This year, we mark World AIDS Day with new hope. I applaud the staunch advocacy of activists. I commend the persistent efforts of health workers. And I pay tribute to the principled stance of human rights defenders and the courage of all those who have joined forces to fight for global progress against the disease.

Additional frequencies to be shared with Israeli operators

Geneva, 20 November 2015 – An Israeli-Palestinian agreement has been reached on the assignment of radio frequencies for the exclusive use by Palestinian cellular operators as well as on a shared basis by Palestinian and Israeli operators.

I present this statement on behalf of the Secretary-General who today is on travel.   

This year’s observance of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People falls at a time when security and hope are at a low point.

A wave of violence has included heinous attacks, stabbings, shootings and vehicular attacks causing immense suffering among Israeli and Palestinian families alike.  I condemn such attacks and all acts of violence.  Illegal settlement activities and settler-related violence have continued, along with punitive demolitions of Palestinian-owned homes and structures. 

Do you believe in the power of sport? Have you seen the impact of sport values in your community? If so, we want to see the evidence!

            The atrocity crimes being committed against women and girls in conflict zones, along with the domestic abuse found in all countries, are grave threats to progress.

The Universal Children’s Day is dedicated to promoting the well-being and human rights of the world’s children, especially those suffering the impacts of poverty, armed conflict, discrimination and exploitation.  The date of the observance -- 20 November -- marks the day on which, in 1989, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Today, we reaffirm our obligation to do everything in our power to enable all children to survive and thrive, learn and grow, have their voices heard and reach their full potential.

In recent years, many countries in Africa have experienced significant economic growth and progress in human development.  However, inclusive and sustainable industrial development remains elusive.  Youth unemployment and gender inequity jeopardize the continent’s efforts to eradicate poverty.

Sanitation is central to human and environmental health as well as to individual opportunity, development and dignity.  Yet today, worldwide, one in every three people lacks improved sanitation, and one in every eight practices open defecation.

The United Nations Democracy Fund invites civil society organizations to apply for funding for projects to advance and support democracy. Project proposals may be submitted on-line between 15 November 2015 and 31 December 2015 at www.un.org/democracyfund. You can find guidelines, FAQs and lessons learned from previous rounds at http://www.un.org/democracyfund/application-materials.