TRIPOLI—More than 300 Libyan children gathered with their parents at the Scouts Theatre Saturday in Tripoli to mark the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action under the theme “Invest in Peace, Invest in Mine Action.” The event was organized jointly by the Mine Action Programme, a section of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), the Libyan Mine Action Centre, the Libyan Scout Movement, the Libya Peace…
JUBA - “Every time we succeed, we are not just removing explosive ordinances. We are also planting possibilities.” This compelling call to action from Nyoka Loice Scopas, representing the Women in Mine Action Network, reflects the critical importance of the United Nations Mine Action Service’s work in South Sudan, where civil war has left a legacy of landmines and other unexploded ordnances, which continue to kill indiscriminately. “It is deeply…
In March, MONUSCO marked a transition with the appointment of James Swan as its new head, while the mission continued its stabilization efforts. In Ituri, Operation "Nyundo II" successfully secured the release of fourteen hostages, alongside community-led repairs on the Fataki-Lodha road. Regarding security and human rights, the Acting Head of Mission denounced the tragic killing of a UN staff member, while UNJHRO highlighted the urgent need to…
Consultations have been launched to shape the next phase of the EU-funded Support Facility to the Technical Committees, bringing together the United Nations Good Offices Mission, UNDP, and the European Commission, alongside the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot coordinators and Co-Chairs of the 13 Technical Committees. This process comes at a key moment, as Phase II of the Support Facility approaches its conclusion in late 2026. This funding is…
BOR – “Every time I visited the prison, I encountered female inmates who wanted to feel useful but didn’t know how. So, I decided to do something to help.” After 30 years working as a prison officer in her home country Gambia, Fatou Njie joined the United Nations Mission in South Sudan with a personal mission in mind: leaving a lasting legacy. “For me, being a prison officer was always my dream. I knew I wanted to leave a memorable footprint in…
When Home Is No Longer Safe: A Family’s Return in Sudan In many parts of Sudan, families returning home after conflict face a hidden danger: explosive hazards. During fighting, explosive items can fall into residential areas without detonating. Long after the violence stops, these items remain a serious threat to civilians. For families trying to rebuild their lives, these hidden hazards can turn homes, parks, and neighborhoods into dangerous…
As we enter April, we commemorate the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action (IMAD). Since its inception in 1997, UNMAS has responded to conflicts across the world, working to mitigate the impact of explosive ordnance on communities. Since establishing a programme in the OPT in 2009, UNMAS has worked with partners and local communities to minimize explosive risks and support peace. Throughout this period UNMAS has…
This op-ed was written by Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations at the United Nations. It was first published by Newsweek. When I traveled to southern Lebanon in June, I was reminded of the…
In Buhima, the community grain mill runs on electricity and now allows the population to grind grain locally. « Thanks to this training, I was able to open a hair salon with other young people. We work together and we share…
As part of UNIFIL’s endeavours to build and enhance capacity of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), the mission’s naval peacekeepers have intensified in recent months training activities with the Lebanese Navy and the Air Force…
This backgrounder was written by Lesley Myers, Digital Editor for UN Peacekeeping’s Strategic Communications Section. She specializes in political analysis, strategic planning and peacekeeping impact. Long-standing tensions…
WESTERN BAHR EL GHAZAL – “By prioritizing self-care, women become strong leaders, better listeners and more patient negotiators. Our families and communities draw courage in pursuing peace from our example.” This was the…
BENTIU - The challenges in Bentiu are immense. Year-on-year of extraordinary flooding has left hundreds of thousands of people displaced, living on what has essentially become an island, surrounded by thousands of kilometers…
The event showcased female talent through an exhibition of artwork, jewelry, clothing, and handicrafts. From August 13-14, 2025, the feminist movement Biso Basi Telema, in partnership with MONUSCO's Gender section, organized…
General De Mesquita reaffirmed the UN mission's commitment to protecting civilians and supporting the Congolese authorities in restoring peace and stability. The MONUSCO Force Commander, General Ulisses De Mesquita Gomes, met…