UN Highlights Pakistan Flood Crisis, Climate Reporting Gaps, and Concerns Over Attack on Peacekeepers
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New York – October 23, 2024 – the United Nations is responding to multiple global challenges, from devastating floods in Pakistan exacerbated by climate change to lagging climate reporting from dozens of nations, and a concerning attack on UN peacekeepers in Lebanon. Here’s a breakdown of the latest developments:
Pakistan Floods: Climate Change Amplifies Disaster, 1.5 Million Affected
Severe monsoon conditions in Pakistan have triggered widespread flooding, impacting approximately 1.5 million people, according to a statement released today by the UN Secretary-General’s Spokesperson. The disaster is a stark reminder of the escalating impact of climate change,with hundreds of thousands in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.
Over 3,000 homes, 400 schools, and 40 health facilities have sustained damage. The Secretary-General commended Pakistani authorities for successfully relocating over one million people in Punjab, and expressed solidarity with the government and people of Pakistan, offering condolences to those who have lost loved ones and wishing a swift recovery to the injured.
The UN and partner humanitarian organizations are working with Pakistani authorities to fully assess the damage, identify critical needs, and address any gaps in the ongoing response. the UN’s Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher, has already allocated $600,000 from the Regional Humanitarian Pooled Fund for relief and recovery efforts, with a thorough response plan under discussion with the government.
Climate Reporting: UN Chief Warns of Delays Threatening Progress
In related news, UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell has issued a warning that 37 countries have failed to submit mandatory reports under the Paris Agreement’s openness framework. Speaking at the Global Transparency Forum in South Korea, Stiell emphasized that “no country can be left behind,” stressing that obvious climate reporting is “a vital enabling tool” for stronger climate action.
The Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) isn’t simply about technical details, Stiell explained. It’s crucial for attracting investment, developing enterprising policies, and accelerating the transition to clean energy and increased resilience.
Over 100 nations have submitted their first Biennial Transparency Reports (BTRs), wich Stiell hailed as a “smart investment” yielding economic and social benefits. the UN has trained over 10,000 experts from 140 developing countries on the ETF, with a growing network of certified reviewers and officials utilizing its tools.
A global synthesis of these BTRs will be published before November’s COP30 climate change conference in Brazil, providing an initial assessment of progress on mitigation, adaptation, and support – and informing the next Global Stocktake. “What is measured can be acted upon,” Stiell stated. “What is reported helps build trust. And what is shared becomes a force for change.”
Lebanon: UN Expresses Concern Over Attack on Peacekeepers
The UN has voiced serious concern following an Israeli attack on peacekeepers operating in southern Lebanon. UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric reported that Israeli military drones dropped grenades near peacekeepers serving with UNIFIL (the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) while they were performing mandated tasks related to the implementation of
