Focus On
MIDDLE EAST LIVE 10 March: Displacement, supply shocks and civilian toll rise
The conflict in the Middle East continues, with strikes and counter-strikes across the region and the humanitarian toll mounting. UN agencies warn that rising civilian casualties, mass displacement – particularly in Lebanon – and damage to critical infrastructure are deepening the crisis, while disruptions to shipping and energy routes risk driving up global prices and worsening food insecurity. Stay with us for updates from across the United Nations system.
International Women’s Day | Hear Her Story: Celine Schmitt
Women in humanitarian work often make difficult decisions about working in the field. “I am inspired by all the women and mothers I see in Syria.” Céline Schmitt, spokesperson for the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) in Syria. Hear her story.
Celebrating the 20-Year Legacy of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance - 9.03.26
On 20 December 2026, the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance;turns 20. Before the celebrations begin, here’s a refresher on enforced disappearances, the legacy of the Convention and the Committee that oversees its implementation.
#3Minutes | Protecting everyone, everywhere from enforced disappearance - 9.03.25
Hundreds of thousands of people have vanished around the world as victims of enforced disappearance. For families of victims, the uncertainty is devastating. Days turn into months or even years without answers about what happened or where their loved one is being held. In less than 3 minutes, find out how the UN works to prevent and eradicate this horrendous crime and support victims and their families.
Happening at UN Geneva
World Down Syndrome Day 2026
Join us on Thursday, 19 March 2026 at the Palais des Nations to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day, organised by UNOG in collaboration with Down Syndrome International (DSi) and Association Romande Trisomie 21 (ART21).
This year’s event, under the theme of “Together Against Loneliness”, will bring together Member States, individuals living with Down syndrome, families, advocates and experts to promote the rights and well-being of people living with Down syndrome worldwide.
French Language Day Celebration at Palais des Nations
Visit our photobooth to show your language abilities
Everyone working at or visiting the United Nations Office at Geneva has the opportunity to take a picture showcasing the languages they speak.
Take your colleagues for a group picture and demonstrate the linguistic diversity in your team!
Committee on Enforced Disappearances (CED)
The Committee on Enforced Disappearances (CED) is the body of independent experts which monitors the implementation of the Convention for the Protection of all Persons against Enforced Disappearance by the States parties.
The Committee and its Secretariat work daily to support victims, civil society organizations, National Human Rights Institutions and States to search for and locate disappeared persons, eradicate, punish and prevent this crime, and repair the damage suffered by the victims.
Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)
The Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is the body of independent experts which monitors implementation of the Convention by the States parties.
Worldwide, there are an estimated one billion people with disabilities. Through its engagement and cooperation with States parties, the Committee promotes inclusion, advocates for the human rights of all persons with disabilities, and provides recommendations to support the implementation of the provisions enshrined in the Convention.
Human Rights Committee (CCPR)
The Human Rights Committee is the body of independent experts that monitors implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights by its States parties.
The Committee's work promotes the enjoyment of civil and political rights, resulting in numerous changes of law, policy and practice. As such, it has improved the lives of individuals in all parts of the world. It continues to strive to ensure all the civil and political rights guaranteed by the Covenant can be enjoyed in full and without discrimination, by all people.
