabilities experience higher rates of poverty and deprivation and are twice as likely to lack health care.  Employment rates of persons with disabilities in some countries are as low as one-third of that of the overall population.  In developing countries, the gap in primary school attendance rates between children with disabilities and others ranges from 10 per cent to 60 per cent.

 

This multi-dimensional exclusion represents a huge cost, not only to persons with disabilities but to society as a whole.  This year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities reminds us that development can only be sustainable when it is equitable, inclusive and accessible for all.  Persons with disabilities need therefore to be included at all stages of development processes, from inception to monitoring and evaluation.

 

Addressing negative attitudes, the lack of services or ready access to them, and other harmful social, economic and cultural barriers will benefit all of society. 

 

On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I call on governments, civil society and the global community to work for and alongside persons with disabilities to achieve inclusive, sustainable and equitable development worldwide.

Statement of Subinay Nandy

Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator of the United Nations

at

UN Day Celebration

24 October 2011

 

H.E. Prime Minister Mr. D.M. Jayaratne,

Honorable Ministers,

Excellencies, Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Members of the Diplomatic Corps,

Distinguished Senior Government officials and partners from central and local government, Civil Society, Academia, Private Sector, Media and Others,

Friends of UN from the international community,

UN colleagues,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a pleasure and honor for me to welcome you all to the UN compound on this occasion.  Today, on United Nations Day, throughout the world, UN staff and their partners in Government, the diplomatic communities, academia and civil society, are taking a moment to reflect on the work of the Organization.  Taking stock not only of achievements, but also of where we, together, can better promote the causes that underpin our common humanity - these are the objectives that bring us together today.               

Let me begin by thanking you, Your Excellency Mr. Prime Minister Jayaratne, for gracing this occasion with your distinguished presence.  We see this as a sign of the strong partnership between the Government of Sri Lanka and the United Nations, an affirmation of the common values and the shared vision that unite all of us in supporting the people of Sri Lanka.  At the core of our relationship is a shared concern for the disadvantaged - hope for a prosperous future in which all Sri Lankans, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity, can live in peace and realize their full potential.  In this context, let me thank you, Mr. Prime Minister, as well as all the Government officials with us today, for your commitment to make this partnership work.       

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As highlighted in the Secretary General’s statement, today, we begin a global, 7 day, countdown to the birth of the 7 billionth citizen of the world. On the 31^st of October, our 7 billionth citizen will be born into a world of contradictions: we have ample supplies of food, yet millions are still starving.  We see unprecedented accumulation of wealth yet millions are impoverished. Great opportunities for progress - but also great obstacles.  In this light, the milestone of having 7 billion human beings on our planet provides a challenge – as well as an opportunity.  It is a call to action, to all of us, to confront grinding poverty and inequality; to address challenges facing women and girls, and the world’s youth; and, to work against discrimination, abuse of power and violence.

This past year, the UN has tackled a vast array of challenges facing the world.  2011 has in this regard been like many other years before it, for the UN’s work has involved a range of activities including response to disasters and humanitarian crises, deployment of peacekeepers, and the promotion and protection of human rights. I would like to in particular recognize the tremendous contribution that Sri Lanka makes to the UN system, through for example the deployment of more than 14,000 troops since the year 2000 to support peacekeeping missions across 9 countries. Additionally, the UN has benefited from the services of many distinguished Sri Lankans, including serving at the top level of Under Secretary General.

Yet 2011 has also been different.   The global financial downturn which began in 2008 has demonstrated its resistance to short-term corrective interventions, giving rise to persistent fear that financial contagion is just around the corner.  Food and fuel prices, seemingly tamed in 2010, have once again begun their ascent  – compelling the billions of poor around the world to make increasingly difficult choices in making it through the day.   And just as one disaster in Haiti was entering a new, more hopeful, phase, another in Somalia has degenerated into unimaginable suffering.

Each of these developments in 2011 has presented challenges, driven by forces seemingly beyond our collective control.  They have underscored how much further we must go in developing ways and means to understand one another, to forge the solutions that today’s – and tomorrow’s - problems demand.   

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentleman,

Sri Lanka has a long track record of overcoming tremendous challenges, beating the odds through perseverance, ingenuity, and patience.  The 27-year long conflict was a tremendous drain on the country’s economic and human resources.  The country was heavily impacted by the 2004 tsunami, which took the lives of 35,000 Sri Lankans.   Floods earlier this year wiped out a considerable part of the paddy harvest that the newly resettled had worked so hard to prepare for. 

It is no small feat, in this context, that the Sri Lankan economy is currently registering about 8% annual growth.  The volume of first-time tourist arrivals continues to grow at nearly 50% year-on-year, as Sri Lanka’s extraordinary natural beauty becomes increasingly well-known to a global clientele.   Foreign Direct Investment, while still small for an economy of Sri Lanka’s size and potential, has doubled in volume for the past two years and is expected to do so again in 2011. 

At $2,200 Sri Lanka has an average per capita GDP that enabled it recently to climb into the lower end of the Category of Middle Income countries. This Middle Income Status positions Sri Lanka to be a leader in south-south cooperation.  The new paradigm for development cooperation is such that lessons learned by countries of the south are more so than ever before bringing about development progress in other countries.  Based on its proven ability to achieve development gains despite immense obstacles, Sri Lanka can – and should - be a key actor in this emerging global solutions exchange.   Its track record of consistent investment in health, education, and services for the poor also provide a foundation for Sri Lanka to transcend MIC status altogether. 

For this to happen however, a realistic timetable for change is essential.  Coupled with the challenge of building a more prosperous future is that of consolidating the transition from 27 years of conflict to the creation of a society where every Sri Lankan finds their place.  Societal change, like economic development, needs to follow a realistic timetable, in which overarching long term goals are complemented by shorter term, measurable steps that address the most urgent obstacles to achieving those goals.  Among these I would name social integration, gender-based violence, access to justice and equal opportunities which, if not addressed, could pose a threat to the long term peace and prosperity that the country seeks to consolidate. 

With the end of the war now more than two years behind us, the work of the United Nations in Sri Lanka is itself in the midst of a transition.  The humanitarian needs that constituted the primary focus of the UN’s work for many years have in most – though not all - cases been addressed.  Since 2008, over $600 million has been provided by the international community to support UN activities in Sri Lanka.  I would like to take this opportunity to thank all Governments and organizations , many of whom are represented here today - for their generous support in enabling the work of the United Nations in Sri Lanka to operate on so many fronts.  I would also like to acknowledge the work of my UN colleagues who, side by side with our national partners have worked, often under extremely challenging circumstances particularly during the last 3-4 years to deliver on the tasks and mandates as expected of the UN system.

While Sri Lanka is well on track to achieve most of the MDGs, the UN system continues to steadfastly work with our partners in meeting the remaining and emerging challenges. Income and gender inequality, regional disparities, and youth unemployment, have all emerged as long-term challenges.  Despite Sri Lanka’s Middle Income Country status, many of the rural communities still suffer from poverty, acutely manifested in a high degree of malnutrition that in some areas affect 40% of the child population.  Ageing, the spread of non-communicable diseases, climate change and associated challenges will also test the ability of Sri Lanka to adapt to post-war problems that require new approaches to understand and solve.  We are already working closely with the Government to put in place policies and programmes to address these challenges and look forward to deepening and sustaining the partnership as we move forward.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

We find ourselves at a historic moment in Sri Lanka, when a tragic chapter filled with strife and confrontation has come to a close, and when the next chapter is still in the making – one that all of us here today hope will reflect genuine reconciliation, national unity, and the rule of law. 

It is in this context that one goal is shared by each and every one of us here today, namely that this next chapter ultimately tells the story of a country that succeeded in crossing the precarious bridge from war to long term and durable peace. 

It is with this emphasis on our shared values that I would like to conclude my statement to you today.   The period since the end of the war has rapidly expanded the potential range of areas for greater cooperation between the international community and the Government of Sri Lanka.   Yet this potential, this opportunity to pursue a common agenda, has at-times been overshadowed by the triumph of division over unity.  This division is not helpful, certainly not to those most in need of our help. Instead, let us focus on our intentions, which for both the UN and Government of Sri Lanka derive from the same universal values that make up the building blocks of the work of the United Nations – a driving aspiration to promote peace, equality and development.

We can do more when we work together.  With those simple words, I conclude my statement to you today, and on behalf of the United Nations invite all of you to partake in this celebration of our shared humanity.

Thank you. 

Ladies and Gentlemen, I would now to introduce His Excellency, Prime Minister Jayaratne, and kindly invite him to the podium.

 

The Secretary-General’s message on World Humanitarian Day

19 August 2011

There is never a year without humanitarian crises.  And wherever there are people in need, there are people who help them – men and women coming together to ease suffering and bring hope.  From Japan to Sudan, from Pakistan to the Horn of Africa, aid workers help people who have lost their homes, loved ones and sources of income.

These humanitarians often brave great danger, far from home.  They work long hours, in the most difficult conditions.  Their efforts save lives in conflict and natural disaster.  They also draw the world closer together by reminding us that we are one family, sharing the same dreams for a peaceful planet, where all people can live in safety, and with dignity.

On World Humanitarian Day, we honour these aid workers and thank them for their dedication.  And we pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice – in Afghanistan, Haiti and beyond.  Too many have died, or suffered their own loss, in the course of duty.  We pledge to do all we can to ensure the world’s humanitarians are kept safe to do their essential work.

This is also a day to examine our own lives and consider what more we can do to help -- to reach out to people enduring conflict, disaster and hardship.  Let those we honour today inspire us to start our own journey to make the world a better place and bring our human family more closely together.

 

The Secretary-General's  Message on human rights day

Human rights are the foundation of freedom, peace, development and justice -- and the heart of the work of the United Nations around the world.

Laws to protect and promote human rights are indispensable.  But quite often, progress comes down to people… courageous women and men… striving to protect their own rights and the rights of others… determined to make rights real in people’s lives.

It is these human rights defenders to whom we dedicate this year’s observance of Human Rights Day.

Defenders are a diverse group.  They might be part of a civil society organization, a journalist or even a lone citizen, spurred to action by abuses close to home.

But they all share a commitment to expose wrongdoing, protect the most vulnerable and end impunity.  They stand up, speak out -- and today they tweet -- in the name of freedom and human dignity.

Human rights defenders play a vital role in the fight against discrimination.  They investigate violations and help victims gain justice and support.

Far too often, their work entails tremendous risk.

Defenders are harassed, stripped of their jobs and wrongfully imprisoned.  In many countries, they are tortured, beaten and murdered.

Their friends and family members are also subjected to harassment and intimidation.

Women human rights defenders face additional risks, and therefore need additional support.

This Human Rights Day is an occasion to salute the courage and achievements of human rights defenders everywhere – and to pledge to do more to safeguard their work.

States bear the primary responsibility to protect human rights advocates.  I call on all States to ensure the freedom of expression and the freedom of assembly that make their work possible.

When the lives of human rights advocates are endangered, we are all less secure.

When the voices of human rights advocates are silenced, justice itself is drowned out. 

On this Human Rights Day, let us be inspired by those seeking to make our world more just.  And let us remember that everyone -- no matter their background, training or education -- can be a human rights champion.

So let us use that power.  Let us each be a human rights defender.

International Volunteer Day

The United Nations Volunteer (UNV) Programme, in Sri Lanka is glad to facilitate the Launch of the International Year of Volunteers (IYV+10) Steering Committee followed by an evening of entertainment entitled “Inspiring the Volunteer in You” on December 6, 2010.

Poverty has a woman’s face. Investing in girls’ education and empowering women have strong multiplier effects across all the Millennium Development Goals. Join a Sri Lankan drama group and community volunteers as they encourage people in the central province, as well as the conflict-affected North and East to educate girls and to act against domestic violence.

Go to the UNV Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/unvolunteers to watch the films and join the discussion.

<!--[endif]--> <!--[endif]--> <!--[endif]-->

The Secretary-General's message for UN Day - 24 October 2010

On United Nations Day, I express my great appreciation to the millions of people throughout the world who believe deeply in our work for peace, development and human rights… and who uphold our ideals and help us achieve our goals.To all of you… friends and fellow citizens of the world… I say: thank you.

Sixty-five years ago on this date, the founding Charter of the United Nations entered into force.Every year on UN Day, we reaffirm our global mission.We reassert the universal values of tolerance, mutual respect and human dignity.And we recognize the progress we have made together: gains in literacy and life expectancy… the spread of knowledge and technology... advances in democracy and the rule of law.

But above all, UN Day is a day on which we resolve to do more.More to protect those caught up in armed conflict, to fight climate change and avert nuclear catastrophe; more to expand opportunities for women and girls, and to combat injustice and impunity; more to meet the Millennium Development Goals.

Last month’s MDG Summit at the United Nations generated political momentum… as well as financial commitments that are especially significant in these difficult economic times.I am determined to press ahead as the 2015 deadline approaches.

Despite our problems, despite polarization and distrust, our interconnected world has opened up vast new possibilities for common progress.Let us commit to do even more to realize the great vision set out in the UN Charter.

Read the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator's address

World Health Day 2010

Each year World Health Day is celebrated on 7th April. In 2010, the World Health Organization (WHO) focused on the theme “Urbanization and Health”. With the campaign “1000 cities-1000 lives”, events will be organized across the world calling on cities to open up the streets for health activities.

In Sri Lanka, WHO is working closely with the Ministry of Health, Regional Directors of Health Services, Municipal Councils and Medical Officers of Health to
- Draw attention to the need for action by all sectors and people to address the issues of urban health

- Mobilize cities throughout the country to join this worldwide campaign Six cities; Colombo, Thamankaduwa, Tangalle, Ampara, Chilaw, Batticaloa will be involved in activities such as cleaning up campaigns, no smoking campaigns, aerobic sessions, health walks advocacy seminars, screening clinics ,awareness campaigns ect. as part of collective efforts to mark World Health Day in Sri Lanka.

UNHABITAT is also partnering with WHO in the campaign through its “Urban Slum Re-Awakening Programme’ to raise awareness of slum dwellers on health issues related to living near canals in Moratuwa, Dehiwala and Mount Lavinia.

How you can get involved:
Tell the world about what is happening in your city and exchange ideas with people from around the globe. You can go to the campaign social media site to join the discussion, upload your videos and photos and nominate your urban health hero! You can also follow the campaign on Facebook, Youtube and Flickr. For more information, visit www.whosrilanka. org, www.who.searo.int or WWW.who.int.WHD 2010

“Equal rights, equal opportunities: Progress for all” United Nations International Women’s Day Celebrations

The United Nations will commemorate International Women’s Day on 5^th March 2010 to highlight the importance of equal rights and equal opportunities for men and women in Sri Lanka and across the globe, through a joint event organized by the United Nations inter-agency theme group for gender.   2010 marks the 100^th anniversary of International Women’s Day which commenced in 1910 with the second International Conference of Working Women held in Copenhagen. It is a day to the mark the real progress of women in their social, political and economic achievements and to renew our commitment to achieve true equality.

The events held will seek to promote the rights of women from all spheres of society in Sri Lanka and will include a theatrical performance, a discussion by an imminent panel of speakers and songs which will highlight the global theme as well as the 100^th anniversary of International Women’s Day.

The panel discussion will comprise of eminent speakers, Professor Savithri Goonesekere, former Vice Chancellor, University of Colombo, Dr Vinya Ariyaratne, Former Executive Director, Sarvodaya, Mrs Lalitha Dissanayaka, former Secretary to the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Ms. Ayomi Fernando, Head of Responsible Business Initiatives Unit of the Employer’s Federation of Ceylon. The panel will focus on the issues faced by women in the political, post conflict, plantation and private sectors respectively and explore solutions to the problems they face.   Invitees for the event range include Ministry and government officials, Foreign diplomats, I/NGOs, general public and students.  
When: 5^th March,9.30 am to 12.00 noon
Where: Atrium Lobby, Cinnamon Grand Hotel, Colombo

Read more...

Read here how International Women’s Day was marked at the UN Country Office

Keynote Speech by the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator at the International Women’s Day celebration on March 5, 2010

The Secretary General's message