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Events/Campaign News
Updates on event and campaigns
UNA Medway Press Releases 2026
UNA Medway Press Releases 2025
14/10/25 - Medway resident talks about her experiences on the West Bank Medway United Nations Association (UNA) received a presentation from Mel Moss on her experiences as a Human Rights Witness and Monitor in the Palestinian West Bank for three months earlier this year. The event took place in the Huguenot Museum in Rochester High Street and was Medway UNA's first annual lecture. Well attended, it proved to be an extremely interesting and eye-opening talk. After an introduction by Medway UNA's chair, Jessica Giles, Mel talked about her experiences going out to the West Bank as part of the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel. Set up by the World Council of Churches in 2002 following a call for help from Churches in Jerusalem. The Ecumenical Accompaniers (EAs) are volunteers from any faith or secular background and they have placements lasting three months. Mel explained to the audience that her role as an EA was to witness and accompany vulnerable individuals and communities, engage with those communities in deterring violence from Israeli military and armed settlers and to help people feel safer. Under International Humanitarian Law an occupying army is responsible for the protection of civilians but in parts of the West Bank they are the cause of fear. The presence of EAs deterred settlers from upsetting farmers’ sheep, harassing Palestinian children going to school and the military from destroying Palestinian property. She explained and showed through slides some of the restrictions placed on Palestinians by the Israeli occupying forces. Restrictions such as not being able to get planning permission to build a house, with cooking facilities were inside a cave. Another example given was of the fact that Israeli settlers come under Israeli Civil Law, whereas Palestinians come under the auspices of the Israeli military. Mel also met the Oscar nominated film makers who made 'No Other Land' an Israeli-Palestinian film collaboration set on the Occupied West Bank. It's made by a group of Israeli and Palestinian directors and is set in the occupied West Bank, showing the destruction of villages. Mel received a trophy from Medway UNA to mark the event and Mel being the UNA's first speaker, which is hoped to be the start of an annual event. At the conclusion of her talk Mel handed out leaflets setting out details of where we could obtain more information about the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel and took part in a question and answer session with the audience. ENDS
16/09/25 - Medway United Nations Association Annual Lecture 2025 - Life in the West Bank - in-conversation with Mel Moss Date: Saturday 11th October 2025 Time: 19:00 20:30 Location: Huguenot Museum 95 High Street Rochester Kent ME1 1LX Price: FREE - Tickets can be booked via eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/medway-united-nations-association-lecture-2025-life-in-the-west-bank-tickets-1661437226469 Medway United Nations Association Annual Lecture 2025 - Life in the West Bank 'Join us locally in building a global community, connected in its pursuit of equality, sustainability and peace' Hosted by Medway United Nations Association (UNA), join us for an enlightening evening with Mel Moss who will be talking about her experiences as a human rights monitor in the West Bank as part of the Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel (EAPPI) an international programme coordinated by the World Council of Churches. In this event, Mel Moss will be in-conversation sharing her first-hand experiences from the West Bank, on daily life under occupation, nonviolent advocacy for a just peace, the experiences of communities living under military control, and an approach to peacebuilding and human rights. ENDS
29/05/25 - Rochester Cathedral & Medway United Nations Association hosts a wreath-laying ceremony to mark International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2025 On Thursday 29th May Rochester Cathedral and Medway United Nations Association laid a wreath at the war memorial adjacent to Rochester High Street to commemorate International Day of UN Peacekeepers. This special day pays tribute to the dedication, professionalism and bravery of UN Peacekeepers while also remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of peace. Medway UNA Chair, Jessica Giles said: “In this the 80th year of the formation of the United Nations, the 29th May marks the UN International Day of Peacekeepers. We honour their extraordinary contributions to international peace and security. We recognize the bravery and commitment of all peacekeepers and their families who serve globally and pay our respects to those who sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of peace. We extend our appreciation to all our partners in peace, which include UN agencies, humanitarian organizations, the local communities we serve, women, youth, media professionals, host governments, troop-and police- contributing countries, member states, and many others. Medway joins the global community commemorated to honour the remarkable men and women who have served in UN peacekeeping missions and day pays tribute to their dedication, while also remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of peace". It acknowledges the UN Peacekeeping's crucial role in helping countries transition from conflict to peace and emphasizes the importance of fostering collaboration and innovation to address the evolving challenges of peacekeeping effectively. As global conflicts continue to change, UN Peacekeeping operations continue to adapt to the unique needs and circumstances of each mission. For nearly 80 years, United Nations peacekeepers have made a tangible impact on the lives of the communities they serve. They have saved and changed lives in some of the world’s most fragile political and security situations, having helped many countries successfully navigate the difficult path from war to peace, from Liberia and Namibia, to Cambodia, Sierra Leone, Timor Leste and others. Today, more than 76,000 civilian, military and police personnel are deployed in 11 missions. The challenges they face are greater than ever. Increasing division among Member States has weakened our collective capacity to support political and peace processes. Conflict is more complex and multi-layered. Peacekeepers face terrorists, criminals, armed groups and their allies, who have access to modern weapons, and a vested interest in perpetuating the chaos in which they thrive. Sadly, where the UN flag was once a symbol of security, it now risks making our peacekeepers a target. Of the 26 peacekeepers who lost their lives in 2024, five were killed in hostile incidents. We mourn their loss, alongside their families and colleagues. The sacrifice of all 4,430 peacekeepers who have given their lives across the decades will never be forgotten. Their legacy inspires us to continue all efforts in the pursuit of peace and progress for all peoples. Despite these challenges, peacekeepers persevere, performing a wide range of taskings, including ensuring the safe delivery of humanitarian aid, deterring violence, supporting locally-led conflict resolution, political settlements, elections, and restoring state authority. ENDS
21/05/25 - Rochester Cathedral & Medway United Nations Association hosts a wreath-laying ceremony to mark International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2025 On Thursday 29th May Rochester Cathedral and Medway United Nations Association will host a wreath-laying ceremony at noon at the war memorial adjacent to Rochester High Street to commemorate International Day of UN Peacekeepers. This special day pays tribute to the dedication, professionalism and bravery of UN Peacekeepers while also remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of peace. Medway UNA Chair, Jessica Giles said: “In this the 80th year of the formation of the United Nations, the 29th May marks the UN International Day of Peacekeepers. We honour their extraordinary contributions to international peace and security. We recognize the bravery and commitment of all peacekeepers and their families who serve globally and pay our respects to those who sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of peace. We extend our appreciation to all our partners in peace, which include UN agencies, humanitarian organizations, the local communities we serve, women, youth, media professionals, host governments, troop-and police- contributing countries, member states, and many others. Medway joins the global community commemorated to honour the remarkable men and women who have served in UN peacekeeping missions and day pays tribute to their dedication, while also remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of peace". It acknowledges the UN Peacekeeping's crucial role in helping countries transition from conflict to peace and emphasizes the importance of fostering collaboration and innovation to address the evolving challenges of peacekeeping effectively. As global conflicts continue to change, UN Peacekeeping operations continue to adapt to the unique needs and circumstances of each mission. For nearly 80 years, United Nations peacekeepers have made a tangible impact on the lives of the communities they serve. They have saved and changed lives in some of the world’s most fragile political and security situations, having helped many countries successfully navigate the difficult path from war to peace, from Liberia and Namibia, to Cambodia, Sierra Leone, Timor Leste and others. Today, more than 76,000 civilian, military and police personnel are deployed in 11 missions. The challenges they face are greater than ever. Increasing division among Member States has weakened our collective capacity to support political and peace processes. Conflict is more complex and multi-layered. Peacekeepers face terrorists, criminals, armed groups and their allies, who have access to modern weapons, and a vested interest in perpetuating the chaos in which they thrive. Sadly, where the UN flag was once a symbol of security, it now risks making our peacekeepers a target. Of the 26 peacekeepers who lost their lives in 2024, five were killed in hostile incidents. We mourn their loss, alongside their families and colleagues. The sacrifice of all 4,430 peacekeepers who have given their lives across the decades will never be forgotten. Their legacy inspires us to continue all efforts in the pursuit of peace and progress for all peoples. Despite these challenges, peacekeepers persevere, performing a wide range of taskings, including ensuring the safe delivery of humanitarian aid, deterring violence, supporting locally-led conflict resolution, political settlements, elections, and restoring state authority. ENDS
02/03/25 - International Women’s Day 2025 – For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment. Date: Saturday 8th March 2025 On Saturday 8th March Medway United Nations Association (UNA) are marking International Women’s Day 2025. The day recognises the power, as well as the unrealised potential, of the world’s 3.8 billion women and highlights the effort that each of us can make as individuals to promote gender equality. International Women’s Day is a celebration of the achievements made by women throughout history and signifies a continued mission for gender equality. First celebrated over a century ago, the day is now embraced globally to collectively champion the successes of the world’s great women, both past, present and future. Jessica Giles, Chair of UNA Medway said "I ask all locally, to both celebrate the role of women and to reflect on the challenges that we as a society still face in ensuring that all women are able to fulfil their potential. We should recognise that considerable progress has been made towards gender equality, while acknowledging there is more to do. It is our duty as a modern society to respect one another, and to foster a culture where changing attitudes is fundamental to achieving a gender equal world. We will continue to promote equality for women in our region and beyond. I have the unique advantage of being able to speak to counterparts about the intrinsic role of women in diplomacy, in peace and security, and to use women’s empowerment as way to strengthen relationships. When women and girls feel safe and valued, they are free to pursue their potential. They’re free to participate fully in civic and social and economic life. We think of the resilience and strength of women. Their resolve to stand up against injustice. Their dedication to protect others. Their unrelenting strive for change. Not only today, but every day, we stand united with all women to build momentum for their rights across the globe. We want to empower women to pursue their life goals unhindered." The growing oppression globally on women and girls and attacks on their human rights are alarming. We stand by women in Iran, whose freedoms are systematically restricted; and those in Afghanistan, where the Taliban are trying to erase women and girls' presence from public space, as well as everywhere else in the world where women's fundamental rights and freedoms are being threatened or denied. There is more work to be done. Real equal rights are still a long way off. Gender equality will only be achieved the day we are all part of its promotion and defence.” This year’s theme calls for action that can unlock equal rights, power and opportunities for all and a feminist future where no one is left behind. Central to this vision is empowering the next generation—youth, particularly young women and adolescent girls—as catalysts for lasting change. ENDS
21/01/25 - United Nations Association Medway marks the 80th anniversary of Holocaust Memorial Day on 27th January For a Better Future is the theme for Holocaust Memorial Day 2025. Monday 27th January 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp. Every year on Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD), there is an opportunity for people across the country to reflect on the tragic events of the Holocaust, its impact on the Jewish people, on other minority groups and on subsequent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia, Darfur and elsewhere. The theme for Holocaust Memorial Day 2025 is ‘For a Better Future’. Jessica Giles, Chair of Medway United Nations Association said ‘It’s vital that we never forget the horrifying cruelty and pain caused by the Holocaust and subsequent genocides. We mark Holocaust Memorial Day at a time when the human rights regimes put in place to prevent the undermining of human flourishing are challenged across the world. By remembering this, we are committed to keep on supporting the implementation of human rights mechanisms to challenge anti-semitism, genocide, prejudice and intolerance. We pledge not to take our own freedoms for granted, and to consider what we can do to protect and strengthen freedoms of others around the world. We recognise the appalling rise in hate crimes in all their forms in recent months and will continue to fight against prejudice and discrimination, to ensure equality and protection for people of all backgrounds and beliefs. Monday 27th January will give people the chance to reflect, not only the past but the present also. Eighty years ago, in response to the atrocities of the war and the Holocaust, governments of the world established the United Nations, pledging to work together to build a just world where human rights were enshrined, and all could live with dignity, in peace. Acknowledging this milestone year, we support the dignity and human rights of our fellow global citizens conscious that they are under daily attack We stand against hatred, dehumanisation and apathy, aware that human rights are a bulwark against the denigration of humanity. We call for collective action to ensure respect for dignity and human rights, and the international law that protects both.' ENDS
UNA Medway Press Releases 2024/23
24/10/24 - Medway United Nations Association (UNA) and Rochester Cathedral mark United Nations Day this Thursday 24th October 2024 'Join us in building a global community connected in its pursuit of equality, sustainability & peace' ------------------------------------- United Nations Day is celebrated annually on October 24 to mark the anniversary of the UN Charter coming into effect in 1945. It's a day to honour the UN's formation and the work it has done, while also reaffirming the UN Charter's key principles. The theme this year is "Fit for the future, building better together". Medway United Nations Association (UNA) works to support the principles and work of the United Nations and its agencies. Jessica Giles, Chair of Medway UNA said "We are delighted that Medway Council is supporting the work of the Medway branch of UNA-UK. At a local level a special flag raising event will take place at 10am this Thursday 24th October at Gun Wharf to commemorate the day, as well as raising the profile of the UNA and its work in Medway. We are delighted to invite members of the public and community leaders in Medway to join us in this ceremony. The United Nations was created to secure the possibility that nations may resolve potential conflicts peacefully, to alleviate poverty, hunger and the ravages of disease. It has proved itself to be an effective and influential agency of global cooperation. In these troubling times, it still remains the world’s best hope of achieving the original ideal enshrined in the Charter: peace and justice with a healthy environment and dignity for every human person.” To finish the day, a later event at Rochester Cathedral will include evensong at 17.30 and the Cathedral’s spire being illuminated in United Nations colour blue. Again, members of the public are most welcome to come along to evensong and the lighting of the spire. Jessica Giles for UNA Medway said “We are pleased that the Cathedral is going to light the spire supporting the work of the UN. The spire stands as a beacon of hope for everyone, and all are welcome and we’re delighted that Rochester Cathedral are supporting our local UNA." ------------------------------------- 10.00 Medway Council, Gun Wharf - flag raising United Nations flag raising at Medway Council, Gun Wharf, Dock Road, Chatham ME4 4TR, to mark United Nations Day. Members of the public are welcome to come along to the ceremony ------------------------------------- 11.00 – UNA Coffee Morning at Rochester Cathedral All are welcome at Ithamar Chapel, Rochester Cathedral Crypt. Entrance via North (side) door of the Cathedral. *If you are intending to come to our coffee morning, please rsvp us at Medwayuna@gmail.comso we can put your name as an attendee for the Cathedral. ------------------------------------- 17.30 Evensong at Rochester Cathedral Prayers will be mentioned for Medway United Nations Association. ------------------------------------- Cathedral Spire light up Join us and Rochester Cathedral for the Cathedral spire to be lit up in United Nations colour blue to mark United Nations Day. ------------------------------------- OUR MISSION To build movements for systemic transformation at the UN and to advocate for UK action for global cooperation. A United Nations Association (UNA) is a non-governmental organization that exist in various countries to enhance the relationship between the people of member states and the United Nations to raise public awareness of the UN and its work, to promote the general goals of the UN. For more information on the role of UNA-UK please visit https://una.org.uk/ Our facebook page at Medway United Nations Association
30/05/24 - Rochester Cathedral & Medway United Nations Association hosts a wreath-laying ceremony to mark International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2024 This special day pays tribute to the dedication, professionalism and bravery of UN Peacekeepers while also remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of peace. Yesterday (Wednesday 29th May) Rochester Cathedral and Medway United Nations Association hosted a wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate International Day of UN Peacekeepers. Medway UNA paid a solemn and respectful tribute to those UN Peacekeepers, during which a wreath was laid. Speaking after the event, Medway UNA Chair, Jessica Giles said: “Today marks the UN International Day of Peacekeepers. We honour their extraordinary contributions to international peace and security. We recognize the bravery and commitment of all peacekeepers and their families who serve globally and pay our respects to those who sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of peace. We extend our appreciation to all our partners in peace, which include UN agencies, humanitarian organizations, the local communities we serve, women, youth, media professionals, host governments, troop-and police- contributing countries, member states, and many others. Medway joins the global community commemorated to honour the remarkable men and women who have served in UN peacekeeping missions. This day pays tribute to their dedication, while also remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of peace". This year, the United Nations commemorates the International Day of Peacekeepers under the theme, "Fit for the Future: Building Better Together. The theme for the day encapsulates the spirit of progress and collective action towards creating a world that is more equitable, just, and sustainable for all. It acknowledges the UN Peacekeeping's crucial role in helping countries transition from conflict to peace over 75 years and supports the Secretary-General's New Agenda for Peace to address future crises and conflicts effectively. It emphasizes the importance of fostering collaboration and innovation to address the evolving challenges of peacekeeping effectively. As global conflicts continue to change, UN Peacekeeping operations continue to adapt to the unique needs and circumstances of each mission. ENDS
25/10/23 - Subject: Flag raising and spire light up marks launch of Medway United Nations Association Tuesday 24th October, United Nations Day, saw the launch of Medway United Nations Association (UNA) at Rochester Cathedral, with a flag raising ceremony of the United Nations flag at Medway Council offices at Gun Wharf (image attached) and the lighting up of the Cathedral Spire in United Nations colour Blue. Canon Gordon Giles, at Rochester Cathedral which hosted a coffee morning, evening prayers for the UNA and lighting the Cathedral spire (images attached) said "It was lovely to welcome Medway UNA for their launch event at Rochester Cathedral. We wish them good luck." Attending the events, Mayor of Medway, Cllr Nina Gurung, said "Now, more than ever, greater mutual respect and understanding, compassion and dialogue is needed to resolve differences. Today, we marked United Nations Day with the profoundly poignant flag raising ceremony at Gun Wharf- Medway Council Headquarters, with Medway United Nations Association, Cross Party Leaders, Councillors, Medway Interfaith Action and Medway Help for Ukrainians Charity. We hope and pray for total end of violence everywhere and heralding of lasting peace and harmony across the world. Thank you to Rochester Cathedral for the evening prayers and turning your spire Blue in recognition of UN Day." Alan Wells, spokesperson for Medway UNA said, "We are embarking at a Medway level, to support the principles and work of the United Nations and its agencies. And amplifying national advocacy on UN issues locally and raising the profile of the our UNA and its work in Medway. I know that the setting up Medway UNA is going to be the easy part. The real test is going to be the next 12 months, and being officially recognised by UNA-UK. I am very positive about Medway UNA's future. I know its going to be challenging, exciting, and yet rewarding. These past few years, indeed these past few weeks have demonstrated the need for international tools to ease the pain of suffering that we have all seen for ourselves played out. I am inviting Medway to join us, to contribute at a local level in building a global community connected in its pursuit of equality, sustainability and peace." UNA branches exist in every region in the UK. Our closest being Dartford UNA branch, Canterbury UNA and Tunbridge Wells UNA. Those UNA'S in the South East are themselves connected to London and South East Region of UNA-UK. And UNA's exist all around the world, split down into regional branches. Medway UNA will be one of many, but part of a broader global family of UNA’s. Our scope and remit - vast, and as you can appreciate, the UNs work - global in scale. From peacekeeping to UNESCO to Sustainable Development Goals in dealing with climate change and beyond. A United Nations Association (UNA) is a non-governmental organization that exist in various countries to enhance the relationship between the people of member states and the United Nations to raise public awareness of the UN and its work, to promote the general goals of the UN. It’s mission - To build movements for systemic transformation at the UN and to advocate for UK action for global cooperation.
16/10/23 - Medway United Nations Association (UNA) launches on Tuesday 24th October 2023 with flag raising event at Medway Council Join us in building a global community connected in its pursuit of equality, sustainability & peace A special flag raising event will take place at 10am on Tuesday 24th October at Medway Council to commemorate both United Nations Day and the launch of Medway's first United Nations Association (UNA). Alan Wells, spokesperson for UNA Medway said "that the United Nations was created to secure the possibility that nations may resolve potential conflicts peacefully, to alleviate poverty, hunger and the ravages of disease. It has proved itself to be an effective and influential agency of global cooperation and remains the world’s best hope of achieving the original ideal enshrined in the Charter: peace and justice with a healthy environment and dignity for every human person. It lies with each state and its citizens to ensure that the United Nations continues to be strengthened to meet future challenges. Medway UNA Branch will locally support the principles and work of the United Nations and its agencies, amplifyingnational advocacy on UN issues at a local level and raise the profile of the UNA and its work in Medway. The United Nations recognises the valuable contribution made by many national and international organisations and works closely with them. We are delighted that Medway Council is supporting the work of the Medway branch of UNA-UK. The event takes place outside the Medway Council, Gun Wharf, Dock Road, Chatham ME4 4TR. Members of the public are welcome to come along to both the ceremony and the later event at Rochester Cathedral with evening prayers at 17.30 and to watch the Cathedral spire lit up in UN colour blue. ------------------------------------- 10.00 Medway Council, Gun Wharf - flag raising United Nations flag raising at Medway Council, Gun Wharf, Dock Road, Chatham ME4 4TR, to mark both United Nations Day and the launch of the Medway UNA branch. OUR MISSION To build movements for systemic transformation at the UN and to advocate for UK action for global cooperation.
