unicpos : about : background
The United Nations Information Centre for the Caribbean Area (UNIC) was established in 1961, when the Federal Government of the West Indies informed Secretary-General U Thant of Burma, that it would welcome the establishment of a United Nations Information Centre for the English-speaking Caribbean Territories.UNIC opened its doors at 15 Keate Street on 18 January 1962 in Port of Spain. It relocated in 1989 to 16 Victoria Avenue, Port of Spain where it continues to be based. UNIC has served the Caribbean Area from its Port of Spain headquarters for 43 years .
UNIC's raison d'etre is to promote an increased understanding of the work and purposes of the United Nations System to fourteen English and Dutch speaking countries and territories: Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Netherlands Antilles, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and The Grenadines, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago.
Projects and Events
The United Nations Information Centre for the Caribbean Area is one of over 60 in the world today. Its outreach activities extend to all segments of society. Often, joint projects and events are organized with key partners, including Governments, the media, NGOs, educational institutions and local authorities. Commemorative events are organized for United Nations Days and observances as well as for other related activities.
Information Materials
UNIC also disseminates information materials, major UN reports and documents, press kits, posters, videos, maps, photographs, charts, reports, fact sheets and brochures.
Teachers and Students
UNIC-POS promotes teaching about the United Nations through direct contact with teachers and educators, encouraging studies about the Organization in curricula, Model United Nations programmes, regional and international videoconference debates among youths; and in making available documents, publications and videos geared to young audiences. Additionally, UNIC responds to requests from Non-Governmental Organizations and educational institutions for speakers and information.
