Statement by Mr Subinay Nandy,

UN Resident/Humanitarian Coordinator

 

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

 

Temple Trees, 30 January 2012 

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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

 

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Ayubowan,  

Vannakkam,

 

And

 

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

 

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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.

 

 

Statement of Subinay Nandy Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator of the United Nations at the 66th UN Day celebrations

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 31st 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 count 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 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 acute poverty, manifested in a high degree of malnutrition that in some areas has reached 40% of the child population.  Ageing, the spread of non-communicable diseases, climate change and associated vulnerabilities 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.

Statement of the Humanitarian Coordinator for Sri Lanka on the occasion of the commemoration of the World Humanitarian Day on the 19th August 2011

Dear members of the Media,

My colleagues from the UN, ladies and gentlemen,

It is my pleasure to welcome you here this morning to mark the World Humanitarian Day which will be celebrated tomorrow, 19 August. We are celebrating this special day for the second year both across the world and in Sri Lanka.

I want to start by giving you a snap shot on the brief history as to why we are marking this day.

Seven years ago terrorists bombed the United Nations Headquarters in Baghdad, killing 21 of the best and brightest humanitarian workers working in Iraq and who were from around the world, including Sergio de Mello, UN Under Secretary General, and a man who had led some of the most complex humanitarian operations in the world.  Many others were injured at the same time.

All over the world, we see an increase in disasters, be they natural or man-made.

Earlier this year, we saw the devastating effect of the Tsunami in Japan where over 15,000 people lost their lives and many more are yet to be accounted for.

Today we are seeing famine and hunger due to droughts in the Horn of Africa, leaving 12.4milliion people in Kenya, Somalia, Ethiopia and Djibouti in urgent need of assistance

And for the last six month we have been watching protests unfold across the Middle East, not only causing damage to property but also taking lives and disrupting communities.

While disasters do not discriminate between young or old, rich or poor, male or female or the colour of one’s skin, they cause immense suffering to millions of people – most often those who are most vulnerable, marginalized and already in need of assistance and protection.

On a more positive note, World Humanitarian Day gives us the opportunity to reflect and recognize the achievements made over the years, through the commitments and sacrifice of many. For example the broad partnerships in support of Sri Lankan national humanitarian efforts are key milestones that we celebrate.

In the beginning of this year, over 1.2 million people were affected by unprecedented rains in the country. The most vulnerable populations lost their crops and livestock and incurred damage to their homes and businesses from flood water and landslides. The humanitarian community managed to raise US$24 million to complement the assistance provided by the government to those who were most affected or displaced.

Equally noteworthy has been the humanitarian assistance provided to the conflict affected in the North. While working closely with Government to ensure that the immediate needs of close to 300,000 IDPs were provided for while they lived in Menik Farm and other temporary sites, humanitarian partners have also worked alongside Government to support a dignified return process. Indeed, once back in their areas of origin, the UN continues to work in partnership with the government in order to help communities and families in conflict affected areas to build decent lives. I wish to take this opportunity to congratulate the Government along with the humanitarian community for mobilizing over US$ 680 million to date since 2006.

Moving forward the UN will continue supporting the response to the remaining humanitarian needs in the country. The UN will also increasingly look for opportunities to support Government in promoting reconciliation, something we believe is key to ensuring a lasting and durable peace.

Let me now return to the theme of this year’s World Humanitarian Day which is “People Helping People”.

Indeed, everyone can be a humanitarian and not only people working with relief organisations. People within the very communities that are affected by disasters are usually the first to help their neighbours following a disaster.

Therefore, as we commemorate the World Humanitarian Day, the Secretary General and myself would like to take the opportunity to recognize ALL those individuals who worked in Sri Lanka to respond to humanitarian needs and acknowledge the excellent work they have done and commitment shown in supporting the people of Sri Lanka.

Thank you, ladies and gentlemen

 

UN Decade of action on Road Safety - “The World Bank and Road Safety”

Speech by Diarietou Gaye,
World Bank Country Director for Sri Lanka and the Maldives

May 11, 2011

Your Excellency, President Mahinda Rajapaksa,

Hon. Ministers,

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen.

I would like to thank the organizers of this conference for giving me the opportunity today to speak about this very important subject: road safety. Last Sunday, I read some disturbing stories in the Sunday papers of lives lost, families destroyed and children traumatized, all due to road accidents. According to the Sunday Times report, quoting statistics of 2010, in Sri Lanka 2,483 people died from road accidents, the majority of which were due to speeding, overtaking and drunk driving.

In 2009, Sri Lanka reported 33,757 road accidents; a number comparable to Portugal as per International Roads Federation statistics. The dramatic difference however, is that the number of fatalities in Sri Lanka was almost three times higher than in Portugal. As I will develop later, the number of fatalities is somehow only “the tip of the iceberg”. Indeed, the Sri Lankan health sector provides care to all injured which is estimated to be around 100,000 persons every year with more than 80% of them being in their working age. We can imagine the dramatic impact on their direct and related families.

Let us all resolve today to accelerate our partnership approach and put the brakes on road accidents.

This is not something one individual or an organization can do alone. It will take all of us to Act Now and Act Together.

Improving Road Safety is complex and multi sectoral by essence. Apart from the design of roads, we need to look at vehicle designs, behavioral aspects, law enforcement, post-crash emergency care and management and so on. We need therefore to involve Ministries of Transport, Highways, Health, Education, law enforcement agencies, Trade and Commerce, Media etc…

Let us briefly take a look at the global picture. About 1.3 million people are killed on the road each year, 50 million suffer severe injuries which can leave them disabled for life and push their families into extreme poverty.

What does it mean globally?

o It means every minute there are two people killed and 77 people seriously injured;

o It means every three minutes a child is killed in a road crash.

o It means that over 3% of GDP is lost every year because of these road crashes; that’s almost $520 billion a year in material and health damages, lost income and other losses.

o It means vast burdens are placed on individuals, families and societies.

Dr. Mehta, will share with us more information from World Health Organization on the impact of road accidents.

Now the Decade of Action for Road Safety begins. Our goal is to save 5 million lives and prevent 50 million injuries in developing countries for an estimated benefit of at least $3 trillion.

Over 100 countries have committed to this ambitious goal and the foundation has been built. This Decade of Action will help us build momentum and raise awareness among decision makers and the general public. It will also help us pool resources together to meet the challenge, and share the responsibilities to make a huge impact on saving lives.

Today we have the commitment of us all: from government officials, international organizations, non-government organizations, academia, and other stakeholders. We come from all over the World for one single reason: to make the world a safer place.

We are extremely happy that Sri Lanka has risen to the challenge and through a lengthy process of consultation and coordination with all of the relevant Government agencies; they have come up with an agreed action plan which clearly identifies how Sri Lanka will address road safety. This is clearly a huge achievement and the credit should go to the Parliamentary Select Committee, Road Safety Council, Ministries of Transport, Highways, Health and the Police. But the biggest challenge is yet to come: The successful implementation and monitoring of the action plan. Sri Lanka’s success in overcoming challenges in road safety will be judged on the results achieved.

The World Bank strives for economic development, poverty reduction, as well as capital and knowledge transfers. Infrastructure development such as building roads and investments in the health sector accounts for a large portion of our lending portfolio, because they are essential to economic development.

Last month, the Bank’s president Robert Zoellick announced that the seven multilateral development banks are supporting the global call for action through the Multilateral Development Bank’s Road Safety Initiative. This partnership for action will put in place a shared approach to road safety management and will aim to help the Decade of Action achieve its ambitious goal.

Through partnership, we are committed to sharing practices and knowledge to strengthen road safety management capacity. We will work together on improving infrastructure safety and on road safety performance measurement. We will also work together to raise the resources we need to deliver a road safety transformation in our client countries.

In addition to this, in Sri Lanka we have supported a capacity assessment through a grant provided by the Global Road Safety Facility. We will support selected investments from the road safety action plan that will have a high impact and we will support these through our road and health projects.

In the emerging context of heightened global concern and sharing of relevant knowledge, Sri Lanka is also presented with a unique opportunity to harness and adapt international best practices to improve its road safety results far more rapidly than high-income countries were able to achieve in the last century.

Your Excellency, let me conclude by saying that as learned from other countries worldwide, addressing the issue of road safety is a long term endeavor which has been successful in many countries during the past decade. However, to secure such positive outcome, it requires a strong and continuous commitment of the Government at its highest level. We are very proud indeed that in Sri Lanka, His Excellency President Rajapaksa is here today taking the lead in this important battle. This is the best guarantee of success. In the well documented case of Costa Rica President and Nobel Prize winner Oscar Sanchez took the lead in this combat not only in his country but also in the whole of Latin America with his campaign “Make the Road Safe”. I am sure Sri Lanka will also take the lead in this region on road safety in the years to come.

The Bank is really proud to be engaged as a partner with Sri Lanka to work together to improve road safety, to protect road users, and to make a contribution to the achievement of the global initiative on Decade of Action.

Thank you for your attention.

Opening remarks by the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Neil Buhne at the launch of Joint Plan of Assistance for the Northern Province : JPA – 2011

Thank you Mr. Divaratne and for your role as a close partner in making this happen.  It is an honour to be here seated next to Minister Basil Rajapakse and Governor Chandrasiri.  Both have devoted great time and energy of the last year and half to helping the people of northern province recover from the effects of over twenty five years of conflict, and from the massive displacement of approximately 300,000 people in the first five months of 2009.  Without their efforts, hundreds of thousands people  would not have the chance to start to rebuild their lives.

It is also an honour here today to be with Harsha, both in his personal role as the longest serving Director of an non-government humanitarian and development organization in Sri Lanka, but also a representative of the valuable work he and many NGO colleagues from Sri Lanka and around the world have done over the last years to meet both the immediate needs of people and to help them rebuild their lives.

What brings us together today is a shared commitment to support the people of the north.  These are people who have already accomplished much in rebuilding their lives, with the support and leadership of the government, and good work done in partnership by UN agencies and Non-governmental organizations, all with funds from taxpayers in Sri Lanka and countries  all around the world.    However the job is not yet done. 

But before we talk about the work that still needs to be done - Let  me refer to some important words from the two largest faiths in Sri Lanka. There are similar sentiments in the Quran and the Bible.

• From the Dhamma Pada : In separateness lies the world's great misery, in compassion lies the world's true strength.
• From the Bhagavad Gita: Charity given out of duty without the expectation of return, at the proper time and place, and to worthy person, is considered a mode of goodness.

This objectives of this joint plan and the process through which it was prepared are close to the meanings of these words.  The Joint Plan has been prepared based on government guidelines from the Presidential Task Force, bringing together diverse partners from national government, provincial government, local government, and many ministries, national and international NGOs and wide range of UN staff from a number of agencies and international organizations – working not “separately” but together in the spirit of “compassion” – giving “strength” to the effort..   The result of this joint work is a plan that specifies the “time and place” for assistance, and which “worthy persons”/communities will benefit, so that the assistance provided will be most effective and contribute to a path to the longer term sustainable development of the Northern Province within the shortest possible time-frame.

For while much has been accomplished, much more remains to be done. For this to be done there are many elements. Most important and largest are the Government’s own efforts. But the needs are still great and an important element is more assistance – assistance that is planned and compliments government efforts.     We hope that the plan helps mobilize both more support for the Government’s own direct efforts, and also for the unique work that the agencies in the UN country team, and NGOs –whether national or international – do, in support of national efforts.  For this work a compendium of proposed projects will be soon released, in direct support of the activities detailed in this nationally made plan, and consistent with the format for global humanitarian appeals, - which we believe will facilitate both the  provision of assistance and its most effective use.

The JPA begins with three sections highlighting the accomplishments of 2010, by Government, by the UN team, and by non-governmental organizations. This shows the great efforts and investment by Government in helping the people of the north, and the very significant contribution in partnership by NGOs  and the UN team. It then lays out the overall national objectives for 2010 and the principle on which the plan is based.   Then for each sector it specifies achievement in 2010, and the needs priorities and response strategy for the coming 12 months.

“To transform Northern Province whose development was handicapped for 30 years into a safe and a habitable area and to realize the aspirations of the Northern People in life within one or two years is a difficult task.  The challenge in 2011 would be to bring even further the progress achieved in supporting a return to full self-sufficiency and normalcy across the Northern Province, whilst continuing paying specific attention to the needs of the most vulnerable segments of the communities.”

ENDS./

Address by the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator at the United Nations 65^th UN Day celebrations.

Mr. Minister, Excellencies, friends of the United Nations, colleagues,

Thank you for joining us to mark the 65^th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations.  For the United Nations system to be effective in a country, it needs strong partnership and many friends. We are grateful for the Minister’s presence here tonight. It is a mark of the support the Government of Sri Lanka provides for our work – which we need if we are to effectively support the Government’s efforts to improve lives.  We appreciate greatly the presence of so many partners and friends tonight - whom we work with every day in our efforts to help all Sri Lankans meet their goals for the future.

The Secretary-General said “despite our problems, despite polarization and distrust, our interconnected world has opened up vast new possibilities for progress”.  This is perhaps even truer for Sri Lanka than for other countries. Sri Lanka is overcoming the polarization and distrust associated with a long conflict.  But more than most countries it is positioned to move beyond that and take advantage of the opportunities an interconnected world offers - to improve peoples’ lives.

It is Sri Lankans who will make this happen.  However the United Nations can help Sri Lanka use the universal values of tolerance, mutual respect and human dignity to do this - values which are central in Dhamma Pada, the Bhagavath Gita, the Quran and the Bible.  The progress made so far needs to be recognized – whether it is in terms of the progress towards the Millennium Development Goals, or in the accomplishments of the people displaced as they return and rebuild their lives with the support of the Government, the UN system and international organizations, civil society and the private sector.

As the Secretary General says, UN Day is a day on which we resolve to do more.  Here in Sri Lanka that means continuing to help those who suffered the most during the war, whether that is a widow in Anuradhapura who lost her husband, or a fisherman  in Batticaloa, who lost his house  and his livelihood twice – first in the Tsunami and  then during the conflict, or a family in Mullaitivu who were displaced multiple times, and now returned back to a damaged house and are planting their land for the first time since 2007, while grieving the loss of a family member.  It means helping them put back together their homes, their farms and their hearts.

Here in Sri Lanka it also means helping the country take advantage of the opportunities development can bring – and supporting the government in ensuring that as this happens inequalities become less rather than more. It means helping the country to adapt to changes – including climate change so that peoples’ lives are not made worse as the climate changes.  It means recognizing and promoting, and preserving the richness, diversity of Sri Lanka's environment and people, and helping the world to appreciate and recognize that unique beauty.

So as the Secretary General said, let us re-commit ourselves to the charter to “promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom.”

Speech to UN Association of Sri Lanka on the occasion of UN Day 2010

Thank you for inviting me to join all of you today.I want to start by thanking the United Nations for their work now and over many years in building understanding of the United Nations among all Sri Lankans, but especially among young Sri Lankans.

Sri Lanka is an island.But Sri Lanka has never been an isolated land.It has always been on trading routes, there have always been people coming and going. This is more true today than ever before – with revenue from Sri Lankans working abroad being the most important source of foreign currency, more and more tourists coming here, new ports and airports being built, more foreign investment coming in, and much more needed. And to top it off – the Cricket World Cup will be here in just a few months! For young Sri Lankans to have a better future, for Sri Lanka to take advantage of the opportunities from a hard won peace, Sri Lanka must be engaged with the world.To benefit the most from this engagement it needs to be engaged with and involved with the United Nations.

There are many ways for Sri Lankans to be engaged as there are many parts of the UN.You may have seen the recent photo of Sri Lankan forces personnel who are part of the UN mission there, being given awards for their exemplary service.Sri Lankans have served in distinguished places in the United Nations – with one a few years ago having been a strong candidate for Secretary-General.Current Sri Lankan diplomats chair important bodies within the UN.But the most common way is to engage with the UN agencies working within Sri Lanka and helping us to create the conditions through which we can best support Sri Lankans’ own efforts to improve their lives, and to live in lasting peace with each other, showing compassion for others.

Since most of this audience is less than 16, let me focus on one issue - how the UN’s work is relevant to young Sri Lankans.

Four weeks ago I was in a village 10 km west of Killinochchi, sitting in a pre-school we had supported the community to build, meeting about 50 children between 3 and 6 years old, and their teachers.These children had gone through more than any young child should have to over the last years: being displaced many times, being caught up in the fighting, fleeing for their life and then many months in the closed confines of an IDP camp.Then they had returned to their original village to find their parents modest houses gone, and went through Mine Risk Education to protect them against the unexploded remnants of war that could remain, despite the best efforts of mine action workers.

But looking at them, refreshed and dressed nicely for meeting me, you would not have known.They looked hopeful and expectant of a peaceful future.When I asked them what they wanted to be when they grew up, they said they wanted to be doctors and teachers.

I hoped that many of them will be able to meet their dreams.

The fact they had such hopes is in good part a reflection that Sri Lanka, more than most countries, is investing in its children.There is near universal education, and there are good mother and child health programmes. Sri Lankan parents, regardless of where they live or what work they do, also invest a great deal in their children – through extra books, extra tuition, and uniforms.There is a faith in the value of education.

These investments, this faith, is an important reason for the resilience of Sri Lankans , through years of war, and is an important reason why now with peace, there is justified cause for optimism that children will have better lives than their parents did.

But while parents and society are giving and investing a lot for children, are the conditions yet in place for children to have the opportunity to be their best?

In many ways yes, but in some ways no.The UN recognizes that some basics need to be in place for children’s potential to be realized, in any country.

First a country’s commitment to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is important. It addresses the rights of children and youth under the age of 18. It recognizes their basic human rights and gives them additional rights to protect them from harm. The Convention's 54 articles cover everything from a child's right to be free from exploitation, to the right to his or her own opinion and the right to education, health care, and economic opportunity.

Within our UN Team in Sri Lanka, my colleagues in UNICEF take the lead in helping Sri Lankans meet such commitments.

Second, Government and society’s commitment to realizing childrens’ full potential is crucial. H.E. President Rajapakse in his message forUniversal Children’s day said. “…..Recognizing this responsibility, the government has committed itself to ensure physical, mental, spiritual and character development, providing care and protection to the unborn child until they become adults. This government has invested a great deal in improving health, education and nourishment of children in all provinces of the island, empowering their families and providing them with the necessary protection. “ Few countries have made such investments and such commitments.

However in late September, Sri Lanka’s second report on its progress to meeting the Millennium Development Goals was released.At an overall level, the report showed the Sri Lanka’s progress on all indicators is the best in South Asia.But the MDG report also reported inequalities in progress with districts like Badulla lagging behind, with indications that the case is similar for the Eastern and Northern provinces. It also pointed to issues in the quality of education.All of these hamper children realizing their potential. What can be done so that Sri Lanka’s children realize their full potential?

So for all Sri Lankan children to realize their potential, physical improvements to child-friendly infrastructure must continue – especially to overcome inequality.

But improvements to the softer side of education are also important: education that teaches the basics, but also teaches children how to think and gives them the knowledge and ability to protect themselves from risks and threats. And more than this, to realize their potential children, need a supportive safe environment – free from fear: ·At the extreme… freedom from fear of forced recruitment, from war ·In the home – a safe home environment ·In society – freedom from threats from trafficking, and drugs…

But beyond all the above, for children to realize their potential, an understanding of basic universal values on which the UN is built, is important.These include the values that are in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, particularly in Article 1:

“All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood”

The most important factor for children having these values is whether their parents and adult role models, practice what they preach, especially the principle of “free and equal in dignity and rights”, and having“the best interests of the child as a primary consideration”, as the Convention on the Rights of Children says. This is hard to do in any modern society in any country. But it is crucial, if children are to realize their potential in a rapidly shifting world where losing your roots is easy. For if Sri Lanka is to benefit more from the world, key are young people who are responsible, who have a sense of their own culture, but also young people who confident and skilled enough to engage with the world.An important element in this is you understanding the UN – so that young people can help the UN to be more helpful to Sri Lankans and to everyone in an increasingly interdependent world.

Keynote Speech by the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator at the Second National Symposium on Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation

Today throughout the world, people are observing the International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction. Since 1990 it used to promote a global culture of disaster reduction that includes preventing disasters and increasing preparedness.It is a day, which is becoming increasingly relevant – unfortunately.For the effects of climate change mean dramatic climate events are becoming commonplace.

The effects of rapid urbanization mean a larger share of the world’s population is vulnerable to a dramatic event.What’s happening – in Pakistan shows the effects climate change can have – creating events that impacted not only Pakistan, but the world too.What happened in Haiti shows how intense, largely unplanned urbanization combined with an earthquake, can affect millions in seconds! As the Secretary General’s says in his message for today…
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Biggest, deadliest, worst ever. We have seen those words in the headlines too often this year. We have used them about earthquakes, floods, hurricanes and forest fires, about loss of life and income.  Those words are likely to be heard for years to come, as the climate changes and hazards multiply.

To complicate the picture, just as weather patterns have altered, so has human society. We are more urban. If earthquakes, floods or storm surges were deadly in the past, they are deadlier still in an increasingly urbanized world. On the positive side, we are learning to cope. Today, on the International Day for Disaster Reduction, we recognize what local governments and communities are doing to protect themselves while building more sustainable towns and cities.  Last May, the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction launched a global campaign called “Making Cities Resilient”. More than 100 cities, with nearly 110 million residents, have signed up to the “Ten Essentials” – actions that will make communities safer from disasters.
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Sri Lanka’s experience also shows the devastating effect natural disaster can have – notably from the December 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami. But Sri Lanka drew from that experience and has taken number of significant steps to improve its disaster resilience. In doing this, it has drawn on best international experience and on home-grown solutions, drawing on its proven historical experience on preparedness such as the ancient “irrigation culture” and other “cultural best practices” to minimize disaster impact, including climate change. 

This forum today is vital in laying the ground for more investments in disaster risk reduction and preparedness.As the Sri Lankan economy builds on its “peace dividends” and grows faster, as the effects of climate change become more severe there will be more threats.As what has happened in so many places economic growth can make people more vulnerable to natural disasters.Sri Lanka has a chance now to make economic growth to make people safer from natural disasters. But to do this, the forward thinking and planning you are doing today is vital, as is the involvement of people participating in the process.

When the floods came to Colombo in May I was in Lunawa with dry feet, watching the water drain away, because people there supported by substantial Government and international investments were involved with and committed to maintaining functioning drainage.A day later I almost missed my plane as our vehicle slowly made its way through waste deep water on the Negombo road,because drainage was inadvertently blocked by new development projects.

But natural disasters do not just affect people in cities. Slow onset disasters such as droughts, human-elephant conflict, land degradation and water pollution reduce the productivity and the quality of life of communities. Disaster relief and recovery assistance consumes limited resources and add an enormous burden to the national budgets. Scarce resources for building better lives instead must go into saving lives and repair. In this context the UN General Assembly has recently acknowledged the close linkage between disaster risk reduction and achieving Millennium Development Goals.

Good disaster prevention and disaster management involves a wide range of sectors, subjects and extends from national level to community level. It requires a well coordinated, multi-stakeholder effort to establish the envisaged “Culture of Disaster Risk Reduction.” United Nations Agencies in Sri Lanka are keen and stand ready to support the Government of Sri Lanka led effort in this regard by mobilizing technical assistance, human and financial resources and global knowledge.

I am pleased to note that a number of UN agencies are working with the Government and stakeholders to celebrate the International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction including this “Second National Symposium on Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation.”

This is because we realize that relatively small investment in disaster risk reduction and good planning, save lives, and stop opportunities for development being lost. Good disaster reduction contributes to the Sri Lankan’ government main goals of equitable development and lasting peace.

Resident Coordinator's Speech at the CARITAS organized commemoration of Universal Children’s Day - 3 October 2010

Thank you for inviting me to join all of you today.I want to start by acknowledging the excellent work that CARITAS is doing.Over my three years here, I have been impressed by the dedication and bravery of CARITAS staff who brought essential assistance to people where it was hard for anyone else. Today I am impressed by the efforts you are making for children to have better lives in Sri Lanka, particular by helping them understand what is in the Convention on the Rights of the Child and how it applies to them.

Four days ago I was in a village 10 km west of Killinochchi, sitting in a pre-school we had supported the community to build, meeting about 50 children between three and six years old, and their teachers.These children had gone through more than any young child should have to over the last years: being displaced many times, being caught up in the fighting, fleeing for their life and then many months in the closed confines of an IDP camp.Then they had returned to their original village to find their parents’ modest houses were gone, and went through Mine Risk Education to protect them against the unexploded remnants of war that could remain, despite the best efforts of mine action workers.

But looking at them, refreshed and dressed nicely for meeting me, you would not have known. They looked hopeful and expectant of a peaceful future.When I asked them what they wanted to be when they grew up, they said they wanted to be doctors and teachers.

I wondered how many of them will be able to meet their dreams.

The fact they had such hopes is in good part a reflection that Sri Lanka, more than most countries, is investing in its children.There is near universal education, and there are good mother and child health programmes.Sri Lankan parents, regardless of where they live or what work they do, also invest a great deal in their children – through extra books, extra tuition, and uniforms.There is a faith in the value of education.

These investments, this faith, is an important reason for the resilience of Sri Lankans , through years of war, and is an important reason why now with peace, there is justified cause for optimism that children will have better lives than their parents did.

But while parents and society are giving and investing a lot for children, are the conditions yet in place for children to have the opportunity to be their best?

In many ways yes, but in some ways no.The UN recognizes that some basics need to be in place for children’s potential to be realized, in any country.

First a country’s commitment to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is important. It addresses the rights of children and youth under the age of 18. It recognizes their basic human rights and gives them additional rights to protect them from harm. The Convention's 54 articles cover everything from a child's right to be free from exploitation, to the right to his or her own opinion and the right to education, health care, and economic opportunity. Within our UN Team in Sri Lanka, my colleagues in UNICEF take the lead in helping Sri Lankans meet such commitments.

Second, Government and society’s commitment to realizing childrens’ full potential is crucial. H.E. President Rajapakse in his message for Universal Children’s day said.

“…..Recognizing this responsibility, the government has committed itself to ensure physical, mental, spiritual and character development, providing care and protection to the unborn child until they become adults. This government has invested a great deal in improving health, education and nourishment of children in all provinces of the island, empowering their families and providing them with the necessary protection. “

Few countries have made such investments and such commitments.

However just tens days ago, Sri Lanka’s second report on its progress to meeting the Millennium Development Goals, was released.At an overall level, the report showed the Sri Lanka’s progress on all indicators is the best in South Asia.But the MDG report also reported inequalities in progress with districts like Badulla lagging behind, with indications that the case is similar for the Eastern and Northern provinces. It also pointed to issues in the quality of education.All of these hamper children realizing their potential.

Why with this investment and commitment do such problems remain?

Some ideas come from a study by researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health and other institution, which looked at more than 400 Sri Lankan youths ages 11 to 20 who survived the tsunami. Researchers who work in areas where people have been harmed by disasters often focus solely on the impact of direct exposure to the disaster. This study argues that it's important also to consider the role of everyday stressors that continue after a disaster.

Specifically, the study found that while war and disaster have had a direct effect on the youths' psychological health - poverty, family violence, and lack of safe housing also represent major sources of continuing stress.

So for all Sri Lankan children to realize their potential, physical improvements to child-friendly infrastructure must continue – especially to overcome inequality. But improvements to the softer side of education are also important: education that teaches the basics, but also teaches children how to think and gives them the knowledge and ability to protect themselves from risks and threats.

And more than this, to realize their potential children, need a supportive safe environment – free from fear: ·At the extreme… freedom from fear of forced recruitment, from war ·In the home – a safe home environment ·In society – freedom from threats from trafficking, and drugs…

But beyond all the above, for children to realize their potential, an understanding of basic universal values is important.These include the values that are in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, particularly in Article 1:

“All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood”

The most important factor for children having these values is whether their parents and adult role models, practice what they preach, especially the principle of “free and equal in dignity and rights”, and having“the best interests of the child as a primary consideration”, as the Convention on the Rights of Children says.

This is hard to do in modern society – whether in the house or in battling your way through traffic in Colombo. But it is crucial, if children are to realize their potential in a rapidly shifting world where losing your roots is easy.

On this Children’s’ day lets commit as adults to acting in a way that is a good example to children – whether it is in our families, communities, or countries.Let’s remember that observing the rights of children is good for them and good for all of us.