Gautam Banerji commented on "Can the UN save itself from Irrelevance : Shared by Thomas Ekvall"
58 mins ago
I would be inclined to argue if the UN is to be judged for its failings, it has only in a limited way been able to fulfill its primary function of restoring peace and stability in a world torn asunder by war and conflict. If it has to be judged by its success, I would place it in its development efforts, reaching out to the unreached in some of the most challenging environments where few dare to tread.
Much has been achieved through persistent advocacy with recalcitrant regimes, reluctant to be moved where it comes to shift of power to those they govern. It is easy to walk away, and blame it on corruption, as Thomas seems to suggest. It is a harder task to persist where one must and that counts.
UNICEF is unique in its capacity to wear the boots on the ground while at the same time walk the corridors of power to talk the walk with policy framers in state capitals. This is a role worthy of emulation across all developmental initiatives across the UN system. I would judge success through these softer skills in diplomacy and advocacy efforts.
I am not a neorealist sold to the idea of a world in anarchy where jealously guarding state sovereignty is considered to be of paramount importance for political leadership. I believe in interdependency in a multipolar world, where global institutions set the rules for good governance through consensus. I believe in the rule of law. I do not believe that the world should be allowed to plunge into anarchy. And that is the challenge before the UN today.
Much has been achieved through persistent advocacy with recalcitrant regimes, reluctant to be moved where it comes to shift of power to those they govern. It is easy to walk away, and blame it on corruption, as Thomas seems to suggest. It is a harder task to persist where one must and that counts.
UNICEF is unique in its capacity to wear the boots on the ground while at the same time walk the corridors of power to talk the walk with policy framers in state capitals. This is a role worthy of emulation across all developmental initiatives across the UN system. I would judge success through these softer skills in diplomacy and advocacy efforts.
I am not a neorealist sold to the idea of a world in anarchy where jealously guarding state sovereignty is considered to be of paramount importance for political leadership. I believe in interdependency in a multipolar world, where global institutions set the rules for good governance through consensus. I believe in the rule of law. I do not believe that the world should be allowed to plunge into anarchy. And that is the challenge before the UN today.
In Response to a comment by Thomas Ekvall
Unknown commented on "Japan’s Warning, Africa’s Promise: A Smarter Immigration Strategy by Thomas Ekvall"
2 hours ago
If the world has to wait for the UN to solve the migration problems, it will be long waiting.
2 hours ago
Many UN retirees are migrants. Do those who migrate to a tax-free jurisdiction contribute to those countries, or are they a burden? After all, they benefit from all the infrastructure, the protection by the police and armed forces, the list could be made long, but they do not pay taxes. That is a question often raised about migrants coming from poor countries to the rich West.
In Response to a comment by Detlef Palm
3 hours ago
As a large proportion of UN retirees end up as migrants (see UNJSPF annual reports ) many former staff may have an opinion. It is one of the most hotly discussed in the West. Unfortunately, this discussion is often lead irrationally and, as Thomas implies, is fueling racist and far-right sentiments.
Migration is not a phenomenon that each country can deal with or solve for itself. It should be one of the top-most issues discussed among economists and in the UN, and not be delegated to IOM as yet another IOM run programme.
Migration is not a phenomenon that each country can deal with or solve for itself. It should be one of the top-most issues discussed among economists and in the UN, and not be delegated to IOM as yet another IOM run programme.
4 hours ago
Must have been a lovely trip. How did you like Thacher's brew?
Unknown commented on "PPP: Pirates, Penguins, Patagonia by Detlef Palm"
11 hours ago
Thank you, dear Detlef, for sharing such a beautifully crafted and illustrated account. It came at just the right moment as I'm contemplating what this next phase of life might hold.
Warm regards,
Youssouf Abdel-Jelil
Warm regards,
Youssouf Abdel-Jelil
12 hours ago
I don't have enough words to express my admiration for your trip report and the excellent photos. I share the previous comments - it was an incredible experience. For me, it brought back many memories, although you got to see more than I did, And the information you provided is amazing, as well as the YouTube videos. I will definitely read it again..
18 hours ago
The UN is indispensable, but without change, it will wither, and then the world would have to create a new institution from scratch. The Security Council, in particular, must reflect today’s realities, not the power balance of 80 years ago.
Not everything under the UN umbrella deserves saving. Many of its agencies are bloated, ineffective, and could be dismantled with little loss. The UN’s track record on development is dismal. After decades of programs and many billions spent, Africa is relatively poorer than it was when the UN was founded. Too often, its agencies serve themselves more than the people they are supposed to help.
There are better, simpler ways to make a difference. Direct cash transfers to the poorest would have a greater impact. Yes, some of the money would go to drinks or weddings, but most would be spent wisely, especially if women were the main recipients. Parents in Africa know better than overpaid aid workers what their children need: food, health, and education.
Climate change mitigation is urgent, and interventions there would be more effective than pouring money into the same tired development ruts. Even in emergencies, local armed forces are often better placed to respond — they already have the logistics, manpower, and infrastructure.
Not everything under the UN umbrella deserves saving. Many of its agencies are bloated, ineffective, and could be dismantled with little loss. The UN’s track record on development is dismal. After decades of programs and many billions spent, Africa is relatively poorer than it was when the UN was founded. Too often, its agencies serve themselves more than the people they are supposed to help.
There are better, simpler ways to make a difference. Direct cash transfers to the poorest would have a greater impact. Yes, some of the money would go to drinks or weddings, but most would be spent wisely, especially if women were the main recipients. Parents in Africa know better than overpaid aid workers what their children need: food, health, and education.
Climate change mitigation is urgent, and interventions there would be more effective than pouring money into the same tired development ruts. Even in emergencies, local armed forces are often better placed to respond — they already have the logistics, manpower, and infrastructure.
23 hours ago
Spectacular, fabulous etc., etc. Maybe you could try following 'The Flight of the Condor' up the west coast of South America where there are many, many photographic opportunities. Thank you for listing some of your other travelogues as they are superb as well.
Unknown commented on "PPP: Pirates, Penguins, Patagonia by Detlef Palm"
Yesterday
I was always reluctant to make my dream to cruise those waters a reality because of the personal carbon print involved. Now, thanks to your report, I can keep my dream and my dream only and make some modest carbon savings for our poor planet. Thank you. jm
Unknown commented on "PPP: Pirates, Penguins, Patagonia by Detlef Palm"
Yesterday
What a fabulous journey and thank you so much for sharing it. Loved the stories and the stunning photographs…as well as the mischievous digs at UN officials! 🙂 I, by the way, am Deepa Grover (who you may remember) - a.k.a. “anonymous”… I don’t seem to be able to comment in the conventional way. Looking forward to future blogposts of your adventures.
Unknown commented on "PPP: Pirates, Penguins, Patagonia by Detlef Palm"
2 days ago
This is also my dream trip. Have you read In Patagonia, by Bruce Chatwin? You would enjoy his writing.
Just a note to say that the circumnavigation Magellan started with a five-ship fleet and 270 men leaving Sevilla (my city :-) in 1519 was completed by Juan Sebastian Elcano and his 18 men aboard Nao Victoria in 1522. Great biography of Magellan by Stefan Zweig, by the way.
Just a note to say that the circumnavigation Magellan started with a five-ship fleet and 270 men leaving Sevilla (my city :-) in 1519 was completed by Juan Sebastian Elcano and his 18 men aboard Nao Victoria in 1522. Great biography of Magellan by Stefan Zweig, by the way.
Unknown commented on "PPP: Pirates, Penguins, Patagonia by Detlef Palm"
2 days ago
Another fabulous travelogue from the Master Teller. Love it!
Karin hulshof commented on "PPP: Pirates, Penguins, Patagonia by Detlef Palm"
2 days ago
Thanks Detlef, what a fabulous narrated travel journey. The pictures are also splendid. Patagonia is high on the wishlist.
2 days ago
Quite a bit more inspiring than most of the POLITICIANS who have taken the floor at the GA.
2 days ago
On a more serious note, as the US withdraws from WHO what is happening with WHO/PAHO (pan American health office) and its headquarters in Washington DC??
2 days ago
Absolutely FANTASTIC ! This routing was a cruise that we were interested to take a number of years ago. But our "bucket List" still has it at top. We went instead to the more doable Alaskan cruise.
2 days ago
This makes playing Scrabble that much more interesting and challenging ! While these changes appear in English dictionaries, one wonders how dictionaries in other major languages are dealing with new vocabulary appearing in their countries.
2 days ago
So far it has been all words but no concrete action from all those leaders at the GA debate. Question: and why dont these concerned nations take the actions that Craig has outlined ???
2 days ago
Nadia joins me in expressing our heartfelt thanks for all those who sent us their wishes and greetings for our "Double Day " celebration in this XUNICEF Blog, as well as the many more who emailed us directly. It is truly humbling that so many friends and colleagues chose to do so and we are more than grateful. We want to reciprocate by wishing all of them our own warm regards and greetings in return.
PS We know many Susans but could not identify who this Susan is.
PS We know many Susans but could not identify who this Susan is.
Doreen Lobo commented on "PPP: Pirates, Penguins, Patagonia by Detlef Palm"
2 days ago
Bravo Detlef on this absolutely spectacular feature.
You have offered us … armchair travelers a feast for the eyes weaving a fascinating narrative of history, geography, culture and nature presented through your skilled and magical photography.
Hope you and Gabi had time to take a crash course in the Tango! Looking forward to seeing that video clip! Doreen
You have offered us … armchair travelers a feast for the eyes weaving a fascinating narrative of history, geography, culture and nature presented through your skilled and magical photography.
Hope you and Gabi had time to take a crash course in the Tango! Looking forward to seeing that video clip! Doreen
Nuzhat Shahzadi commented on "“Dancing Through the Fire . . .” By Nuzhat Shahzadi"
2 days ago
Many thanks for your comments, Shaifiqul. The world around us is becoming real challenging, alas!
In Response to a comment by Unknown
Unknown commented on "Trump & Melania stuck on UN escalator: Shared by Kul Gautam"
Sep 25, 2025
Its a justified explanation. AN UNICEF RETIREE
Unknown commented on "“Dancing Through the Fire . . .” By Nuzhat Shahzadi"
Sep 25, 2025
Hi Nuzhat! I read your story with interest. It speaks about Afganistan & preset America. I am happy that you have narrated the true picture on the basis of your experience. Keep up your good work. Best wishes. Shafiqul Islam
Unknown commented on "The Grapevine - More UNICEF Chatter"
Sep 24, 2025
Very true! Gossip - no. However, what people perceive could help draw extra attention to avoid misperceptions that would be otherwise mundane observations.
In Response to a comment by Unknown
Unknown commented on "The Grapevine - More UNICEF Chatter"
Sep 24, 2025
I don’t think gossip is helpful, even among former staff members. The organisation has more than enough to focus on without the external chatter.
Editors commented on "The Grapevine - More UNICEF Chatter"
Sep 24, 2025
Yes, flagging articles and listing the best ones is a great idea. Unfortunately, we do not have enough hands to do this and so have to depend on the members who share articles to be selective. Why not join our volunteer editor team and help us improve the blog. Just write to us at xunicef.news.views@gmail.com You and the ideas you bring with you will be very welcome.
In Response to a comment by Unknown
Unknown commented on "The Grapevine - More UNICEF Chatter"
Sep 24, 2025
Now this is more interesting than the articles that are forwarded. It could be more useful if articles of interest can be flagged or listed instead of being posted. This will create more choices for the readership and could bro g a diverse set of views and options to connect to.
Fouad commented on "The UN’s grim future : Shared by Alan Court"
Sep 24, 2025
Ironic isn’t it, that the three largest countries in the SC are the ones not paying in full.?
Sep 24, 2025
Now we know why the UN doesn’t do its job…how can you solve the world.’s problems when your escalator and teleprompter do not function ?
George McBean commented on "Canyon de Chelly and Chaco Culture - Bill Hetzer"
Sep 24, 2025
Great photos Bill … it’s good to see you keep your eye for detail active.🙏
Unknown commented on "Canyon de Chelly and Chaco Culture - Bill Hetzer"
Sep 22, 2025
Amazing photos, Bill. I love the stylization which enhances the photos. Thanks for sharing. Keep exhibiting your work!
Mehr
Mehr
Sep 22, 2025
It is critical to read the information about a new drug, especially the side effects, which usually also include "death". My cardiologist prescribed a medication which I knew would cause dizziness and tiredness, so I told him that I don't want to take it. I felt fine without it.
Sep 22, 2025
Thank you, Adhiratha, for sharing this presentation of "Peacemaker" and the fascinating video. U Thant was the SG when I started at the UN, working in the Film Section in the first basement - quite a distance from the 38th floor. But I did meet the SG at a Christmas staff party, which of course, was the highlight of my UN career at that point.
Unknown commented on "The Elders Speak at the UN GA : Shared by Niloufar Pourzand"
Sep 22, 2025
Thanks Niloufar.
Unknown commented on "Celebrations by Fouad Kronfol - A Ditty for an Anniversary and a Birthday"
Sep 22, 2025
Happy and blessed birthday and anniversary, best wishes to you both! Susan
Sep 21, 2025
Great you could make the trip and take these amazing photos. It's so critical to talk about such ancient history..
Karin Sham Poo commented on "Celebrations by Fouad Kronfol - A Ditty for an Anniversary and a Birthday"
Sep 21, 2025
Stanley and I are wishing you a happy birthday and a wonderful wedding anniversary to both of you, you both look fantasic and we are wishing you many more great years together.
Maie Ayoub commented on "Canyon de Chelly and Chaco Culture - Bill Hetzer"
Sep 21, 2025
Thank you Bill. Simply amazing photos! Good luck with the exhibit. Warm regards, Maie
Unknown commented on "Celebrations by Fouad Kronfol - A Ditty for an Anniversary and a Birthday"
Sep 21, 2025
Dear Fouad and Nadia, congratulations on both anniversaries. We tried to call you bur was not able to reach. Sending you our ;love, Bilge and Fabrizioo
Unknown commented on "Canyon de Chelly and Chaco Culture - Bill Hetzer"
Sep 21, 2025
Fascinating. Thank you for sharing. bilge
Sep 21, 2025
Warmest good wishes dear Fouad and Nadia. i was with you from the very beginning, and what a delight it has been through the years...and still looking to good times ahead. Habib and Hanan.
Unknown commented on "Canyon de Chelly and Chaco Culture - Bill Hetzer"
Sep 21, 2025
Bill, great work, keep traveling! Cheers Morten
Unknown commented on "Celebrations by Fouad Kronfol - A Ditty for an Anniversary and a Birthday"
Sep 21, 2025
Happy Anniversary and Birthday too! Wishing you both many more joyful celebrations ! Liz
wjh commented on "Canyon de Chelly and Chaco Culture - Bill Hetzer"
Sep 21, 2025
For the last few years I’ve only been using my cell phone for my photography work.
In Response to a comment by Gautam Banerji
Sep 21, 2025
Amazing photos Bill!
Peter Delahaye commented on "Canyon de Chelly and Chaco Culture - Bill Hetzer"
Sep 21, 2025
Wonderful photos!
Unknown commented on "South Sudan's 'White Army' - the centre of renewed conflict? : David Bassiouni"
Sep 21, 2025
Thankyou for sharing this, David. (Rozanne Chorlton)
Neena Gupta commented on "Celebrations by Fouad Kronfol - A Ditty for an Anniversary and a Birthday"
Sep 21, 2025
Happy birthday Fouad and happy anniversary too. Wish you the very best always
Shahida Azfar commented on "Unicef Gender Plan : Shared by Niloufar Pourzand"
Sep 21, 2025
Not new or bold but renewed emphasis on M in MCH which is badly needed as has been sadly neglected over past decades
Shahida Azfar commented on "Celebrations by Fouad Kronfol - A Ditty for an Anniversary and a Birthday"
Sep 21, 2025
Congratulations Fouad and Nadia and a very happy birthday Chief!! Many happy returns !!! Stay happy, healthy and blessed . Much love and best wishes
Gautam Banerji commented on "Canyon de Chelly and Chaco Culture - Bill Hetzer"
Sep 21, 2025
Wow! Seems some magic hand was at work to sculpt these out of rocks! And what amazing lenses to capture the details! It's all in the eyes of the beholder, as the saying goes. Thank you for sharing. We could do with more!
Lou M commented on "Celebrations by Fouad Kronfol - A Ditty for an Anniversary and a Birthday"
Sep 20, 2025
Best of health and love to both you and Nadia. Happy birthday and blessed anniversary.
Unknown commented on "Celebrations by Fouad Kronfol - A Ditty for an Anniversary and a Birthday"
Sep 20, 2025
Mabrouk Nadia and Fouad, with my very Best Wishes, Rima
Unknown commented on "Celebrations by Fouad Kronfol - A Ditty for an Anniversary and a Birthday"
Sep 20, 2025
Sam & Myung
In Response to a comment by Unknown
Unknown commented on "Celebrations by Fouad Kronfol - A Ditty for an Anniversary and a Birthday"
Sep 20, 2025
Very best wishes to both of you. Onward and forward!
Unknown commented on "Celebrations by Fouad Kronfol - A Ditty for an Anniversary and a Birthday"
Sep 20, 2025
Happy Birthday and Anniversary Fouad --- wish you many more, and ditties too. Great photo! Myra
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