Newsletter No 4 – 10th Oct 2022
UPP SPIN-OFFS
One of two main challenges Sir Jeremy Greenstock gave us before leaving the UPP Forum in 2012 was to develop a UNA toolbox. Tried and tested tools were needed by UNA to turn plans into effective action in the hands of capable people. The challenge accepted; toolbox produced.
TOOLBOXES
Two toolboxes were developed. One with 8 tools to on longer-term issues, the other 10 tools for shorter-term tasks. All 18 tools were connected to a main feature on an overarching framework for sustainable development. “We are not giving out aid, we’re providing people with tools they need to improve lives” Melinda Gates
UNA YOUTH BRANCHES
UPP progress was shared with Youth Branches based in four universities – Aston, Birmingham, Nottingham, and Cambridge. Central Region was able to learn from university involvement in Model UN competitions. Nottingham’s approach fitted perfectly with UNA framework for sustainable development.
PALESTINIAN FOOTBALL TEAM
Honey Thaljieh, Founder, Palestinian Women’s Football team, playing on West Bank, presented at UNA National Forum 2012 how sport could unite hostile territ-ories. We were inspired by Honey. Can we learn lessons from 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham? UN Office on Sport for Development & Peace think so!
MUSALAHA UK EVENT
Daniel Munayer, newly appointed Exec. Director in Jerusalem is speaking on Musalaha Reconciliation Ministeries from his own experience, through zoom, on Tuesday, 11th Oct (tomorrow!) at 19,45 for 20,00 hrs (London time). This will include Daniel’s recent meeting with US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken and addressing the UN Security Council.
DANIEL MUNYER
Daniel holds a degree in International Relations from the American University an MBA (distinction) at Durham University. Zoom details are available for people wishing to access Daniel’s experience first-hand. Please contact me directly.
UNA REGIONAL PLAN & SPORT
The Central Region sensed the opportunity for sport to try and help peace & prosperity in Israel and Palestine. The 2014-16 plan was developed to strengthen all aspects at 2 creative workshops hosted by Hassnain Safdar, Aston University UNA leader. With branches in support and the Rugby World Cup taking place in Brum, Peter Grace, Chair, Old Edwardians RFC, Brum assembled a rugby team to also participate.
Thanks again Honey Thaljieh for the idea!
UNA REGIONAL STRUCTURE
What did other UNA regions think about the future during 2014-16.? Central Region conducted a survey amongst all regions for ‘developing or disbanding’ the regional structure. 35 questionnaires with an aggregate of 215 points made. 119 points were in favour of developing and 89 points in favour of disbanding. We travel in hope!
THANK YOU FOR THE FEEDBACK
To date, 38 individual, written comments have been received after the first three newsletters. Overwhelmingly positive. Thank you – all comments are welcome!!
Further information: Barrie Oxtoby;
UNA at barrieoxtoby@gmail.com 07962 307353