From the Editors - 14--20 December 2025

We all knew that Detlef Palm and his family were seasoned mountain climbers. Now we learn that they are also great drivers of all types of vehicles, especially in out-of-the-way places. Enjoy their trips out of Nairobi to all kinds of interesting adventurous places. Incidentally there is a tie-in with the photo of the new edifices of the UN Gigiri complex shared by Lou Mendez and where many UNICEF staff will be transferred in the coming months. 

Contest

Richard Bridle's proposal evoked a contest on "the coolest UNICEF office". We show the few  entries received todate and ask for your views on which ones should be selected. 

Vacancy Announcement

We have already announced that the XUNICEF News & Views will close down in Spring 2026, unless we find additional volunteer Editors to take over. We are sharing below for your information the vacancy announcement for XUNICEF editors. 

About Children

Kul Gautam shares good news.

Ramesh Shrestra worries about protecting children from AI.

Our Contributors

Niloufar Pourzand shares a series of new links of interest and relevance.We found the articles by the Elders and by Muukesh Kapila worthy of special attention.

 Luis Mendez reminds about treaties like the Rome Statutes and the International Criminal Court.

 V.Muthuswami writes about the Indian epic, "Yasha Prasna and  the UN Charter."

UNICEF

ED Catherine Russell announces new Senior Staff appointments.

Ongoing Conflicts

Palestine/Gaza; despite cease fire first phase, children are still suffering;

• Newborn mortality has soared 75% 
• UNICEF reports 82 children killed since the cease fire 
• Israel creates new barrier through West Bank farmlands
• US contractors vying for rebuilding Gaza.

Sudan

6 UN Peacekeepers are reported dead

Missing You

V.S. Laksman in Mumbai, India ....RIP

VACATION TIME

 XUNICEF  NEWS & VIEWS WILL BREAK from 20 DECEMBER TO 9 JANUARY 2026

 SEASON"S GREETINGS TO ALL OUR MEMBERS 

Fouad Kronfol

Editor of the Week