UN official speaks on a range of international topics Feb. 24

Confronting the world’s urgent challenges — in some of today’s most forbidding regions — will be explored by a United Nations deputy chief in a series of campus presentations Thursday, Feb. 24.

Balasubramaniam Murali is a 15-year veteran of the U.N., helping lead the South and West Asia Division of the Development Programme and serving as adviser for Afghanistan and Iran.

His three discussions address international and professional development, and are open to the public. They include:

• “Development Challenges in Afghanistan”: Sustained progress eludes the war-torn country, frustrating massive international efforts. It will be held from noon-1:30 p.m. at Rooms 206 of Ingraham Hall.
•  “Your Future with the UN”: The career talk will examine myriad opportunities for global service through the organization’s agencies, funds, and special programs. It will be held at 4:30-5 p.m. in Memorial Union Tripp Commons.
• “Global Progress Report”: The U.N.’s Millennium Development Goals encompass poverty, hunger, maternal health, HIV/AIDS, and more. Dr. Murali will present a status update. This talk will be held from 7-8:30 p.m. in Memorial Union Tripp Commons.

The Millennium Development Goals Awareness Project is hosting the event.

— Sally Younger