The representative would be expected to assist in mediation efforts between the opposition and the government and to monitor human rights.
Unofficial reports circulating here have suggested that Algeria, often a Middle East intermediary in the past, had been involved in mediation efforts.
CARACAS, Venezuela — Colombian guerrillas freed two politically prominent hostages on Thursday, handing them over to emissaries of President Hugo Chávez of Venezuela in a breakthrough in mediation efforts with Latin America's largest rebel group.
She says the most successful school programmes to reduce violence combine several elements: peaceful coexistence is on the curriculum, students are involved in mediation efforts, and conflict resolution is not only taught but practised.
Ever since, I have been directly involved in mediation efforts with the Venezuelan government, with the purpose of releasing her from prison through a gesture of clemency by President Chávez.
Mr. Ban is expected to discuss the possibility of a United Nations official participating in mediation efforts with President Thabo Mbeki of South Africa on the fringe of the Group of 8 summit meeting of industrialized nations in Japan next week.
