News

This Week in DPPA: 18 - 24 October 2025

A brief roundup of United Nations-related political and peacebuilding events and developments globally.

Special Representative urges action to protect populations and strengthen institutions in Haiti

On 22 October, Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) and Head of United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) Carlos Ruiz Massieu briefed the Security Council for the first time since assuming his post, outlining Haiti’s grave security, humanitarian and political situation. He described how gang violence continues to devastate communities, with over 1.4 million people displaced, and underscored the urgent need to protect populations, particularly women and children. Welcoming the Council’s adoption of resolution 2793 establishing the new UN Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH) and the transition to the Gang Suppression Force, he urged sustained international support to restore security, strengthen justice institutions, and advance the political transition.

Read his full remarks

Deputy Special Coordinator Alakbarov calls for urgent action to sustain ceasefire and aid delivery in Gaza

On 24 October, Deputy Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Ramiz Alakbarov briefed the Security Council on the situation in Israel and Palestine, noting that the ceasefire agreement offers hope but remains extremely fragile. He urged all parties to fully implement their commitments, release remaining hostages, and allow humanitarian aid to reach civilians across Gaza at scale. Alakbarov reported a 46 per cent increase in aid entering the Strip during the first week of the ceasefire under the UN 2720 Mechanism but stressed that more crossings, fuel deliveries, and safe operational conditions for humanitarian partners are urgently needed.

UN underscores need for inclusive and sovereign solutions in Syria’s political process

On 22 October, Deputy Special Envoy for Syria Najat Rochdi briefed the Security Council from Damascus, reporting that meetings with Syrian interlocutors reflected broad support for indirect electoral arrangements amid challenges in civil registration, though some criticized the process as rushed and opaque. She stressed that any proposed solution must uphold Syria’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and address the safety and rights of the Druze and Bedouin communities. Marking the 25th anniversary of Security Council resolution 1325, she also called for greater transparency and stronger inclusion of Syrian women in the country’s political transition, stressing that their full and meaningful participation is essential to shaping Syria’s future.

Read her full remarks

PBC discusses upcoming UN–Civil Society Dialogue on Peacebuilding

On 23 October, the Peacebuilding Commission held an expert-level meeting to prepare for the third annual UN–Civil Society Dialogue on Peacebuilding, scheduled for December in Geneva. Briefers from the Peacebuilding Support Office and the Crisis Management Initiative – Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation, which co-chairs the Dialogue, outlined plans and priorities. Member States emphasized the importance of locally driven peacebuilding approaches and discussed themes and modalities for the upcoming Dialogue, with some expressing caution regarding civil society engagement.

African peacebuilders at global civil society forum in Nairobi

Last week, DPPA’s Peacebuilding Support Office took part in Peace Connect, a global civil society peacebuilders’ gathering in Nairobi, Kenya. In partnership with ACCORD and WANEP, the event convened 55 African peacebuilders and three UN entities to discuss strengthening UN–CSO collaboration and advancing a whole-of-system approach to sustaining peace. Participants explored ways to align global agendas for greater regional and local impact, with outcomes feeding into the upcoming CSO–UN Dialogue on Peacebuilding in Geneva this December. The Office also held a youth consultation for the Second Independent Progress Study on Youth, Peace and Security, where young participants shared reflections on the first decade of the agenda and their hopes for the next.

SRSG Imnadze engages Tajik authorities and regional partners in Dushanbe

During his visit to Dushanbe from 22 to 24 October, SRSG and Head of the United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) Kaha Imnadze met with Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin for an in-depth discussion on regional cooperation, including transboundary water management and developments in Afghanistan. Both welcomed progress on the Tajikistan–Kyrgyzstan border agreement as a step toward stability and confidence-building. The SRSG also met Bunafsha Fayziddinzoda, Chairperson of the Committee on Women and Family Affairs, to discuss advancing women’s leadership in preventive diplomacy under the Women Leaders’ Caucus.

While in Dushanbe, Imnadze participated in the 3rd CIS ATC Conference on Combating Terrorism and Extremism, where he launched a joint UNRCCA–UNOCT briefing highlighting regional counter-terrorism initiatives, including the Early Warning Network supported by China and the “Prevention and Countering Extremism” project supported by the Russian Federation.

UN and Iraqi counterparts coordinate to advance women’s participation in elections

On 21 October, UN in Iraq and national partners met in Baghdad to review progress in promoting women’s participation in the upcoming parliamentary elections. Discussions focused on training for women candidates, engagement with political parties, and measures to counter cyberbullying. Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General (DSRSG) Claudio Cordone joined representatives from UNAMI, UNFPA, UN Women and UNDP, alongside senior Iraqi officials, reaffirming the UN’s continued advocacy for women’s full, equal and safe participation in Iraq’s political life.

UN supports Iraq’s efforts to advance sustainable development goals

On 21 October, DSRSG and Resident Coordinator Ghulam Mohammad Isaczai joined an event at the Ministry of Planning in Baghdad to discuss Iraq’s Third Voluntary National Review (VNR). The report highlights progress in education, health, women’s empowerment and economic development. DSRSG Isaczai commended the VNR as a genuine national effort and reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to helping Iraq translate its recommendations into concrete, lasting results.

UNAMI trains young human rights defenders on election-related rights monitoring

On 22–23 October, the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) held training sessions in Najaf and Karbala for 43 young human rights defenders and NGO representatives. The workshops, organized by the Mission’s Human Rights Office, aimed to strengthen participants’ capacity to monitor and respond to human rights violations in the electoral context through practical exercises, group discussions and peer learning.

AUC and UNOAU launch 3rd edition of She Stands for Peace to mark 25 Years of Women, Peace and Security

Launched in Windhoek during the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, the latest edition of the She Stands for Peace series celebrates African women and women-led organizations driving peace, mediation, and security across the continent. Produced by the United Nations Office to the African Union (UNOAU) and the African Union Commission (AUC), with support from Norway and Ireland, this inspiring publication highlights stories of leadership, resilience, and transformation.

Celebrating rural women in Colombia

On 18 October, the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (UNVMC) joined a panel discussion in Fusagasugá, Cundinamarca (near Bogotá, in the central region of the country), organised by the Land Restitution Unit (URT) to mark the International Day of Rural Women. The event brought together key voices from the Gender Secretariat of Cundinamarca, the Mayor’s Office, the Ombudsperson’s Office, and inspiring women leaders from the Women’s Network of Cundinamarca and Boyacá. As part of the celebration, the URT and the Mayor’s Office hosted a fair in the town’s main square where women showcased their local products and shared their stories of resilience and empowerment.

Building a culture of peace with children and youth in Meta

On 18 October, in La Macarena, Meta, UNVMC joined the “Misión por la Niñez” initiative alongside the Meta Governor’s Office, Pastoral Social – Cáritas Colombiana, and El Cuarto Mosquetero. Children, youth and members of the academic community participated in dialogue spaces and a Communication for Peace workshop to foster peacebuilding values, critical thinking, and social participation.

Mine action partners strengthen coordination to address explosive contamination in Libya

On 15 October, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) and the Libyan Mine Action Centre co-chaired the third Mine Action Implementing Partners meeting in Tripoli, bringing together national authorities, NGOs, and international partners. Participants discussed progress and challenges in clearance, risk education, and ammunition management across Libya. DSRSG and Resident Coordinator Ulrika Richardson underscored the urgency of joint action to prevent further tragedies and enhance community safety, while partners reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening coordination, national ownership and assistance to victims.

Mexico contributes to DPPA’s Multi-Year Appeal

This week, we thank Mexico for its contribution of $10,000 to DPPA's Multi-Year Appeal. These funds will support our Verification Mission in Colombia.

Learn more about our Multi-Year Appeal

Next Week

On 31 October, the Security Council will hold its semi-annual debate on Bosnia and Herzegovina. Members are also expected to consider mandate renewals for the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (UNVMC), on 30 October, and the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), on 31 October. Sierra Leone will assume the presidency of the Council on 1 November.

High-level meeting on the Secretary-General’s Common Pledge

On 28 October, DPPA will convene a High-Level Meeting on the Secretary-General’s Common Pledge on Women’s Participation in Peace Processes at UN Headquarters in New York. The event will spotlight women mediators, negotiators and peacebuilders, and showcase how adopters of the Common Pledge are advancing from commitments to concrete action. Speakers include Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed, ASG Martha Ama A. Pobee, UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous and UN Global Advocate for Peace Maryam Bukar Hassan.

Watch live on UN Web TV

Virtual briefing on safeguarding human rights in the Occupied Palestinian Territory

On 30 October, the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People will hold a virtual briefing titled “Safeguarding Human Rights, Ensuring Accountability and Ending the Unlawful Occupation of Palestine.” The event will feature presentations from UN Special Procedures mandate holders, including Francesca Albanese, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian Territory occupied since 1967.

Watch live on UN Web TV

UN SDG Action Awards to honor global changemakers

On 29 October, the Heroes of Tomorrow: 2025 UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony will take place in Rome, celebrating individuals and initiatives driving creativity and innovation toward a more sustainable, equitable and peaceful world. Among this year’s finalists is Women for Peace and Democracy Nepal, recognized for empowering women and marginalized groups to participate in peacebuilding and democratic governance through grassroots leadership and civic engagement. Organized by the UN SDG Action Campaign, the annual awards recognize outstanding contributions to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, with finalists selected from more than 5,500 nominations across 190 countries.

Learn more

Security Council LIVE: Gaza ceasefire, aid crisis dominates agenda as ambassadors meet on the Middle East

The UN Security Council meets at the top of the hour in New York to debate the Middle East, with Ramiz Alakbarov, Deputy Special Coordinator for the region expected to brief. The session comes amid faltering progress on the fragile Gaza ceasefire and mounting humanitarian needs after two years of war, with famine still looming in parts of the territory. Ambassadors will likely discuss yesterday's ICJ advisory opinion affirming Israel’s obligation to allow agencies aid access under international law. Follow our in-depth live coverage from 10am; UN News app users can go here.

Russian strikes on Ukraine kill at least six civilians, injure dozens

Russian forces carried out “another massive wave of overnight attacks” targeting energy facilities, the UN said on Wednesday, killing and injuring civilians – including children.

Green light for Gang Suppression Force tells Haitians ‘they are not alone’, Security Council hears

The people of Haiti have not given up and “their fortitude gives us hope,” the UN Special Representative to the country told the Security Council on Wednesday.

UN appeals for stronger support for Syria, with millions still in need

As Syria’s humanitarian needs soar and aid funding dries up, UN officials urged the Security Council on Wednesday to step up support, warning that millions face continuing hardship even as the country rebuilds its political institutions.

Security Council LIVE: UN discusses next phase to curb Haiti gang violence, step up aid

Following renewal of the Security Council’s sanctions regime in Haiti and a resolution to create a new Gang Suppression Force to combat the scourge of gang violence, ambassadors heard this afternoon from the top UN official in the country. In his first briefing as head of the UN office in Haiti (BINUH), Carlos Ruiz Massieu reported on latest developments, as brutal violence and insecurity continues to rage, increasing pressure on diplomats to act fast and decisively to protect millions of Haitians facing impunity and chaos. UN News app users can follow live coverage here.

One Vote, Millions of Voices: How the UN Continues to Support Elections Worldwide

Patuma casts her vote at a polling station during the 2025 Malawian general elections on 16 September 2025. Photo credit: Ayamba Kandodo, NICE Trust

In Buluma Village, Malawi, Patuma, 82, woke at 4 a.m. to make her way to the Changamire Polling Centre to cast her vote in the country’s recent general elections. She hoped to elect a candidate who could bring down the price of fertilizer — a vital need for her family.

Across the globe, people head annually in great numbers to the ballot box — from remote villages to urban centres, from first-time voters to elders like Patuma. Each vote cast is a personal act of hope, trust and political participation — a symbolic yet tangible moment in democratic processes. Elections are among the largest peacetime mobilization efforts any country undergoes. They are also the moment when each individual citizen gets a meaningful say in the decisions that shape their lives.

In any given year close to one hundred countries might hold elections. Behind a number of these elections is the support of the United Nations. Working alongside national institutions and local partners, the UN system helps foster electoral processes that are peaceful, inclusive and credible — and has done so in over one hundred countries worldwide. At any given moment, more than 40 countries receive UN support — always at the request of the Member State or by mandate, and under national ownership. Most support is technical: strengthening electoral bodies, improving laws, furthering inclusion and providing operational assistance to ensure that every eligible citizen can take part.

A Global Effort Based on Local Context

The Somalia National Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC) conducted a pilot voter registration exercise in Shangani District, Mogadishu, as the first phase of preparations for the local council elections scheduled for 30 June 2025. 15 April 2025. Photo credit: NIEBC

In Malawi, where voters like Patuma took part in the recent general elections, the UN supported national efforts to strengthen electoral institutions, promote participation and help ensure that citizens had access to information.

But Malawi is just one example.

In Liberia, the UN helped reinforce electoral institutions. In Vanuatu, it assisted with organizing elections after a major earthquake. In Ecuador, the UN supported efforts to strengthen information integrity and civic engagement.

Support in each country looks different. In some contexts — such as the Central African Republic or Libya — assistance is multidimensional, part of UN peacekeeping or special political missions. In others, like Armenia, Panama or Timor-Leste, support has been more targeted. In every case, the approach is guided by national priorities and adapted to local contexts.

In countries without a UN peacekeeping or special political mission, UNDP plays a leading role as the UN system’s main provider of support — while also contributing to efforts in mission settings — helping strengthen institutions, sustain national capacities and forge partnerships.

As part of its support, the UN also works to make elections more inclusive — helping ensure that women, youth, persons with disabilities and other groups can take part in shaping their country’s political future.

Placing Women’s Participation at the Forefront

Polling staff apply indelible ink to a voter’s finger after she casts her ballot in the 2024 Mozambican general elections on 9 October 2024. Photo credit: UNDP Mozambique

Around the world, women continue to face barriers to participation in elections — from discriminatory laws to online harassment. UN electoral assistance places inclusion at the centre of its work, helping ensure that women not only vote, but can also stand as candidates, lead electoral bodies and shape their communities’ futures.

In Jordan, the UN supported efforts to make elections more accessible for women and persons with disabilities. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sierra Leone, Liberia and Mozambique, hundreds of women benefited from UN-supported training and outreach initiatives. Through partnerships with regional organizations, the UN has helped bring together women electoral officials and supported training on women’s leadership and inclusion.

These efforts continue to reflect a simple but powerful idea: every voice — including women’s — should be heard and recognized.

Responding to Sustained Demand

As the Organization marks its 80th anniversary, demand for UN electoral assistance shows no sign of slowing. In the past two years alone, 43 Member States have formally requested electoral assistance — including several for the first time — a clear sign of continuing trust in the UN’s role and expertise.

The Secretary-General’s latest report on electoral assistance (A/80/277) takes stock of UN support over the last two years, noting that during this period 58 Member States and territories received some form of UN electoral support. That demand also reflects a broader recognition that credible elections require constant attention and commitment.

At the same time, the report notes that declining funding — particularly in non-mission settings — risks limiting the UN’s ability to respond. It underscores that UN electoral assistance remains a cost-effective investment in good governance and conflict prevention.

Echoing the Secretary-General’s message in her recent presentation of the report to the Third Committee, Assistant Secretary-General for Africa Martha Ama A. Pobee said:

“Genuine elections that reflect the will of the people are not guaranteed. Gains can be reversed. Sustained commitment and investment are essential to ensure inclusion, protect electoral integrity and maintain public trust.”

The Many Hands of UN Assistance

Electoral officials prepare ballot boxes for deployment to remote constituencies ahead of the 2024 Tuvaluan general elections on 26 January 2024. Photo credit: UNDP Tuvalu

Behind every election supported by the UN is a network of people — staff, experts, volunteers — who work with quiet dedication. Some work with national election commissions to train officials or support voter education; others help procure materials or move them across difficult terrain. Still others focus on fostering inclusion and helping enable a peaceful electoral environment.

This work is led and coordinated by the Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA), the UN’s focal point for electoral assistance, supported by the Department’s Electoral Assistance Division. Across these system-wide efforts, DPPA, the Department of Peace Operations, UNDP, UN Women, OHCHR, UNOPS, UNESCO, UNV and others each contribute according to their mandates and areas of expertise. Together, these efforts give tangible meaning to the UN’s commitment to support Member States at their request.

From young voters to displaced communities, from national commissions to civil society, the UN continues to support elections — one vote, and millions of voices at a time. For voters like Patuma, the simple act of marking a ballot is a reminder that every vote counts.

Sudan: Over one million return to Khartoum amid fragile recovery

More than a million people have returned to Sudan’s war-ravaged capital in the past ten months, the UN migration agency said on Tuesday, warning that basic services remain shattered amid continuing disease outbreaks.

UN rights office sounds alarm over ‘skyrocketing’ Israeli settler violence during olive harvest

The UN human rights office (OHCHR) in the Occupied Palestinian Territory has warned of an alarming rise in violence and restrictions by Israeli settlers and security forces against Palestinian farmers, as the crucial olive harvest season gets underway.

‘Overwhelming’ demand for food aid in Gaza as fragile ceasefire holds

In Gaza, the ceasefire is enabling UN humanitarians to reach more desperate people with life-saving food – but greater access is needed to contain the spread of famine.