MOSCOW, January 12, 2017 – Increased productivity and greater investment in human capital and services are essential to achieving sustainable and inclusive economic growth to benefit all of Russia’s citizens, says the World Bank Group’s Systematic Country Diagnostic for the Russian Federation, “Pathways to Inclusive Growth” launched today at the »

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On Tuesday, 13 December 2016, a round table discussion titled “Human Rights Reflection in Cinematography” was organized in the framework of the XXII ‘Stalker’ International Film Festival on Human Rights with the support of UN agencies in Russia on the premises of the Central Journalist House. 

Against the backdrop of a sluggish global economy, lacklustre trade growth, and uncertainty in major economies, countries of the Asia-Pacific region continued to push ahead at an estimated 4.9 per cent in 2016. Indeed, it is encouraging to note that the region continues to lead in global economic growth, mainly bolstered by the ongoing performance of major economies of China and India.

Ten years ago this month, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.  One of the most widely ratified international human rights instruments, with 169 Parties, the Convention has spurred significant progress in commitment and action for equality, inclusion and empowerment around the world, with disability being increasingly incorporated into the global human rights and development agendas. 

The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery calls upon us to remember victims around the world and to reflect on progress towards the elimination of all contemporary forms of slavery, such as forced labour, the worst forms of child labour, forced and servile marriage, bonded labour and human trafficking.

This year’s observance coincides with the 90th anniversary of the 1926 Slavery Convention, and the 60th anniversary of the 1956 Supplementary Convention on the Abolition of Slavery, the Slave trade and Institutions and Practices similar to slavery.

            Thirty-five years since the emergence of AIDS, the international community can look back withsomepride but we must also look ahead with resolve and commitment to reach our goal of ending the AIDSepidemic by 2030.

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is not just one of many conflicts in the region.  It is in many ways a long-standing, gaping wound that has fed tension and conflict throughout the Middle East.

            I wish all United Nations personnel and their families a Happy Staff Day.

            I am delighted that today, we bring back a tradition that began in 1953. It is a chance for staff to enjoy a pause from work, come together as friends and celebrate our wonderful diversity.