From medical breakthroughs to new space discoveries, from advanced quantum computing research to new scientific methods to understand the natural world around us, women and girls are shattering glass ceilings. Yet structural barriers and social norms remain that limit women and girls from unlocking their full potential.
Mangrove forests are a unique wetland ecosystem often found where land and sea meet. They act as carbon sinks, absorbing significant amounts of carbon dioxide and also help in protecting shorelines from erosion, acting as natural storm barriers. However, deforestation, illegal logging, and climate-induced changes have threatened their survival. Recognizing the importance of mangroves, the United Nations is working with national authorities, communities and other partners to support initiatives that aim to restore and protect these critical habitats.
Communities in the Kavango West region of northern Namibia, particularly women and girls, are facing the worst drought in a hundred years. The UN in Namibia under the leadership of the Resident Coordinator has been leading the charge to ensure women and girls are not left behind in tackling the impacts of climate change.
As the year draws to a close, we reflect on the various areas where Resident Coordinators and UN teams spearheaded initiatives that moved the dial on some of the most pressing challenges of our time.
Northern Ghana is home to 18.2 per cent of the country's population, yet accounts for nearly half of the country’s food-insecure population. The added pressure of hosting asylum seekers has further strained the region’s limited resources. The UN in Ghana, led by the United Nations Resident Coordinator's Office (RCO), is working with the Government of Ghana to address the complex situation and ensure refugees and asylum seekers are not left behind.
UN teams around the world are working to ensure that people with disabilities are not just heard but empowered – a constant reminder that true progress means inclusion for all.
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.
