Beirut, 16 May, 2012 (ESCWA Communications and Information Unit)- A group of Political Studies students from the University of Helsinki visited ESCWA today and explored its objectives and programmes. The students were briefed by Ms. Ahed Sboul, Chief, Conference Services Section on the opportunities provided by the Regional Commission and the challenges it is facing, especially following the drastic change that has occurred in the region since January 2011. In her briefing, Sboul stressed on the regional priority agenda items particularly the Rio + 20 Conference, which will be convened in June 2012, and the efforts provided by ESCWA in preparing its member states for this event.

Sboul shed light on the major priorities and programmes of ESCWA, namely Integrated Management of Natural Resources and Sustainable Development; Integrated Social Policies; Economic Development and Integration; Strengthening the Statistical Capacities of the Countries of the Region; Increasing the Focus on Arab Women and Gender Issues; and Conflict Mitigation and Development.

Before visiting the ESCWA Library, the students had an audience with Executive Secretary Rima Khalaf, who encouraged school and university briefings on ESCWA, in order to explore the services provided by the Commission. In the Library, the Helsinki University students were briefed by Mr. Malek Tannir who showed them the UN references and resources students and scholars can benefit from.