ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COUNCIL CONSIDERS INTERNATIONAL COORDINATION

IN FIELD OF INFORMATICS, ADOPTS DECISIONS

 

Discusses Issues on United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Human

Rights, Narcotic Drugs, United Nations System Staff College, Indigenous Issues

(Reissued as received.)

GENEVA, 25 July (UN Information Service) -- The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) this morning took up issues on international cooperation in the field of informatics and science and technology for development, and adopted decisions on the flow of information for the follow-up to the World Summit on the Information Society and the report of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development.  The Council then started to discuss issues on the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, human rights, narcotic drugs, the United Nations System Staff College, indigenous issues and crime prevention. 

In the context of the items on international cooperation in the field of informatics, and science and technology for development, Tony Wilson, a representative of the Information Technology Services Division of the Department of Management, introduced the report of the Secretary-General on international cooperation in the field of informatics, saying that the report highlighted the cooperation between the Ad-hoc Open-Ended Working Group on Informatics and the Secretariat.  The Working Group had focused on improving the working conditions for delegates, using the information technology resources of the Secretariat.

The Council then held a general discussion under these agenda items, in which speakers stressed the importance of the development of national development strategies in the field of information technologies and enhancing international cooperation in thus field.  Universal access to education should be ensured, with equitable access to information technologies, by the promotion of strategies and development plans that were integrated in nature.  There should be democratization of knowledge - nobody should have a monopoly on knowledge, speakers said. 

The Council adopted a decision on the flow of information for the follow-up to the World Summit on the Information Society, in which it requested the Secretary-General to inform the Commission on Science and Technology for Development annually on the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society.  It also adopted a decision on the report of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development on its tenth session and provisional agenda and documentation for the eleventh session. 

The Council then took up the agenda items on United Nations research and training institutes and social and human rights questions and discussed issues on social development, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, human rights, narcotic drugs, UN System Staff College, indigenous issues and crime prevention.

Judy Cheng-Hopkins, Assistant High Commissioner for Operations of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, reporting to the Council on the coordination aspects of the work of the Office, said collaboration with a wide range of partners remained central to UNHCR’s efforts to provide international protection, material assistance and seek durable solutions for refuges and other persons of concern to the Office.  UNHCR had continued to support the humanitarian reform agenda within the UN system and had moved to improve the global humanitarian response capacity.  Building on the wealth of experience accumulated to date, UNHCR hoped to enhance its capacity to plan more strategically, engage key development actors at an earlier stage and tap into new opportunities for partnerships to support the reintegration process. 

Maria-Francisca Ize-Charrin, Director of Operations, Programmes and Research Division at the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, introducing the report of the High Commissioner, said the report focused on the concept of progressive realisation of economic, social and cultural rights under international human rights law.  The report did not contain specific recommendations for action by the Council, but provided a general discussion of a key issue related to the protection and promotion of economic, social and cultural rights.  It was part of the overall effort of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to give dedicated attention to economic, social and cultural rights in its work, and to promote and support work in this area within the broader United Nations human rights system. 

Staffan de Mistura, Director of the United Nations System Staff College, introducing his report, said the staff college was the only United Nations entity which was governed by other United Nations agencies. The mandate of the college to “serve as knowledge management and learning institution” placed it in a rather strategic position.  The college should not substitute for the very good work that the agencies provided themselves for the capacity development and training of their own staff, but must add value.  The college was striving to become a centre of excellence in learning and become an important player in the United Nations reform agenda – both in the area of effectiveness, particularly in the field, as well as in the realm of managerial efficiency and effectiveness. 

Philip O. Emafo, President of the International Narcotics Control Board, said the first chapter of the Board’s report for 2006 highlighted the danger of unregulated markets for the distribution and sale of drugs in many parts of the world.  Not only did these unregulated markets operate outside national and international laws, the quality, safety and effectiveness of the drugs sold on those markets were doubtful.  The Board continued to monitor the drug control situation in Afghanistan.  The Board and the WHO had jointly produced a Framework for the Access to Controlled Medications Programme. The Board could only continue to go on missions if adequate resources were made available to it.  

In the general discussion under these agenda items, among other things, speakers said the international community faced growing challenges as many disasters, both man-made and natural, were beyond national control and capacity to handle, and required concerted international efforts to help mitigate the suffering of the affected population.  The situation was unbalanced and extra efforts were needed from the international community, especially when it came to poverty, illiteracy and the condition of old people.  Economic, social and cultural rights were an indivisible element of the protection for human rights in general.

Speaking this morning were the representatives of Portugal (for the European Unio), Belarus, Venezuela, Barbados, Kenya (for the African Group), Argentina, China, Kenya (in its national capacity), Greece, Bolivia, Thailand, Russian Federation and Angola.

Also speaking were the representatives of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the Inter-Governmental Institution for the Use of Micro-alga Spirulina against Malnutrition, and the Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations in consultative status with ECOSOC. 

At 3 p.m. this afternoon, the Council is scheduled to conclude its general discussion on research and training institutes and social and human rights questions before taking up items on coordination, programme and other questions to discuss the long-term programme of support for Haiti and the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS. 

Documents

The Council has before it the first annual report of the Global Alliance for Information and Communication Technologies and Development (E/2007/CRP.4), which notes that the Global Alliance – created by the Secretary-General on 28 March 2006 and launched in Kuala Lumpur on 19 June 2006 – is an inclusive, cross-sectoral, multi-stakeholder platform for promoting the use of information and communication technologies for enhancing achievement of internationally agreed development goals, notably the reduction of poverty.  Since its founding, the Alliance had focused on developing its networks, defining its areas of priority, formulating its business plan, building collaborative links and raising awareness.  The Global Alliance has also launched five Flagship Partnership and Advocacy Initiatives -- to accelerate connectivity and access for Africa; enhance and scale up the tele-centre movement; create a Cyber Development Corps based on South-South and triangular cooperation; promote assistive technologies for persons with disabilities; and advocate for free Internet access for schools.  In addition, it has launched a number of Communities of Expertise.  In particular, the membership of the Alliance has expressed a new level of commitment to work towards bringing broadband connectivity to Africa.

The Council has before it the report of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (E/2007/31), addressing its substantive theme “promoting the building of a people-centred, development-oriented and inclusive information society”, and focusing also on the review of the progress made in the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society at the regional and international levels. The Commission identified achievements, gaps and challenges as well as future actions needed to advance their implementation.  Participants included ministers, representatives of Governments, civil society, the private sector, international organizations and others.  The session also provided an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of science and technology for development and to discuss modalities of follow-up to the outcomes of the World Summit.  The Commission recommended to the Economic and Social Council the adoption of a resolution on the flow of information for the follow-up to the World Summit on the Information Society.  The Commission agreed on a multi-year work programme that would allow it to undertake annually a review and assessment of progress made at the international and regional levels in the implementation of World Summit outcomes, with a view to bridging the digital divide.  The Commission would also continue to examine the implications of science and technology for development

The Council has before it the report of the Secretary-General on international cooperation in the field of informatics (E/2007/59), in which the President of the Council was requested to convene the Ad Hoc Open-ended Working Group on Informatics for one more year to enable it to continue its efforts to act as a bridge, with regard to information technology, between the evolving needs of Member States and the actions of the Secretariat.  The report highlights the continuing cooperation of the Working Group and the Secretariat, resulting in practical enhancements in the area of technology that facilitate the work of Member States and Observers of the United Nations, as well as of non-governmental organizations accredited to the United Nations.

Action on Decisions on International Cooperation in the Field of Informatics and Science and Technology for Development

In a decision contained in the report of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (E2007/31) on the flow of information for the follow-up to the World Summit on the Information Society, adopted without a vote, the Council, among other things, requests the Secretary-General to inform the Commission on Science and Technology for Development annually on the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society, including all e-applications; requests the secretariat of the Commission to use to the extent possible the above-mentioned executive summaries to draft the annual report of the Secretary-General on the follow-up to the outcomes of the World Summit; requests the secretariat of the Commission to publish the submitted respective reports on its website in their original language; requests action line facilitators and United Nations regional commissions to establish and keep channels of communication with all stakeholders and include their implementation efforts in their respective reports; and recommends that the Summit cluster of events be held annually in Geneva back to back with the World Information Society Day observed on 17 May and close enough to the session of the Commission.

In a decision contained in the same document, on the report of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development on its tenth session and provisional agenda and documentation for the eleventh session of the Commission, adopted without a vote, the Council takes note of the report of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development on its tenth session; and approves the provisional agenda and documentation for the eleventh session of the Commission as set out below.  The Council also adopts the provisional agenda and documentation for the twelfth session of the Commission and the report of the Commission on its eleventh session.

General Discussion on International Cooperation in the Field of Informatics and Science and Technology for Development

TONY WILSON, Representative of the Information Technology Services Division of the Department of Management, introducing the report of the Secretary-General on international cooperation in the field of informatics (E/2007/59), said the report highlighted the cooperation between the Ad-hoc Open-Ended Working Group on Informatics and the Secretariat.  The Working Group focused on improving the working conditions for delegates, using the information technology resources of the Secretariat.  The major accomplishment of the past year was developing the CANDI website, to support the elections process.  To develop the site, the Secretariat coordinated the efforts of volunteers, staff of permanent missions and Secretariat staff.  The site was in daily use by delegations and respective Governments.

Internet access, computer donations and email were also provided to missions.  In a manner transparent to most missions, the Secretariat had upgraded mission email, aligning it with Secretariat standards.  In coordination with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research, advanced public websites for up to 60 permanent missions were being run by the Secretariat.  The Working Group focused on practical technology and enhancements that benefited many.  Information technology played a vital role in the work of the United Nations. 

TERESA ALVARENGA ( Portugal), speaking on behalf of the European Union, said the European Union welcomed the outcome of the tenth session of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development.  The Commission had a specific mandate with respect to the World Summit on the Information Society follow-up, while at the same time maintaining its traditional mandate on science and technology for development.  The effective participation by the multi-stakeholders in the work of the tenth session had contributed significantly to its deliberations, and their participation needed to be maintained and strengthened. 

The resolution before the Council today was a well-balanced compromise, and would certainly contribute to mainstreaming the role of the Commission in the broader context of the Council’s mission.  The European Union commended the content of a draft decision on a multi-year work programme on the Commission on Science and Technology for Development, as requested by the Council.  The work programme, as drafted, was flexible enough to accommodate both the traditional and new mandate of the Commission, as well as to adapt itself to new developments that could occur in the future. 

ANDREI TRIBUSH ( Belarus) said on the development of national development strategies in the field of information technologies, the implementation of developments was a viable way of enhancing international cooperation in the field of informatics, and accelerating the integration of democratic societies.   The role of the most developed countries was important in this area, as without their experience and resources, the digital gap could not be filled, and this was becoming ever more menacing.   Belarus was working to implement information technologies in order to improve the situation of its population, when it came to creating the global information society.  There was a need to pay attention to aspects of the information society in order to create a healthy system. 

The activities of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development were supported by Belarus.  The next areas for its activities should include priorities on an examination of progress, national and regional, on the implementation of the conclusions of the high-level meeting, and should assess the impact of science and technology on development, particularly with regards to capacity building.  The efforts of international organizations in the fields of science and technology in the area of innovation should be further coordinated.  Belarus intended to continue to foster the development of a fair global information society, and to bolster international cooperation in the field of informatics in order to benefit all peoples of the world.

RUBEN MOLINA ( Venezuela) said information technology was one of the means which enabled countries and societies in general to give rise to a socio and economic system in which they could contribute to the welfare of the populations of the world.  Access to information and communication technology at a high level was not an end in itself - it was a tool which could be used to counter poverty, and promote economic and social development.  This was the vision of Venezuela of the technology revolution that was currently underway.  These developments had allowed to modify relationships in society today, and were contributing to the building of a knowledge society. 

However, these technologies had also led to a widening of the digital gap, constituting a separation between countries.  The world was therefore far from finding itself in an information society, as these services were not universally accessible.  There were issues of access.  Venezuela was anxious to give new momentum to the access to information technology.  The democratization of education was something that was possible if it were to include education for those who did not have access to education and information technology.  Today, in Venezuela, people were being trained to have access to these technologies.  They could also be used to reduce the social gap.  Universal access to education should be ensured, with equitable access to information technologies, by the promotion of strategies and development plans that were integrated in nature.  There should be democratization of knowledge -- nobody should have a monopoly on knowledge.

NATALIE BURKE ( Barbados) said the Commission on Science and Technology for Development had recommended to the Council a draft resolution for facilitating the flow of information for the World Summit on the Information Society follow-up, among other things.  The recommendations contained in the Commission’s resolution were supported, as they were significant and particularly relevant for developing countries, and supported the Commission’s focus on various issues, including the improvement and innovation of existing financing mechanisms, and multi-stakeholder participation in building the information society.  Barbados’ concerns in building an information society focused on providing access to all areas of society, through, among other things, providing broadband connectivity throughout the country, as well as promoting the use of information technology to the population as a whole.

It was not only at the national level, but at the regional level, that promoting the building of an inclusive information society was a priority, as a means for achieving further social cohesion, and a platform for integrating into and participating in the global information society.  The overall outcomes of the Commission had confirmed Barbados’ belief that the strengthened Commission was capable of fulfilling its mandate.

JEAN W. KIMANI ( Kenya), speaking on behalf of the African Group, said the Commission on Science and Technology for Development had done important work in the field of science and technology.  The African Group had been very active during the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) process, and had contributed actively to the consensus on the outcome document.  However, agreements and commitments only made sense if they were effectively implemented.  The work of the Commission was commended in assessing the progress made in the implementation of the outcomes of the WSIS.  Africa had committed itself to keeping fully engaged to ensure sustainable follow-up in this context, both nationally, regionally, and supra-regionally. 

The majority of African countries were working on the implementation of information technology plans.  There were multi-country and multi-stakeholder endeavours, aiming to bring information and communication technologies to schoolchildren across the country at primary and secondary levels.  The Commission had provided assistance in this regard, and had also helped countries to carry out reviews to identify appropriate measures to integrate science, technology and information programmes. 

GONZALO JORDAN ( Argentina) said many of the efforts made by the Information and Communication Technologies Task Force had contributed to public policy in the Global Forum.  Those who had assumed roles in the Task Force should continue to contribute to ensure the adoption of a global approach, including societies throughout the world.  The multi-stakeholder approach should come up with the necessary financing mechanisms in order to ensure the implementation of the agreements reached in Tunis at the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS).  Argentina had contributed to the work of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development, and had worked to implement the recommendations deemed necessary in order to improve the achievement of the results agreed at WSIS.  At the regional level, it participated in regional projects, including in developing the Latin American Network for Science, Technology and Innovation. 

LUI GUIMING ( China) said the work of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development was appreciated.  The Commission had taken up new functions.  China believed that the Commission should be concerned with information technology, as well as agriculture, biology, and related industries to the development of information technology.  The Commission should strengthen these functions, so that as a specialized Commission it could play its role to support sustainable development further.

PETER ALUBADE ( Kenya) said the role played by the Commission on Science and Technology for Development within its traditional mandate on science and technology was noted, and its enhanced role as focal point for the system wide follow-up of the Tunis and Geneva outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society was welcomed.  The decision adopted at the tenth session of the Commission would go a long way towards promoting the building of a people-centred development oriented and inclusive information society, and ensure that poverty be eradicated, and the Millennium Development Goals achieved by 2015.

An efficient, reliable and modern information and communications system was today a major prerequisite for rapid and sustainable development of any economy.  During recent years, a substantial amount of resources had been committed by the Government of Kenya for the development of the information and communications technology (ICT) sector.  The development partners and the international community in general should support the Government of Kenya by injecting additional capital to develop the sector.  The Government’s objective for the sector was to optimize its contribution to the development of the entire economy by ensuring availability of ICT infrastructure and services throughout the country in order to reach the poorest.

INGEBORG BREINES, of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), said information and communications technology (ICT) were becoming increasingly important to development.  UNESCO focused on facilitating training of specialists in informatics from developing countries in areas such as systems maintenance, development of free and open source, ICT planning and implementation, wireless and satellite networking and applications for open-distance learning.  Preference was given to capacity building of young information and knowledge professionals.  UNESCO also fostered the development of selected free and open source software applications.

While the 2005 United Nations Summits emphasized the importance of ICT in achieving the internationally agreed development goals, including the Millennium Development Goals, there was a need for a truly global forum that would comprehensively address cross-cutting issues related to ICT in development.  The Global Alliance for Information and Communication Technologies and Development was a direct response to this need.  UNESCO supported the Alliance, as it provided an interesting multi-stakeholder approach to harness information and communication for development. 

PHILIP BONN, of the Intergovernmental Institution for the Use of Micro-Alga Spirulina against Malnutrition, said the Institution was the result of the Conventions for the Use of Food Microalgae, which declared the great value of edible microalgae as food for emergencies, and foresaw the setting up of a network of productive centres to produce microalgae biomass addressed to malnourished victims of famine, drought and food emergencies.  Spirulina was a life-saving food, which could rehabilitate those malnourished victims of malnutrition when the conventional treatments were ineffective.  It also represented a means to reinforce food stability in developing countries.  All States should adhere to the Conventions for the Use of Food Microalgae, which did not entail financial obligations, and it was hoped that the topic of food microalgae for human nutrition and against food emergencies would become a satisfactory item during next meetings on development and food security. 

RENATA BLOEM, of the Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations in consultative status with ECOSOC ( CONGO), said the Commission on Science and Technology for Development had taken into account the multi-stakeholder approach, which implied evolutions in the working methods of the Commission, in particular regarding participation of non-governmental organizations in the Commission’s proceedings.  There had been oral participation of all stakeholders in plenary meetings, as well as in informal meetings.  These good practices should be maintained and strengthened.  The 2007 Commission resolution addressed the crucial issue of reporting patterns between the World Summit on the Information Society multi-stakeholder implementation process and the system-wide follow-up to the Commission.  The establishment of such an articulation between the implementation process and the system-wide follow-up was a significant, positive and welcome step.  Efforts should be continued by international organizations facilitating this process in terms of outreach to all relevant actors from all categories of stakeholders.

ANDREAS CAMBITSIS ( Greece) said that Greece aligned itself with the statement made previously by Portugal on behalf of the European Union.  The Internet Governance Forum had been hosted in Athens.  The multi-stakeholder policy dialogue was welcomed.  The important steps undertaken by the Government of Brazil were acknowledged.  Greece was looking forward to continuing the cooperation with all stakeholders in order to have another successful event.

ANA BAIARDI ( Paraguay) said with a trained population and with good tools, technology could convey information.  However, the cost of access, in particular in developing countries, was extremely high, and it was almost impossible for the poorest populations to have access to information and communications technology (ICT).  ICT was valuable for development, but there should also be a transfer of technology and skills from developed to developing countries. 

Documents

The Council has before it the report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (E/2007/82), which focuses on the concept of “progressive realization” of economic, social and cultural rights in international human rights law.  It also explores the meaning of the concept of progressive realization and how the United Nations human rights treaties allow for the gradual realization over time of economic, social and cultural rights while imposing obligations requiring immediate implementation by States parties.  Some of the issues arising from the practical implementation of obligations subject to progressive realization are examined, as well as the measures and national strategies to move towards the progressive achievement of economic, social and cultural rights.  Finally, it focuses on the role of independent monitoring by the human rights treaty bodies and on different ways of monitoring the progressive realization of economic, social and cultural rights.

The Council has before it identical letters dated 30 May 2007 from the President of the International Narcotics Control Board to the President of the General Assembly and the President of the Economic and Social Council (A/62/90-E/2007/72) which are in regard to the proposed programme budget for the biennium 2008-2009, section 16, international drug control, crime and terrorism prevention and criminal justice.  During the eighty-ninth session of the Board the members expressed concerns over the critical financial situation of the Board, which, if not reversed, could jeopardize its work. They decided to authorize the President of the Board to bring their concerns to the attention of the Economic and Social Council and the General Assembly, which have responsibility under the Conventions to cover the expenses of the Board and to ensure that it can function properly.  The letter therefore requests the Economic and Social Council, the Committee for Programme and Coordination and the Fifth Committee for appropriate action with a view to providing adequate financial resources to the Board from the United Nations regular budget for the biennium 2008-2009 and beyond.

The Council has before it the report of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (E/2007/28), which focuses on matters calling for action by the Economic and Social Council or brought to its attention, followed by a section on thematic debate on new challenges for controlling precursor chemicals.  The report also contains a follow-up to the twentieth special session of the General Assembly; a section on drug demand reduction; illicit drug trafficking and supply; and on the implementation of the international drug control treaties.  It contains policy directives to the drug programme of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and a section on strengthening the drug programme of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the role of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs as its governing body.  Furthermore, the report includes administrative and budgetary questions, the organization of the work of the Commission and the provisional agenda for the fifty-first session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs as well as the adoption of the report of the Commission on its fiftieth session. 

The report contains IX Annexes, including Annex III entitled “follow-up to the Second Ministerial Conference on Drug Trafficking Routes from Afghanistan”; Annex IV entitled “strengthening international support for Haiti in combating the drug problem”; and Annex VIII entitled “improving the quality and performance of drug analysis laboratories”.

The Council has before it the report of the International Narcotics Control Board for 2006 (E/INCB/2006/1), which says significant progress has been made in reducing illicit drug trafficking and abuse, though a lot more remains to be done.  Larger seizures of cocaine and heroin suggest the existence of well-organized criminal syndicates that are moving drugs around the globe with impunity; those syndicates must be dismantled.  The seizures also suggest that there is a need to improve the effectiveness of interdiction efforts and intelligence-sharing.  It is of particular concern that in recent years the variety of internationally controlled substances available on the unregulated market have been increasing.  In addition, drug traffickers are turning to innovative ways of smuggling such substances, such as the transnational distribution of counterfeit drugs and the use of the Internet and postal and courier services.  This serious development, if it remains unchecked, may undermine progress made in international drug control, and should be addressed as a matter of urgency.  All Governments need to show greater commitment to the ideals of the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961 and the Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971, in particular to limit the possession, use, distribution, import, export, manufacture and production of, and trade in, drugs exclusively to medical and scientific purposes and to address drug trafficking through international cooperation aimed at deterring such activity.  Governments should also introduce drug demand reduction programmes, including programmes for the treatment, rehabilitation and social reintegration of drug abusers.

Before the Council is a note by the Secretary-General (E/2007/60) entitled report of the Director of the United Nations System Staff College on its work, activities and accomplishments, which outlines the active role of the College and its governance and describes its learning and training activities in the two years ending 30 June 2007.  The report also discusses the human and financial resources available to the College during the same period. Furthermore, the report outlines the College vision up to 2009.  The report also highlights the solid progress made by the College over the last two years as well as its renewed coherence and future orientation.

The Council has before it the report of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (E/2007/43), which focuses on Matters calling for action by the Economic and Social Council or brought to its attention, including Draft decisions recommended by the Permanent Forum for adoption by the Council such as Draft decision I. on International expert group meeting on indigenous languages; Draft decision II. on Venue and dates of the seventh session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues; and Draft decision III. on Provisional agenda and documentation for the seventh session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and Matters brought to the attention of the Council.  The report also contained a section on Venue, dates and proceedings of the sixth session and the Adoption of the report of the Permanent Forum on its sixth session.

Introductory Statements on the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Human Rights, Narcotic Drugs, UN System Staff College, Indigenous Issues

JUDY CHENG-HOPKINS, Assistant High Commissioner for Operations at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), said that her comments on the coordination aspects of the work of UNHCR’s activities from mid-year 2006 to mid-year 2007 were in line with United Nations General-Assembly resolution 58/153.  Collaboration with a wide range of partners remained central to UNHCR’s efforts to provide international protection, material assistance and seek durable solutions for refuges and other persons of concern to the Office.  UNHCR had continued to support the humanitarian reform agenda within the UN system as well as moved to improve the global humanitarian response capacity.  So long as the human space was preserved for its international protection mandate, UNHCR saw potential for enhanced partnerships under “Delivering as One”.  The engagement of the organization in the 8 pilot projects to date had resulted in the inclusion of programmes for refugees and returnees in the United Nations Strategic Plans developed in a majority of these cases.

There were four possible points of entry for UNHCR, she said.  They included linking refugee and internally displaced persons return and reintegration programmes with other development initiatives and development partners; assisting governments establish refugee asylum systems; facilitating the local integration of long-standing refugee populations when such opportunities arose; and extending national social and health services.  UNHCR supported the call for a proper evaluation of the pilot projects so that lessons learnt may be obtained before rolling out to other countries.  UNHCR continued to play an active role as the global lead for the Protection Cluster, the co-lead of the Camp Coordination and Camp Management, and the Emergency Shelter Clusters.  At the field level, UNHCR was presently acting as cluster lead in one or all of these areas.  The organization continued to be an active participant in the Inter-Agency Standing Committee’s discussion on the further roll out of the cluster approach. 

Peace initiatives over the past several years had shown encouraging results, with refugees and internally displaced persons returning in significant numbers, for instance in Angola and Liberia, and more recently in South Sudan and Northern Uganda, she said.  Building on the wealth of experience accumulated to date, UNHCR hoped to enhance its capacity to plan more strategically, engage key development actors at an earlier stage and tap into new opportunities for partnerships to support the reintegration process.  UNHCR did not consider itself as a development agency, nor did it have the resources to sustain indefinitely its involvement in returnee situations.  UNHCR continuously strived to improve and build on its vital partnership with non-governmental organizations (NGOs9.  Without the NGO partners, particularly those with local knowledge and networks, UNHCR’s capacity to provide international protection and bring needed assistance to displaced populations in need would be severely limited.  This was especially true in situations such as those faced in Iraq, Chad, Sri Lanka and others       

MARIA FRANCISCA IZE-CHARRIN, Director of the Operations, Programmes and Research Division of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, presenting the report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights to the Council, said the report focused on the concept of progressive realization of economic, social and cultural rights under international human rights law.  It complemented the High Commissioner’s report to last year’s session.  These reports should be considered in the broader context of the Plan of Action, which highlighted the need to give greater attention to economic, social and cultural rights.  Only through the comprehensive implementation of human rights, that promoted all human rights equally, including economic, social and cultural rights, would the vision of the Universal Declaration be achieved, and the key issues facing the world today, such as poverty, discrimination and conflict, be addressed.

The report did not contain specific recommendations for action by the Council, but provided a general discussion of a key issue related to the protection and promotion of economic, social and cultural rights.  It was part of the overall effort of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to give dedicated attention to economic, social and cultural rights in its work, and to promote and support work in this area within the broader United Nations human rights system.  It indicated how the concept of progressive realization captured a central element of obligations of economic, social and cultural rights as set out in the United Nations human rights treaties.  The concept of progressive realization was often misunderstood, and taken to mean that economic, social and cultural rights were not immediately applicable or that they were merely aspirational goals, and too vaguely defined to impose clear obligations on States.  The report aimed to dispel such misconceptions.

The report underlined that the Covenant did not, in most cases, dictate specific policy measures, reflecting the difficulties in prescribing any single list of measures to implement economic, social and cultural rights, but rather provided a general framework which should guide States in their policy-making.  It set out some of the general requirements for the elaboration and implementation of measures for the realization of economic, social and cultural rights.  The report highlighted the importance of effective treaty monitoring through the review of periodic State reports combined with individual complaint procedures. 

STAFFAN DE MISTURA, Director of the United Nations System Staff College, introducing the report under agenda item 15, said that the staff college was the only United Nations entity which was governed by other United Nations agencies; it was one of the youngest members of the United Nations family, having an independent statute only since January 2002; and it was probably the smallest of the UN agencies.  The mandate of the college to “serve as knowledge management and learning institution” placed it in a rather strategic position.  The college should not substitute for the very good work that the agencies provided themselves for the capacity development and training of their own staff, but must add value.  The college was striving to become a centre of excellence in learning and become an important player in the United Nations reform agenda – both in the area of effectiveness, particularly in the field, as well as in the realm of managerial efficiency and effectiveness. 

With regard to the recommendations of the General Assembly resolution, it called on the agencies of the United Nations to make full and effective use of the college’s services and facilities, he said.  Second, the Assembly saw a role for the college in reinforcing system wide coherence in the important areas of development, peace and collective security.  Third, the Assembly encouraged the college to undertake activities to improve management and leadership in the United Nations.  Fourth, the Assembly called on the college to collaborate with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research and the United Nations University.  Finally, the Assembly welcomed the financial support provided by Member States and United Nations agencies to enable the college to undertake its important activities. This was where the college’s vulnerability lay.  Only 5 per cent of the $ 10 million budget of the college derived from an assessed and guaranteed contribution from UN agencies. 

The lack of assured funding could stifle the college’s ability to be strategic, to be set an example to the system and provide services which were novel, he said.  True reform required creativity and to some extent risk taking.  There was a role, which the college could provide and indeed from which the United Nations system could truly benefit.  With regard to reform and change within the United Nations system, nothing could be achieved without better knowledge management and recognition that “learning” was the key.  Whether it be related to Leading as One, Delivering as One or Serving as One, the college could be instrumental in a way that its size might conceal, in helping the United Nations system achieve the noble objectives.   

PHILIP O. EMAFO, President of the International Narcotics Control Board, said with regards to the work of the International Narcotics Control Board since its last meeting, the first chapter of the report for 2006 highlighted the danger of unregulated markets for the distribution and sale of drugs in many parts of the world.  Not only did these unregulated markets operate outside national and international laws, the quality, safety and effectiveness of the drugs sold on those markets were doubtful.  The first chapter contained concrete recommendations to Governments, international organizations and other concerned parties on how to ensure that all those affected by unregulated markets could take appropriate action to contain the problem. 

The Board continued to monitor the drug control situation in Afghanistan.  Suggestions that illicit poppy cultivation should be legalized in Afghanistan had been receiving a fair amount of attention in the international media.  Such suggestions were unrealistic and lacked merit.  The Board estimated that in 2007, the supply of opiates for medical and scientific purposes would also exceed the demand needed for medical purposes.  The current total stocks of licit opiate raw materials were sufficient to meet legitimate demand for almost two years.  The international community had an important role to assist the Government of Afghanistan in its efforts. 

The low licit consumption of opiate analgesics for the management of pain was an area on which the Board had been active in the recent past.  The Board and the WHO had jointly produced a Framework for the Access to Controlled Medications Programme.  Country missions were an important part of the dialogue between Governments and the Board, and were carried out to examine the national drug control situation and measures adopted by Governments to implement the provisions of the international drug control Conventions.  The Board could only continue to go on missions if adequate resources were made available to it.  It was important that the General Assembly provide adequate funding for the Board’s activities. 

General Discussion on the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Human Rights, Narcotic Drugs, UN System Staff College, Indigenous Issues, Crime Prevention

ZOYA KOLONTAI ( Belarus) said that Belarus would like to address several points under agenda item 14 on social and human rights questions.  Social matters were one of the most important and promising of the United Nations.  It was clear from the report that the situation was unbalanced and extra-efforts were needed from the international community, especially when it came to poverty, illiteracy and the condition of old people.  Belarus was seeking to meet the social needs of all, including the most vulnerable groups of the society.  The country considered that steps needed to be taken as noted by the Secretary-General in the report.  The country had a high GDP growth; as a result there was no significant wealth gap.  Social equality must be ensured, for example by ensuring that all the citizens had access to employment.  Literacy and education were crucial to development.  Education was a key when it came to policies.  The national education ensured one of the highest literacy rates in the world.  The Economic and Social Council had the overall responsibility of coordinating activities in the areas related to these issues.

With regard to countering crime and drug trafficking, Belarus was an active participant in the efforts made.  There was an inter-departmental commission dealing with drug addiction and corruption.  Belarus was concerned about synthetic drugs, which were crossing Belarus to be then sold in other countries.  The results of the visits of experts to Belarus last year were welcomed.  The country had ratified all United Nations counter-terrorism conventions.  Belarus had taken important steps to counter terrorist activities.  Priority was attached to multilateral cooperation.  The resolution to coordinate the efforts on counter-trafficking in persons was important.  Belarus wanted to appeal to States to provide financial support so that United Nations bodies could continue their efforts in this field.  A United Nations strategy should be adopted on the issue of the counter-trafficking in persons.  On the issue of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Belarus was satisfied with the level of cooperation with the Office.  Belarus expressed its support for UNHCR.  With regard to promoting economic, social and cultural rights, Belarus considered that they were an indivisible element of the protection for human rights in general.

ZORKA COPA ROMERO (Bolivia) said with regards to narcotic drugs and the 2006 report of the International Narcotics Board, at the 2006 session, Bolivia had expressed the opinion that the way it was treated was discriminatory and out of place.  In no other way was a country annexed under a sub-title along with products and themes such as ketamine, nor compared to sub-headings such as sales on the Internet of controlled substances.  This unique treatment given to a country was unprecedented and unheard of.  No other country was treated like this, and there was a clear affront to the basic principles of justice, equality and democracy.

Bolivia energetically rejected the way it was treated in the report, which was not consistent with the manner in which it should be treated in a multi-lateral arena such as the United Nations.  Bolivia reaffirmed the cultural right of indigenous peoples to have recognized the sacred nature of the coca leaf with a religious and elevating meeting.  This was part of the oral tradition and traditional practices of mankind.  The Special Rapporteur on the right to food on her last visit to Bolivia had referred to the right of indigenous peoples to use the coca leaf, as this was a tradition that was not harmful to health. 

JAVIER LOAYZA ( Bolivia) said that more than 62 per cent of the population in Bolivia were part of the indigenous population.  Bolivia wanted to mention some of the most important issues related to the protection and the application of the rights of the indigenous people in the country.  A law on community action on land had been adopted in Bolivia. 

Bolivia distributed the land to indigenous people, giving them property rights, he said.  A gender notion was included in the agrarian approach.  Special policies were carried out for isolated indigenous people in the country.  They had suffered from silent, shameful genocide.  The country was working on a law draft protecting indigenous people in Bolivia.  Bolivia was also working with the Forum on Indigenous Issues.

LADA PHUMAS ( Thailand) said Thailand was pleased that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) placed special emphasis on collaboration and partnership with all concerned agencies and partners as part of the reform efforts of the United Nations system.  Nowadays the international community faced growing challenges as many disasters, both man-made and natural, were beyond national control and capacity to handle, and required concerted international efforts to help mitigate the suffering of the affected population.  The increase in humanitarian actors compelled close cooperation to ensure coherence in humanitarian responses in order to successfully meet such challenges.  More timely, effective and predictable humanitarian response was sought and greater partnerships and coordination at all levels were crucial in providing relief and assistance on the ground. 

The increase in the number of internally displaced persons worldwide affirmed that closer coordination and cooperation between States, UNHCR and its partner agencies was essential in attaining more effective assistance.  There should be more collaboration with concerned Governments to better create a sense of ownership of the whole operation.  Local and national capacity building should also be promoted in order to pave the way for effective and sustainable recovery and rehabilitation.  UNHCR should have more detailed assessment of its work in all IDP operations, which could help identify best practices and measures that could be taken to further alleviate the plight of millions of internally displaced persons worldwide. 

FRANCISCO XAVIER ESTEVES (Portugal), speaking on behalf of the European Union, said that the European Union welcomed the report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).  During the past year, UNHCR had been presented with a number of new opportunities and challenges, linked both to its new responsibilities in the context of humanitarian reform and to the changing composition of populations of concern to UNHCR.  Portugal was pleased to see that UNHCR had worked closely with a variety of humanitarian actors, particularly in the field operations.  The new challenges facing UNHCR had to be seen in the context of the ongoing process of humanitarian reform.  There was strong initialization evidence that key elements of the reform, such as the cluster approach and the Central Emergency Response Fund, had already made a contribution to better addressing the plight of refugees and internally displaced persons. 

With respect to the internal displacement, it was obvious that the dimension and challenges of the problem currently lay beyond the capacity of any single organization, he said.  Agencies with cluster lead responsibilities, such as UNHCR, should be guided by an inclusive approach whereby responsibilities were shared among key partners, both inside and outside the United Nations system.  The needs of internally displaced persons could only effectively be met by inter-agency and partnership approaches, in close cooperation with national governments, which carried primary responsibility for their citizens.  The European Union expected greater policy coherence, and better cooperation between the United Nations, its agencies and other multilateral bodies and organization.

ALEXEY GOLTYAEV ( Russian Federation) said the report of the Social Development Commission was welcome - it continued to place the consolidation of the organization at the centre of attention.  The role of the Commission in promoting the decisions of the 2005 Summit, the Copenhagen Summit and the 45th session of the General Assembly was welcomed.  The Russian Government was working to enhance the social role of the family, and in 2008 would hold the Year of the Family.  Reforms were continuing in many areas, including social housing, and increasing funds for mothers and young people.  Russia championed an increase in United Nations capacity to bring about a single criminal strategy to counter the threats faced by the international community.  Russian legislation had gone through several changes. 

The United Nations Convention against Corruption was an appropriate, combined and unified response to the challenges of crime and corruption, and it underpinned the international community’s efforts to counter this, including the transfer of illicitly obtained funds.  The international community was assessing the efforts to control the overall narcotics situation, but it should not rest on its laurels - there was an unprecedented narcotics boom in some countries and regions, in particular an increase in narcotics coming from Afghanistan.  There was a convergence of drugs terrorism and narcotics.  The international community should join forces.  The protection and promotion of human rights was one of the most important activities of the United Nations, and there was now, thanks to the Human Rights Council, a strong institutional basis for this. 

VIRGILIO FARIA ( Angola) said with reference to the voting on draft resolution E/2007/27 yesterday on the report of the Commission on the Status of Women at its fifty-first session that the Angolan delegation voted “abstention” due to an unfortunate mistake.  He wanted to place on record that Angola wanted to vote in favour of the resolution. 

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For information media • not an official record