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To address deep-seated issues of gang violence and women's lack of safety and security, the UN in El Salvador partnered with the Government to launch the "De Una! Transforming My Community" programme, funded by the UN Peacebuilding Fund. Recognizing that sustainable peace requires the active involvement of everyone, "De Una!" empowered residents to take ownership of peacebuilding in their communities. Its objectives were to address the root causes of conflict, foster social cohesion, and create economic opportunities.

In July of this year, Mauritania's presidential election took place amidst a peaceful atmosphere. With a spotlight on various social, economic and governance issues affecting the country’s population, the smooth organization of the electoral process signaled that national authorities were better prepared than in previous elections to meet the complex context.

The transformative power of energy access is undeniable. It is more than just keeping the lights on—it's a catalyst that accelerates progress across the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly for women and youth in rural communities. To address this critical need, the UN in Guinea is working with the government to support rural electrification initiatives and improve the living conditions of communities.

The pervasive issue of hate speech, particularly its online manifestation, poses a significant threat to peace, stability, and human rights across regions. The United Nations' efforts to combat hate speech in South and Southeast Asia have yielded valuable insights that can inform future initiatives in the region and beyond. 

There is no space for hate in a peaceful future. Marking the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, June 18, we look at how UN Country Teams (UNCT) on the ground are at the forefront of combatting hate speech. Embedded in their national context and communities, UN entities are uniquely placed to support public spaces that are diverse, inclusive and safe. They work hand-in-hand with governments, civil society, youth groups, media and others to advance human rights and combat discrimination in all its forms.

Our UN teams are on the ground in 162 countries and territories, coordinating joint programmes and tackling a range of priorities and initiatives — from climate action and food security to gender equality and safety of civilians.

Involving women and youth is at the heart of this movement. Resident Coordinators (RC) play a pivotal role in orchestrating a unified approach within the UN system and its specialized agencies to advance this inclusive vision. They draw on the strengths of each UN entity – at global, regional and country level—to craft a comprehensive response that addresses local needs to ensure no one is left behind, with development actions deeply rooted in local realities.