United Nations in Egypt

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Egypt:

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30 May 2024

Towards More Effective, Fit for Future UN Peacekeeping operations

Op-edBY Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Director of Public Diplomacy DepartmentElena Panova, UN in Egypt Resident Coordinator As we mark the 76th anniversary of United Nations Peacekeeping Operations, we are reminded of the long and proud history, with more than one million peacekeepers having served in more than 70 operations on four continents since its establishment in 1948. Over the past seven decades, UN peacekeepers have tirelessly worked to mitigate conflicts, protect civilians, provide basic security guarantees, respond to crises and facilitate the transition to sustainable peace in some of the world's most challenging settings. In doing so, they have helped countries close the chapter of conflict and open a path to sustainable development, even if major peacebuilding challenges remain.Egypt has been a key supporter of UN peacekeeping efforts, contributing troops, police, civilians, and expertise to numerous missions across the globe. It built up an impressive record of peacekeeping achievements over more than 60 years of its existence. Egypt is one of the key countries that made these successes possible. Since 1960 when it first sent troops to the UN Operation in Congo, more than 30,000 Egyptians have served in 37 peacekeeping missions in 24 countries.As one of the largest contributors of uniformed personnel to UN Peacekeeping, Egypt currently deploys 1602 military and police personnel to the UN peace operations in Abyei, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Sudan, and the Western Sahara.As impressive as Egypt’s peacekeeping achievements are over more than 60 years of peacekeeping operations existence, so is Egypt’s sacrifice, with 60 brave Egyptian blue helmets paying the ultimate sacrifice in service of peace.Egypt’s service and sacrifice are recognized globally, demonstrated by its re-election as rapporteur of the UN Special Peacekeeping Operations Committee and its recent election as Chair of the UN Peacebuilding Commission. Furthermore, the adoption of the Cairo Roadmap on Enhancing Peacekeeping Operations as the African Union’s position shows Egypt’s strong leadership in this area.And through the Cairo International Center for Conflict Resolution, Peacekeeping and Peacebuilding (CCCPA), indeed, Egypt has provided a leading voice from the Global South on a wide range of topics, including conflict prevention and resolution, peacekeeping and peacebuilding. The CCCPA stands out as an African Union Center of Excellence, and the only civilian training center on issues of peace and security. Through effective partnership with the United Nations Family in Egypt, CCCPA has emerged as a pillar for fostering dialogue, negotiation and mediation; early warning and early response and crisis management in Africa and the Arab world.In today's complex and evolving security landscape, the need for effective multilateral cooperation has never been greater. Conflicts continue to erupt, often with devastating humanitarian consequences. UN peacekeeping missions are also facing unprecedented, growing threat from the weaponization of digital tools, with hate speech, misinformation, and disinformation undermining their vital work, and fueling violence against peacekeeping personnel, partners, and communities. The United Nations chose as theme for this year’s International Day of UN Peacekeepers: “Fit for the future, building better together,” pointing out the paramount importance for peacekeeping operations to adapt to the changing political landscape and nature of conflicts which have become more complex and interconnected. As peacekeeping has evolved to reflect the populations they serve, women have become increasingly part of the peacekeeping family – making operations more effective. It’s also an area where Egypt has been an active player, with Egyptian female peacekeepers – currently 102 brave Egyptian women are serving with 5 missions across Africa - considered as role models in the peacekeeping missions where they serveIn the words of the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, “in order for our peacekeepers to respond to the challenges of today and tomorrow, they need the world’s support.” In this regard, countries will not be able to address conflict prevention and resolution in an inclusive and sustainable manner without taking into account young people’s perspectives in planning and decision-making. The UN Security Council Resolution #2250 on Youth, Peace and Security is a landmark as it acknowledges the important role youth can play in the prevention and resolution of conflicts.Furthermore, the climate crisis poses an increasing threat to global peace and security, with rising sea levels, droughts, floods and other climate-related events, and highlights the need for UN peace operations around the world to adapt and mitigate the risk of climate driven conflicts. Despite its limited contribution to global warming, Africa disproportionately faces the worst of climate change impacts. The COP27 Presidency’s flagship initiative titled “Climate Responses for Sustaining Peace” (CRSP), has taken a leading role in this regard, by spearheading a discussion on how climate change may exacerbate the risks of violence, conflict or other national vulnerabilities, and the need to approach these through a multifaceted and holistic way. Egypt took the initiative even further by launching the Aswan Forum for Sustainable Peace and Development. The forum, with the next edition scheduled for 2-3 July in Cairo, provides the first of its kind platform in Africa to address the interlinkages between peace and development, championing Africa-led solutions and addressing peacebuilding through a climate lens.Looking ahead, this International Day of UN Peacekeepers reminds us that collective commitment to a stronger engagement for advancing political solutions to conflict is needed more than ever. As the Secretary-General puts it, “UN Peacekeeping is a remarkable enterprise of multilateralism and international solidarity.” In September, member states will meet at the Summit of the Future, where they will jointly tackle how to respond to the world's emerging threats. In this important forum, UN member states have a responsibility to champion multilateralism, join forces and chart a more effective, accountable and inclusive peacekeeping operations, as laid out in the New Agenda for Peace." The New Agenda for Peace is the UN Secretary-General’s vision for strengthening multilateral action for peace, based on international law, in a world in transition.

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10 November 2024

WUF12: Egypt’s National Initiative for Smart Green Projects highlighted as model for localizing climate action and promoting sustainable urbanization

As part of the Twelfth Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12) in Cairo, a high-level session highlighted Egypt’s National Initiative for Smart Green Projects (Egypt SGP) as a leading model for localizing climate action and promoting sustainable urban development through local solutions and innovations.The session was moderated by Ambassador Hisham Badr, the National Coordinator of the initiative, and attended by Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation; Michal Mlynár, Deputy Executive Director of UN-Habitat; Elena Panova, UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt; and Alessandro Fracassetti, UNDP Resident Representative in Egypt. Speakers at the session emphasized the need to scale up successful projects like the National Initiative for Smart Green Projects to achieve a broader global impact, with Minister Mashat emphasizing the significance of multi-sector collaboration to ensure that sustainable solutions are scalable and aligned with global climate goals.Mr. Mlynár commended Egypt SGP as reflecting Egypt’s commitment to localizing climate action and promoting sustainable urban development, noting that the initiative provides local solutions “and we need local solutions.” Ms. Panova congratulated the Government of Egypt for the Egypt SGP, adding that highlighting the initiative at WUF means it can be a model for other countries. She also noted that the UN wide-ranging support to the initiative throughout its three phases. Addressing attending representatives of the winning projects in the initiative, Panova said, “your commitment, your expertise, and your vision shows us how much knowledge, innovation, and passion exists here in Egypt that can be tapped to help address the challenges of climate change.”For his part, Alessandro Fracassetti, UNDP Resident Representative in Egypt, underscored the broader importance of SGP Egypt, stating, "By partnering with SGP Egypt, we are not only driving local climate action but also setting a model for the rest of the world."“By highlighting the achievements of SGP Egypt’s winners, we aim to inspire other countries and regions to adopt a similar model—one that empowers local communities, fosters innovation, and ensures broad participation in the global effort to combat climate change,” said Amb. Hisham Badr, National Coordinator of SGP Egypt. The 12th edition of the World Urban Forum (WUF12), co-hosted by UN-Habitat and the Government of Egypt in Cairo, is focusing on transformative solutions for sustainable urban development. This year’s forum is especially significant as it returns to Africa, with Cairo, a city grappling with both rapid urbanization and climate challenges, providing the backdrop. A key feature of the forum is Egypt’s National Initiative for Smart Green Projects (SGP Egypt), which incorporates green solutions such as sustainable urban design, low-carbon transportation, and energy-efficient buildings into urban planning. The initiative also prioritizes empowering women and youth, acknowledging their vital role in advancing climate action. SGP Egypt is showcased as a global model for climate action, illustrating the effectiveness of local partnerships in addressing urban sustainability issues. The initiative has already supported innovative projects across all 27 of Egypt’s governorates, tackling challenges such as renewable energy, waste management, and low-carbon transportation. These solutions, while tailored to local contexts, are scalable and can serve as inspiration for cities worldwide. The initiative’s success in engaging youth is particularly noteworthy, with many youth-led projects focusing on climate solutions and it offers a global model for addressing climate change through collaborative, local, and innovative solutions.

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05 March 2024

"Voices of Impact" podcast opening episode features UN Egypt Resident Coordinator

The United Nations Information Centre in Cairo announced the launch of its new podcast, "Voices of Impact: UN in Egypt", with the UN in Egypt Resident Coordinator, Elena Panoa, being its first guest. This flagship podcast is set to shed light on the significant work carried out by the United Nations in Egypt, marking an important milestone in the enduring and successful partnership between the United Nations and Egypt, as a founding member of the international organization.“Voices of Impact: UN in Egypt" serves as an inspiring platform to explore and highlight the impactful initiatives, programs, and collaborations led by the United Nations within the Egyptian context. Through engaging discussions, interviews, and narratives, the podcast aims to showcase the multifaceted efforts undertaken to address pressing global challenges while fostering development, sustainability, and peace in Egypt and beyond.A wide array of perspectives will be presented, including UN officials, governmental and non-governmental organization representatives, experts, influencers, beneficiaries, and community leaders. The podcast will provide a comprehensive and insightful overview of the United Nations' invaluable contributions to Egypt's development journey and its commitment to leaving no one behind.As the world faces increasingly complex challenges, the podcast will underscore the significance of multilateralism and international cooperation in tackling global issues effectively, by highlighting success stories, innovations, and collaborative partnerships. "Voices of Impact: UN in Egypt" aims to inspire individuals, communities, and stakeholders to actively contribute to positive change and sustainable development efforts.

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01 December 2024

UN Egypt Resident Coordinator Participates in Arab League Event Commemorating International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People

The UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt, Elena Panova, participated in the Arab League's celebration of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, organized by the General Secretariat of the Arab League. Panova delivered the UN Secretary-General's message on this occasion, in which he reaffirmed the United Nations' commitment to continue to stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people and their inalienable rights to live in peace, security and dignity.In her speech, Panova conveyed the message of UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who noted that this year’s commemoration is especially painful as the fundamental goals of dignity, rights, justice and self-determination of the Palestinian people are as distant as they have ever been. The Secretary-General’s message, read by the UN's highest-ranking representative in Egypt, stated: “It is past time for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages; an end to the unlawful occupation of the Palestinian Territory – as confirmed by the International Court of Justice and the General Assembly; and irreversible progress towards a two-State solution, in line with international law and relevant UN resolutions – with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security, and Jerusalem as the capital of both States.” The Secretary-General also called for full support for life-saving humanitarian relief to the Palestinian people, specifically through the work of UNRWA, the agency that serves as an indispensable lifeline for millions of Palestinians.In 1977, the General Assembly called for the annual observance of 29 November as the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People (resolution 32/40 B). On that day, in 1947, the Assembly adopted the resolution on the partition of Palestine (resolution 181 (II))In resolution 60/37 of 1 December 2005, the Assembly requested the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People and the Division for Palestinian Rights, as part of the observance of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People on 29 November, to continue to organize an annual exhibit on Palestinian rights or a cultural event in cooperation with the Permanent Observer Mission of Palestine to the UN.The resolution on the observance of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People also encourages Member States to continue to give the widest support and publicity to the observance of the Day of Solidarity.

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18 November 2024

In celebration of United Nations Day, a strategic dialogue between Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and the United Nations aims to enhance coordination and streamline cooperation priorities

Cairo – Marking UN Day 2024 and reaffirming the robust partnership between Egypt and the United Nations, H.E. the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigration, Dr. Badr Abdelatty, hosted a strategic dialogue on 12 November 2024 at the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The event gathered senior representatives of the Ministry as well as representatives from the UN Country Team in Egypt, led by the UN Resident Coordinator, Elena Panova, and regional UN directors with a focus on enhancing coordination and streamlining priorities for cooperation. Ambassador Amr Aljowaily, Assistant Foreign Minister for Multilateral Affairs and International Security, moderated the meeting, which covered key areas of UN engagement in Egypt, as reflected in the joint UN-Government of Egypt Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2023-2027. Discussions highlighted critical areas of collaboration between the Ministry and the UN, focusing on shared priorities for advancing Egypt’s national development goals and responding to regional humanitarian crises in the region. Expressing her gratitude, UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt Elena Panova stated, “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to His Excellency Dr. Abdelatty, for hosting this important strategic dialogue. As the UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt, my role is to ensure that UN efforts are aligned and unified in support of Egypt’s Vision 2030 and national development priorities. Today’s meeting will help us to advance our joint priorities for sustainable development and humanitarian action.” The dialogue concluded with a commitment to deepen collaborative efforts and address existing and emerging regional challenges, with both sides emphasizing the importance of aligning strategies to support sustainable development, to scale-up humanitarian assistance, considering Egypt’s role in promoting peace and stability in the region.

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10 November 2024

WUF12: UN Egypt Resident Coordinator Highlights Egypt’s Initiatives to Localize the Sustainable Development Goals

At the 12th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12), currently held in Cairo, the UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt, Elena Panova, highlighted initiatives launched by the Egyptian government to support efforts to localize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She spoke during a session the event, “Boosting the localisation of the sustainable development goals to propel transformative change”, co-organized by the United Nations Joint SDG Fund and the Local2030 Coalition.The session, which included representatives from the governments of the United States, Spain, Costa Rica, and Kyrgyzstan, as well as the UN Joint SDG Fund and the Local2030 Coalition, saw Panova commend the “clear impact” of the Fund on the UN’s work in Egypt. She explained that the Fund has strengthened UN cooperation at the national level, with the funding provided by the Fund enabling coordinated approaches among UN agencies on key SDG areas. The Resident Coordinator emphasized that the Fund’s work has been impactful by focusing on a number of multi-dimensional SDG accelerators. She noted that, under the leadership of the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, the government has partnered with five UN agencies to develop the building blocks for an Integrated National Financing Framework. This includes a comprehensive financing strategy that serves as a roadmap to close financing gaps, enhance resource allocation to key sectors, unlock innovative financing, and stimulate private sector financing for sustainable development.Panova highlighted several initiatives launched by Egypt to support progress toward achieving the SDGs at the local level. These include “Hayah Karima” (Decent Life), a flagship initiative to improve the quality of life in poor villages, the release of sustainable development localization reports in 2021 covering all 27 governorates, and three voluntary local reviews from the governorates of Beheira, Fayoum, and Port Said, which were presented at the 2023 High-Level Political Forum (HLPF). At the same time, Panova pointed out challenges facing SDG localization in Egypt, including disparities in planning and monitoring capacities among governorates, the need to improve collaboration with local stakeholders, and to enhance the collection, management, and utilization of disaggregated data.Panova also said that the UN is in the process of establishing a new joint program, led by the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, in collaboration with three UN agencies—UN-Habitat, UNDP, and UNICEF. This program aims to strengthen local governance by integrating people-centered decision-making processes throughout the policy cycle, including planning, budgeting, and monitoring. She emphasized the significant role that the UN could play, stating that the joint program “can act as a catalyst for further cooperation and investment from the government, UN agencies, development partners, and the private sector.” The new joint programme will engage young people in various ways by including youth in all capacity building and participatory planning activities, policy dialogues for young people. “We will work with the new Local2030 Cairo Hub to disseminate successful models across Egypt, Africa and globally,” she added. The event brought together a diverse range of partners, with speakers highlighting the role of the UN Joint SDG Fund and the Local2030 Coalition in supporting national, regional, and local governments in overcoming financing challenges and advancing the SDGs at the local level, as well as showcasing successful initiatives from around the world. The UN Joint SDG Fund is the UN’s leading global fund dedicated to mobilizing the UN Development System and catalyzing policy and financing transformations to accelerate SDG efforts. The Fund has already invested nearly $79 million in supporting SDG localization actions. This includes initiatives working with local and regional stakeholders and governments to develop innovative policy solutions and financing mechanisms to mobilize local capital.

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10 November 2024

WUF12: ONE UN Roundtable Focuses on Supporting SDG Localization and Financing for Development

At the 12th edition of the World Urban Forum (WUF12), the “ONE UN Roundtable” continued to act as a central platform for the United Nations Development System (UNDS) to strengthen partnerships with multilateral development partners. The roundtable focused on bridging financing gaps in national SDG acceleration plans through enhanced collaboration between the UN System, Resident Coordinators, and multilateral development banks.The roundtable highlighted the necessity of pooled resources and coordinated efforts aligned with country-level priorities as established in the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). UN-Habitat Executive Director, Anacláudia Rossbach, underscored the urgent need to increase financial investments to support the New Urban Agenda, stating that “addressing the global housing crisis is a high priority.” Rossbach emphasized that sustainable investments depend on well-planned urban development. Elena Panova, UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt, noted the strong commitment from roundtable participants to build inclusive, resilient, and financially sustainable urban spaces. She acknowledged the “gap between ambition and reality,” a divide often rooted in financing, and highlighted the importance of supporting local actors in advancing sustainable development on the ground.On the same page, the UN Resident Coordinators in Turkiye, Nepal, Senegal and Mexico echoed the need to leverage private and public resources to accelerate the SDG implementation as well as providing the needed technical assistance. Since its establishment at WUF10 in 2020, the roundtable has brought together UN entities, Resident Coordinators, multilateral development banks, and national government representatives, aiming to enhance the UN’s alignment with local and national priorities.In a world where more than 80 percent of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are currently off-track, WUF12’s “ONE UN Roundtable” focuses on developing forward-looking strategies to support the UN’s integrated efforts toward SDG acceleration. Participants will discuss best practices from previous UN meetings, the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) Ministerial Declaration, and recommendations from the Summit of the Future. The roundtable will also address the critical annual financing gap of $2.5 to $4 trillion for SDG implementation, as highlighted by the UN and development partners. A key priority for the “ONE UN” platform at WUF12 is enhancing partnerships with multilateral development banks to strengthen SDG financing, specifically for Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). These regions face unique challenges that necessitate tailored solutions and localized financing strategies. Accordingly, discussions will focus on improving the coordination between UNDS and other financial institutions to create a collaborative framework for bridging financial gaps in SDG implementation, particularly in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) and national agendas. Expected outcomes from the roundtable include a quantitative set of recommendations to strengthen collaboration on SDG financing and the qualitative identification of mechanisms to establish strategic partnerships between the UN and financial institutions. These insights will inform discussions at future global events, including the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in 2025, marking a critical step in addressing the financial and operational challenges of the SDG agenda.

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04 November 2024

WUF12: The ON UN Egypt Pavilion Highlights Efforts to Empower a New System of Balanced Cities in Egypt

Cairo - The One UN Egypt Pavilion at the 12th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12) today hosted a panel discussion, under the title “Balanced System of Cities for Green Transition and Inclusive Growth across the Urban-Rural Quantum”, aiming to launch a call for collective action to build on existing efforts in Egypt to address the imbalanced system of cities, through collective efforts to enable a new model of balanced cities that contributes to achieving sustainable development goals. UN-Habitat Egypt Country Director, Ahmed Rezk, moderated a vibrant panel discussion featuring the UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt, Elena Panova; Dr. Abdel Khalek Ibrahim, Assistant Minister of Housing; Dr. Hisham Elhelbawy, Assistant Minister of Local Development for National Projects and Director of the Local Development Program in Upper Egypt; Engineer Amr Lashin, Deputy Governor of Aswan; Mr. Guido Clare, Head of the Regional Center for North Africa and the Middle East at the European Investment Bank; Ms. Lamia Kamal-Chaoui, Director of the Entrepreneurship and Small and Medium Enterprises Centre and Regions and Cities at OECD; and Dr. Salma Yousry, Director of Urban Development Program at UN-Habitat.The session began with a welcoming note by the UN Habitat Egypt Country Director, followed by a technical presentation Dr. Salma Yousry, on the balanced system of urbanization. In her remarks during the session, UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt, Elena Panova, highlighted spatial imbalances in Egypt, citing Ministry of Planning and Economic Development data, which indicates that Greater Cairo generates 45% of Egypt's GDP, while Alexandria contributes 15%.Panova noted that Cairo particularly dominates the Egyptian economy, with jobs, major companies, and private investments concentrated in the capital city, while many other Egyptian cities lack the capacity for robust growth and job creation Meanwhile, the movement of people to Cairo and Alexandria—more than 70% of internal migration—increases pressure on services, housing, and jobs, she added. This all contributes to a vicious cycle: people leave smaller cities because of limited employment opportunities, which in turn further depresses the attractiveness of these areas as economic centers, leaving even fewer economic opportunities for the population,” Panova said. The UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt also highlighted the UN's role in coordinating various efforts to support more inclusive and balanced development that contributes to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the GDP growth. She explained that the UN's approach in Egypt toward more balanced development among different cities and regions relies on a coordinated effort across all UN agencies, which leverages the collective expertise of the UN system.For the UN in Egypt—according to Ms. Panova— this starts with our Cooperation Framework with the Government signed in 2023. We see this as our roadmap for collaborative action towards realizing the SDGs in Egypt.Panova mentioned that many UN agencies are already active at the local level across Egypt, working with diverse demographic, geographic, and economic sectors, which has made a difference in boosting development outside major urban areas. However, she pointed to the need to expand this work, noting that the UN in Egypt will soon launch a multi-agency program on SDG localization, involving UN-Habitat, the UNDP and UNICEF, to be financed by the Joint SDG Fund. With over 80% of global GDP generated in cities, urbanization is vital for prosperity. In Egypt, however, rapid urban growth has strained cities' capacity to meet population needs, exacerbated by climate change, leading to further inequality, increased migration patterns, and a widened poverty gap in many cities. This left 70% of Egyptian cities with low development capabilities, lacking productivity, quality of life, and access to resources. Egypt’s National Urban Policy seeks to balance this by enhancing city competitiveness, connectivity, and resilience. Through integrated development, including human capital growth, circular economy, and mainstreaming climate action, cities can support national growth and offer better opportunities for Egyptians.

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Press Release

10 December 2024

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL -- MESSAGE ON HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 10 December 2024

Human rights are under assault. Tens of millions of people are mired in poverty, hunger, poor health and education systems that have not yet fully recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic. Global inequalities are running rampant. Conflicts are intensifying. International law is willfully ignored. Authoritarianism is on the march while civic space is shrinking. Hateful rhetoric is fuelling discrimination, division, and outright violence. And women’s rights continue to be rolled back in law and practice. This year’s theme reminds us that human rights are about building the future — right now. All human rights are indivisible. Whether economic, social, civic, cultural or political, when one right is undermined, all rights are undermined. We must stand up for all rights — always. Healing divisions and building peace. Tackling the scourges of poverty and hunger. Ensuring health care and education for all. Advancing justice and equality for women, girls and minorities. Standing up for democracy, press freedoms and workers’ rights. Promoting the right to a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment. And defending human rights defenders as they carry out their vital work. The recently adopted Pact for the Future reinforced the world’s commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. On this important day, let’s protect, defend and uphold all human rights for all people. ***

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Press Release

04 December 2024

UN Egypt delegation visits Ahl Masr Burns Hospital

Cairo – A UN delegation visited Ahl Masr Burn Hospital in New Cairo to explore its groundbreaking model of providing free-of-charge, comprehensive medical care to burn patients. During their visit, the delegation praised the hospital’s exceptional quality of medical and psychological care, its integration of advanced medical technologies, and its holistic approach to addressing both the physical and psychological needs of patients. Touring the hospital’s state-of-the-art facilities, the delegation lauded its commitment to implementing innovative treatment strategies that align with World Health Organization (WHO) standards. This adherence to international protocols not only ensures patient safety but also participates in elevating the quality of healthcare services provided. Special attention was given to the hospital’s psychological rehabilitation programs, which play a crucial role in reintegrating burn survivors into society. The delegation included prominent representatives such as Ms. Elena Panova, UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt; Dr. Nima Saeed Abid, WHO Representative in Egypt; Mr. Eric Oechslin, Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Cairo Office; Dr. Samir Hadji Abdoulaye, Chief Migration Health Officer at the International Organization for Migration (IOM); Ms. Marwa AlamEldin, Head of Programmes UN Women Egypt; and Ms. Sally Zohney, Gender Specialist at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Dr. Heba El-Swedy, Founder and Chairwoman of the Ahl Masr Burn Hospital and Foundation, welcomed the delegation alongside Ms. Eman Sherif, CEO of Ahl Masr Foundation, Mr. Hussein Othman, CEO of Ahl Masr Burn Hospital, and Mr. Rifaat Abdel Maksoud, Chief Operations Officer of Ahl Masr Burn Hospital. “Ahl Masr Burn Hospital has made remarkable progress in providing advanced healthcare for burn patients, especially through its focus on psychological care and social reintegration, which aligns seamlessly with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals for 2030,” remarked Ms. Elena Panova, UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt. “We are eager to strengthen our partnership with the hospital to further enhance community support and resilience.” “This hospital stands as a distinguished example of advanced and holistic healthcare, not only in Egypt but across the Arab world and Africa,” said Dr. Nima Saeed Abid, WHO Representative in Egypt. “Its innovative and inclusive care model, combined with its dedication to raising public awareness about burn prevention and providing continuous professional training for medical personnel, is truly commendable.” “We deeply appreciate the recognition of our efforts by the UN’s delegation and warmly welcome opportunities for collaboration with its various agencies. These efforts reinforce our commitment to realizing the 'Humanity Burn Free' initiative by raising awareness about burn risks, providing comprehensive treatment, and ensuring the successful reintegration of survivors into society”, said Dr. Heba El-Sweedy, Founder and Chairwoman of the Ahl Masr Burn Hospital and Foundation. “Ahl Masr Burn Hospital plays a pivotal role in transforming lives, and we at the International Labour Organization are committed to supporting burn survivors by equipping them with skills and job opportunities to help them become productive contributors to society,” said Mr. Eric Oechslin, Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Cairo Office. Ms. Marwa AlamEldin, Head of Programmes UN Women Egypt added, “We are optimistic about the potential for a partnership with Ahl Masr Burn Hospital to further its humanitarian mission of saving lives and empowering survivors.” Since its inauguration in March, Ahl Masr Burn Hospital has treated over 5,000 burn patients, including 1,613 emergency cases and 157 patients in adult and pediatric intensive care units. The hospital has also provided post-operative psychological rehabilitation services, ensuring survivors are supported in their journey to reintegration.The Ahl Masr Foundation and Burn Hospital continue to work tirelessly to raise public awareness about the dangers of burn and their consequences, striving to build a more informed and safer society.-End-

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Press Release

02 December 2024

THE DEPUTY SECRETARY-GENERAL -- JOINT PRESS ENCOUNTER WITH H.E. BADR AHMED MOHAMED, MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS, EMIGRATION AND EGYPTIAN EXPATRIATES OF THE ARAB REPUBLIC OF EGYPT

Ladies and gentlemen of the media, I thank Egypt and President El-Sisi and Minister Abdelatty for hosting today’s conference — and for Egypt’s leadership as the absolute nightmare in Gaza grinds on. And here, I would like to first remember all those journalists that have lost their lives and have been killed in this crisis and to commend the courage of those who still try to take the message and the voices of the people of Palestine forward justice. As the Secretary-General has repeatedly said, nothing justifies the 7th October abhorrent acts of terror by Hamas, nor the taking of hostages. And nothing justifies the collective punishment of the Palestinian people that continues, even as we speak. This conference is about fulfilling the immediate needs of the Palestinian people. But it’s also about the steps required to stop the cycle of destruction and begin forging a lasting and sustainable peace. As we meet in Cairo, people in Gaza are facing crisis after crisis. They face a crisis of violence — with more than 44,000 Palestinians killed, mostly women and children. A crisis of shattered infrastructure — homes, neighbourhoods, hospitals and schools all levelled by the fighting. A crisis of displacement — with over 90 per cent of Palestinians being displaced, often multiple times, being squeezed into smaller and smaller areas that offer no safety. A crisis of hunger and malnutrition — with famine that is imminent – but all this man-made. A crisis of humanitarian aid being blocked time and time again by draconian Israeli measures — as well as a total breakdown in law and order giving way to looting, and destroyed and overcrowded roads. This is all being made worse by militarized Israeli security operations, settlement expansion, evictions, demolitions, settler violence and threats of annexation in the occupied West Bank. The situation is also a crisis for the Palestinian people’s best hope — UNRWA. Let me be clear. Israeli measures, including the recent Knesset bills, are preventing UNRWA from doing their job. And our staff members themselves have — outrageously — been killed, and many in the course of their work, and some, as I spoke this morning, in the course or trying to find safety for their family. Not only do they lose their family, but lose hope. Since the conflict began, 251 UN colleagues have been killed — almost all of them had worked for UNRWA. In addition, humanitarian installations, including hospitals and schools, have been damaged or destroyed. This all flies in the face of basic international law, numerous General Assembly and Security Council resolutions, and the International Court of Justice’s determinations and binding provisional orders. Above all, the crisis in Gaza is a crisis of political will to influence the parties’ conduct and the end of conflict. Today, the Secretary-General repeats his call for all parties to comply with their obligations under international law. We need to get aid flowing, immediately remove any obstructions to aid, and to ensure access and security for all humanitarian staff and operations. This, of course, includes UNRWA, which is an irreplaceable lifeline for millions of Palestinians. UNRWA has more schools, medical facilities, warehouses, offices and staff than all other humanitarian agencies in the Occupied Palestinian Territory combined. Aid is unthinkable without UNRWA. Rebuilding and reconstruction are also unthinkable without UNRWA. Above all, we need a political solution that puts peace first, the ceasefire, access to humanitarian aid. Peace requires an immediate ceasefire and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. And peace will require an end to the unlawful occupation of the Occupied Palestinian Territory as envisaged by the International Court of Justice and requested by the General Assembly. Peace also requires a two-State solution, in line with international law and relevant UN resolutions — with Israel and Palestine living side-by-side in peace and security, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States. We will be sparing no effort to gather partners around the need for a lasting and sustainable peace for Israelis and Palestinians alike. Ladies and gentlemen of the media, The people of Gaza are in jeopardy. International law is in jeopardy. Humanitarian aid is in jeopardy. And humanitarians themselves are in crisis. Enough is enough. We believe that the cycle of death, destruction and denial of aid has to end. And leaders can put an end to the crisis in Gaza. In the name of our common humanity, they must. And I call on them to take action and end the nightmare now. Thank you. Question: [Randa Abu Azam, Al Arabiya] Will the United Nations have a role in managing the Rafah Crossing on the Palestinian side if it is reopened?Also, as the issues cannot be separated. What is happening in Syria now might impact — or is already impacting—the events in Gaza, by drawing global attention away from the Gaza crisis, reducing its international prominence. Furthermore, the developments in Syria could potentially expand more regionally, surpassing the situation there. Could you please comment on this? Deputy Secretary-General: There were, I think, a year ago, the warnings showing that if we did not pay attention and take care of the crisis in Gaza, that the rest of the region was at risk. And I think we have seen over the last few months Lebanon and now Syria. I think it’s important for us to keep the visibility and the focus on Gaza. This is where the crisis is, where people, two million people, are under this oppressive state of famine, of lack of food, of the injuries that they receive and that they cannot have medical treatment. The access for humanitarian aid is absolutely essential. And that’s why we greatly appreciate that Egypt is providing this space to keep that visibility and to keep our voices to amplify what it is the Palestinian people need. We’re paying attention and closely observing what is happening in Syria, just as we did in Lebanon and went through various crises there to come to a ceasefire. So, the many moving parts that we see and the newly erupting ones, this is something that we have to work together to make sure no one falls off the radar of the importance of those issues. Gaza is still front and center of our attention. Question: [Randa Abu Azam, Al Arabiya] Will the United Nations have a role in managing the Rafah Crossing on the Palestinian side? Deputy Secretary-General: We will, with UNRWA and with our other agencies, continue to work hand-in-hand with the governments and with the people of Palestine to deliver that aid. Office of the Spo

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