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Readers' Comments We Received since 6 February 2021

 


SRHR refers to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, See https://srhrforall.org/what-is-srhr/
Difficult to tell. I am sure it requires flexible funding. It was also mentioned by ED Fore in her statements to the Board in June and September 2020.
In Response to a comment by Sree Gururaja
I am obviously out of touch and can someone please tell me what is "SRHR" , referred to my ED Fore in her statement, Quote "Across our programming, we will reflect our commitments on gender, to give every child — girls and boys alike — the support and care they need. Our new Strategic Plan will incorporate the findings of the recent evaluation of our Gender Action Plan, and plant the seeds for the new plan being developed for 2022-2025. This will include a focus on SRHR."Endquote thanks Sree
I have fiends in Georgia who claim everything is normal there. Really? Very sad situation. And people continue partying without wearing a mask, like in Tampa..Stupidity
China and other industrialized countries - especially those with central governments - have pockets of poverty and need guidance how best to address the issue. UNICEF's role is that of advocacy, rather than substantial program support and urging the respective ministries to enforce the Rights of the Child. Actually the NatComs are performing a similar function in the richer countries, reaching out also to their own children while raising funds..
Interesting. Great collection.
Interestingly, I recall Ann Veneman who had been US Secretary of Agriculture before becoming UNICEF ExDir, initially raised precisely some of these questions with me: "Why is UNICEF helping China...India...Russia...Brazil, "etc. citing they all had large economies (and were seen as competitors of the US by the Dept of Agriculture). As Deputy ExDir for Prograammes, I had to justify and defend continuing UNICEF cooperation in these and other middle-income countries, but AMV remained ambivalent about them, until she actually visited the countries and realized how the relatively small amount of UNICEF funding in these countries produced lots of good results. So, the questioning continues...but it is good have a healthy debate on such issues to ensure UNICEF support to middle income & even LMICs, countries continues to produce good results, especially in terms of policy impact.
Nostalgic memories, Fouad K
Yes, Tom McDermott: Good policy requires good balance. Good balance requires good flexibility. And there is no substitute for common sense!
The very best quote on GNP I like is that of Robert Kennedy who said in a speech at the University of Kansas on 18 March 1968: “The gross national product does not allow for the health of our children, the quality of their education, or the joy of their play. It does not include the beauty of our poetry or the strength of our marriages; the intelligence of our public debate or the integrity of our public officials. It measures neither our wit nor our courage; neither our wisdom nor our learning; neither our compassion nor our devotion to our country; it measures everything, in short, except that which makes life worthwhile.” https://www.jfklibrary.org/learn/about-jfk/the-kennedy-family/robert-f-kennedy/robert-f-kennedy-speeches/remarks-at-the-university-of-kansas-march-18-1968
This gesture by Secretary of State Blinken & pronouncement by other Biden administration officials rekindles our hope for the release of our dear colleague Baquer Namazi & his son Siamak from unfair detention and incarceration in Iran.

Narendra Shrestha commented on "Einar Syvertsen, RIP : Sad news received from Guy Scandlen"

Feb 7, 2021
Very saddened to hear that Einer Syvertsen is no longer with us.Our deepest condolences to the family members. May the departed soul rest in peace. Regards. Narendra Shrestha

Mikko Lainejoki commented on "Einar Syvertsen, RIP : Sad news received from Guy Scandlen"

Feb 7, 2021
Truly sad news. Einar was an unassuming, no-nonsense supply professional who was always ready to support and help others. For me he was a dear friend and mentor I could count on. When I met him and Tao last time four years ago in Bangkok, Einar was still asking if I was aware of any suitable assignment for him. His desire to serve UNICEF supply function knew no age limit. My condolences to Tao, Philip and Einar's daughters.

Horst Cerni commented on "Beat The Corona Blues ... with the Pathétique"

Feb 7, 2021
I only got to see the Trailer of the Berlin Philharmonic which I enjoyed very much (- i didn't like the idea of registering...) Horst
Thanks for sharing Kunio. I remember you with a camera slung across your shoulder! Rohini
Beautiful photos, Kunio, and a great variety. Also nice to see Carl so healthy. Hope he is.
In was honour for me to work under Kunio Waki leadership
Its indeed a very sad news. I am Neets Soorma and worked with him as his Ex Asstt when was our Chief of Supply New Delhi. Such a calm, pleasant, happy and collected gentleman. We call it as our Golden Period. Mr. Syvertsen and Keith Alexander together were the life of our Workshops. Never did he raise his voice at anyone nor was he a nagger. Very understanding snd respected the values and culture. I have been writing to him but didnt get any response. Tried my best to find out about his address. Never knew he had alzheimers, Parkinson's. May he rest in peace and may God give Tao and the family the courage to bear this great loss. Thanks for sharing Tao s address. Will write to her. I do have some pictures which I would like to share . Thanks
Dear Mr. Scandlen It is indeed a sad news! My association with Mr. Syvertsen goes back few decades when I got transferred from Dhaka to Unicef Delhi in 1991. Mr. Syvertsen was the Chief of supply section and my direct supervisor. We have had many good memories and achievements to be proud of! Having exposed to international arena, Mr. Syvertsen’s advice, guidance and leadership shaped my future in supply operations. Our paths crossed again in 2005 when he visited Kabul on a short consultancy. A legendary supply chief will be sorely missed. My condolences to his family. sharif alam, NY PS - You had mentioned about contribution to funeral. Am I allowed to contribute if I want to?? If affirmative, shall appreciate receiving bank transfer details to: sharif.unicef@gmail.com
Yes, Horst, I was deeply involved in facilitating the production of this documentary and found Vanessa's commitment and passion infectious!
In Response to a comment by Horst Ce

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