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Kul Gautam commented on "Gaza: UNICEF, WFP confront growing dissent in ranks over Gaza : Devex / Robert Cohen"
5 hours ago
Hi Robert,
I do not recall seeing a letter/petition from current & ex-UNICEF staff calling for "blacklisting of Israel" as mentioned in the Devex story.
On the letter from UNICEF staff in Gaza, I can certainly understand their frustration and wish for a stronger condemnation of Israel, citing its deliberate and disproportionate actions resulting in the death and injury of children. Civilian casualties, including children, of Israeli attacks cannot in good conscience be considered "collateral damage", as Israel and its backers claim.
Having said that, I think Cathy Russell's public position is correct, appropriate and balanced. She has joined other leaders of IASC in issuing strong calls for immediate humanitarian ceasefire and unhindered access for humanitarian assistance. IASC statement also refers to violation of international humanitarian law.
As Chris de Bono mentions, different UN agencies have different roles, each according to their mandates. The SG, the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the various HR Rapporteurs have not minced any words and have spoken strongly.
I recall Jim Grant saying that UNICEF's job is not only to make a point but to make a difference for children. It is important for UNICEF, like for ICRC, to be able to help women and children, and not to deprive itself of the opportunity to do so by issuing unduly provocative, or partisan-sounding statements.
Each ED has their own style of communication. If we had someone like Stephen Lewis or Jan Egeland as the head of UNICEF, I am sure they would have issued sharper and stronger statements than Cathy Russell. If we had a Jim Grant. I am sure he would have come up with some imaginative win-win proposals invoking children as zones of peace. If we had Ann Veneman, she would definitely not have visited Gaza at this time, and would probably not issue any separate call for a ceasefire except in the context of some joint statement like the IASC.
So, on balance, I think Cathy Russell has done what I would expect her to do -- though I wish her statements would be more quotable and her gestures would visibly exhibit deeper emotional empathy.
======================
Kul Chandra Gautam
I do not recall seeing a letter/petition from current & ex-UNICEF staff calling for "blacklisting of Israel" as mentioned in the Devex story.
On the letter from UNICEF staff in Gaza, I can certainly understand their frustration and wish for a stronger condemnation of Israel, citing its deliberate and disproportionate actions resulting in the death and injury of children. Civilian casualties, including children, of Israeli attacks cannot in good conscience be considered "collateral damage", as Israel and its backers claim.
Having said that, I think Cathy Russell's public position is correct, appropriate and balanced. She has joined other leaders of IASC in issuing strong calls for immediate humanitarian ceasefire and unhindered access for humanitarian assistance. IASC statement also refers to violation of international humanitarian law.
As Chris de Bono mentions, different UN agencies have different roles, each according to their mandates. The SG, the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the various HR Rapporteurs have not minced any words and have spoken strongly.
I recall Jim Grant saying that UNICEF's job is not only to make a point but to make a difference for children. It is important for UNICEF, like for ICRC, to be able to help women and children, and not to deprive itself of the opportunity to do so by issuing unduly provocative, or partisan-sounding statements.
Each ED has their own style of communication. If we had someone like Stephen Lewis or Jan Egeland as the head of UNICEF, I am sure they would have issued sharper and stronger statements than Cathy Russell. If we had a Jim Grant. I am sure he would have come up with some imaginative win-win proposals invoking children as zones of peace. If we had Ann Veneman, she would definitely not have visited Gaza at this time, and would probably not issue any separate call for a ceasefire except in the context of some joint statement like the IASC.
So, on balance, I think Cathy Russell has done what I would expect her to do -- though I wish her statements would be more quotable and her gestures would visibly exhibit deeper emotional empathy.
======================
Kul Chandra Gautam
13 hours ago
I agree. I still do not know what UNICEF is doing, and whether UNICEF adds value over and above what others are doing. What does UNICEF management think about UNICEF's unique role and comparative advantage in this awful situation?
In Response to a comment by Moncef Bouhafa
17 hours ago
She confirmed that regrettably UNICEF is doing little to protect children. Lack of imagination. « We are there » is hardly a response to the question « what steps are you taking to protect children ». She is also remarkably devoid of any empathy or emotion. Instead she talks in generalities.
17 hours ago
True to UNICEF field staff traditions she travelled to Gaza even AFTER the accident...BRAVO ED Russell !!
Yesterday
I fully agree with Kul's comment. Our role is strictly to protect children, not to create situations in which they would be at risk. A 'safe zone' that is not openly agreed upon by all parties is NOT SAFE.
In Response to a comment by Kul Gautam
Yesterday
Welcome this unanimous position of the IASC leaders. Humanitarian agencies must be principled and faithful to International Humanitarian Laws and must not be instruments of any unilateral proposal of a belligerent party.
Yesterday
The courage to take up the challenge and bring solace to those who need it most is by itself exemplary as a mark of leadership. We wish ED a speedy recovery. It is no doubt a great morale booster for those on the ground and serving the distressed to bring hope.
Robert David Cohen commented on "Gaza - Catherine Russell Injured in Car Accident en route to Rafah and Khan Yunis / Postpones Israel Visit : Reuters"
Yesterday
Heartfelt wishes for a complete and speedy recovery! The ED's mission to Gaza was very important and risky. And her statement was principled and courageous, appealing to heart and reason. Hat's off to her!
Gautam Banerji commented on "Security Council calls for urgent and extended humanitarian pauses in Gaza: UN"
Nov 16, 2023
Good news, although a permanent ceasefire followed by peace building measures under protection of a UN peacekeeping mission would be the best option. However, unhindered access for humanitarian aid is urgently required and we would wish to see it happening sooner rather than later. To that extent it is a good resolution. UK and US abstaining does not surprise.
Ramesh Shrestha commented on "A funeral for truth : Ramesh Shrestha"
Nov 16, 2023
Thanks for your comment. I should have written 'certain authorities' instead of 'authorities'. My apology. I hope the readers will read this reply to your comment. Ramesh
In Response to a comment by Detlef Palm
Baquer Namazi commented on "Gaza - UNICEF Executive Director, Catherine Russell Visits - Statement Below"
Nov 15, 2023
I join our dear friends in expressing my profound appreciation for the ED's brave decision to visit Gaza, show real empathy for sufferings of innocent children and boosting the morale of the dedicated staff on the ground, particularly our dear, dear UNICEF and UNRWA friends| and other international staff. Catherine we are really proud of you. Please now use the higher credibility you have rightly earned because of your principled stand to actively promote a long term solution, addressing the root causes of the conflict, i.e. the occupation and violation of international law. Many voices are being raised for peace with justice, particularly in America and in Israel
The people of the world will stand up behind you and your child focused mandate give you a great comparative advantage to LEAD. BAQUER NAMAZI
The people of the world will stand up behind you and your child focused mandate give you a great comparative advantage to LEAD. BAQUER NAMAZI
Detlef Palm commented on "A funeral for truth : Ramesh Shrestha"
Nov 15, 2023
To avoid any conspiratorial aspect, an article about the truth should be as factual as possible. That ‘media wilfully collaborates with the authorities in promoting lies and deceits, which keeps the people ignorant’ is a generalization that undermines the truth. Not all authorities are promoting lies, and to single out politicians ‘in the West’ for promoting misinformation amounts to disinformation.
I recommend the Wikipedia entry on truth.
I recommend the Wikipedia entry on truth.
Nov 15, 2023
This is good. We need more debate around the effectiveness of development aid. The old paradigm, where “rich countries give money to UN agencies to help poor countries to develop”, is hopelessly outdated.
Nov 15, 2023
This is a good development, indeed! I am glad that our ED managed to visit Gaza and meet with children, staff. It matters. We need more voices demanding a ceasefire.
Kul Gautam commented on "Gaza - UNICEF Executive Director, Catherine Russell Visits - Statement Below"
Nov 15, 2023
Yes, indeed, Robert.
My respect for Cathy Russell has gone up several notches because of this visit to Gaza and her principled statements on this horrific humanitarian crisis.
I believe she is the first head of a major UN agency, and an American, to venture into the epicenter of the carnage against children. Her action is truly in the spirit of UNICEF.
(Parenthetically and sadly, I recall Ann Veneman's refusal to visit Beirut in 2006 as it was being pummeled by Israeli bombardment and many children were killed and injured. She even refused to issue a strong statement, relying instead on the MENA RD and Director of EMOPS to issue such statements. It was clear to me that she was kowtowing to the Bush W administration's position, rather than UN/UNICEF's best tradition - just like her refusal to utter CRC for the first 3 years of her tenure as UNICEF ED). In 2006, the highest- ranking UN official to visit war-torn Beirut and issue a strong statement was the then OCHA USG Jan Egeland, who is doing the same now as head of the Norwegian Refugee Council.
Truly proud of Cathy Russell acting in the best tradition of UNICEF and the best interests of children.
DED Ted Chaiban also seems to be doing a great job - and is probably influencing the ED to be bold and principled, unlike some of the other Deputies.
My respect for Cathy Russell has gone up several notches because of this visit to Gaza and her principled statements on this horrific humanitarian crisis.
I believe she is the first head of a major UN agency, and an American, to venture into the epicenter of the carnage against children. Her action is truly in the spirit of UNICEF.
(Parenthetically and sadly, I recall Ann Veneman's refusal to visit Beirut in 2006 as it was being pummeled by Israeli bombardment and many children were killed and injured. She even refused to issue a strong statement, relying instead on the MENA RD and Director of EMOPS to issue such statements. It was clear to me that she was kowtowing to the Bush W administration's position, rather than UN/UNICEF's best tradition - just like her refusal to utter CRC for the first 3 years of her tenure as UNICEF ED). In 2006, the highest- ranking UN official to visit war-torn Beirut and issue a strong statement was the then OCHA USG Jan Egeland, who is doing the same now as head of the Norwegian Refugee Council.
Truly proud of Cathy Russell acting in the best tradition of UNICEF and the best interests of children.
DED Ted Chaiban also seems to be doing a great job - and is probably influencing the ED to be bold and principled, unlike some of the other Deputies.
In Response to a comment by Robert Cohen
Robert Cohen commented on "Gaza - UNICEF Executive Director, Catherine Russell Visits - Statement Below"
Nov 15, 2023
Important and moving statement. The world's lead UN agency defending the rights of children everywhere raises its voice for the children of Gaza and calls for a ceasefire. The ExDir, an American, was courageous to visit Gaza and speak out so strongly. Made me feel proud as an ex-Unicefer. --------
Kul Gautam commented on "Gaza - UNICEF Executive Director, Catherine Russell Visits - Statement Below"
Nov 15, 2023
Gratitude to you, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell for personally visiting war-torn Gaza despite the dangerously insecure situation there. Your visit to the epicenter of the worst humanitarian crisis for children in the world at present is in the best tradition of UNICEF to do its utmost to protect children in grave peril.
Hope your heartfelt and solemn appeal for a humanitarian ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian assistance to civilians, particularly the most vulnerable children and women will be heeded by all parties to the conflict and their powerful supporters.
I join many former UNICEF staff members, to salute you, ED Russell and your colleagues for your principled dedication to UNICEF's noble mandate to save and protect children.
Thank you.
Hope your heartfelt and solemn appeal for a humanitarian ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian assistance to civilians, particularly the most vulnerable children and women will be heeded by all parties to the conflict and their powerful supporters.
I join many former UNICEF staff members, to salute you, ED Russell and your colleagues for your principled dedication to UNICEF's noble mandate to save and protect children.
Thank you.
Unknown commented on "Hunting Pumpkin leaves . . . eggs . . . and Tuna? : Nuzhat Shahzadi"
Nov 14, 2023
Hello Nuzhat,
Another great story with photos. Keep it up! These ought to be reformulated into a memoir, someday.
Cheers, Neill McKee
Another great story with photos. Keep it up! These ought to be reformulated into a memoir, someday.
Cheers, Neill McKee
Unknown commented on "LOOK UP! By Myra Rudin"
Nov 13, 2023
So true, my cousin when visiting kept looking up and we had to focus on the road and the poop! Beautiful shots Myra
In Response to a comment by Fouad Kronfol
Fouad Kronfol commented on "LOOK UP! By Myra Rudin"
Nov 13, 2023
Congratulations ! Lovely collection which brings back nostalgic memories, but also a hearty chuckle. During our stay in the 1970's one of our neighbours, a true "Noo Yawker", asked me; "do you know the difference between a resident and a tourist?" The out of towner looks up at the wonderful sky-scrapers and other amazing scenery, while the resident walks with the head down trying to avoid stepping into the dog poop !
Nov 13, 2023
Dear Maie, thank yo for posting this video which I have not seen. I learned a lot and agree with most. One part I am puzzled is his views on "Two State solution ". I realized I do.not know enough about that agreement to judge , if he is right or wrong. What are your views? Can you offer explanations ? Bilge
Nov 13, 2023
Hi Neena,
Many thanks for your encouraging words. I find writing therapeutic. The challenges we face as female professionals in our work in the UN are very different from our male colleagues, especially in conflict zones. If you (and other readers) promise to read, I will keep writing . . .
Many thanks for your encouraging words. I find writing therapeutic. The challenges we face as female professionals in our work in the UN are very different from our male colleagues, especially in conflict zones. If you (and other readers) promise to read, I will keep writing . . .
Unknown commented on "Hunting Pumpkin leaves . . . eggs . . . and Tuna? : Nuzhat Shahzadi"
Nov 13, 2023
Hi Nuzhat
I just love your short stories of life everywhere…and wait for the next week to read it.. keep writing
Thanks
Neena
I just love your short stories of life everywhere…and wait for the next week to read it.. keep writing
Thanks
Neena
Nov 12, 2023
Also looking forward to words
of wisdom from colleagues such as Kul, who always makes a personal connection in such high profile situations and offers a his perspective.
of wisdom from colleagues such as Kul, who always makes a personal connection in such high profile situations and offers a his perspective.
In Response to a comment by Unknown
Jim Mayrides commented on "From JPO to UN leadership: 3+1 takeaways: Jan Vandemoortele"
Nov 12, 2023
Hi Jan. Thanks for sharing. It reminded me of the time we contacted you in Bruges when my wife Elayne and I were visiting with Ludo Welffens. We enjoyed meeting with you then and talking about our times with UNICEF. Best wishes from Harleysville, PA
Nov 12, 2023
Post Oslo, agencies happily started “infringing” on UNRAWA mandate. Perhaps thinking that elements of a Country Programme now need to be introduced to the landscape. Coming to the present situation, if the UN and its associates are being ineffective and have failed, a “dignified” face saving” could be to formally withdraw and keep supplies flowing, when possible!
Unknown commented on "From JPO to UN leadership: 3+1 takeaways: Jan Vandemoortele"
Nov 12, 2023
Thanks Jan. Much appreciated . Can we compile similar advice from JPG which we all benefitted from??? . One was “ every problem was a challenge to be overcome!!! Shahida Azfar
Unknown commented on "LOOK UP! By Myra Rudin"
Nov 12, 2023
Beautiful, Myra. I agree that there is so much beauty above us if we could only take the time to look!!
Mehr Khan Williams commented on "LOOK UP! By Myra Rudin"
Nov 12, 2023
Beautiful photos, Myra. Yes,
One needs to look up; and you have done a wonderful job of showing us to look up. Great photos! Well done!
One needs to look up; and you have done a wonderful job of showing us to look up. Great photos! Well done!
Unknown commented on "New Book - Journey Through Captivity by Sheela Sheth"
Nov 12, 2023
Mahendra
In Response to a comment by Unknown
Unknown commented on "New Book - Journey Through Captivity by Sheela Sheth"
Nov 12, 2023
Thank you Mahboob and Tom
Maie Ayoub von Kohl commented on "LOOK UP! By Myra Rudin"
Nov 12, 2023
Super photos and super concept... . Thank you Myra :)
Bill Hetzer commented on "“BARBIE” THE MOVIE AND PALM SPRINGS CA Photo Collages by Bill Hetzer"
Nov 11, 2023
Thank you all for your comments. I enjoyed a little experimentation and I look forward to posting more from future visits next year to Cuba and Albania.
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UNICEF should tell in plain language what it is doing in Gaza. What actions are taken to implement its mandate? We all have been in the system and understand, and understand, … but what are UNICEF field staff doing (they are at the sharp end), what is MENA doing, and where is HQ in all this mess?? From the news in the public media we see of course UNWRA and (as usual) a lot of WHO. But what are UNICEF’s efforts and actions to prevent the death toll of thousands of children and women to rise? Is UNICEF failing in terms of actions, or in communicating these actions, or in both??
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