Statement by Grete Faremo, Under Secretary Gene​ral and Executiv​e Director of UNOPS, at the First regular session of the Executive Board, 1 February 2022

UNOPS is committed to supporting the people and government of Tonga following the recent devastating events in Hunga Tonga–Hunga Haʻapai in the Pacific.

UNOPS Executive Director Grete Faremo will reflect on UNOPS work in 2021 and discuss priorities for 2022 on 1 February at 10:00 am (New York time). You can watch the live proceedings of the Executive Board via UN Web TV or follow #unopsEB on Twitter.

The Technical Guidance for Prison Planning document provides design and planning guidance toward the development of correctional infrastructure that meets human rights obligations. Based on the Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (Mandela Rules) ​and more recent international norms and standards, the manual puts forth a clear methodology and actionable parameters to achieve safe, decent, and humane detention facilities.

In 2021, a deadly second wave of COVID-19 hit India hard, throwing medical facilities into turmoil as they struggled to meet the unprecedented spike in new cases.

With public resources under huge strain as countries respond to and recover from the pandemic, a renewed focus on tackling corruption in public procurement couldn’t be more urgent.

In partnership with the government of Saint Lucia, UNOPS and the University of Oxford outline key infrastructure financing opportunities to help the country achieve its sustainable development priorities.

Three newly rehabilitated health centres will help strengthen the small island nation’s health system and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

An airport infrastructure project in El Salvador is not only improving livelihoods – but also providing the chance to learn how to read.

In support of the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), UNOPS joined a range of events and activities in Glasgow to help accelerate climate action | Photo: Energy Transition Council

UNOPS hosted a high-level panel session at The New York Times Climate Hub, on the sidelines of the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow.

Energy needs are increasing. How do we ensure they’re met while tackling the climate crisis?