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29 May 2024
Harnessing Technology to Fight Terrorism, Respecting Human Rights
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Story
14 May 2024
Tackling Corruption: Better Investigations, More Effective Prosecutions
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Story
29 April 2024
How Aruba and Curacao Are Weaving the SDG Message into Public Information
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The Sustainable Development Goals in Trinidad and Tobago
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earthโs environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in MCO Trinidad and Tobago:
Publication
08 July 2024
UN Annual Results Report 2023
The UN in Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten presents the 2023 Annual Results Report, a reflection of the collaborative, collective and coordinated efforts of the UN System under the auspices of the Multi-Country Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2022-2026. In 2023, the UN System delivered results through strong partnerships with Government and public sector entities, civil society partners, private sector, international financial institutions and development partners.From delivering catalysts for the clean energy transition to specialised support for vulnerable groups to ensure we Leave No One Behind; from initiatives to generate national statistics and data that can drive policy-making to digitalisation initiatives in financial services and social protection, the UN System produced a suite of deliverables that helped Trinidad and Tobago advance progress on its Vision 2030 National Development Strategy and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. The UN System in Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten is committed to continuing its partnership with the countries we serve. Together, we will deliver on the promise of Agenda 2030 to bring peace, progress and prosperity, for people and for planet, as we ensure we Leave No One Behind.
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Publication
08 July 2024
Job Vacancy: Executive Assistant to the Resident Coordinator
The UN Resident Coordinator Office is seeking to recruit an Executive Assistant for its office in Port of Spain.This is a Fixed Term Appointment - G6.Deadline for applications is July 16.Resumes will not be accepted via email. Only applications submitted via the HR portal, Inspira, will be deemed eligible.For the job description and to apply, please use the following link: https://bit.ly/4cmKwiD.
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21 June 2024
Harnessing Technology to Fight Terrorism, Respecting Human Rights
The UNOCT Cybersecurity and New Technologies Programme delivered a second and final CT TECH workshop on developing national counter-terrorism policies and operational responses to counter the use of new technologies for terrorist purposes.The workshop, which took place on May 24, emphasised the importance of harnessing new technology while also protecting human rights and was tailored to the unique needs and context of Trinidad and Tobago. Participants discussed and finalized the self-assessment report on the status of national law enforcement capabilities, developed following extensive national consultations, and the roadmap for improvement. The draft report was well received and constructive discussions took place on ways to enhance the recommendations. Participants also discussed progress made in conducting threats assessment and developing policies to counter the use of technology for terrorist purposes. Finally, participants were presented with a specific case study that could help Trinidad and Tobago to enhance national processes on threat assessment and policy responses. The workshop was opened by the Deputy Commissioner of Police Intelligence and Investigations, the Head of the EU Delegation, the UN Resident Coordinator and UNCCTโs Director.
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14 May 2024
Tackling Corruption: Better Investigations, More Effective Prosecutions
Authorities in Trinidad and Tobago responsible for detecting, investigating and prosecuting corruption now have stronger expertise and technical skills to review and analyse evidence and red flag corruption in public procurement, with support from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).UNODC partnered with the Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Foreign Affairs to host a three-day capacity-building workshop that strengthened cooperation and coordination among key national institutions.The event is being held at the Hilton Trinidad, with support from the U.S. Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and the Anti-Crime Capacity Building Program (ACCBP) funded by the Government of Canada. Participating entities included the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution, the Anti-Corruption Investigations Bureau, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, the Office of the Procurement Regulator and the Auditor General's Department. These investigators, auditors and regulators explored the preparation of case scenarios and investigation plans, the review and analysis of evidence, the analysis of financial evidence, the typologies of corruption in public procurement and effective witness questioning techniques. The workshop is a concrete step to build on the launch of the UNODC Regional Platform in the Caribbean in October 2023, which aims to improve regional collaboration on the United Nations Convention Against Corruption.The following are opening remarks delivered by UN Resident Coordinator for Trinidad and Tobago, Joanna Kazana: It is a pleasure to address you today on behalf of the United Nations system as we open the regional capacity-building workshop on Investigating and Prosecuting Cases of Corruption.
I take this opportunity to extend gratitude to the Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago, Senator the Honourable Reginald Armour, for remaining our steadfast partner for this important work.Todayโs meeting is a testament to our collective commitment to combatting corruption as an insidious breach of the rule of law.And it was this shared mission that brought Trinidad and Tobago as a first Caribbean country to ratify the UN Convention Against Corruption.
It is also why we came together here in Port of Spain in October 2023 to launch the regional platform against corruption to fast track the implementation of that United Nations Convention.Todays gathering is the next concrete step in bringing the regional platform against corruption to life.I welcome many of the key stakeholders who attended the Octoberโs launch joining us here today to advance cooperation in this area.Corruption poses a significant challenge to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2030.It undermines Poverty Reduction (SDG 1): Corruption can divert funds meant for social welfare programs, reducing the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty. This diversion limits access to essential services for the most vulnerable populations, exacerbating poverty and inequality. It affects Quality Education (SDG 4): When corruption infiltrates educational systems, it can lead to mismanagement of resources and lower quality of education. Bribery in school admissions and procurement fraud in educational materials are examples where corruption undermines educational access and equity.
It hampers Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3): Corruption in the healthcare sector can lead to inadequate patient care, misallocation of resources, and inaccessible medical services, thereby compromising public health outcomes.It obstructs Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16): Perhaps the most directly affected, this goal calls for effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. Corruption erodes trust in institutions, hampers the rule of law, and challenges the implementation of fair and equitable justice systems. It impacts Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6): Corruption in the water sector can affect the quality, reliability, and availability of water services. This can result in unsafe water supply, inadequate sanitation, and overall poor hygiene practices in affected regions.It influences Jobs and Economic Growth (SDG 8): by distorting markets and stifling economic growth, also creating unfair business practices, discouraging foreign investment, and fostering inefficiencies in public and private sector operations.It undercuts Gender Equality (SDG 5): Corruption in legal systems and institutions can particularly disadvantage women, who might face higher instances of bribery for services or discriminatory practices that hinder their social and economic development.It reduces the Effectiveness of Partnerships (SDG 17): Corruption weakens partnerships for sustainable development by eroding mutual trust and reducing the effectiveness of international aid, technical assistance, and financial flows intended to support national plans for achieving all SDGs.
To address the issue of corruption in the context of SDGs, it's essential for countries to implement robust anti-corruption policies, strengthen institutions to ensure transparency and accountability, and foster a culture of integrity within both public and private sectors.Public awareness and community engagement are also crucial to creating an environment where corruption is not tolerated as a pervasive norm, and sustainable development can be effectively pursued.Success in combating corruption is only possible if there is strong leadership, political commitment and effective cooperation among relevant authorities and, in the context of the Caribbean, among the countries of the region.I thank the authorities of Trinidad and Tobago for the leadership on this issue in the region and for decisively pursuing meaningful steps that can advance detection and persecution of corruption cases.I also want to highlight that this work is taking place in the context of other initiatives implemented by UNODC in Trinidad and Tobago and the broader region.Before I mention a couple of concrete examples, I wish to express appreciation for the invaluable support provided by the Anti-Crime Capacity Building Program (ACCBP) funded by the Government of Canada and that of the United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).Thanks to that continuing partnership, the UN system and UNODC in particular were able to:
โขwork with the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and support the region's first trade-based money laundering investigation, which was nominated for the Caribbean Financial Action Task Forceโs Best Case Award.
โขIn 2023 alone, UNODC's collaboration with INTERPOL has led to the identification of 39 victims of cybercrime in Trinidad and Tobago.
โขNational authorities have been working with UNODC to develop robust systems for sustained cybercrime prevention and response, especially in tackling online child sexual exploitation and abuse.
โขLast year, UNODC trained over 400 individuals, including law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and judicial officers, on digital forensics, admissibility of digital evidence and human rights in cybercrime investigations.
โขFurthermore, with support from the EUโs Global Illicit Flows Programme, the AIRCOP initiative has enhanced the detection and interception of drugs, firearms, ammunition, and high-risk passengers at Piarco International Airport.
Overall, UNODC and other agencies of the UN system in Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean are supporting Member States to tackle diverse threats to peace and security in the region.I am certain that the outcome of this workshop will add valuable momentum to those programmes.I am convinced that together, we can make a difference in the fight against corruption and help institutions be more prepared to tackle organized crime, ensuring that hard earned taxpayersโ moneys and public resources are available also for meeting the needs of the most vulnerable parts of the population.I wish you fruitful deliberations, and a successful workshop.Thank you for your attention.
I take this opportunity to extend gratitude to the Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago, Senator the Honourable Reginald Armour, for remaining our steadfast partner for this important work.Todayโs meeting is a testament to our collective commitment to combatting corruption as an insidious breach of the rule of law.And it was this shared mission that brought Trinidad and Tobago as a first Caribbean country to ratify the UN Convention Against Corruption.
It is also why we came together here in Port of Spain in October 2023 to launch the regional platform against corruption to fast track the implementation of that United Nations Convention.Todays gathering is the next concrete step in bringing the regional platform against corruption to life.I welcome many of the key stakeholders who attended the Octoberโs launch joining us here today to advance cooperation in this area.Corruption poses a significant challenge to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2030.It undermines Poverty Reduction (SDG 1): Corruption can divert funds meant for social welfare programs, reducing the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty. This diversion limits access to essential services for the most vulnerable populations, exacerbating poverty and inequality. It affects Quality Education (SDG 4): When corruption infiltrates educational systems, it can lead to mismanagement of resources and lower quality of education. Bribery in school admissions and procurement fraud in educational materials are examples where corruption undermines educational access and equity.
It hampers Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3): Corruption in the healthcare sector can lead to inadequate patient care, misallocation of resources, and inaccessible medical services, thereby compromising public health outcomes.It obstructs Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16): Perhaps the most directly affected, this goal calls for effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. Corruption erodes trust in institutions, hampers the rule of law, and challenges the implementation of fair and equitable justice systems. It impacts Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6): Corruption in the water sector can affect the quality, reliability, and availability of water services. This can result in unsafe water supply, inadequate sanitation, and overall poor hygiene practices in affected regions.It influences Jobs and Economic Growth (SDG 8): by distorting markets and stifling economic growth, also creating unfair business practices, discouraging foreign investment, and fostering inefficiencies in public and private sector operations.It undercuts Gender Equality (SDG 5): Corruption in legal systems and institutions can particularly disadvantage women, who might face higher instances of bribery for services or discriminatory practices that hinder their social and economic development.It reduces the Effectiveness of Partnerships (SDG 17): Corruption weakens partnerships for sustainable development by eroding mutual trust and reducing the effectiveness of international aid, technical assistance, and financial flows intended to support national plans for achieving all SDGs.
To address the issue of corruption in the context of SDGs, it's essential for countries to implement robust anti-corruption policies, strengthen institutions to ensure transparency and accountability, and foster a culture of integrity within both public and private sectors.Public awareness and community engagement are also crucial to creating an environment where corruption is not tolerated as a pervasive norm, and sustainable development can be effectively pursued.Success in combating corruption is only possible if there is strong leadership, political commitment and effective cooperation among relevant authorities and, in the context of the Caribbean, among the countries of the region.I thank the authorities of Trinidad and Tobago for the leadership on this issue in the region and for decisively pursuing meaningful steps that can advance detection and persecution of corruption cases.I also want to highlight that this work is taking place in the context of other initiatives implemented by UNODC in Trinidad and Tobago and the broader region.Before I mention a couple of concrete examples, I wish to express appreciation for the invaluable support provided by the Anti-Crime Capacity Building Program (ACCBP) funded by the Government of Canada and that of the United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).Thanks to that continuing partnership, the UN system and UNODC in particular were able to:
โขwork with the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and support the region's first trade-based money laundering investigation, which was nominated for the Caribbean Financial Action Task Forceโs Best Case Award.
โขIn 2023 alone, UNODC's collaboration with INTERPOL has led to the identification of 39 victims of cybercrime in Trinidad and Tobago.
โขNational authorities have been working with UNODC to develop robust systems for sustained cybercrime prevention and response, especially in tackling online child sexual exploitation and abuse.
โขLast year, UNODC trained over 400 individuals, including law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and judicial officers, on digital forensics, admissibility of digital evidence and human rights in cybercrime investigations.
โขFurthermore, with support from the EUโs Global Illicit Flows Programme, the AIRCOP initiative has enhanced the detection and interception of drugs, firearms, ammunition, and high-risk passengers at Piarco International Airport.
Overall, UNODC and other agencies of the UN system in Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean are supporting Member States to tackle diverse threats to peace and security in the region.I am certain that the outcome of this workshop will add valuable momentum to those programmes.I am convinced that together, we can make a difference in the fight against corruption and help institutions be more prepared to tackle organized crime, ensuring that hard earned taxpayersโ moneys and public resources are available also for meeting the needs of the most vulnerable parts of the population.I wish you fruitful deliberations, and a successful workshop.Thank you for your attention.
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Story
23 April 2024
UN Collaborates with Parliament on Masterclass in Data for Decision-making
Trinidad and Tobago legislators are enhancing their understanding and knowledge of data, statistics and artificial intelligence (AI) for improved legislation and sustainable development. Parliamentarians - including the Speaker of the House, President of the Senate, Government Ministers, Opposition MPs and Independent Senators - actively participated in a Masterclass on Data and Statistics for Decision Making, organised by the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) in collaboration with the Parliament of The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Director of ECLAC Caribbean, Diane Quarless, noted that the Parliament is the highest authority in the land and that full embrace of data goes hand in hand with sustainable development. โAt ECLAC and within the wider UN, it is our hope that this substantive exchange will move us closer to decisive embrace of a National Statistical System (NSS) of Trinidad and Tobago that will serve as a model not only for the Caribbean, but one that can be emulated as a standard-bearer for all SIDS. This will not be possible without the action of the Members of Parliamentโฆ the power to create an enabling legislative environment for the NSS rests solely with you.โ The parliamentarians engaged with Professor of Practice in Data Science at the University of Virginia, Renee Cummings, on the use of data and artificial intelligence to power sustainable development. She noted that top global companies have used smartphone-generated data to become some of the most profitable entities in the world, and that they have a wealth of data that influences everything from personal decision-making to geopolitics. โData was anointed May 2017, the worldโs most valuable resource. The Economist said that data is the catalyst for growth in the 21st century and everything human is now being turned into dataโฆ Once you have a smartphone, once youโve been on the internet, if youโve used Spotify, Netflix, internet shopping, it means that your data is now owned by someone elseโฆ Presidents are now calling the heads of our tech companies and asking them how do we regulate you, what do we need to do, how do we harness the power of data, AI, algorithmsโฆ what are legislation and regulation supposed to look like?โIn her welcome remarks, Speaker of the House of Representatives Bridgid Annisette-George addressed the heads of ECLAC and the UN in T&T. โYour agencies are no strangers to the Parliament of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. We rely on the publications and statistics that you publish in a lot of the work we doโฆ The United Nations has provided a framework for planning and implementing the statistical capacity building activities needed to achieve the scope and intent of the 2030 Agenda for sustainable developmentโฆ I see this exchange as one of the significant steps being taken in this country, to transform our system and to address any call which may exist for data and for responsible data practice for our future.โ Resident Coordinator Joanna Kazana outlined the UNโs role in supporting national institutions to accelerate implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). โIn this context, the Parliament plays a critical role in creating a legal framework that empowers and reforms the Central Statistical Office. Your prioritizing of this issue and the draft law will be a great example of this Parliamentโs leadership and Trinidad and Tobagoโs active role in implementation of its regional and global commitments.โ The parliamentarians also engaged in discussion with Coordinator of the Statistics and Social Development Unit at ECLAC Caribbean, Abdullahi Abdulkadri, on the role of the legislature in the establishment and functioning of an NSS. The Masterclass was organized to raise the awareness of legislators on the NSS and to underscore the important role of The Parliament in creating a supportive legislative environment for official statistics. To this end, the UN Country team is supporting the governmentโs efforts to strengthen infrastructure, expertise, and organizational skills through a modernized statistical ecosystem. The Masterclass is part of a series of initiatives under a two-year project on โModernising Trinidad and Tobagoโs Statistical Ecosystem through Enhanced SDG Data Developmentโ financed by the UN's Joint SDG Fund and which is being jointly implemented by the Pan American Health Organization, the International Labour Organization, the United Nations Environment Programme, and ECLAC, with the support of the UN Resident Coordinatorโs Office for Trinidad and Tobago. The project seeks to modernise the data ecosystem in Trinidad and Tobago to fortify the country's ability to generate and analyse high quality, disaggregate data that can support the achievement of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and ensure that the needs of vulnerable groups, including women, children and people of disabilities, are clearly captured in official data and statistics. With the knowledge gained, Parliamentarians will be able to strengthen legislative best practices on data and statistics in Trinidad and Tobago.
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Story
29 April 2024
How Aruba and Curacao Are Weaving the SDG Message into Public Information
The Caribbean countries of Aruba and Curaรงao have made Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) the cornerstone of their national development roadmap. Recognising that citizen engagement and education on SDGs is crucial, they will now embark on a communications drive to deepen public awareness about what the SDGs mean for individuals and how national policy priorities can be advanced at community level.From October 2023 to March 2024, the UN Multi-Country Office in Port of Spain responsible for Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Curaรงao and Sint Maarten, partnered with governments in Aruba and Curaรงao to design a bespoke SDG Communications Strategy for each country, taking into account both islands' specific needs within the context of their public service communications practices and public information apparatus. The resulting SDG Communications Strategies for Aruba and Curaรงao encompass a menu of activities to improve SDG communications, including the establishment of an online SDG Knowledge Portal, the incorporation of SDG content into education at all levels of the national curriculum, and the integration of relevant SDGs into policies for every sector of national development. Alongside the Strategy, each government was also equipped with an Investment Plan to tap into global development funding for SDG Communications initiatives and campaigns. A monitoring and evaluation framework was also created to support implementation of the Strategy and ensure continuous evaluation of the effectiveness of SDG-driven communications to the public."We know how valuable strategic communications can be in drawing attention to, and advocating for action on, national development priorities," explained the UN Resident Coordinator, Joanna Kazana. "If we ground our conversations about national development in the SDGs, we inspire an inclusive, whole-of-society approach to making Agenda 2030 a reality. This is why the UN is keen to partner with Aruba and Curaรงao, harnessing the power of communications, mobilising communities and leaving no one behind."To familiarise the key players with the Strategy and equip them with the tools to confidently communicate on the SDGs, a series of workshops and seminars was conducted for both islands. In March, in Aruba, the workshop for the Council of Ministers was attended by the Prime Minister and members of her Cabinet, members of the SDG Commission, public officers from key Government ministries, civil society actors and private sector leaders. "The training was useful in making the SDGs more tangible," said Frances Rugebregt, Policy Advisor at the Inspectorate of Health Aruba. "Having this blueprint gives me as a policy advisor some guidance on how to integrate the SDG goals into the different policies I write. It also gives me ideas to include it on our social media platforms and website. For the Aruban community to feel empowered to take charge of the SDG goals, it is important to keep the conversation going and to keep SDG topics relatable, simple, and concrete" said Rugebregt.The uptake from civil society and business leaders was particularly robust, leading to the organisation of an extra training session to accommodate high demand for knowledge about the SDGs."It's amazing how many companies and public sector entities in the Caribbean are working within their own spheres of business and influence to promote sustainable development,โ remarked Ms. Kazana. โThere are great stories of sustainable development success to tell. With the Strategy, there is now a mechanism in place to systematically present the countriesโ sustainable development commitments. Everyone should have their voice and โSDG languageโ to promote their many sustainable development initiatives. Acceleration is key and everyone can contribute to our collective journey to fulfilling the promise of Agenda 2030."Public officials in Curaรงao received similar training, remotely, from March 21- 22. They were particularly keen to link SDG data to Government messaging on sustainable development."The SDGs aim to transform our world" said Roxienne Albertina, Spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister in Curaรงao. "They are a call to action to end poverty and inequality, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy health, justice and prosperity. It is critical, and the aim is to leave no one should behind. On behalf of the Government of Curaรงao we shall do our utmost to use the SDG Communications Strategy so that we can spread the message of the SDGs more effectively to the population."The work on the strategy was led by the UN Communications and Advocacy Officer, Faine Richards, with support from independent consultant Pytrik Oosterhof.
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Story
24 April 2024
Media Release: 'Consider Recognizing the State of Palestine,' Bureau of UNGA Committee Says to T&T
Editor's note: Days after the Bureau of the United Nations Committee for the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People concluded a two-day mission to Trinidad and Tobago, the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs announced on May 2 that Cabinet had agreed to formally recognise the State of Palestine. The following is the text of the media release from the Bureau, issued on April 24. The Bureau of the United Nations Committee for the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People visited Trinidad and Tobago from 22 to 23 April 2024 to advocate for Palestinian rights and urged the Government to consider recognizing the State of Palestine.During the visit, the Bureau consulted with the Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, visited the Diplomatic Academy at The University the West Indies St. Augustine, as well as the Trinidad Muslim League. Discussions included the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Interlocutors expressed widespread support for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, unimpeded humanitarian aid access, backing for UNRWA, and the promotion of a two-State solution.The Bureau commended the depth of understanding and awareness about the Gaza situation in Trinidad and Tobago, and emphasized the importance of supporting the Palestinian people, including by establishing full diplomatic relations with the State of Palestine.
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Story
04 March 2024
IWD 2024: The Role of Women in the Clean Energy Transition
On Sunday, March 3, 2024, UN Resident Coordinator, Joanna Kazana, delivered remarks at an International Women's Day event entitled, "Counter Her In: Invest in Women, Accelerating Progress - 'A Different Energy.'"The event was hosted by WE Thrive and Words Matter Communications and held at the Hilton Trinidad. Women from the energy sector were the target audience for this meeting. The discussions aimed to underscore the indispensable contributions of women to the success of the energy sector.In her remarks, RC Kazana focused on Trinidad and Tobago's growing push to expand its renewable energy production and the role that women should and are playing in this just energy transition. Below are her full remarks: Madam Minister, Ladies and Gentlemen, I am delighted to be standing in front of you on behalf of the United Nations and to be part of a conversation of women who have stamped their mark on the industry they work for.I thank the organisers, -- โWe Thriveโ and Words Matter Communications, for the invitation and opportunity to start this yearโs celebrations of the International Womenโs Day at this event.When I look around this room, I see many faces in the top tier of Trinidad and Tobagoโs energy sector companies; trailblazing women who have ascended to influential leadership positions. As your theme makes clear, women bring โA Different Energyโ to every boardroom, every project management space, every innovation or meeting. In spite of this, I am sure many of you in this room have also lived the experience of being the minority. The 2018 International Energy Agency report states that globally energy sector has 76% fewer women than men in its workforce. It is a significant difference from the average gap and it makes energy one of the most male-dominated sectors in the world. The good news that in the sector of โdifferentโ that is clean energy, the share of women is already 32%.According to the Centre for American Progress, Increasing Womenโs participation in the clean energy economy will further progress on climate action and improve womenโs economic security.So the question today is how can the energy sector โ both traditional and new energy companies foster a more inclusive work environment for women? How can companies and communities as a whole really โCount Her In?โ at all levels?We contemplate this question in the context of International Womenโs Day, which underscores the importance of achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5 -Gender Equality. At the UN we believe that letting women lead and direct the path towards sustainable development goals is key for accelerating progress.And accelerate we must โ according to SDG 7, by 2030, there should be universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services โ particularly renewable energy sources. In the next 6 years, the world is to double the global energy efficiency rate. Trinidad and Tobago has demonstrated its commitment to expanding the mix of renewables. Over the years, Government has rolled out numerous tax incentives for vehicle owners who use CNG, hybrid power and electric power. Your service station retailers, NP and Unipet, are providing EV charging stations and incorporating solar power into the service stationโs operations. Government has ordered 300 electric buses to help reduce transport sector emissions.There are groundbreaking ventures in solar energy and there is strategic interest and commitment to position T&T as a leader in hydrogen energy. During COP 26 in 2021, the Prime Minister committed to enhancing the countryโs renewable energy to 30 percent of energy mix by 2030. Colleagues, the energy transition is already underway in Trinidad and Tobago. And the UN System is helping to build momentum.UNDP with funding from the European Union, worked with the Ministry of Energy to develop a national renewable energy policy. UNDP also helped devise a licensing structure and a feed-in tariff policy. Working with the Ministry of Planning, we outfitted 12 sites โ including panyards, schools and nature conservation centres - with solar power. This groundwork supports Trinidad and Tobagoโs effort to achieve its target, under the Paris Agreement, to reduce emissions by 15%. Beyond the policy-making level, consumers are also keen to play their part in the green transition.In 2023, a UNDP GCCA+ survey found that 8 out of 10 people in Trinidad and Tobago are interested in installing solar panels in their home. (I suppose it would be 10 out of 10 if all respondents were women ;-)As you know, the Paris Agreement is a commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050 and the last COP28 climate talks made an important step toward this net zero reality: it was the first time countries agreed, explicitly, to phase out fossil fuels. The COP 28 declaration signals a shot in the arm for the clean energy transition. But if we do not โCount Her Inโ at all levels and stages of the shift to clean energy, we are missing an opportunity to accelerate and deliver a just transition. Women are a transformational force that must be activated to ensure the success of the clean energy evolution:- as designers of engineering and financial solutions, - as implementers of projects - as educated and sustainability conscious end-users of renewable energy policies, technologies and energy efficient practices.As the UNIDO and UN Women โGuide to Gender Equality in the Sustainable Energy Transitionโ tells us, we need the innovation and operational efficiencies that womenโs participation and leadership can bring. The transition also requires investment in womenโs expertise and ideas. We need to make space for women-led small and medium enterprises within the energy sector. Of vital importance are inclusive financing mechanisms to support women-led renewables projects that stimulate economic growth and help develop the clean energy industry.Women need to be part of climate change governance at the policymaking level. Here I would like to acknowledge toe work of the Minister of Planning and Development, The Honourable Pennelope Beckles. I think all of us will thank her for championing and spearheading invaluable progress in the legislative, policy and administrative sphere to facilitate the energy transition. She is leading the charge domestically and on the global arena, joining hands with other formidable women leaders from the Caribbean and beyond. We need to tap into the expertise and the drive of women like Minister Beckles. While ensuring gender equality in the workplace, we must look at our schools, universities and training institutions where girls need access and opportunities in Science and technology. We must invest in young women and equip them with the right skills for these careers, also by propelling girls towards careers in the IT sector Last year, here in this hotel, the UN TT hosted a youth Battle Bots competition for 120 students from across TT. Indeed, girls were part of the second and third place teams. Ladies,As Trinidad and Tobago turns towards a โDifferent Energy,โ it will be your energy that will propel change โ the change thatโs needed to slow the trajectory of the climate crisis.The UN in Trinidad and Tobago remains ready to work with you, and for you, to advocate for inclusion. We bring our expertise and the global arena for TT to shine as the country expands its clean energy and harnesses the potential of women consumers to make energy-conscious decisions that protect our planet.I congratulate each of you for your professional success and for paving the way for women and girls in this industry and in the society. On behalf of the United Nations, I wish you all a Happy International Womenโs Day.Thank you.
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Story
05 February 2024
18 Teams, 1 UN Family: 2024 Strategic Retreat
So numerous are the strands of sustainable development that it takes many UN teams working together to support countries in achieving all 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
That's why it's important to bring together the leaders of these UN teams, so collaboration is well-coordinated towards shared objectives. Our UN in T&T family kicked off 2024 with a strategic planning retreat from January 17 to 18 in Port of Spain. The two-day discussions identified needs and opportunities to innovate the way we work and cemented priorities for the UN's joint work in Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten.
Heads of Agency and programme staff from 18 UN agencies attended. Most participated in-person, while others attended virtually from regional offices in Jamaica and Panama.
Agencies represented include:
UNICEF
IOM
ILO
UNDP
UNHCR
UN Women
UNIC
UNFPA
FAO
PAHO/WHO
ECLAC
ITU
UNAIDS
UNDRR
UNCDF
WFP
UNEP
During her welcome remarks, UN Resident Coordinator, Joanna Kazana, spoke about the extensive commitment the UN has made to supporting national development agendas in T&T and the Dutch Islands. She suggested points of reflection for the team.
"Looking at the size of our UN Country Team which covers these four countries, there is clearly a significant investment of expertise and capacity being made by the UN into sustainable development in this part of the Caribbean. There are nearly 250 of us based in Port of Spain, and many more of us with responsibility for these countries from other bases in the Caribbean or regional offices in Panama. In Trinidad and Tobago, as a high-income country, what is the value added that the UN can bring to the country's sustainable development agenda? What is the value added we want to bring to Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten? These are key questions we must continue to consider as we plan for 2024."
Strategic sessions focused on the UN Country Team's key achievements in 2023 and lessons learned; the global and regional context for human rights, economic progress and climate financing; progress on the Sustainable Development Goals in Trinidad and Tobago and the Dutch Islands; and priorities for joint advocacy, strategic planning and resource mobilisation.
To gain insights into financing for development, the UN team heard from EU Ambassador, His Excellency Peter Cavendish, CAF Trinidad and Tobago Representative, Mr. Bernardo Riquena, and IDB Senior Climate Change Specialist, Mr. Gerard Alleng. They spoke about their organisations' priority areas for development support, from digitalisation to food systems.
Reflecting on the rich discussions among the UN teams, FAO Representative ad interim for Trinidad and Tobago and Suriname, Gillian Smith, said, โThe Coordination Retreat was an excellent opportunity for the agencies to meet with each other and key partners, to reflect on the agenda of T&T and the Dutch Islands to achieve the SDGs and how we can work collaboratively to contribute to this. The outcome of the retreat clearly indicated that working together will reinforce our capacities and our results.โ
UNDP Trinidad and Tobago Resident Representative, Ugo Blanco, said the strategic dialogue between UN agencies underscored the UN's "commitment to addressing the interconnected challenges that nations face in the 21st century, particularly on areas related to digitalisation for inclusive development, promoting economic diversification to enhance resilience and implementing strategies to combat climate change while accelerating energy transition."
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07 February 2024
UNICEF and Central Statistical Office Deliver Vital Data on Women & Children
Policymakers now have insights into the needs and challenges facing children and women in Trinidad and Tobago, after the publication of the latest Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey report.
The survey, conducted by the Central Statistical Office (CSO) in partnership with the UNICEF Eastern Caribbean office, was launched on January 26 at the Ministry of Planning in Port of Spain.
Nearly 7,500 households participated in the survey, which was conducted from August to December, 2022.
The survey covered a vast array of issues, including breastfeeding rates, immunization uptake, early childhood development, forms of discipline used with children, and water and sanitation access.
Delivering remarks, UN Resident Coordinator, Joanna Kazana, said,
"๐๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐ฆ๐ข๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐ข๐ง ๐๐ซ๐ข๐ง๐ข๐๐๐ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐จ๐๐๐ ๐จ ๐ฐ๐ ๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐ข๐ญ๐ญ๐๐ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐จ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐๐๐จ๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ฐ๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐ญ๐ง๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ ๐ข๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ซ๐จ๐ฏ๐๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง. ๐๐ ๐ฅ๐จ๐จ๐ค ๐๐จ๐ซ๐ฐ๐๐ซ๐ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐ง๐๐ฐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ข๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ซ๐จ๐ฏ๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐ฅ๐ข๐ฏ๐๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ ๐ฉ๐ซ๐จ๐ฌ๐ฉ๐๐๐ญ๐ฌ ๐จ๐ ๐๐ก๐ข๐ฅ๐๐ซ๐๐ง, ๐ฐ๐จ๐ฆ๐๐ง, ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ข๐ซ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ง๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ข๐ซ ๐ง๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง."
Minister of Planning and Development, The Honourable Pennelope Beckles, and Acting Director of Statistics at the CSO, Mr. Andre Blanchard Key, also attended the MICS report launch.
Key findings from the MICS include:
67% of children ages 1-14 experience some form of violent discipline
45% of babies were breastfed until age 1
Mothers were 3 times more likely to support young children with learning than fathers
This snapshot of the situation facing women and children in Trinidad and Tobago will can help policymakers across the spectrum of Government, from public health to education, cater to the needs of these demographics in national development plans and programmes.
The statistics will also support T&T's efforts to monitor progress on the National Development Strategy or 'Vision 2030', and the Sustainable Development Goals.
MICS is a global survey instrument developed by UNICEF to create a pool of multipurpose data on households.
The last MICS was conducted in Trinidad and Tobago in 2011.
The findings can be viewed on a newly-launched data portal managed by the CSO, https://datanett.info/dashboard/mics#/
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