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RNZ News
4 days ago
- Business
- RNZ News
Concern about HIV cases in Fiji children after four deaths
A 3d rendered illustration of HIV. Photo: 123rf Fiji's Ministry of Health is raising concern about a growing number of HIV cases in children, after four young patients have died this year. Consultant Pediatrician Dr. Miriama Thaggard from Labasa Hospital said in one case, with a child quickly deteriorating, they were thinking maybe it's HIV. So they tested the baby, and the baby was positive. FBC reported that as of 27 May, there have been 19 new pediatric HIV cases reported this year. The health ministry is urging early testing. On 23 January, Fiji declared an outbreak of HIV . Dr Ratu Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu announced 1093 new HIV cases from the period of January to September 2024. In early December, the Fiji Medical Association called on the government to declare an HIV outbreak "as a matter of priority". As of mid-December, 19 under-fives were diagnosed with HIV in Fiji. Before the declaration, the UN Development Programme delivered 3000 antiretroviral drugs to Fiji to support the HIV response. The country's health ministry said in January that funding for HIV programmes in Fiji has dropped in recent years. The Fiji Times reported the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Dr Jemesa Tudravu, saying financial resources for HIV programs have decreased from FJ$5 million (US$2.2m) in 2011 to FJ$1.2million (US$529,492) by 2016. "The government funding support reduced in 2012, and in 2013 it has slowly built up again in 2016 and 2018," he said. "However, the support from international funding has markedly reduced." A report released in mid-2024 showed that in 2023, 6.7 million people living with HIV were residing in Asia and the Pacific, making it the world's largest epidemic after eastern and southern Africa. The US president Donald Trump's plan to slash foreign aid has derailed efforts to contain growing HIV epidemics in the Asia Pacific and caused some programs to be suspended. Cameron Hill, a senior researcher with the Development Policy Centre at the Australian National University, said in March the Australian government has seen that the projects that are likely to be cut, that it is most concerned about, are TB and HIV programmes in PNG and Fiji. "So, what it has done in this budget is it has taken some of the money it was going to spend on global programmes, global health, global education programmes, and shifted that money across to help buttress health programmes, particularly in PNG, Fiji."
Scoop
4 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
Sanctions Relief For Syria Offers ‘Powerful Message Of Hope,' Says UN Migration Agency
27 May 2025 After more than a decade of conflict and severe economic stagnation, lifting the punitive measures will encourage long-term recovery and peacebuilding in Syria, Amy Pope, IOM Director-General, said in a statement. 'The lifting of sanctions sends a powerful message of hope to millions of displaced Syrians, both within the country and across the region,' she said. $800 billion lost UN estimates suggest that the Syrian economy lost over $800 billion during the 14-year civil war. According to a UN Development Programme (UNDP) report, if the current annual growth rate continues, Syria's economy will not return to its pre-conflict gross domestic product (GDP) levels until 2080. The sanctions relief from the US, UK and EU – covering around $15 billion in restricted assets and trade measures – could unlock important investment opportunities for rebuilding key infrastructure, IOM said. Most of these sanctions were originally imposed during the Assad era and have long been blamed for Syria's hindering economic recovery. Alongside the sanctions relief, Saudi Arabia and Qatar pledged to pay $15.5 million of Syria's arrears to the World Bank. Together with Türkiye, they also offered to fund public salaries and support energy infrastructure. These changes reflect 'momentum from re-engagement and reconstruction,' IOM added. A country torn apart The Syrian conflict, which began March 2011 after pro-democracy protests against Bashar Al-Assad, lasted almost 14 years. During this time, tens of thousands of Syrians were killed and countless more disappeared. The fighting and insecurity also displaced more than 10 million civilians – within the country or as refugees outside its borders. Poverty rates tripled, affecting 90 per cent of the population, with 66 per cent living in extreme poverty. Since the end of the war in December 2024 with the overthrow of the Assad regime, half a million Syrian refugees have returned. A further 1.5 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) have also returned to their places of origin. They returned home amidst great hope for the future of Syria, but also severe economic projections. 'Hope must be matched with concrete support,' Director General Pope said. 'Syrians need not just the ability to return but the means to rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.' Moving from relief to resilience The UN estimates that over 16.5 million Syrians – roughly 70 per cent of the population – continue to require humanitarian assistance. But funding shortfalls have complicated aid efforts. Already in the last week of May, only 10 per cent of the estimated $2 billion needed between January and June to assist eight million Syrians has been received. Ms. Pope noted that it is important for the Syrian people and economy to begin moving towards longer-term solutions outside of humanitarian aid. 'While humanitarian assistance remains critical, IOM urges donors and development partners to expand their focus to medium- and long-term recovery. A transition from relief to resilience is not only necessary – it is urgent,' she said.
Scoop
12-05-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
Navigating Development With Traditional Wisdom: Pasifika Futures Report Launched In Fiji
Suva, Fiji: The Pasifika Futures Report has been launched in Suva at the opening of the inaugural Pasifika Futures Forum, marking a significant milestone in efforts to advance the collective ambition of the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. The report – a partnership between the UN Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Office in Fiji and the Pacific Islands Forum, and supported by the Government of Australia - aims to strengthen inquiry into how foresight methods can work in harmony with Pacific Island epistemologies – centering traditional knowledge systems that emphasise the need for intergenerational thinking, collective interdependence, and deep connection to place. This approach celebrates that Pacific ways of knowing are essential in shaping resilient relationships, guiding effective development partnerships, and envisioning a future where the Pacific continues to thrive on its own terms. The report brought together government officials, policy makers, academic and thematic experts alongside traditional navigators, theologists, youth, and community representatives from across the Pacific to explore a shared vision for sustainable growth, ocean governance, technological innovation, and the revitalisation of Pacific knowledge systems. Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Baron Waqa, on launching the report said: 'As we consider what it means to envision Pacific futures in the age of climate change, we must confront the reality of a planetary polycrisis – what many are calling the new abnormal. But let us be clear: the futures we seek are not those prescribed to us, but those we define for ourselves.' UNDP Pacific Resident Representative, Munkhtuya Altangerel, reflected on the regional symbolism of launching the report on Girmit Day, noting the importance of honouring the past while steering together toward a shared future. She said: 'The 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent outlines a shared vision: a region where all Pacific peoples can lead free, healthy, and productive lives. This report contributes to that vision; we are simply the platform, and we will treat the knowledge entrusted to us with the care and respect it deserves.' The Pasifika Futures Report builds upon the pioneering work of regional institutions such as the Pacific Community (SPC) and other CROP agencies, reaffirming the Pacific as a region of large ocean states – not small island nations. The report covers 10 key themes that are pertinent to the Pacific at present, and into the future, such as oceans governance, migration and diaspora, technology, the changing nature of statehood, youth and future generations, and deglobalisation. The launch event featured performances representing Polynesia, Melanesia, and Micronesia, alongside a creative showcase by WonderLab, offering a futuristic glimpse into the Pacific of 2050 and beyond. The Pasifika Futures Forum continues this week, providing a space for inclusive dialogue across government, community, and development partners to co-create a resilient, innovative, and unified future for the Blue Pacific Continent. The full Pasifika Futures Report can be found here.
Hindustan Times
07-05-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
India's HDI ranking improves for 2023
India continued its rise on the Human Development Index (HDI), improving its ranking from 133 in 2022 to 130 out of 193 countries in 2023, according to the 2025 Human Development Report (HDR) released by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) on Tuesday. Transit oriented development site at Karkardooma, East Delhi being developed by DDA. The planned densified mixed development is aimed at reducing traffic congestion and air pollution in New Delhi, India, on Friday, July 19, 2024. (Hindustan Times) The 2025 HDR, titled 'A matter of choice: People and possibilities in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI)', linked India's progress to improvements in health, education, and income. The report highlighted the critical role of AI in shaping the next chapter of human development — particularly in fast-growing economies like India. India's HDI increased from 0.644 in 2022 to 0.685 in 2023 even as the country remained in the medium human development category, moving closer to the threshold for high human development (HDI ≥ 0.700), with its score at par with Bangladesh's. Pakistan ranked 168th (0.544), Nepal 145th (0.622), and Sri Lanka 89th (0.776). According to the report, life expectancy in India increased slightly from 71.7 years in 2022 to 72 years in 2023, marking the highest level recorded for the country. While expected years of schooling remained nearly unchanged, moving from 12.96 to 12.95 years, mean years of schooling saw a notable increase from 6.57 to 6.88 years, the report said. The report lauded India's progress in school education, especially from 1990, and credited initiatives such as the Right to Education Act, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. However, quality and learning outcomes remain areas for continued focus, it said. Additionally, India's Gross National Income (GNI) per capita, measured in 2021 purchasing power parity (PPP), rose from $8,475.68 to $9,046.76, reflecting ongoing economic growth. 'We congratulate India on its notable progress in the Human Development Index, rising from rank 133 in 2022 to 130 in 2023. This advancement reflects sustained improvements in key dimensions of human development, particularly in mean years of schooling and national income per capita,' Angela Lusigi, resident representative, UNDP India, said. Lusigi added that India's life expectancy reaching its highest level since the inception of the index is a testament to the country's robust recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic and its investments and commitment to long-term human well-being. On the Gender Development Index (GDI), women scored 0.631 compared to men's 0.722, with India ranking 102nd on the GDI with a score of 0.403, lagging in reproductive health, political representation, and workforce participation. The report referenced ethical concerns in India's gig economy, citing labour actions by female workers. 'These efforts culminated in the largest nationwide labour action by female gig workers working with Urban Company in India to resist algorithmic management practices,' it said. Among BRICS members, India trailed Brazil (89th), Russia (59th), China (75th), and South Africa (110th). Regionally, Sri Lanka led while Nepal and Bhutan lagged. The report said India is also positioning itself as a leader in the global AI landscape. The country has the highest self-reported AI skills penetration and is now retaining more of its homegrown AI talent — 20% of Indian AI researchers remain in the country, up from nearly zero in 2019. Globally, HDI progress slowed to its weakest pace since 1990, excluding pandemic years. The gap between very high and low HDI countries widened for the fourth consecutive year, reversing decades of narrowing disparities. All regions faced stalled HDI growth projections for 2024. 'If 2024's sluggish progress becomes 'the new normal', that 2030 milestone could slip by decades—making our world less secure, more divided, and more vulnerable to economic and ecological shocks,' said UNDP administrator Achim Steiner.
Scoop
06-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
‘Alarming' Slowdown In Human Development - Could AI Provide Answers?
For several decades, human development indicators showed a steady, upward curve and UN researchers predicted that by 2030, a high level of development would be enjoyed by the global population. Those hopes have been dashed in recent years following a period of exceptional crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic – and progress has stalled across all regions of the world. 'Very real threat' to progress The Human Development Report, an annual publication from the UN Development Programme (UNDP), shows that inequalities between rich and poor countries have widened for the fourth year in a row. Global pressures, such as increasing trade tensions and a worsening debt crisis which limits the ability of governments to invest in public services, are narrowing traditional paths to development. 'This deceleration signals a very real threat to global progress,' said Achim Steiner, UNDP Administrator. 'If 2024's sluggish progress becomes 'the new normal', that 2030 milestone could slip by decades – making our world less secure, more divided, and more vulnerable to economic and ecological shocks.' Maybe the robots aren't coming for our jobs after all Despite the gloomy indicators, the report is strikingly upbeat about the potential of artificial intelligence, noting the breakneck pace at which free or low-cost tools have been embraced by businesses and individuals alike. UNDP researchers carried out a survey to gauge opinions on AI and discovered that around 60 per cent of respondents expect the technology to positively impact their work and create new opportunities. Those living in low and medium levels of development were particularly keen: 70 per cent expect AI to increase their productivity, and two thirds anticipate using AI in education, health, or work within the next year. Action stations The report's authors include recommendations for action to make sure that AI is as beneficial as possible, including the modernisation of education and health systems to adequately meet today's needs – building an economy focused on human collaboration with AI (rather than competition) – putting humans at the heart of AI development, from design to deployment. "The choices we make in the coming years will define the legacy of this technological transition for human development," said Pedro Conceição, Director of UNDP's Human Development Report Office. "With the right policies and focus on people, AI can be a crucial bridge to new knowledge, skills, and ideas that can empower everyone from farmers to small business owners." Ultimately, the report's message is that the impact of AI is hard to predict. Rather than being an autonomous force, it is a reflection and amplifier of the values and inequalities of the societies that shape it. To avoid what it calls 'development disappointment', UNDP urges stronger global cooperation on AI governance, alignment between private innovation and public goals, and a renewed commitment to human dignity, equity, and sustainability. 'The 2025 HDR is not a report about technology,' writes Mr. Steiner in the foreword. 'It is a report about people – and our ability to reinvent ourselves in the face of profound change.' Regional Disparities Across regions, the report highlights diverging trajectories: United States, Canada & Western Europe dominate global AI research, infrastructure, and investment, but face challenges around labor impacts, trust, and inclusion. While they lead in innovation, the report highlights disparities in AI uptake, workforce preparedness, and demographic representation. All countries in this group maintain very high HDI scores, bolstered by advanced infrastructure and strong public services. The United States, Germany, United Kingdom, and Canada are cited as global leaders in scientific knowledge production and AI-related technological capacity. The United States received the largest share of global AI investment in 2024—$70.2 billion, followed by China and the EU. It also hosts about half of the world's data centers, reflecting deep global asymmetries in AI compute power. Most large-scale AI models continue to be developed by organizations in the United States, with Western Europe trailing behind in model production. Africa, particularly Sub-Saharan Africa, faces major structural development challenges. AI offers the potential to improve education, health, and agriculture, but severe infrastructure gaps—in electricity, internet, and compute power—pose major barriers to equitable access and use. East Asia is a global AI powerhouse, with China playing a central role in AI research, robotics, and data ecosystems. However, the report also flags underinvestment in AI safety, and points to structural divides in talent retention and regulatory preparedness across the region. Latin America and the Caribbean face inequality, slow educational gains, and digital disparities. Arab States show ambition in digital and AI development, especially in the Gulf, but recovery is slow, amid persistent digital divides, and gender-based constraints. The report highlights both the concentration of investment and production in high-income countries and the uneven accessibility of AI benefits across the region.
