A lack of data, inadequate monitoring and evaluation of social programmes, as well as a dearth of trained professionals hindered the achievement of social development objectives, the Commission tasked with advancing those goals heard today, as it wrapped up its substantive work for the session with discussions on issues affecting vulnerable social groups.

The Special Committee on the Charter of the United Nations and on the Strengthening of the Role of the Organization opened its 2014 session today, as delegates debated questions surrounding economic sanctions, as well as wide‑ranging issues of reform.

The thirty-third Meeting of States Parties to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights elected Andrei Paul Zlătescu (Romania) to the Human Rights Committee until today, replacing Iulia Antoanella Motoc, who resigned on 4 November 2013, and whose term would have expired on 31 December this year.