January 2011: In order to combat iron deficiency found in many rural communities, the International Potato Center (CIP) has engaged in biofortification efforts to develop potato strains that are rich in iron and ascorbic acid, which contributes to individuals' ability to absorb iron.
13 January 2011: A recent study carried out by IUCN and Zoo Outreach Organisation, entitled "The Status and Distribution of Freshwater Biodiversity in the Eastern Himalaya," emphasized the need for extensive new research on freshwater species in the Eastern Himalaya region.
January 2011: The UN Development Programme (UNDP) economic report titled "Latin America and the Caribbean: A Biodiversity Superpower" has been made available online.
The Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) bring together central bankers, ministers of finance and development, private sector executives, and academics to discuss issues of global concern, including the world economic outlook, poverty eradication, economic development and aid effectiveness. A Civil Society Policy Forum, a program of policy dialogues for civil society organizations (CSOs) will be held from 21-24 September 2011.
In December 2010, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) adopted by consensus the draft resolution recommended by the Second Committee (65/160) on Implementation of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification in Those Countries Experiencing Serious Drought and/or Desertification, Particularly in Africa (UNCCD). It agreed to hold a one-day, high-level meeting, in September 2011, on “addressing desertification, land degradation and drought in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication,” in order to help raise awareness at the highest level, reaffirm the fulfillment of all commitments to the Convention and its 10-year strategic plan and framework (2008-2018), and ensure a higher priority for desertification, land degradation and drought at the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (UNCSD, or Rio+20). A letter from the President of the GA, dated 22 July 2011, provides the agenda for the meeting and other information: http://www.un.org/en/ga/president/65/letters/PGA%20Letter%20-%20HL%20Meetings%20in%20September%20-%2022%20July%202011.pdf.
The objective of World Water Day 2011 is to focus international attention on the impact of rapid urban population growth, industrialization and uncertainties caused by climate change, conflicts and natural disasters on urban water systems. This year's theme, "Water for cities: responding to the urban challenge," aims to spotlight and encourage governments, organizations, communities, and individuals to actively engage in addressing the defy of urban water management.
World Environment Day 2011 will focus on Forests: Nature at Your Service. India will host World Environment Day 2011.
As decided during the organizational session of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for 2011, held 15-18 February 2011 (document E/2011/L.1), the substantive session for 2011 will be held from 4-29 July in Geneva, Switzerland, as follows: high-level segment from 4-8 July; dialogue with the Executive Secretaries of the Regional Commissions on 8 July; coordination segment from 11–14 July; operational activities segment from 14-18 July; humanitarian affairs segment from 19-21 July; general segment from 22-28 July; and closing of the session on 29 July.
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| Conference Reporting Services (CRS) |
