Rape is once again deployed as a weapon of war in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. On New Years day, at least 33 women in the South Kivu province were sexually assaulted by a roving militia.
Thanks to everyone who came to our happy hour last night. It was great to meet so many of you in person. And for those of you who could not make it--don't worry. There WILL be a next time.
On January 9, it is all but certain that South Sudan will vote for independence. Our reporter on the ground gives us a sense of the mood in Juba, South Sudan before the polls open.
Darfur: Ibrahim Gambari, the Joint Special Representative of UNAMID, told staff in El Fasher today that the key priorities in 2011 include the need to work towards a more stable and secure environment, including the protection of civilians.
A must-watch video from National Geographic that spells out the historical significance of the fact that in 2011 the world's population will hit 7 billion. "It's not space we need, It's balance."
With the independence referendum due to take place this Sunday, I have a piece in the American Prospect that takes a look at how the "Save Darfur" movement might end up saving South Sudan instead.
I speak with Tamara Kreinin, the executive director of women and population at the UN Foundation about some of the challenges facing women and girls in Haiti--and what local groups, the UN and the international community are doing to support reproductive health and women's empowerment in Haiti.
The Perm Rep of Bosnia and Herzegovina, President of the Council for January, briefed the press today on its program for the month. A relatively quiet month, there are no mandate adoptions expected, but UNMIN will end January 15.