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International Bulletin - July 1998

UN News: Building Partnerships

Excerpts from a report from Blythe Foote Finke to the International Council of Women At a recent conference on Building Partnerships Secretary General Kofi Annan stated that a strong NGO/UN partnership "is no longer an option but a necessity". He went on to say NGO's are "now seen as supporters and allies of the United Nations." "NGO information and guidance as an inspiration can be crucial to the United Nations," particularly in the areas of preventive diplomacy, humanitarian crises, development and human rights. Facing new enemies today, what he calls an "uncivil society," an active partnership is essential. He calls the UN / NGO partnership a significant part of his own UN reform program. Along with the upcoming millennium UN Assembly he hopes NGOs will hold a companion complementary "People's Millennium" to bring all closer together.

Probably a highlight of the UN / NGO partnership is the concentration on the effect of the new communications technology world wide and what can be done. A priority in the future will be to make the best use of communications technology and cyberspace introducing more democratic societies around the world. It is good news that new technologies are inexpensive and have such positive impact on human rights issues and democratic participation around the World.

All participants at the Conference agreed that the new global communications tools offer great expectations for more free access and sharing and better partners working together. Alvin Adams, President of the United National Association - United States of America, calls the Internet the "peoples force" which is readily available with the "capacity to be global" and reach people in far-flung places.

The Secretary General's final words that we are staking out new territory... "perhaps there is new hope and optimism."

Last Modified: November 29, 2002