Following a recent agreement on an inter-Haitian dialogue, the long-troubled country is at a turning point where progress on peace, security and stability must be sustained through the consolidation of the democratic process, the rule of law, good governance and better support for the needs of the population, the top United Nations official in Haiti told the Security Council today.

The head of the United Nations agency tasked with defending press freedom called today for an investigation into the death of Colombian television journalist killed in Buenaventura, a city he had fled earlier this year after receiving death threats.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today voiced his sadness at continuing reports of violence and loss of life amid protests in Venezuela, and urged that all efforts be urgently made to lower the tensions and prevent further violence.

The United Nations human rights office today hailed the decision by a Haitian court to open new investigations into former President Jean-Claude Duvalier for crimes against humanity, saying that the move will help ensure accountability for past abuses.