What is the purpose of the Geographic Database?
Geographic information is vital for the execution of many UN operations ranging from peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance in which knowledge of the ground is indispensable, to development, environment and health programmes in which geographically referenced data are essential for sound planning. However, such information is often not readily available at the level of detail, accuracy and form required. Furthermore, the lack of mandates and central guidelines hinder the sharing of such information. Development, security and environment are the centerpieces of the Millennium Agenda. Poverty eradication is the action strategy for the Organization. The proposed database will provide the necessary framework for these initiatives. How to move forward? The Working Group was first introduced to Member States at the 2000 substantive session of ECOSOC. To carry forward this truly innovative, interagency effort, the following steps will need to be taken: This effort should be part of UN refor