6 U.N. Programs Win 1st Human Security Award

New York, June 22 (Jiji Press)–The inaugural ceremony for the Human Security Award, established by Japan and others, was held at the U.N. headquarters on Monday, honoring six U.N. programs. Among the six is a program in Nepal that has conducted risk analysis and strengthened preparedness to mitigate flood damage. The concept of “human security,” which focuses on protecting people from poverty, conflict and natural disasters rather than emphasizing national security, is one that Japan has long championed. The award was created by the permanent missions of Japan, Costa Rica and Senegal to the United Nations, which co-chair the Group of Friends of Human Security, a gathering of like-minded countries aiming to spread the concept. Award winners will be selected annually. Reaffirming the significance of human security at the ceremony, Japanese Ambassador to the United Nations Kazuyuki Yamazaki praised each project as promoting people-centered solutions to today’s complex challenges. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]