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News in Brief 31 January 2022

News in Brief 31 January 2022

This is the News in Brief from the United Nations.

Focus on diplomatic solutions over Ukraine crisis: DiCarlo

The UN’s political affairs chief on Monday expressed great concern over the “dangerous military build-up” taking place between Russia and the NATO alliance over a possible Russian incursion into Ukraine. 

Rosemary DiCarlo told ambassadors in the Security Council the Secretary-General had made clear there can be no alternative to diplomacy and dialogue, there should not be any military intervention in the context of Ukraine, and that “diplomacy should prevail”.

“We therefore welcome the steps taken so far by all involved to maintain dialogue. We urge and expect all actors to build on these efforts, and to remain focused on pursuing diplomatic solutions by engaging in good faith.”

Ms. DiCarlo said the United Nations was committed to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, and that UN agencies in the country were committed to continue delivering aid to nearly 3 million in need of assistance there, the majority living in non-Government controlled areas.

Myanmar: Voices of the people must be ‘heard and amplified’ 

The UN chief António Guterres, marking the first anniversary of the military coup in Myanmar, said that he stands in “solidarity with the people”, calling for a return to an inclusive, democratic society.

In a statement issued by his Spokesperson, the Secretary-General outlined the crises which have resulted due to an intensification of violence, major human rights violations, rising poverty and hunger.

“The multiple vulnerabilities of all people across Myanmar and its regional implications require an urgent response”, he said.

Furthermore, humanitarian access to people in need is “critically important for the United Nations and partners to continue to deliver on the ground, he said. 

“Armed forces and all stakeholders must respect human rights and fundamental freedoms”, added Mr. Guterres, arguing that the people of Myanmar “need to see concrete results.”

Improve resistance to neglected tropical diseases, WHO urges

To mark Sunday’s World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) called for an international push to confront the inequalities that characterize the group of rare diseases, known as NTDs, and ensure the poorest and most marginalized hit hardest, receive the health services they need.

In his message for the day, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said the COVID-19 pandemic has thrust millions deeper into poverty and affected those who already have limited access to health services. 

The Day provides an opportunity to re-energize momentum to end the suffering caused by a variety of pathogens including viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi and toxins.

The group of 20 NTDs include rabies, dengue, leprosy, river blindness and sleeping sickness, affecting around a billion people worldwide. 

Matt Wells, UN News. 
 

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  • Focus on diplomatic solutions to end Ukraine crisis, DiCarlo urges
  • UN chief stands in solidarity with Myanmar’s people, a year after coup
  • WHO calls for international boost to tackle neglected tropical diseases 
Audio Credit
Matt Wells, UN News
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2'29"
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Mackenzie Knowles-Coursin / UNDP