MEDIA ADVISORY

14 May 2013

United Nations conference explores global security issues

A conference being held in Wellington this week will enable engagement with experts on the United Nations system.

Organised by the United Nations Association of New Zealand (UNANZ) in association with Victoria University, the conference will support New Zealand’s campaign for a non-permanent seat on the Security Council. Conference sessions will also explore the security agenda, including human security and humanitarian affairs, legal security and environmental security.

Speakers will include Members of Parliament, current and former diplomats, UN officials and UNANZ members.

Topics include:

• Dr Kennedy Graham, MP—on whether the Security Council should treat climate change as a threat to global security

• Associate Professor Graham Hassall, President, United Nations Association of New Zealand—on whether the UN remains an effective force in global affairs

• John Hayes, MP—on the benefit New Zealand gains from participating on the Security Council or in other UN agencies

• Kate Dewes—on the prospects for a reduction in nuclear armaments

• Michael Powles—on the relevance of the UN in the face of growing US-China rivalry

New Zealand and global security: expanding the agenda for engagement

Date: 17-18 May 2013

Venues:

Friday 17 May – The Beehive Theatrette, Parliament Buildings (day programme) and

Intercontinental Hotel (evening programme),

Saturday 18 May – Victoria Business School, Rutherford House

For more information on the conference visit: http://unanz.org.nz/National/NationalConference/tabid/276/Default.aspx

The conference is open to the public and includes a registration fee.
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