I. Introduction

1. The present report is submitted pursuant to Security Council resolution 2056 (2012) of 5 July 2012, in which the Council requested me to develop and implement, in consultation with regional organizations, a United Nations integrated strategy for the Sahel region, encompassing security, governance, development, human rights and humanitarian issues. It is also submitted pursuant to the statement by the President of the Security Council dated 16 July 2013 (S/PRST/2013/10), in which I was requested to submit a report on progress made towards the implementation of the United Nations integrated strategy for the Sahel by no later than 30 June 2014. In the same statement, the Council requested the United Nations to establish an effective and detailed coordination mechanism for the implementation of the integrated strategy.

2. The present report summarizes the main developments in the region from 1 July 2013 to 30 May 2014, and provides an update on the status of implementation of the three pillars of the integrated strategy, namely, governance, security and resilience. It also provides a brief update on other regional initiatives and summarizes the

BAMAKO, 11 juin 2014 (AFP) - Quatre militaires tchadiens de l'ONU ont été tués lors d'un attentat à la voiture piégée mercredi à Aguelhok, dans le nord du Mali, a annoncé à l'AFP le ministère malien de la Défense.

Un précédent bilan communiqué à l'AFP par des sources militaires maliennes et africaines avait fait état de "quatre militaires tchadiens et maliens" tués à la suite de cet attentat suicide commis à Aguelhok , ville située à mi-chemin entre Kidal et Tessalit, dans le nord-est du Mali, près de la frontière avec l'Algérie.

"Quatre militaires sont morts. Ils sont tous Tchadiens", a affirmé à l'AFP un responsable du ministère malien de la Défense dans ce nouveau bilan.

L'attentat qui s'est produit à l'entrée du camp de la Minusma - la force de l'ONU au Mali - à Aguelhok, a également fait "dix blessés" dont "six soldats de la Minusma et quatre militaires maliens" qui étaient aussi dans le camp, a ajouté la même source, sans préciser la nationalité des soldats blessés de l'ONU.

Le chef de la Minusma, Albert Koenders, a condamné une attaque "lâche et odieuse". "Je suis choqué que de valeureux soldats de la paix soient à nouveau pris pour cible. Cet attentat ne détournera pas la Minusma de sa mission de rétablissement de la paix et de la sécurité au Mali," a-t-il ajouté.

Le président tchadien Idriss Déby avait envoyé début 2013 ses troupes en première ligne aux côtés de La France qui avait été à l'initiative de l'intervention internationale armée, toujours en cours, contre les groupes islamistes armés qui ont occupé le nord du Mali pendant plusieurs mois en 2012.

Avec une cinquantaine de soldats tués, les Tchadiens ont payé depuis un lourd tribut à la traque des groupes jihadistes, en particulier dans le massif des Ifoghas (nord-est du Mali), dans la région de Kidal, début 2013.

Les islamistes ont été en partie chassés des principales villes du Nord par l'intervention armée internationale, mais des attentats meurtriers ont cependant encore lieu régulièrement dans le vaste nord du Mali, où des groupes jihadistes continuent également à poser des mines.

En avril, plusieurs roquettes ont été tirées à l'arme lourde sur les villes de Gao, la plus grande ville du nord du Mali, ainsi que sur Kidal, ville qui échappe encore à l'autorité de l'Etat et de l'armée malienne et reste sous contrôle des groupes armés.

Kidal est le fief de la rébellion touareg qui, en mai, y avait affronté pendant plusieurs jours une armée malienne tentant d'en reprendre le contrôle et perdant une cinquantaine de soldats lors des combats.

Le gouvernement malien avait affirmé que des éléments jihadistes avaient participé à ces combats.

La rébellion touareg du Mouvement national de libération de l'Azawad (MNLA) était alliée aux groupes islamistes armés lorsqu'elle avait lancé une offensive dans le nord du Mali en janvier 2012.

Ces groupes avaient ensuite évincé le MNLA des grandes villes de la région, Gao, Kidal et Tombouctou, dont ils avaient pris le contrôle total avant l'intervention armée de la France en janvier 2013.

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Summary: 11 June 2014, Athens - Declaration Adopted at Third European Union-League of Arab States Foreign Affairs Ministerial Meeting Athens, Greece, June 10-11, 2014

The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the European Union (EU) and of the League of Arab States (LAS), gathering on the occasion of the Third Ministerial Meeting between the EU and LAS on June 10 and 11, 2014 in Athens, Greece, at the invitation of H.E. Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, H.E. Dr. Nabil Elaraby, Secretary General of the League of Arab States, and H.E. Salaheddine Mezouar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Morocco, and hosted by H.E. Evangelos Venizelos, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Greece;

Have adopted the following declaration:

1. The Ministers expressed determination to address together common political, economic, and security challenges with a view of sharing a better future for all.

2. The Ministers welcomed Euro-Arab co-operation as a means to provide an integrated regional response to strategic challenges, to ensure capacity building within the LAS institutional set-up and to further develop technical exchanges.

STRATEGIC COOPERATION:

1. The Ministers announced the establishment of an EU-LAS Strategic Dialogue, including exchanges on political and security matters, the exchange of regular meetings of the EU Political and Security Committee and the Arab Permanent Representatives and commended progress made in the field of early warning and crisis response, in particular the full implementation of the Early Warning & Crisis Response Project.

2. The Ministers stressed the importance of co-operation on humanitarian assistance issues through the exchange of information on crisis situations. The Ministers welcomed the Kuwait Arab Summit resolution to establish an Arab Mechanism for Coordination of Humanitarian Assistance within the LAS Secretariat.

3. The Ministers condemned all acts of terrorism, particularly the terrorist attacks that occurred in their countries recently, which aim to undermine security and stability and lead to the deaths of innocent victims. They ensured the importance of the joint cooperation to face this phenomenon, which includes the threat posed by terrorist groups and foreign fighters. They agreed to share, as appropriate, assessments and best practices, as well as to cooperate in identifying practical steps to help address the threats. This will include counter-acting more effectively radicalization, recruitment, travel of terrorists and foreign fighters as well as dealing with fighters returning to their place of departure. The Ministers also agreed to continue work on the comprehensive implementation of the United Nations (UN) Global Counter Terrorism Strategy. In this regard, they welcomed the establishment of the UN Counter-Terrorism Centre with the initiative of the Custodian of the two Holy Mosques, and ask for supporting this centre. In this regard, they welcomed the holding of the first international Conference on Combating Terrorism, in Baghdad in March 2014, as an opportunity to discuss and seek appropriate means and ways to promote international cooperation and combat terrorism at regional level.

4. The Ministers agreed to co-operate in combating transnational organized crime including the trafficking in human beings and drugs, and improving border security. The Ministers also called for the compliance with the UN Security Council resolution 2133 on the payment of ransom to terrorist groups.

5. Regarding the establishment of a Middle East as a zone free of nuclear and all other weapons of mass destruction, the Ministers stressed the importance of implementing the outcomes of the 1995 NPT Resolution on the Middle East and the 2010 Action Plan, and expressed their hope that the postponed 2012 conference on such zone can be held, in accordance with the mandate and terms of reference agreed upon in the 2010 Action Plan, by the end of this year, on the basis of arrangements freely arrived at between the States of the region, thus contributing to a successful 2015 NPT Review Conference.

INSTITUTIONAL COOPERATION:

1. The Ministers encouraged further progress in the implementation of the EU - LAS General Secretariat Joint Work Programme (2014-2016), and work on an inter-institutional agreement.

2. They welcomed the launch of a Diplomatic Internship Programme in November 2013, as well as the "Training & Information Course on Euro-Arab Diplomacy".

3. The Ministers welcomed the strengthening of the relations between the European Parliament and the Arab Parliament, notably through inter-parliamentary co-operation. The Ministers encouraged both Parliaments to continue enhancing their relationship based on open and a regular political dialogue, and to sustain the ongoing political reforms. The Ministers also welcomed the multiple forms and levels of cooperation and learning going on between national Parliaments.

4. The Ministers agreed to enhance cooperation on translation and digitization of heritage, illicit trafficking of antiquities and cultural property, protection of World Heritage, and to support the full implementation of the relevant UNESCO conventions.

5. The Ministers undertook to further support the European Commission-LAS Liaison Office in Malta (ECLASLO), to play a bigger role in enhancing practical cooperation between the two sides.

SOCIO-ECONOMIC CO-OPERATION:

1. The Ministers reaffirmed the importance of co-operation between the EU and the Arab World in the field of human rights. Ministers emphasized the importance to continue to promote and protect human rights and uphold all human rights for all, including the right to economic and social development, freedom of expression and freedom of religion or belief, and promote the values of tolerance and coexistence between different religions and reject the exclusion, extremism, incitement and dissemination of hatred and violence. In this regard, the Ministers welcomed the activities of the International King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue in Vienna. They underlined the necessity to respect religious diversity, promote dialogue between cultures and combat hate speech. The Ministers welcomed the decision on the establishment of an Arab Court of Human Rights as agreed by the Arab Summit in March 2013. The Ministers emphasized the importance of inclusive, transparent and fair elections, in accordance with relevant constitutional and legal provisions.

2. The Ministers recognized the significant contribution that women make to the economy and the major force they represent for change and development in all sectors of society. Within this context, the Ministers underlined their willingness to promote women political, social and economic empowerment, and welcomed the steps towards the implementation of the regional programme "Economic and Political Empowerment of Women" in partnership with LAS, EU and UN Women.

3. The Ministers reaffirmed the important role of civil society and free media in participating in the democratic process of their countries in accordance with its relevant laws and regulations, rule of law and respect of human rights. The Ministers stressed the importance of cooperating with legally registered civil society organizations.

4. The Ministers stressed their will to reinforce institutional co-operation between business community, trade unions, chambers of commerce and other relevant civil society organizations from both the EU and LAS, and called for regular meetings between both sides that will provide an institutional frame to guide this co-operation in order to tackle common challenges in an era of globalization and multi-stakeholder policy approaches to share and exchange information of best practices with a service-oriented approach.

In this context, the Ministers expressed interest in exploring cooperation in transport, research and innovation, transfer of technology, petro-chemicals and information technology. They welcomed the holding of the Conference on "Europe and the Arab World: Fortifying Political, Business and Investment Ties", held in Athens, on 5-6 May, 2014, with the participation of Ministers and representatives of both business communities. The Ministers stressed the importance of cooperation to reduce the impact of excessive food price volatility and the risk of food crisis.

1. The Ministers recalled the importance of regional energy cooperation to ensure secure and sustainable energy supply through joint international investment in that area, in accordance with their respective interest, in order to promote social and economic development and contribute to a transition to a low carbon and energy efficiency. They also stressed the role of energy as a key Euro-Arab cooperation factor to enhance beneficial mutual interdependence. The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to enhanced producer-consumer dialogue.

2. They also recalled the importance of cooperation on climate change and environment and are determined to work together towards the adoption of a global, ambitious, fair and legally binding international agreement applicable to all parties in 2015, at the 21st session of the Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC in Paris, to reduce global greenhouse gases emissions.

3. In accordance with the relevant UN resolutions, the Ministers reconfirmed the importance of co-operation on the freezing and recovery of funds and assets that were misappropriated. They recognized the progress made, inter alia, in the framework of the Arab Forum on Asset Recovery, as initiated by the Deauville Partnership, which held its second meeting in Marrakesh, 26-28 October 2013.

4. The Ministers reconfirmed the importance of migration, mobility and employment for the development of countries of both parties. They considered that the serious social and human impact of irregular migration should be effectively tackled in a comprehensive way, including by addressing its root causes and among other means by ensuring an effective and concerted return policy between countries of origin, transit and destination.

5. The Ministers stressed that a better understanding between people will be facilitated through exchanges between their youth, and co-operation between their higher education institutions and research centers and welcomed the establishment of the Fes University in this regard. The Ministers encouraged universities, students, researchers, academic staff and youth organizations from LAS countries to fully use the potential of the new Erasmus + Programme and Horizon 2020. The Ministers welcomed the setting-up of the Arab-Euro Conferences on Higher Education (AECHE) as a forum of co-operation between European and Arab higher education institutions and look forward to further meeting between both institutions. They looked forward to the 3rd Arab European Young Leaders Forum taking place in Vienna from 23 to 25 June 2014.

6. The Ministers welcomed the ongoing work through the framework of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) under the leadership of the co-presidency, which contributes to the socio-economic development of southern Mediterranean countries. They underlined the importance of implementing concrete projects on the basis of the rule of variable geometry and mobilizing the necessary resources for their completion based on a thorough case by case study.

POLITICAL ISSUES:

1. The Ministers recognized the various political processes taking place in the Arab countries, welcomed the recent positive steps undertaken so far on the road to democratic transition in some of these countries, and agreed that each of them should be addressed individually. The Ministers also recognized the importance of underpinning commonalities bringing together the EU and LAS in order to jointly address common challenges as well as opportunities ahead.

2. The Ministers reaffirmed their shared position that a just, comprehensive peace in the Middle East is a strategic objective and vital for the stability and international peace and security. They reiterated the strategic importance of the Arab Peace Initiative and recalled inter alia the Conclusions of the Council of the European Union of December 2009, December 2010, and May and December 2012.

The Ministers commended the recent US brokered peace talks and called for the removal of obstacles that prevent further negotiations between the parties as well as the resolution of all issues related to final status (water, security, borders, refugees, and Jerusalem) to achieve a solution of two states living side by side in peace and security, on the basis of UN Security Council and other relevant resolutions, the Madrid principles, including land for peace, the Roadmap, and the agreements previously reached by the parties.

The Ministers reaffirmed their shared position not to recognize any changes to the pre-1967 borders other than those agreed by both parties, including with regards to Jerusalem. They stressed their common position that Israeli settlements, the separation barrier built anywhere in the occupied Palestinian territory, home demolitions and evictions are illegal under international law and constitute obstacles for peace and they endanger the viability of the two-state solution.

The Ministers welcomed the formation of the new Palestinian consensus government led by President Mahmoud Abbas in line with the Quartet principles set out in his speech 4 May 2011, and the restoration of unity between the West Bank and Gaza Strip as an important element for reaching a two-state solution. They called upon Israel to cooperate with the new Palestinian government.

The Ministers expressed their concern at the grave humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip largely caused by the closure imposed by the Occupying Power. The Ministers welcomed the Egyptian efforts that were crucial in reaching Palestinian reconciliation. The Ministers condemned all acts of violence against civilians and called for the full implementation of UN Security Council resolution 1860 and full respect of international humanitarian law.

The Ministers reaffirmed their concern regarding unilateral measures in violation of international law and international humanitarian law, including the settlement activities in occupied East Jerusalem, and in particular affecting the Holy Sites under the Hashemite Custodianship as reconfirmed in the agreement between HM King Abdullah II and President Mahmoud Abbas. They called for immediate cessation of all illegal acts as well as the immediate reopening of Palestinian Institutions in East Jerusalem. The Ministers commended the role played by HM King Mohammed VI, the President of Al-Quds Committee.

The Ministers also called to respect the rules of international law, international humanitarian law, human rights law and the Fourth Geneva Convention of 1949 in respect of all Palestinian and Arab prisoners and detainees in Israel prisons. They called for the release of prisoners in accordance with previous agreements and the end of excessive use of administrative detention in contravention of international law.

The Ministers recalled that existing EU legislations in relation to settlements should be fully and effectively implemented. The Arab Ministers expressed their appreciation for the EU's commitment that -in line with international law- all agreements between Israel and the EU must unequivocally and explicitly indicate their inapplicability to the territories occupied by Israel in 1967, namely the Golan Heights, the West Bank including East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip; and called on the EU to take further steps on settlements in line with its own laws as well as international obligations.

The Ministers agreed on the need to continue to support Palestinian state-building both politically and financially. The Arab Ministers commended the European Union Conclusions of December 2013 in which the EU reaffirmed its commitment to be fully engaged in post-conflict arrangements to ensure the sustainability of any peace agreement. The Ministers expressed grave concern at the recurrent financial crisis of the Palestinian government and called on Israel to take positive steps to enable sustainable economic development in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, Area C and in the Gaza Strip.

The Ministers welcomed Palestine's commitment to democracy and human rights as expressed by its accession to relevant international treaties and conventions. The Ministers called on the Palestinian leadership to use constructively its accession to those treaties.

1. The Ministers expressed their deep concern at the dramatic situation the Syrian crisis has reached, resulting in more than a hundred thousand casualties and increasing numbers of displaced people and refugees both inside and outside Syria. They strongly condemned the continuation of bloodshed, abuses and violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. They called upon all the parties concerned to exert necessary and urgent efforts in order to reach an immediate cease-fire and the need to adopt an appropriate approach regarding the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Syria. They stressed the need for all those responsible for atrocities to be held accountable. They condemned the arbitrary denial of humanitarian access, stressing the urgent need to allow rapid and unhindered access for humanitarian assistance to all people in need both inside and outside Syria, and called for the full implementation of the UN Security Council resolution 2139.

The Ministers reaffirmed their respect for Syrian sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and the rejection of existing foreign intervention. They stressed the need to resolve the crisis through a genuine political process in accordance with the Final Communiqué in Geneva of 30 June 2012. In that context, they praised the efforts of Mr. Lakhdar Ibrahimi the UN LAS special envoy to Syria. With regards to the Syrian coalition, the Ministers recalled the respective positions of the LAS and the EU as expressed in their relevant resolutions.

Outside this framework, any election, presidential or other, conducted in the midst of a conflict and with millions of Syrians displaced from their home is an obstacle to the efforts aiming at a political solution.

The Ministers called upon the international community to assist the neighboring countries hosting Syrian refugees, among which they pay tribute to the sustained efforts carried out by Iraq and Egypt. They also called upon the donor countries to honor to their pledges to support these countries. In particular, the Ministers called upon the international community to lend its financial and logistical support to Jordan in hosting more than 1.3 million Syrian refugees. The Ministers confirmed in this context to follow up on the outcome of the meeting of Syria's neighboring countries hosted by Jordan on 4 May 2014. They expressed appreciation to the State of Kuwait and HH the Emir of Kuwait for hosting the two donors conferences held in 2013-2014. The Ministers confirmed their determination to ensure that all refugees and displaced Syrian persons can return to their place of origin as soon as possible.

The Ministers condemned the use of chemical weapons under any circumstances and urged the Syrian regime to move the remaining chemicals from their stockpile to port as soon as possible. They called on all parties to the Syrian conflict to make every effort to ensure the OPCW's Fact Finding Mission can undertake its work safely, with unimpeded access to those areas where chemicals are alleged to have been used.1

1 Lebanon dissociates itself from what contradicts its position of positive contribution towards a democratic political solution mutually agreed among Syrians without foreign interference.

1. The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the unity, stability, independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon. The Ministers called on all Lebanese parties and leaders to overcome their differences and to actively pursue national unity.

The Ministers underlined the importance of Lebanon to uphold its long standing democratic tradition, and working to ensure that presidential elections take place as soon as possible. The Ministers also stressed the importance of parliamentary elections being held on time in accordance with democratic practice.

The Ministers express their concern at the unprecedented effect the Syrian refugee crisis has on the stability of Lebanon, as well as on its economy and social cohesion. The Ministers underlined the importance of supporting efforts exerted by the international community, including the International Support Group for Lebanon, to help Lebanon mitigate the effects of the Syrian crisis, support the Lebanese Armed Forces which are faced with increasing challenges, and help the Lebanese Government and host communities in handling the heavy impact of the refugees' presence in Lebanon, while stressing the temporary nature of this presence.

The Ministers welcomed the efforts the Lebanese Armed Forces to protect Lebanon and ensure security throughout the Lebanese territory. The Ministers reiterate their commitment to support Lebanon's Government and institutions, and security forces, as well as their readiness to continue their assistance. In this regard, the Ministers welcomed the convening of a conference to support Lebanese Armed Forces in Rome on 17 June 2014.

The Ministers also stressed the importance of the international community's obligations and Lebanon's continued commitment to the full implementation of all relevant UN Security Council Resolutions, in particular 1701 and 1757. The Ministers reiterate their support to the role of UNIFIL in supporting security and stability in south Lebanon.

1. The Ministers expressed their concern on the lack of progress towards resolution of the issue of the three islands of Greater Tunb, Smaller Tunb and Abu Musa and urged the Islamic Republic of Iran and United Arab Emirates to continue their efforts aimed at reaching a peaceful solution in accordance with international law, either through direct negotiations or by referring the issues to the International Court of Justice.

2. The Ministers welcomed the efforts undertaken in the framework of the democratic process in Libya and stressed their commitment to support the process of building state institutions. The Ministers expressed their concern at the political and security situation in Libya. They took note of the decision of the Libyan Supreme Court, welcomed the determination expressed by the parties to abide by it, and underlined the importance of resolving institutional disputes through the impartial judgment of the judiciary. They confirmed their support to the process of Libya's national reconciliation and to the establishment of the principles of freedom, justice, equality and human rights. In this context, the Ministers welcomed UNSC Resolution 2146 and the conclusions of the second International Ministerial Conference on Libya, held in Rome on 6 March 2014, which comes within the framework of International efforts aiming at supporting the Libyan government to achieve security and stability. The Ministers welcomed the outcome of the consultant meeting of the neighboring countries of Libya held in Algeria in May 2014. Ministers welcomed parliamentary elections to be held on 25 June and the continuation of the fundamental work of the Constituent Drafting Assembly.

The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to assist Libya through interaction with the government under the auspices and coordination of UNSMIL. The Ministers also agreed on the importance of cooperation with the State of Libya in order to facilitate extradition of Libyan nationals in accordance with international law and relevant agreements.

1. The Ministers reaffirmed the importance of preserving Yemen's unity, respecting its territorial integrity and rejecting any interference in its internal affairs. The Ministers welcomed the conclusions of the Yemeni National Dialogue Conference and expressed support to the Yemeni people in their aspirations for freedom, democracy and social justice, and to enable it to achieve comprehensive development. The Ministers called on the donor countries in the Friends of Yemen group to fulfill their obligations and commitments to enable the Republic of Yemen to face its challenges and to meet its developmental needs to ensure stability and complete the arrangements for the referendum on the constitution and then hold parliamentary and presidential elections. The Ministers stressed the importance of implementing the UN Security Council Resolution 2140, which supports the outcome of the National Dialogue Conference and establishes a sanction regime against individuals and entities that threaten the peace, security or stability of Yemen.

2. The Ministers confirmed their support to peace building, reconstruction and development in Sudan. They appreciated the recently launched initiative of national dialogue and insist on the need to turn this into a comprehensive process that includes all parties and political forces.

The Ministers urged the armed movements that did not sign Doha document to sign it. They also appeal to donors to fulfill their pledges they have made in the reconstruction conference of Darfur in Doha in April 2013.

The Ministers expressed their deep concern regarding the economic situation of the country which hinders its development. They called for joint national and international efforts in order to address this challenge.

1. Regarding Somalia, the Ministers welcomed progress on implementing the New Deal Compact endorsed in Brussels in September 2013. Its implementation is led by Somalis for Somalis with support of member states of the League of Arab States, the European Union, the international community, the Somalia Federal Government and the regions. Ministers welcomed the Security Council's recent extension on the mandate of AMISOM and commended the efforts and sacrifices of the troop contributing countries to reduce conflict and increase stability in Somalia.

The Ministers also stressed the importance to implement the governmental framework of action, "Vision 2016", and achieve significant political progress for adopting a Federal Constitution in 2015 and holding general elections in 2016.

1. The Ministers welcomed the recent international community efforts and the contribution by countries of the region, including Morocco, towards more stability and security in the Sahel region. They agreed on the need for continued international engagement and they recognize their shared interest in ensuring that terrorism and violent radicalization be eliminated from the region. They reiterate their commitment to restore security and stability and to promote sustainable development.

The Ministers expressed concern about recent events in Mali and called upon the Malian government and the signatories of the June 2013 Ouagadougou agreement to commit fully to the national dialogue and reconciliation process, with the assistance of neighbouring countries, including Algeria and Mauritania. In this regard, the Ministers underlined the role of President of Mauritania, in his capacity as Chair of the African Union, in reaching a cease fire agreement.

The Ministers welcomed the declaration signed in Algiers on 9 June 2014 by the movements of Mali as an important step towards the settlement of the Malian situation on the basis of political and inclusive approach to establish peace, security and stability in the Sahel region.

1. The Ministers expressed their support for the Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity and agreed on the need for a peaceful solution to the present crisis in full conformity with international law.

2. The Ministers agreed to hold their next meeting hosted by the League of Arab States in 2016."

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE OPERATION

The conflict in Mali which erupted in January 2012 led to a massive exodus of thousands of people to neighboring countries including Niger, which counts 50,0001 Malian refugees. Among these refugees the Tuareg / Tamachek ethnic group is the largest in comparison to others (Arabic, Bambara, Bobo, Dogon, Hausa, Malinke, Peul, Sarakole / Soninke / marka, Sonrai). In accordance with its mandate, the Office of the United Nations for Refugees (UNHCR) has implemented protection and assistance measures to these refugees who have the distinction of being mobile and having agro-pastoral activities.

In order to face up with this exodus, several refugee camps (Abala Mangaize, Tabareybarey) were created in addition to two others which are spontaneous camps: Agando and Chinouarene. For safety reasons, in particular, given their proximity to the Malian border where fighting was still raging between rebel groups and Malian forces and French army, the UNHCR decided to transfer the refugees from these two camps to the hosting area of Intikane (ZAI). The hosting area is located in the Tahoua region and covers an area of approximately 276 ha with a density of 25 persons / ha2. Intikane has the distinction of not being a camp, but a Hosting Area, which is an experimental concept implemented by UNHCR in Niger, in order to adapt to the sociocultural and economic specificities of nomadic refugees. In Intikane unlike in a camp, people live dispersed and have the choice to move wherever they want within the perimeters covered by the area.

Approximately 6944 3 nomadic people live in this area who are 994% Tuareg ethnic group and whose main economic activity is pastoral livestock breeding (mainly cows, sheep, goats, horses, camels, sheep and donkeys) which live in the ends of the area.

In all its missions, the UNHCR implements standards of humanitarian assistance in various areas of intervention (water and sanitation, health, nutrition, shelter / NFI, education) to protect and assist people concerned by its mandate. In the case of ZAI, it became evident that due to the nomadic and agro-pastoral specificity of the Tuareg people, the implementation of Sphere standards poses challenges which leads to this interrogation: Are the Sphere standards applicable in the Hosting area of Intikane? And if so, what provisions can further improve and assess the progress of assistance provided in the best compliance to nomadic lifestyle?

At first, this report will analyze the characteristics of Malian Tuaregs to better understand the culture of the population in Intikane. Then, the methodology used in the research will be presented. Finally, follows up will be made on the application of Sphere standards in ZAI.

11 June 2014 – Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon strongly condemned today’s car bomb attack on a United Nations camp in Mali that resulted in the death of four peacekeepers from Chad.

The attack on the camp in Aguelhok of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) also injured six peacekeepers. A number of soldiers from the Malian Armed Forces were also reportedly wounded.

“The Secretary-General extends his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and the Governments and people of Chad and Mali. He wishes a speedy and full recovery to the injured,” his spokesperson said in a statement.

“This attack will not diminish the resolve of the United Nations to support the Malian people in their efforts to achieve peace and stability for all of Mali,” the spokesperson added.

“The Secretary-General calls on all parties not to be deterred by spoilers who, through their criminal acts, seek to prevent the establishment of a sustainable peace in Mali.”

The Security Council set up MINUSMA in April 2013 to support the West African country’s recovery from a coup and the occupation of its north by Islamist fundamentalists, its transition back to stability and democratic governance, and the promotion of human rights and provision of humanitarian aid.

06/11/2014 23:35 GMT

NATIONS UNIES, 11 juin 2014 (AFP) - Le secrétaire général des Nations unies Ban Ki-moon a condamné l'attentat survenu mercredi au Mali qui a coûté la vie à quatre Casques bleus tchadiens, assurant que l'ONU restait déterminée à aider à ramener la paix dans le pays.

M. Ban "condamne fermement l'attentat à la voiture piégée contre un camp de la Minusma (force de l'ONU au Mali, ndlr) à Aguelhok au Mali, qui a tué quatre Casques bleus tchadiens et blessé six autres Casques bleus", a déclaré le porte-parole du secrétaire général dans un communiqué.

Selon lui, des soldats des Forces armées du Mali auraient également été blessés.

"Cette attaque ne diminuera pas la détermination des Nations unies à soutenir le peuple malien dans ses efforts vers la paix et la stabilité du Mali", a souligné le porte-parole.

"Le secrétaire général appelle tous les acteurs à ne pas se laisser décourager par les fauteurs de trouble qui, à travers leurs actes criminels, visent à empêcher l'instauration d'une paix durable au Mali", ajoute encore le communiqué.

Quatre militaires tchadiens de l'ONU ont été tués lors d'un attentat à la voiture piégée mercredi à Aguelhok, ville située à mi-chemin entre Kidal et Tessalit, dans le nord-est du Mali, près de la frontière avec l'Algérie.

L'attentat, qui s'est produit à l'entrée du camp de la Minusma, a également fait "dix blessés" dont "six soldats de la Minusma et quatre militaires maliens" qui étaient aussi dans le camp, a indiqué à l'AFP un responsable du ministère malien de la Défense.

jm/sam/are

© 1994-2014 Agence France-Presse

By Guy Hubbard

Thousands of children in Burkina Faso labour in gold mines, seeking to support themselves and their families. A UNICEF-supported project is helping them to get out by teaching them new skills.

GOROL KADJE, Burkina Faso, 11 June 2014 – In the northern reaches of Burkina Faso, not far from Dori, 15-year-old Boureima Hawma Boukoum is lowered down a mine shaft the width of a manhole. Clinging to a rope cranked by hand, he descends more than 30 metres. An old torch, held to his head by strips of inner tube, provides the only light. At the bottom of the shaft, he crawls another 10 metres through narrow tunnels and starts to dig. He's looking for gold.

According to a 2010 study conducted by UNICEF and the government of Burkina Faso, almost 20,000 children were found to be working in artisanal gold sites like this one in Gorol Kadje, and more than 80 per cent of them had never been to school.

To tackle this issue, UNICEF has undertaken an extensive effort to get children out of the mines and into school, as well as to provide counselling and other forms of support.

“I’ve been working here for two years,” Boureima says. “Every morning when I wake up, I start working in the mine. During the day, I'm able to fill four to five sacks of stone for processing, and I then sell the sacks and am able to make some money.”

A never-ending search

In this poverty-stricken region, deep in the arid Sahel belt, the money earned from mining outshines the benefits of education.

“I started working here when I was 13 because we had no food at home,” Boureima says. “Everything I earn I take home to my parents.”

He has never been to school and can neither read nor write.

On the edge of the site, girls as young as 10 take the stones brought to them by miners like Boureima and pound them into a fine powder, which is then sifted and filtered in a never-ending search.

A way out

UNICEF, in partnership with NGO Terre des Hommes and the Government, has been working in five regions where child labour rates are highest to place children in career training centres and schools.

Here they are taught to become tailors, dressmakers, carpenters, welders or even mechanics

Korotimi Kinda, 17, used to haul sacks of rocks from the mineshafts to the groups of women and girls who crush them. She too, needed money and dropped out of school to earn it, but after two years of backbreaking work that left her constantly ill and in pain, she volunteered to join the centre.

“I’m studying to become a dressmaker, and I'm in my third year now,” she says. “We are taught theory on the blackboard, and then we practice on the sewing machines. I'm really happy to be off the mines because the work here is not the same. On the mines, it was really hard and painful, and here it’s more beneficial and I get knowledge.”

Since the project started in 2009, more than 200 children have already been removed from the Gorol Kadje mine. While the vocational training they receive cannot replace their lost education, it is a way out of the mines.

“I hope to finish my training next year and to open my own shop,” Korotimi says “I'll make dresses, and I'll also teach young girls to do the same.”

Summary

During May, several Desert Locust (SGR1) swarms from northwestern Somalia invaded eastern Ethiopia. On May 14th, an immature swarm dominated the sky over the city of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (see picture below). This is an extremely rare phenomenon that has not been in more than half a century. The swarm is believed to have escaped from eastern Ethiopia passing through the Rift Valley and crossing Awash where it destroyed a sugarcane plantation. No damage was reported in Addis and the swarm was later seen heading northwest and reached Gojjam.

More swarms from northeastern Somalia were reported reaching eastern Ethiopia during the last week of May and ground operations were launched against the swarms. Some swarms moved east along the Somalia plateau (DLCO-EA, FAO-DLIS).

Destacados

26 muertes de niños/as confirmadas por desnutrición aguda (30 en investigación)
20 departamentos con familias afectadas por la roya (pequeños productores)
145,731 hogares afectados por la roya y sequía. 61,000 en situación de inseguridad alimentaria

• 145,731 familias afectadas por efectos de la roya del café y la sequía de acuerdo a información proporcionada por la Secretaria de Seguridad Alimentaria Nutricional (SESAN). De estos, el número de pequeños productores afectados se estima en alrededor de 65,000;

• Los clúster de Seguridad Alimentaria y Nutrición priorizaron los 10 departamentos más afectados: Chiquimula, San Marcos, Alta Verapaz, Jalapa, Jutiapa, Quiché, Huehuetenango, Zacapa, Baja Verapaz y Sololá.

• Como consecuencia del impacto de la roya, en el presente año cafetalero se ha reportado un incremento sustancial de pérdidas en las cosechas entre 30% y 70%, especialmente para los pequeños productores (estadísticas de la Asociación Nacional del Café, ANACAFÉ);

• El Programa Mundial de Alimentos (PMA) ha estimado que 61,000 familias, es decir 305.000 personas, se encuentran en un estado de inseguridad alimentaria grave o moderada con necesidad de asistencia;

• Las familias que dependen de la agricultura de infra-subsistencia y subsistencia de las Regiones del Oriente, Occidente y Sur no cuentan con reservas familiares de maíz y frijol desde Abril-Mayo. En la Región Norte las reservas se agotarán en Junio. Los precios del maíz y frijol están subiendo y el salario diario mínimo agrícola comunitario no alcanza para cubrir la Canasta Básica Alimentaria (Informe al 1 Junio 2014 de la Organización de las Naciones Unidas para la Alimentación y la Agricultura, FAO);

• El Instituto de Sismología, Vulcanología, Meteorología e Hidrología (INSIVUMEH) informa que este año se presentan condiciones favorables para el desarrollo del fenómeno de El niño el cual causaría un déficit de lluvias a nivel nacional. Esto afectaría principalmente al sector agrícola de subsistencia en el segundo trimestre del invierno.

Après deux années et demie de présence aux côtés des réfugiés maliens du camp de M'berra, voici bientôt venu le moment pour SOLIDARITÉS INTERNATIONAL de laisser la gestion de ses infrastructures à un autre acteur humanitaire. Un passage de témoin suivi par Anne Gaëlle Lebeau, responsable de nos programmes dans la zone sahélienne.

60 000 réfugiés arrivés en à peine 6 mois

Le camp de M'berra, dans le sud de la Mauritanie, s’est formé début 2012 suite à l’afflux de dizaines de milliers de réfugiés venus du Mali voisin. Ces familles fuient alors un conflit venu s’ajouter à la crise alimentaire qui touche tout le Sahel. Au pic de la crise, les Nations Unies enregistrent jusqu’à 1 500 nouvelles arrivées par jour. Les conditions d’accueil de ces familles épuisées sont terribles. L’eau potable manque. Il n’y pas de toilettes. Les gens s’abritent sous des bouts de tissu… Les équipes de SOLIDARITÉS INTERNATIONAL se déploient à M'berra dès février 2012. Leur mission : améliorer d’urgence les conditions de vie de ces 10 000 familles ayant trouvé refuge en plein désert.

Un accès sécurisé à l'eau potable pour 35 000 personnes

Au cours de ces deux années et demie, nos équipes ont créé et sécurisé l’accès des réfugiés à l’eau potable en mettant en place 3 mini-réseaux. Les 3 forages équipés par SOLIDARITÉS INTERNATIONAL permettent l’alimentation du château d’eau et desservent un réseau de bornes fontaines géré par des comités de gestion communautaires.En 2013, nous avons réhabilité et construit près d’un millier de latrines, ainsi que 830 douches. Elles sont aujourd’hui gérées par des comités composés de résidents du camp, qui assurent leur entretien et veillent à leur bonne utilisation. Les bonnes pratiques d’hygiène, auxquelles nous avons particulièrement sensibilisé les femmes et les enfants, ainsi que l’importance de la gestion des déchets, sont aujourd’hui bien intégrées dans le quotidien des résidents. Elles garantissent un environnement sain aux réfugiés.

Le moment de passer la main

C’est grâce à la générosité de nos donateurs et de nos partenaires que nous avons pu mener toutes ces actions pendant deux ans et demi. C’est aussi grâce à eux que nous avons réuni toutes les conditions pour passer la main à une association dont la seule mission sera de maintenir les infrastructures existantes. Cette phase de passation est une étape essentielle. Elle nous permet de mutualiser nos expériences et de partager les leçons apprises, toujours dans la volonté de fournir l’aide la plus efficace et la plus digne possible à des personnes qui sont dans une situation d’extrême précarité. Si quelques familles commencent à retourner au Mali, elles restent l’exception. La plupart attendent un signal fort de stabilisation. Nos équipes présentes au Mali restent très attentives à toute évolution de la situation des deux côtés de la frontière.

Evidence from Bwanje Valley Irrigation Scheme in Malawi

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of irrigation on household food security and poverty using a case study of Bwanje Valley Irrigation Scheme in Malawi. Data used in the analysis were collected from 412 households – 169 participants in the irrigation scheme and 243 non-participants. Due to the non-random selection of participants into the irrigation scheme, the study used endogenous switching regression to correct for sample selection bias. Propensity score matching was then used to measure the impact of irrigation on food security and poverty. Daily per capita caloric intake and agricultural income were the proxy measures used to measure food security and poverty, respectively. Despite farm-ers selling paddy rice at the farm gate on an individual basis and operating in an environment with inadequate water sup-ply, the findings revealed that irrigation had a positive impact on annual agricultural income and daily per capita caloric intake. The impact of irrigation on household annual agricultural income was different among the participants, with those cultivating both rice and maize under irrigation earning more agricultural income than their counterparts growing rice only. The results also showed a positive impact of irrigation on daily per capita caloric intake, with both groups of irrigat-ing farmers realizing similar improved levels of caloric intake over farmers that did not participate in the irrigation scheme. In addition, traditionally marginalized groups – households headed by youth, female-headed households, and low-in-come households – earned more agricultural income than what they would have earned if they did not participate in the irrigation scheme. The recommendations from the study are that irrigation interventions should be up scaled to other ar-eas with potential irrigable land and should promote the growing of more than one crop. In addition, irrigation schemes should promote bulk marketing of processed rice through contract relationships with institutions (i.e. schools, prisons, hospitals) and private traders.

(Geneva, 12 June 2014): The UN and partners have launched a two-year humanitarian Strategic Response Plan to respond to the needs of 250,000 people in Djibouti to help them get back on their feet. Of the targeted population, 162,500 are Djibouti nationals, 27,500 are refugees and 60,000 are migrants mainly from Somalia and Ethiopia.

“Persistent and recurring droughts have resulted in a general lack of water for both people and livestock. The affected population is suffering from malnutrition, food insecurity, acute diarrhea and other diseases, and their livestock is dying,” said Robert Watkins, the UN Resident Coordinator in Djibouti.

The objectives of the response plan, which seeks US$74 million in 2014, is to limit the impact of the drought; build resilience and to help the population break out of the recurrent cycle of crises; to improve human and animal health; and to strengthen protection and access to food and basic services for refugees and migrants.

Shortages in rural areas has increased competition over natural resources between local people, refugees and migrants, particularly along the migration corridor that runs through the country. Stress on rural livelihoods has also triggered movements towards the peri-urban area of the capital where an expanded population has put additional pressure on the delivery of basic services such as water.

According to preliminary studies, some areas have reached either a crisis or an emergency level. “We need to respond to the pressing needs today and at the same time build up the necessary resilience to break the vicious cycle of crisis,” said Mr. Watkins.

The response plan is currently 13 per cent funded, notably by an early and generous contribution from the UN’s Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) that allowed UN agencies to jump-start the implementation of life-saving assistance programmes.

To set up interviews with the Resident Coordinator please contact: Jens Laerke, OCHA Geneva, laerke@un.org , Tel.: +41 22 917 11 42, Cell: +41 79 472 9750

(Genève, le 12 Juin 2014): L'ONU et ses partenaires ont lancé un plan stratégique d'intervention humanitaire d’une durée de deux ans pour répondre aux besoins de 250 000 personnes à Djibouti et les aider à se remettre sur pieds. Parmi la population ciblée, 162 500 sont des ressortissants de Djibouti, 27 500 sont des réfugiés et 60 000 sont des migrants principalement originaires de Somalie et d'Ethiopie.

« Les sécheresses persistantes et récurrentes ont entraîné un manque d'eau généralisé pour les populations et le bétail. La population affectée souffre de malnutrition, d'insécurité alimentaire, de diarrhée aiguë ainsi que d'autres maladies, et leur bétail se meurt, » a déclaré Robert Watkins, le Coordonnateur résident des Nations Unies à Djibouti.

Les objectifs du plan d'intervention, qui vise 74 millions de dollars américains en 2014, sont de limiter l'impact de la sécheresse; renforcer la résilience et aider la population à sortir du cycle récurrent des crises; améliorer la santé humaine et animale; renforcer la protection et l'accès à la nourriture et aux services de base pour les réfugiés et les migrants.

Les pénuries dans les zones rurales ont augmenté la concurrence pour les ressources naturelles entre les populations locales, les réfugiés et les migrants, en particulier le long du corridor de migration qui traverse le pays. Le manque de moyens de subsistance en milieu rural a également déclenché des mouvements vers la zone périurbaine de la capitale, où une population élargie a mis une pression supplémentaire sur la fourniture des services de base tel que l'eau.

Selon des études préliminaires, certaines régions ont atteint soit un niveau de crise ou d'urgence. « Nous devons répondre aux besoins urgents aujourd'hui et dans un même temps développer la résilience nécessaire pour briser le cercle vicieux de la crise, » a déclaré M.
Watkins.

Le plan d'intervention est actuellement financé à hauteur de 13 pour cent, notamment par une contribution rapide et généreuse du Fonds central d’intervention pour les urgences humanitaires de l'ONU (CERF), qui a permis aux agences de l'ONU de démarrer la mise en œuvre des programmes d'urgence vitale.

Pour organiser des entrevues avec le Coordonnateur résident veuillez contacter: Jens Laerke, OCHA Genève, laerke@un.org, Tél:. +41 22 917 11 42, portable: +41 79 472 9750

SC/11438

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Vitaly I. Churkin ( Russian Federation):

The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the attack by unidentified armed assailants on the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) in Aghelhoc, Mali, on 11 June 2014, in which four Chadian peacekeepers were killed and other peacekeepers, as well as members of Malian armed forces, were injured.

The members of the Security Council expressed their condolences to the families of the peacekeepers killed in the attacks, as well as to the Governments of Chad and Mali, and to MINUSMA.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their full support to MINUSMA and French forces that support it. The members of the Security Council stressed that those responsible for this attack shall be held accountable, and called on the Government of Mali to swiftly investigate the attack and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed the need to combat by all means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts, and that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed.

The members of the Security Council reminded States that they must ensure that measures taken to combat terrorism comply with all their obligations under international law, in particular international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their support to the Malian authorities, supported by MINUSMA, to stabilize Mali, re-establish State administration throughout the country and launch an effective and inclusive national dialogue.

For information media • not an official record

La baisse des termes de l’échange bétail/céréale réduit l’accès des pasteurs aux marchés

MESSAGE CLES

• Les incidences sécuritaires en mi-mai dans la région de Kidal ont engendré le déplacement d’environ 1086 personnes selon l’organisation Mondiale pour les migrations (OIM) au 25 mai 2014. Cette situation risque de perturber l’approvisionnement correct des marchés et les activités économiques ce qui affectera négativement l’accès aux marchés des populations dans les zones concernées.

• La baisse des termes de l’échange bétail/céréales dans les zones pastorales à cause de la faible disponibilité en eau et en pâturages réduit l’accès aux marchés pour les ménages pasteurs. Ils sont actuellement en l’insécurité alimentaire aiguë de type Stress (Phase 2 de l’IPC) en dépit de l’aide humanitaire.

• Dans la bande du fleuve des régions du nord, ainsi que les zones agropastorales du cercle de Gourma Rharous et le plateau de Bandiagara, l’insécurité alimentaire de niveau Stress (Phase 2 de l’IPC) à cause de la baisse importante des productions et des revenus agricoles et/ou d’élevage passera en phase de Crise (Phase 3 de l’IPC) en juin - juillet en absence d’appuis humanitaires.

SITUATION ACTUELLE

Les régions agricoles du sud

• Le nettoyage des champs, le transport de fumier et un début de semis pour la nouvelle campagne agricole (juin à octobre 2014) qui bénéficient de la poursuite du programme de subvention des intrants par le Gouvernement sont en cours. Les travaux agricoles qui démarrent constituent des opportunités moyennes de revenus et de nourritures pour les ménages pauvres particulièrement dans les zones agricoles du pays où les pluies précoces sont enregistrées (Figure 1).

• Les prix des céréales sont stables ou en légère hausse par rapport au mois passé et à la moyenne des cinq dernières années. Au 25 mai, ils sont par rapport à la moyenne en légère hausse de 2 pourcent à Sikasso à 5 pourcent à Mopti pour le sorgho et de 1,5 pour cent à Kayes à 12 pour cent à Koulikoro pour le mil. En raison des revenus moyens issus des activités habituelles, les ménages sont en mesure d'accéder à la nourriture sur le marché.

• Cependant, à cause de la baisse importante de leurs productions et ou revenus agricoles suite à la sècheresse de la saison des pluies de 2013, les ménages pauvres du plateau dogon de Bandiagara et ceux du nord des cercles de Nara, de Diéma et de Nioro ont de façon précoce recours à la hausse des emprunts plus que d’habitude, la vente atypique des biens d’équipement, la dimunition du volume de repas et la consommation accrue de fruits sauvages. Bien que ces stratégies en plus des distributions des vivres du PAM à environ 71 pour cent des personnes dans les 16 communes concernées du cercle de Bandiagara de février à juillet permettent de limiter la detérioration plus profonde de la sécurité alimentaire pendant cette période, les ménages sont tout de même en Stress (Phase 2 de l’IPC).

Dryness continues in parts of East Africa, Central America and Haiti; flooding in Guatemala and West Africa

Africa Weather Hazards

1. Poor rainfall distribution during March-May rainfall season hurt agricultural and pastoral activities throughout western Kenya, parts of northwestern Tanzania. Although some areas could still receive enhanced rains over the next week, the ending rainy season could further worsen ground conditions.

2. Poorly distributed rainfall since mid-April had led to a rapid deterioration of ground conditions throughout portions of southern Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and northwestern Tanzania. As seasonal rainfall is expected to decrease in June, sustained moisture deficits are likely to hurt cropping activities in the region.

3. Frequent and above-average rainfall since May has resulted in oversaturated conditions in many regions of Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, southern Mali, and western Cote-d'Ivoire. There a=is an increased chance of heavy rains and flooding during the next week.

Bara Guèye

Ce rapport s’appuie sur les principales leçons et recommandations de trois études de cas portant sur l’analyse des stratégies, aspirations et contraintes des différentes catégories d’agriculteurs vivant autour des barrages de Bagré (Burkina Faso), Sélingué (Mali) et Niandouba/Confluent (Sénégal). Initiée par la Global Water Initiative (GWI) en Afrique de l’Ouest et financée par la Fondation Howard G. Buffett, cette recherche vise à contribuer aux réflexions nationales et régionales autour des politiques et programmes à mettre en oeuvre pour améliorer la performance des systèmes de production rizicoles dans les périmètres irrigués et renforcer les moyens de subsistance des agriculteurs.

La Organización de las Naciones Unidas para la Alimentación y la Agricultura (FAO) finalizó hoy el Programa Especial para la Seguridad Alimentaria (PESA), que se implementó por 14 años en Guatemala y sirvió como base para impulsar el desarrollo a través de la agricultura familiar en este país.

El programa fue implementado en conjunto con el Ministerio de Agricultura, Ganadería y Alimentación (MAGA) y contó, además, con el apoyo financiero de la Agencia Española de Cooperación Internacional para el Desarrollo (AECID).

Según el viceministro de Desarrollo Económico Rural de Guatemala, Carlos Anzueto, el plan consistió en apoyo directo a las familias guatemaltecas, buenas prácticas agropecuarias y promoción de la seguridad alimentaria.

El PESA fue implementado principalmente en los departamentos de San Marcos, Totonicapán y Sololá, en el altiplano occidental del país.

“Esto ha servido como base para el programa de la Agricultura Familiar que ahora está funcionando en todos los municipios de Guatemala. El beneficio fundamental es que sirvió como modelo para iniciar proyectos de mejoramiento de la salud rural y utilización de abonos orgánicos, entre otros aspectos”, detalló Anzueto.

Para Diego Recalde, representante de la FAO en Guatemala, uno de los aspectos más importantes para este país es que se ha logrado diseñar una política de seguridad alimentaria y mantener la economía y desarrollo de las familias guatemaltecas.

Resaltó que es imperante fortalecer acciones como el Pacto Hambre Cero para disminuir el hambre en la región.

“Se ha diseñado una política pública y eso nos permite tener una agricultura familiar con mayor capacidad y mantener la economía y la salud en las familias, el cambio climático puede afectar eso, pero en términos de emergencia estamos listos para apoyar a Guatemala y hemos estado llevando apoyo a las familias”, dijo.

“En el país el problema no es de calidad de los alimentos porque es una dieta milenaria basada en maíz y frijol que es fundamental. Pero es necesario optar por otras opciones alimenticias como verduras o alimentos ricos en nutrientes, eso se debe realizar a mediano plazo”, concluyó.

06/13/2014 18:41 GMT

UNITED NATIONS, June 13, 2014 (AFP) - The UN peacekeeping mission in Mali has deployed 8,280 soldiers on the ground, 74 percent of the number mandated a year ago, and still lacks utility helicopters, a new report says.

The UN peacekeeping force in Mali, known as MINUSMA, took over in July 2013 from African forces fighting armed groups linked to Al-Qaeda that occupied northern Mali in 2012.

It has struggled to get troops into place as France seeks to draw down its force and as security deteriorates in the north while attacks on international and Malian security forces increase.

As of May 26 there were 8,280 UN soldiers of the 11,200 mandated a year ago -- including 52 women -- says a report from Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, obtained by AFP and to be debated in the Security Council next Wednesday.

Police deployments have also "strengthened significantly" with 979 officers on the ground -- 69 percent of the authorized total of 1,440 -- including 51 women, said the report.

It calls on contributing states to accelerate the deployment of personnel or assets, saying the force still lacks military utility helicopters, "seriously hampering its air mobility."

The secretary general's report, which covers the period March 24 to May 26, said Malian security forces and MINUSMA were coming under increasing attack as security in the north deteriorates.

Seven UN peacekeepers were injured in separate incidents and threats of retaliation against civilians for cooperating with the international community have been reported, it said.

On April 7, an improvised explosive device in Menaka near the MINUSMA camp was detonated by remote control "demonstrating the insurgents' improved tactics and underscoring the vulnerability of United Nations and humanitarian personnel."

On April 30 an IED was found 300 meters (yards) outside MINUSMA camp in Kidal, the cradle of Mali's Tuareg separatist movement, and rockets have landed in and near MINUSMA sites.

Bandits have also attacked trucks transporting supplies for the force, whose proposed budget its second year is $812.7 million.

Staff safety and security remain "major concerns given the sustained threat to United Nations personnel and others from asymmetric attacks, IEDs and kidnappings," the report warned.

As a result, there are severe constraints on being able to deploy civilian staff to remote areas, it added.

The report lists some political achievements but says "many important aspects of the stabilization of Mali, including most tasks included in MINUSMA's mandate, are yet be accomplished."

The humanitarian situation is also cause for concern, it said.

At the end of April, 3.6 million people were food insecure, including 1.5 million severely affected -- the number of which is expected to rise to 1.9 million by June, the report said.

The $568 million needed for the strategic response plan for Mali to meet humanitarian and early recovery needs has so far been only 19.3 percent funded.

Ban stressed the need for a political process, warning otherwise "terrorist groups will seize opportunities to target Malian and international forces, and threaten civilians in the north."

jm/bfm