VIET NAM: Seminar Assesses Domestic Violence
Multiple media outlets reported on 30 November on a forum dialogue on domestic violence, held in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, UNFPA and Spain’s Peace and Development Organization. During the forum, representatives stated that domestic violence against Vietnamese women is quite common and seriously affects women’s physical and mental health. Meanwhile, the legal framework is still not complete and public awareness not high, therefore the issue of domestic violence against women needs more attention. The draft Law on Domestic Violence Prevention was passed in 2007 but 87 per cent of victims have never thought of seeking help from local authorities.
THE PHILIPPINES: Population Media Awards Announced
The Manila Bulletin reported on 30 November that the Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development Foundation, Inc. and UNFPA, through its sixth country programme, once again recognized the importance of information dissemination in their advocacy on population. Members of the media were cited during the holding of the 6th Annual Population and Development Media Awards on 30 November. Read: The Manila Bulletin
GABON: Maternal Mortality Reduction Day
AllAfrica.com reported on 30 November on the celebration in Libreville of the National Day against Maternal Mortality. The purpose of this celebration was to highlight the need to reduce maternal mortality, share information on reproductive health, including family planning, draw attention of young people on the risks of early/unwanted pregnancy and unsafe abortion. Multiple activities were held across the country including a sensitization conference by UNFPA. The maternal mortality rate remains high in Gabon at 519 deaths for 100,000 live births. Read in French: AllAfrica.com
VIET NAM: Seminar Discusses Reproductive Health Commodity Security In Viet Nam
Gia dinh va Xa hoi (Family and Society) reported on 29 November that a seminar on developing plans and regulating reproductive health in Viet Nam in the 2011-2015 period was organized by the Vietnamese General Office For Population and Family Planning (GOPFP) in cooperation with UNFPA on 24-25 November. UNFPA Representative Bruce Campbell said, “Remember that the final goal of reproductive health commodity security is to ensure access to qualified reproductive health care services at suitable prices, with the most vulnerable people in the society being prioritized.” UNFPA appreciates the roles of GOPFP and the Ministry of Health (MoH) acting as bridges to organizations concerned with reproductive health commodity security in Viet Nam in the 2011-2015 period. “This effort will need a strong political commitment during the next five years. Under the leadership of the MoH, I believe that the commitment will be kept to achieve reproductive health commodity security in the years to come,” Mr. Campbell said. Read in Vietnamese: Gia Dinh va Xa Hoi
INDIA: Interview with Vice President of Indian Medical Association
DNA published an interview on 29 November with Pune-based psychiatrist, Dr. Devendra K Shirole, who was recently elected as national vice-president of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) for 2010-12. In answer to a question on sex-selection, Dr. Shirole said, “The IMA has organised workshops for doctors, opinion makers, religious leaders and the common man to spread awareness on the issue. The IMA is implementing the “Save the Girl Child” project along with UNFPA. It has identified 50 ambassadors, who will help authorities implement the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex selection) Act, 1994, and organize awareness programmes.” Read: DNA
THE GAMBIA: Population Commission Holds Three-Day Retreat In Kerewan
Today reported on 29 November that the National Population Commission Secretariat, in partnership with UNFPA, recently organized a three-day training workshop and reconstituting of regional population task force in Kerewan, North Bank Region. The three-day synergy was aimed at enhancing the capacity of members of the regional population task force and multidiscipline facilitation team on how to effectively monitor and disseminate population activities and programmes in the region. Read: Today
GABON: African Expert Meeting On Maternal Health Held in Libreville
Infosgabon.com reported on 29 November on a regional seminar held in Libreville, which opened on 26 November, gathering gynaecologists and doctors from 17 countries members of national societies of gynecologists to discuss the reduction of maternal mortality. The forum involved politicians, decision-makers and the academic and scientific world on the need for improved emergency obstetric care. UNFPA has been the main sponsor of this event with the Health Ministry of Gabon, in the framework of its partnership with UNICEF, WHO, and the World Bank to accelerate the reduction of maternal and newborn deaths in Africa. Infosgabon.com
BELARUS: Belarus Depopulation is Accelerating
Belapan News Agency reported on 29 November that since the beginning of 2010, Belarus’s population has decreased by a larger number than in previous years. But the head of the state, Alexander Lukashenko, doesn’t lose hope that the fertility situation will improve. “We need 30 million people in the country,” he said. “But we don’t even manage to reach 10 million. Three children in the family is already increase. If we will provide more support for the fourth and fifth child, this will solve the demographic problem in the country.” However, international experts appealed to concentrate more on the quality of life which, according to Tatyana Haplichnik, UNFPA Programme Analyst, is the focus of the new project of the National Programme on Demographic Security. Read in Russian: Belapan
BELARUS: World Champion in Muai-Thai Andrey Kulebin Supports Campaign Against Violence
TUT.BY reported on 29 November that Andrey Kulebin, 19-time world champion in muai-thai, supported a UN campaign against gender-based violence. Andrey Kulebin and Olga Belorusova, UNFPA Communication Assistant, were invited to TUT.BY TV to talk about the activities against violence in Belarus, organized within the framed of Joint UN Information Campaign against domestic violence. Watch and read in Russian: TUT.BY
ARMENIA: Draft 2011 State Budget analyzed in terms of Demographic Policy Strategy
ArmenianHerald.com reported on 29 November on a UNFPA-supported study of the draft 2011 State Budget conformity with Armenia's Demographic Policy Strategy. The analysis was conducted by experts from the International Centre for Human Development and was aimed at revealing the possible demographic implications of the draft 2011 State Budget. With some exceptions, overall, 2011 State Budget allocations do not meet the requirements envisaged by the list of measures derived from the demographic policy. Read in Armenian: ArmenianHerald
ARGENTINA: Maternal Mortality Is Highest In 23 Years
Clarin and EFE reported on 29 November that last year, 410 mothers and pregnant women died. Several of those deaths were caused by Influenza H1N1, but experts say that Argentina did not reduce the rate as had been compromised by failures in access to health services and unsafe abortions. “To reduce maternal mortality, universal access to sexual and reproductive health services must be ensured,” said Eleonor Faur, the Liaison Officer of UNFPA Argentina. Read in Spanish: Clarin and EFE
UZBEKISTAN: “Healthy Mother-Healthy Child-Healthy Generation” Conference Held in Tashkent
UzDaily reported on 29 November that UNFPA supported a two-day conference covering the issues of child and maternal health, family planning, promotion of healthy lifestyle and other related topics. The conference, organized in partnership with a number of national institutions, aimed at reviewing the achievements made by Uzbekistan towards implementing state programmes on reproductive health. Read: UzDaily and Read in Russian: UzDaily
GLOBAL: CONTINUING COVERAGE ON INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE ELIMINATION OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND 16 DAYS CAMPAIGN
ARMENIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 25 November that UNFPA Armenia organized a press conference and photo exhibition to launch the "16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence" campaign. Press conference speakers included Filaret Berikyan, Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Issues, Mr. Garik Hayrapetyan, Assistant Representative for UNFPA Armenia, and Mrs. Jina Sargizova, “Combating Gender-Based Violence in the South Caucasus” Project Coordinator, UNFPA Armenia. The speakers presented the campaign details and talked about the current situation with gender violence in Armenia, as well as the Government policy for combating gender violence. Messages from UN Secretary General and UNFPA Executive Director devoted to the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women were distributed during the press conference. Read: Public Radio of Armenia, Noyan Tapan, Ankakh.com. Read in Armenian: News.am, Henaran Press Club, Hayastani Hanrapetutyun, Hotlist.am, Radio Liberty Armenia. Read in Russian: Novosti - Armeniya, Hayinfo.ru, 1News.az
BANGLADESH: The Gulf Times (UAE) and The Daily Star reported on 25-28 November that taking a stand against gender violence, Bangladesh Musical Bands' Association, in association with UNFPA and the Government of Bangladesh, were to hold a concert at the Army Stadium in Dhaka to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Woman. The theme of the concert is “Say No to Violence Against Woman: Be a Real Man.” Read: The Daily Star (28 November) The Gulf Times and The Daily Star
Bdnews24 reported on 24 November that a rally was organized to raise awareness among men and boys to prevent the abuse and harassment of women, especially at home and in the workplace. Speakers expressed their concern over the increasing incidences of sexual violence and suggested that only “men” can stop such incidents from occurring. “It's not exclusively a women's issue. But it is an issue for everyone," said UNFPA Representative Arthur Erken. "It is not inevitable." He said, "A real man doesn't beat up his wife or throw acid. A real man respects women." He called on the government to ensure implementation of the laws and enable men to play a major role to stop such violence. Read: BdNews24
BELARUS: TUT.BY commemorated on 26 November the day of elimination of violence against women. UNFPA Programme Analyst Tatyana Haplichnik, was a guest at TUT.BY TV and discussed the day’s history, the number of women in Belarus who are abused at home, what is done in the country to address the problem and other issues related to the day. Read and watch in Russian: TUT.BY
CHINA: China Daily, CRI English and Xinhua reported on 25 November that the All-China Women's Federation (ACWF) and United Nations in China jointly held an EVAW Day event in Beijing themed "UNiTE to end violence against women" to celebrate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The ACWF indicates that women are easy targets for common domestic violence, since figures show the social problem occurring in 30 per cent of China's 270 million families. Women are the victims in 85 per cent of the abuse cases. Read: CRI English, China Daily, Xinhua
CUBA: Cubahora reported on 25 November on the commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The article outlined the proliferation of violence against women around the world, noting that UNFPA estimates that between 85 and 114 million women and girls, most of whom live in Africa, the Middle East and Asia, have undergone this bitter experience, that as well as being painful, can cause infection and lead to death since they are done in places without proper conditions and with rudimentary perforating objects that have not been sterilized. Read in Spanish: Cubahora
GEORGIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 23-26 November on the official opening of the 16 Days of Activism organized by UNFPA in Georgia and supported by the Parliamentary Council on Gender Equality and the State Inter-Agency Council on Domestic Violence on 25 November. Rusudan Kervalishvili, Vice Speaker of the Parliament and Chairperson of the Gender Equality Council, Lali Papiashvili, Chairperson of the State Inter-Agency Council on Domestic Violence, Jamie McGoldrick, UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in Georgia and Lela Bakradze, UNFPA Assistant Representative a.i. in Georgia made opening speeches at the press conference. Within the framework of the event, an award ceremony for the Best Gender Media Works contest was held. The contest was announced in the beginning of 2010 within the framework of the UNFPA-implemented project “Combating Gender-based Violence in the South Caucasus” and aimed at raising journalists’ professional interest in women’s rights and domestic violence. Read: GINSC, 24 Saati, The Messenger and OnlineNews.GE and in Georgian: Radio Tavisupleba and 24 Saati
GUATEMALA: CIMAC reported on 23 November on a forum to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against women. The forum, titled "The impact of violence against women in areas of public and political participation in South-Western Region" was conducted by UNFPA in coordination with women's organizations in the region. Yolanda Avila, UNFPA gender officer, said the aim was to deepen and analyze the impacts of violence against women in all its manifestations, as part of the commemoration of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Read in Spanish: CIMAC
IRAN: IRNA published a statement on 27 November by UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. “We are convinced that a coordinated and comprehensive approach will move us closer to a world where women and girls can live free from fear, violence and discrimination, reach their full potential, and enjoy equal opportunity and mutual respect and confidence with men,” said Ms. Obaid. Read: IRNA
THE FORMER YUGOSLAV REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA: Multiple media outlets reported on 25 November on an event organized by UNFPA to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. “I Have the Courage and Strength to Say NO to Violence. You can do it, too!” is the slogan of the public awareness campaign for prevention of domestic violence, currently running on national media. The campaign is a part of the Joint Programme implemented by five UN agencies: UNDP, UNICEF, UNFPA, UNIFEM and WHO and the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy. Read in Macedonian: Kirilica, Mnogoo, eReporter, DW-World, Netpress
MALDIVES: Minivan News reported on 27 November that a nationwide campaign against domestic violence dubbed “1 in 3” was launched to coincide with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The campaign was launched by the Maldivian Network on Violence Against Women, a loose coalition of NGOs and individuals who came together to advocate for pioneering legislation on domestic violence currently before parliament. While a draft for domestic violence legislation had existed for several years, the opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party’s women’s wing announced the development of a bill to be submitted to parliament earlier this year. The announcement was welcomed by President Mohamed Nasheed, who argued that a bipartisan effort to pass the legislation was more likely to succeed. The bill, supported and facilitated by UNFPA, aims to “make domestic violence illegal, to prevent domestic violence from occurring, to provide justice to survivors of domestic violence and abuse as well as to ensure state responsibility in providing services to address domestic violence-related crimes in society,” according to a press statement by the NGO Network. Read: Minivan News
TUNISIA: Le Renouveau reported on 26 November on a workshop on the elaboration of a national monitoring and evaluation mechanism of GBV held by the Ministry of Women, Family, Children and the elderly in collaboration with UNFPA, within the celebration of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The meeting was held to boost efforts to promote the development of programmes and strategies that will create a practical and qualitative change in the fight against GBV. UNFPA Assistant representative Leila Joudane welcomed the Tunisia’s efforts since 2008 to implement a national strategy for the prevention of GBV in order to preserve the dignity of women and protect them against all forms of discrimination. Read in French: Le Renouveau
YEMEN: Yemen Observer published on 27 November UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid’s statement marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Read: Yemen Observer
GLOBAL: COVERAGE ON WORLD AIDS DAY 2010
LEBANON: Al Balad reported on 28 November and Al-Mustaqbal reported on 24 November on an event organized by Y-PEER Lebanon, with the support of UNFPA to mark World AIDS Day. The event was organized under the high patronage of H.E Minister of Public Health, and in partnership with the National AIDS Control Program. Under the slogan “Our Health, Our Right - Let’s Take a Stand,” the event was aimed at raising HIV/AIDS awareness among around 800 high school students aged 15-18 years, from more than ten public and private schools from various regions in Lebanon. The two-day celebration consisted of three main activities: an educational games circuit consisting of a series of interactive educational games around HIV/AIDS animated by 8 NGOs active in HIV/AIDs prevention and member of the Y-PEER network in Lebanon; a theatre performance produced by school students; and a dance performance to “Let’s fight fosr change,” a song produced by the Y-PEER network and professionals. Read in Arabic: Al Balad and Al Mustaqbal
INDIA: Women’s Health Stats In Raj Encouraging
Daily Bhaskar reported on 27 November that Union minister of Health Gulam Nabi Azad has stated that the family health scenario in Rajasthan showed encouraging trends. The state progressed in terms of registering a decline in maternal mortality ratio (MMR) and increase in institutional deliveries, he said while quoting a survey report. Issuing a written statement in Rajya Sabha, Azad said that better implementation of Janani Suraksha Yojana scheme, which was launched five years ago, had contributed to the positive scenario. Azad said that as per the assessment done by UNFPA on behalf of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the number of beneficiaries of JSY in five states, including Rajasthan had gone up. Other states are Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa and Uttar Pradesh. Read: Daily Bhaskar
VIET NAM: New Study Shows High Prevalence Of Domestic Violence
Multiple media outlets reported on 25-27 November on the results of the first national study into domestic violence against women in Viet Nam which were jointly announced by the General Statistics Office and the United Nations Joint Programme on Gender Equality (WHO, UNFPA, UNIFEM) in Ha Noi on 25 November. The study found that the majority of Vietnamese married women face the risk of domestic violence, despite the Law on Gender Equality and the Law on the Prevention and Control of Domestic Violence, which were passed in 2006 and 2007, respectively. 58 per cent of married Vietnamese women reported experiencing at least one type of domestic violence (physical, sexual or emotional) in their lifetime and only 1.7-6.3 per cent of them asked for help at different agencies and organizations. “Although domestic violence is widespread, the problem is very much hidden,” said Henrica Jansen, the lead researcher of the study. “The stigma and shame cause victims to remain silent, many women think that violence in relationships is 'normal' and that women should tolerate and endure what is happening to them for the sake of family harmony,” she said. Read: DPA, AFP, AP, Viet Nam Plus, Viet Nam News, Tuoi Tre, Viet Nam Net. Read in Vietnamese: Cong An Nhan Dan, Phap Luat Viet Nam, VN Express, Dan Tri, VN Media, Bao Dat Viet, RFI, BBC, Viet Nam plus, Sai Gon Tiep Thi, VOA, Phu Nu Viet Nam, VTC News, VTV News, Bao Van Hoa and Bao Lao Dong
PAKISTAN: UN Vows To Protect Women In Flood-Hit Areas
Multiple media outlets reported on 26-27 November that UNFPA is seeking to prevent and respond to gender-based violence against women and girls among more than 20 million victims of Pakistan’s recent floods. “Displacement creates a host of risk factors that increase the vulnerability of women and girls to many forms of violence. The rights, needs and vulnerabilities of women and girls are sometimes overlooked in emergencies, when many humanitarian factors are focused on reaching a large number of people in the shortest period of time,” UNFPA added. “There is a great need to recognise that gender-based violence can, and very often does, occur in these situations and to build survivor-centred response services.” UNFPA has undertaken capacity-building initiatives in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab and Sindh, introducing participants and future trainers from government and humanitarian agencies to basic principles to fight the scourge, including case management, using a confidential, survivor-centred and comprehensive approach. As part of a coordinated inter-agency response, UNFPA and UNICEF are co-leading response and prevention efforts. Read: APP, Pakistan Times, UN News Centre and UNI
UZBEKISTAN: More Than 900 Men Trained on Reproductive Health Issues
Multiple media outlets reported on 23-26 November that UNFPA, in partnership with the Uzbek Association on Reproductive Health (UARH), reached out to more than 900 male listeners with training on the issues of reproductive health and rights, and family planning. Within its joint project "Male involvement in Reproductive Health and Rights," UNFPA, together with UARH, conducted a series of Training of Trainers, and a cascade of information sessions in Karakalpakstan, Khorezm, Surkhandarya and Samarkand regions. In all, 40 volunteer trainers were prepared who followed up with more than 40 informational sessions held during September and October. Read: UzReport and in Russian: UzReport
The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia: Sexual Health Counseling Centres Open
Kurir, Vesti and Vecer reported on 26 November that sexual health counseling services for young people, supported by UNFPA, have been opened within public health centers in 19 cities in our country. Ministers of Health and Education and Science Bujar Omsani and Nikola Todorov, together with UNFPA NPO Tatjana Shikoska, in the secondary school Nikola Karev promoted the education media campaign “Ask Away - There is a Place.” “We are talking about a level of behavior among the young people, who do not recognize how much these situations are dangerous and later have repercussions on their whole life. But, there is another more worrying situation - many parents are not ready to recognize this and to advise their children”, said Tatjana Sikovska, UNFPA national coordinator. Read in Macedonian: Kurir, Vecer and Vesti
LAO PDR: Lawmakers Meet To Address Domestic Violence
KPL News reported on 26 November and IRIN reported on 24 November that in a first for the region, the National Assembly the Lao Association of Parliamentarians on Population and Development and the Lao Women Parliamentarians Caucus are addressing domestic violence by hosting a conference for regional lawmakers on 25 November in the capital, Vientiane. The Laotian government and most sectors of society have been slow to acknowledge domestic violence, said Douangdy Outhachak, who heads the National Assembly's socio-cultural affairs committee and the Lao Association of Parliamentarians on Population and Development. Village mediation units focus mostly on reconciliation rather than prosecution and staff are often untrained, according to UNFPA. UNFPA and other UN Agencies in Laos are already involved in supporting national policy and programme initiatives to raise awareness and knowledge on various forms of gender inequality and violence to address the challenges in innovative, inclusive and sustainable ways. Read: IRIN
BRAZIL: First UN Joint Office Opened in Salvador
Correio 24 Horas and Bahia em Foco and reported on 26 November that Salvador in Bahia has become the first State capital in Brazil to have a Joint UN Office, which was inaugurated by State Governor Jaques Wagner, Salvador Mayor Joao Henrique Carneiro and UN Resident Coordinator Jorge Chediek. The event was also attended by UNFPA Representative Harold Robinson; UNFPA is one of the five UN agencies sharing the new premises, located at the top of Lacerda Elevator building, located in the core of the historic district. The UN House will improve coordination among agencies and effectiveness of technical assistance programmes and projects developed in Bahia in partnership with State and Municipal governments, as well as civil society. Read in Portuguese: Correio 24 Horas and Bahia em Foco
GLOBAL: CONTINUING COVERAGE ON 2010 SWOP REPORT
ARGENTINA: Artemisa Noticias reported on 24 November that the United Nations in Argentina organized a workshop to train journalists on the subject of violence against women. Experts from different areas made presentations about violence against women and UNFPA Argentina presented the State of World Population 2010. The report explores how conflicts and protracted humanitarian emergencies affect women and girls (and men and boys) and shows how they have begun rebuilding their lives and their societies. Read in Spanish: Artemisa Noticias
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): Pari Africain reported on 25 November on the presentation of the State of the World Population report 2010 by UNFPA Representative David Lawson on 20 October, in presence of Youth Minister Zacharie Kimpouni, Women Affairs minister, Jeanne Francoise Leckoumba Loumeto and Vice Economy Minister Josue Rodrigue Ngouonimba, the diplomatic corps, civil society and young people. The article highlighted the statement of Social Affairs and Humanitarian Action Minister, Emilienne Raoul who recalled the place and role and Congolese women in times of war in the country, and published large excerpts of Mr. Lawson's statement.
JORDAN: Multiple media outlets reported on 26 November that UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador HRH Princess Basma Bint Talal received the State of World Population Report 2010 at a roundtable meeting at the UN building. The report was presented to her Royal Highness by Luc Stevens, the UN Resident Coordinator/UNFPA Representative, and is published by UNFPA, entitled "From Conflict and Crises to Renewal: Generations of Change. Mr. Stevens, in his welcoming remarks, thanked HRH Princess Basma for her support to UNFPA as Goodwill Ambassador. He also stressed on the role and responsibility of all United Nations' organizations in supporting countries to ensure preparedness against any kind of crises or disaster.
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): CONTINUING COVERAGE OF UNFPA AFRICA REGIONAL DIRECTOR’S VISIT
Pari Africain reported on 25 November on the official visit of African Regional Director Bunmi Makinwa to the Republic of Congo, with a focus on the meeting with President Denis Sassou Nguesso on 21 October in Brazzaville. During this meeting, President Sassou Nguesso outlined that the country was still recovery from war and needed international support. Bunmi Makinwa promised the President that although the country was a middle income country, given its exceptional circumstances, specific attention would be paid to its needs.
Les Depeches de Brazzaville reported on 27 October on the conclusion of UNFPA Africa Regional Director Bunmi Makinwa’s official visit to the Republic of Congo. He met with members of government, civil society representatives, UN agencies and ambassadors, as well as with President Denis Sassou Nguesso and the First Lady. He also undertook field visits. Mr. Makinwa said, "I congratulate the excellent cooperation between the government and UNFPA. I salute the reforms undertaken by President Sassou Nguesso with regard to a parity bill on political, elective and administrative decision-making positions, as well as free c-sections, and multiple reforms undertaken to improve people’s well-being." The Regional Director assured the government of UNFPA’s full support in the areas of gender, reproductive health and population and development, and announced an increase of 15 per cent in the UNFPA budget allocated to the country programme. Read in French: Les Depeches de Brazzaville
Congo-site reported on 26 October 2010 on the press conference by UNFPA Africa Regional Director on the outcome of his official visit to Congo from 18-22 October. He announced an increase by 15 per cent of the 2010 budget dedicated to the country programme. He said: "I realize that the country needs technical and financial support that I shall consider with careful attention. I have assured President Sassou Nguesso that UNFPA would continue to support Government efforts in the areas of its mandate." He praised the cooperation between Congo and UNFPA and the government commitment to implement social and health reforms, including a parity bill and a move to provide free c-sections announced by the President. Read in French: Congo-Site
ACI reported in its October 2010 issue on the official visit to the Republic of Congo by UNFPA Africa Regional Director Bunmi Makinwa. During his visit, Mr. Makinwa is meeting with ministers, high ranked government officials, civil society actors, development partners and UN agency heads in order to assess the cooperation between the Government and UNFPA, with a view to strengthen it.
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): UNFPA Fistula Regional Coordinator Support Campaign Against Fistula
Pari Africain reported on 25 November on the official visit of UNFPA Fistula Regional Coordinator to the Republic of Congo from 5-9 September 2010. Mr. Yahya Kane had several meetings with health officials and field visits to review progress made in Congo in the fight against fistula. While acknowledging progress in the treatment of fistula and access to treatment by women in need, he stressed that more is needed to be done in the prevention of fistula. This is part of the strategy outlined by Health Minister George Moyen to tackle maternal mortality with support from international development partners, including UNFPA.
CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE): Continuing Coverage On UNFPA Support for National Statistical System
Pari Africain reported on 25 November on a workshop organized by UNFPA from 28 September-2 October for more than 40 civil servants of over 20 ministries to strengthen the national statistical system. In opening the workshop, UNFPA Representative David Lawson said, "this workshop opens up a new era in the Republic of Congo, as we are strengthening the collection of data and ability of the Government to closely monitor progress towards the MDGs, in a world where results should be the ultimate goal of all any of our action for sustainable development." A statistical system and centre should result from this workshop.
UZBEKISTAN: Governments And Civil Society Acknowledge Rising HIV Epidemic in Eastern Europe and Central Asia
UZReport reported on 25 November that HIV prevalence is reported to be up to 10 times higher among men who have sex with men and transgender people than among the general population in Eastern European and Central Asian cities. If countries fail to address the context of the epidemic, this already critical situation is likely to become worse. The warning came during the First Regional Consultation on HIV, Men who have Sex with Men and Transgender People in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, convened by the United Nations. The consultation, convened by UNDP, WHO Regional Office for Europe, UNAIDS and UNFPA, with support from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria, featured the participation of public health officials and governmental representatives, civil society representatives, human rights activists, people living with HIV, young people, researchers, donors and international organizations.
PANAMA: Social Crusade against Gender Violence
La Estrella de Panama reported on 25 November on a UNFPA report that placed Panama in tenth place in the world in femicide. This “credit” was earned the hard way, as reflected in the Panamanian Observatory against Gender Violence, which reveals that so far this year there were 64 violent deaths of women, of which 46 were “femicide,” a term used to denote the most extreme form of gender violence exercised by men against women to gain power, dominance or control. Read in Spanish: La Estrella
INDIA: Nominations Invited For Laadli Awards
Express News Service reported on 25 November that Population First, UNFPA, and INFORD have invited nominations for the third round of UNFPA-Laadli Media Awards for gender sensitive reporting in the northern region. The award has been instituted to acknowledge and highlight efforts undertaken by media on gender sensitive issues. Read: Express News Service
JORDAN: Reproductive Health Awareness Sessions Held for Young People
Al Rai and Al Arab al Yawm reported on 25 November on awareness sessions held for young people on reproductive health issues. The workshops were held in several communities with the goal of developing knowledge on the reproductive health services provided by Ministry of Health health centres. Read in Arabic: Al Rai and Al Arab al Yawm
TANZANIA: UK Funds to Assist Census
The Daily News reported on 24 November that the British government, through the Department for International Development (DFID), has contributed £5 million to Tanzania’s government for preparations of the Population and Housing Census to be conducted in August 2012. The funds, which are being channeled through UNFPA, will be used to prepare for the 2012 national census, whose pilot census is planned for August 2011. Speaking at the signing ceremony between the UK government and the UNFPA, the Director General of the National Bureau of Statistics Dr. Albina Chuwa, expressed gratitude, noting that the census undertaking was a large exercise which costs huge amount of money and other resources. Read: The Daily News