Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 29 November 2024
UNIC-Islamabad
Media Update
29 November 2024
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UNODC
PRESS RELEASE
A Day of Celebrating Peace and Unity - Denmark Embassy, UNODC and NACTA kick off the peace project via an exciting football match
Islamabad 29, Islamabad - United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in partnership with National Counter Terrorism Authority NACTA(NACTA) and support from the Embassy of Denmark, Islamabad kicked off the project ‘Strengthening Pakistan’s Response to effectively prevent the spread of violent extremism virtually and amongst youth in vulnerable communities (SPREE)’ by organizing a football match at Islamabad Model College for Boys (IMCB) H-9, Islamabad. The project aims at bolstering regional stability and improving rule of law in Pakistan the among youth. The project was launched through the football match under the theme "Play for Peace,". The objective of the event was to demonstrate sports as a powerful tool which can foster peace and tolerance among youth and society. It is also crucial in development of sportsman spirit which helps children understand the importance of rule of law.
The opening ceremony was graced by the Danish Ambassador, His Excellence Jakob Linulf, country Representative of UNODC and DG NACTA. HE Jakob expressed that Denmark firmly believes in the power of youth to drive positive change. By supporting healthy initiatives, Denmark re- affirms its friendship with the people of Pakistan enabling them to become leaders in promoting peace and stability regionally had globally. He applauded the role of NACTA and UNDOC in peace building efforts.
Meanwhile Mr. Troels Vester, Country Representative UNODC said, "UNODC along with its partners, is playing a key role in strengthening Pakistan’s ability to prevent the spread of violent extremism, particularly in vulnerable communities and among the youth. Through such initiatives, UNODC continues to provide spaces for young people to engage in constructive, community-building activities in Pakistan. While addressing the students,
Director General Communications & Outreach NACTA Ms. Saleha Zakir Shah said that NACTA is deeply committed to preventing violent extremism in all its forms. As per mandate NACTA is not only fostering studies in understanding the factors that lead to radicalization, especially among young people but also taking impact oriented tangible steps with its partners. She further remarked that social cohesion through youth engagement has great potential to strengthen the social fibre which is the core identification of Pakistan. DG NACTA emphasized that Sports has magnetic power to connect the youth with each other and urged the youths to adopt sportsmanship to invest in society with tolerance and co-existence. In this regard, communal efforts are the dire need of time to curb the menace of violent extremism, hate speech and terrorism.
The event began with the national anthem, setting the tone for a day steeped in unity and pride. Following this, players from both teams—the spirited Blues and the determined Whites—were introduced to the crowd, receiving cheers and encouragement. The IMCB H-9’s football field was more than a venue that day—it became a stage for unity, hope, and a brighter future.
The match was a spectacle. Divided into two halves of 30 minutes each, it was a display of skill, determination, and sportsmanship. The Blue team, known for their aggressive strategy, faced off against the Whites, and celebrated for their defensive resilience. The first half was marked by intense back-and-forth action, with both teams creating scoring opportunities. Despite valiant efforts, neither side managed to find the back of the net, leaving the crowd on edge as they waited for a breakthrough. The match took a thrilling turn when the White team netted the first goal in the first 10 minutes, sparking jubilation among their supporters. Undeterred, the Blue team fought back with determination and resilience, demonstrating their unwavering spirit. In the end, the intense showdown culminated in a nail-biting shootout, where the Whites claimed victory with a score of 1-0.
During the closing ceremony, the Principal, Prof. Javed Iqbal, while extending his heartfelt gratitude for organizing the impactful event at the college, highlighted the power of transformation through sports to transcend cultural, social, and political barriers, fostering mutual respect and understanding among individuals.
The event was concluded as The Principal presented trophies and awards to the winning and runner-up teams, as well as to standout performers.
These moments of celebration captured the spirit of unity as both teams shared in the joy of their achievements.
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For more information, kindly contact Rizwana Rahool, Communications Officer via 0301-8564255 and/or rizwana...@un.org
29 November 2024
UNODC Pakistan on social media:
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/unodcpakistan
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/35718593/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM5esYvwbrYQ2xrx0NuCwsg
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پریس ریلیز
امن و آشتی کے عملی اظہار کا دن - سفارتخانہ ڈنمارک، یو این او ڈی سی اور نیکٹا کے زیراہتمام فٹبال میچ کے ذریعے امن منصوبے کا آغاز
اسلام آباد (29 نومبر 2024) اقوام متحدہ دفتر برائے انسداد منشیات و جرائم (یو این او ڈی سی) نے نیشنل کاؤنٹر ٹیرارزم اتھارٹی (نیکٹا) کے اشتراک اور سفارتخانہ ڈنمارک، اسلام آباد کے مالی تعاون سے "آن لائن اور کمزور طبقات کے نوجوانوں میں پرتشدد انتہاپسندی کے پھیلاؤ کی روک تھام سے متعلق پاکستان کے اقدامات کے استحکام" کے لئے SPREE پراجیکٹ کا آغاز کیا ہے۔ پراجیکٹ کے افتتاح کے سلسلے میں اسلام آباد ماڈل کالج فار بوائز (آئی ایم سی بی)، ایچ نائن، اسلام آباد میں ایک فٹبال میچ کا انعقاد کیا گیا۔ پراجیکٹ کا مقصد نوجوانوں سے متعلق سرگرمیوں کے ذریعے علاقائی استحکام اور پاکستان میں قانون کی حکمرانی کی صورتحال میں بہتری لانا ہے جن کا آغاز "کھیلو، امن کے لئے" کے مرکزی پیغام پر مبنی فٹبال میچ کے ساتھ کیا گیا۔ تقریب کا مقصد اس بات کا عملی اظہار تھا کہ کھیل نوجوانوں اور معاشرے میں امن اور برداشت کو فروغ دینے کا ایک انتہائی موثر ذریعہ ہیں۔
افتتاحی تقریب میں ڈنمارک کے سفیر، ہِز ایکسیلنسی جیکب لینولف، پاکستان کے لئے نمائندہ یو این او ڈی سی اور ڈائریکٹر جنرل نیکٹا نے بھی شرکت کی۔ اس موقع پر اپنے خیالات کا اظہار کرتے ہوئے ہِز ایکسیلنسی جیکب لینولف نے کہا کہ ڈنمارک معاشرے میں مثبت تبدیلی لانے کے لئے نوجوانوں کی قوت پر پختہ یقین رکھتا ہے۔ اس نوعیت کی مثبت اور صحت بخش سرگرمیوں کو فروغ دیتے ہوئے ڈنمارک پاکستانی نوجوانوں کے ساتھ اپنے دوستی کے جذبات کا اظہار کرتا ہے اور انہیں علاقائی اور عالمی سطح پر امن و استحکام کے فروغ میں اپنا قائدانہ کردار ادا کرنے کے لئے آگے آنے میں مدد دیتا ہے۔ انہوں نے فروغ امن کی کوششوں میں نیکٹا اور یو این او ڈی سی کے کردار کو سراہا۔
پاکستان کے لئے یو این او ڈی سی کے نمائندہ ٹروئلز ویسٹر نے کہا کہ یو این او ڈی سی اپنے پارٹنرز کے ساتھ مل کر پاکستان میں بالخصوص کمزور طبقات اور نوجوانوں میں پرتشدد انتہاپسندی کی روک تھام کی کوششوں کو مستحکم بنانے میں اپنا بھرپور کردار ادا کر رہا ہے۔ ان سرگرمیوں کے ذریعے یو این او ڈی سی نوجوانوں کو تعمیری اور سماجی سرگرمیوں میں حصہ لینے کے مواقع فراہم کر رہا ہے۔
ڈائریکٹر جنرل کمیونیکیشنز اینڈ آؤٹ ریچ نیکٹا، محترمہ صالحہ ذاکر شاہ نے اپنے خطاب میں کہا کہ نیکٹا ہر قسم کی پرتشدد انتہاپسندی کی روک تھام کے لئے پرعزم ہے۔ انہوں نے بتایا کہ نیکٹا اپنے مینڈیٹ کے تحت نہ صرف نوجوانوں میں ریڈیکلائزیشن کا باعث بننے والے عوامل پر تحقیقی سرگرمیوں کو فروغ دے رہا ہے بلکہ اپنے پارٹنرز کے ساتھ مل کر عملی اقدامات بھی کر رہا ہے۔ محترمہ صالحہ ذاکر نے کہا کہ نوجوانوں سے متعلق سرگرمیوں کے ذریعے سماجی یکجہتی معاشرے کی اساس کو مضبوط بنانے کے بے پناہ مواقع پیدا ہوتے ہیں جو پاکستان کی شناخت کے حوالے سے کلیدی اہمیت کی حامل ہے۔ انہوں نے مزید کہا کہ کھیل نوجوانوں کو ایک دوسرے کے قریب لانے کی مقناطیسی قوت رکھتے ہیں۔ انہوں نے نوجوانوں پر زور دیا کہ وہ عملی زندگی میں کھیل کے جذبے کو اپناتے ہوئے معاشرے میں برداشت اور پرامن بقائے باہمی کو فروغ دیں۔ اس سلسلے میں سماجی سرگرمیاں ملک میں پرتشدد انتہاپسندی، نفرت پر مبنی تقریر اور دہشت گردی کی لعنت کو روکنا وقت کی اہم ترین ضرورت ہے۔
اس موقع پر دونوں ٹیموں، 'بلیوز' اور 'وائٹس' کو تماشائیوں سے متعارف کرایا گیا جنہوں نے دونوں ٹیموں کو بھرپور داد دی اور ان کی حوصلہ افزائی کی۔تیس تیس منٹ کے دو ہاف پر مشتمل میچ کے دوران شاندار کھیل کا مظاہرہ دیکھنے کو ملا اور کھلاڑیوں نے اپنی مہارت اور جیت کے عزم کا بھرپور طریقے سے اظہار کیا۔ بلیو ٹیم نے جارحانہ حکمت عملی اپناتے ہوئے وائٹس کو دفاعی سوچ اپنانے پر مجبور کر دیا۔ پہلے ہاف کے دوران دونوں ٹیموں کی جانب سے ایک دوسرے کے خلاف گول کرنے کی سرتوڑ کوششیں کی گئیں لیکن کسی بھی ٹیم کو اپنے مقصد میں کامیابی نہ مل سکی۔ دوسرے ہاف کے دسویں منٹ میں کھیل کا پانسہ اس وقت پلٹ گیا جب وائٹ ٹیم نے گولر کرنے میں کامیابی حاصل کی اور تماشائیوں میں جوش وخروش کی ایک نئی لہر دوڑ گئی۔ وائٹس ٹیم کے حوصلے بھی پست نہیں ہوئے اور انہوں نے انتہائی پرعزم کھیل پیش کرتے ہوئے تماشائیوں سے خوب داد وصول کی۔ بالآخر میچ کا فیصلہ شوٹ آؤٹ کے کانٹے دار مقابلے پر ہوا جس میں وائٹس ٹیم نے ایک صفر کی برتری حاصل کر لی۔
اختتامی تقریب کے دوران پرنسپل پروفیسر جاوید اقبال نے کالج میں اس شاندار تقریب کے انعقاد پر اظہار تشکر کیا اور ثقافتی، سماجی اور سیاسی رکاوٹوں کو دور کرتے ہوئے لوگوں میں باہمی احترام اور افہام وتفہیم کے فروغ کے لئے کھیلوں کے موثر کردار پر روشنی ڈالی۔
تقریب کے آخر میں پرنسپل نے فاتح اور رنر اپ ٹیموں کو ٹرافیاں پیش کیں اور انعامات دئیے جبکہ عمدہ کارکردگی دکھانے والے کھلاڑیوں کو خصوصی انعامات سے نوازا گیا۔
میچ کے دوران دونوں ٹیموں کے کھلاڑیوں کی طرف سے شاندار کھیل دیکھنے کو ملا جبکہ تماشائیوں نے پورے میچ کے دوران اپنی پسندیدہ ٹیموں کی حوصلہ افزائی کے لئے بھرپور جوش وخروش کا مظاہرہ کیا۔
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مزید معلومات کے لئے رابطہ: رضوانہ راہول، کمیونیکیشنز آفیسر، موبائل:0301-8564255؛ ای میل: rizwana...@un.org
29 نومبر 2024
سوشل میڈیا پر یو این او ڈی سی پاکستان کی رابطہ معلومات:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unodc.pakistan
Twitter: https://twitter.com/unodcpakistan
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/35718593/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM5esYvwbrYQ2xrx0NuCwsg
UNIC-Islamabad
Media Update
4 September 2025
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United Nations
SECRETARY-GENERAL STATEMENT
Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on floods in Pakistan
The Secretary-General is profoundly saddened by the recent floods in northern Pakistan, which have reportedly claimed more than 400 lives.
The disaster – caused by a severe monsoon exacerbated by climate change – has affected some 1.5 million people and left hundreds of thousands of people in need of humanitarian aid. More than 3,000 homes, over 400 schools and some 40 health facilities have been damaged.
The Secretary-General commends Pakistani authorities for relocating more than one million people in Punjab.
He expresses his solidarity with the Government and people of Pakistan, extends his heartfelt condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives, and wishes a swift recovery to those who have been injured.
The United Nations and its partners are working closely with Pakistani authorities to rapidly assess the humanitarian impact of the floods, identify needs and address gaps in the response to the disaster.
The Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher, has released $600,000 from the Regional Humanitarian Pooled Fund to support relief and recovery efforts, and discussions are underway with the Government on a response plan.
Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General
New York, 3 September 2025
*****
Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General
United Nations
New York, USA
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UNICEF
PRESS RELEASE
Global funding cuts could force 6 million more children out of school in the coming year – UNICEF
Education funding faces US$3.2 billion decline by 2026, placing millions of children’s futures at risk
NEW YORK, 3 September 2025 – As global education funding faces steep cuts, an estimated 6 million additional children could be out of school by the end of 2026, around one-third of them in humanitarian settings, UNICEF warned in a new analysis released today.
Official Development Assistance (ODA) for education is projected to fall by US$3.2 billion – a 24 per cent drop from 2023 – with just three donor governments accounting for nearly 80 per cent of the cuts. Such a decline would push the number of out-of-school children worldwide from 272 million to 278 million – the equivalent of emptying every primary school in Germany and Italy combined.
“Every dollar cut from education is not just a budgetary decision, it’s a child’s future hanging in the balance,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. “Education, especially in emergency settings, often serves as a lifeline, connecting children to essential services like health, protection, and nutrition. It also provides the strongest opportunity for a child to escape poverty and build a better life.”
According to the analysis, West and Central Africa faces the sharpest impact, with 1.9 million children at risk of losing out, while the Middle East and North Africa could see an increase of 1.4 million out of school children, alongside major rollbacks in all other regions.
The analysis finds that 28 countries are projected to lose at least a quarter of the education assistance they rely on for pre-primary, primary, and secondary schooling. Among them, Côte d’Ivoire and Mali face some of the greatest risks, with enrolment at risk of declining by 4 per cent – equivalent to 340,000 and 180,000 students, respectively.
Primary education is expected to be hit hardest around the world, with funding set to fall by a third – deepening the learning crisis and putting affected children at risk of losing an estimated US$164 billion in lifetime earnings.
In humanitarian settings, where education goes beyond learning, offering life-saving support, stability, and a sense of normalcy for traumatized children, funding could drop sharply – in some cases, cutting the equivalent of at least 10 per cent of the national education budget. For example, in UNICEF’s Rohingya refugee response, 350,000 children risk losing access to basic education permanently. Without urgent funding, education centres may close, leaving children vulnerable to exploitation, child labour, and trafficking.
Essential services such as school feeding programmes, sometimes a child’s only nutritious meal of the day, could see funding slashed by more than half, while support for girls’ education is also set to decline significantly.
Wide cuts at the system level will also undermine governments’ ability to make evidence-based plans, adequately support teacher development, and monitor learning outcomes. This means that even children who remain in school could see their learning suffer, with at least 290 million students across all regions projected to face a decline in education quality.
UNICEF urges donor and partner countries to act now to protect education by:
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Rebalancing education assistance to be more equitable and effective with a minimum of 50 per cent directed to least developed countries;
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Safeguarding humanitarian education funding and prioritizing education as a lifesaving intervention alongside other essential services;
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Focusing education assistance on foundational learning, concentrating on early childhood and primary education where the returns are the highest;
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Simplifying global financing architecture in line with the UN80 Initiative to improve efficiencies;
- Expanding innovative financing without replacing core funding to education.
“Investing in children’s education is one of the best investments in the future – for everyone,” said Russell. “Countries do better when their children are educated and healthy, and it contributes to a more stable and prosperous world.”
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Notes to editors:
The projections are based on data from the OECD Creditor Reporting System (CRS, 2023 – the latest available year) and DonorTracker (July 2025). Public donor statements and policy documents were used to identify where education budgets are being reduced, with proportional cuts assumed for others. The estimate of additional children at risk of dropping out focuses on low- and lower-middle-income countries where education aid for primary and secondary schooling is projected to fall by 25 per cent or more. It assumes that cuts of this scale cannot be absorbed quickly by governments. In countries where dropout rates had already stalled, the impact would be felt more in the quality of education than in school attendance in the coming year.
Read the 2-pager brief and more on the methodology here.
About UNICEF
UNICEF, the United Nations agency for children, works to protect the rights of every child, everywhere, especially the most disadvantaged children and in the toughest places to reach. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we do whatever it takes to help children survive, thrive, and fulfil their potential.
For more information about UNICEF and its work, please visit: www.unicef.org
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For more information, please contact:
Sara Alhattab | UNICEF New York | +1 917 957 6536 |
salh...@unicef.org
Nadia Samie-Jacobs | UNICEF New York | +1 845 760 2615| nsa...@unicef.org