Gaza: Northern aid push frustrated as regional tensions rise Top rights experts spotlight deepening Sudan crisis Digital platforms and AI ‘facilitating’ child abuse, warns Special Rapporteur 

Gaza: Rafah now a ‘pressure cooker of despair’ as exodus south continues Sudan war leaves 90 per cent of country’s most vulnerable going hungry Taliban dress code arrests of women and girls must end, say top rights experts

Gaza: Aid operations are in peril, UN agency warns amid funding crisis122 journalists killed while reporting on Gaza crisis, say top rights experts UN Human Rights chief appalled by alleged summary executions in Mali 

We cannot abandon the people of Gaza, say chiefs of UN agencies in appeal for UNRWA Torture used to obtain evidence in Hong Kong trial, claim rights experts At least 170,000 children displaced amid violence in Haiti: UNICEF 

Hungry Gazans empty UN aid agency trucks before reaching destination Myanmar situation spiralling three years after military coup  WMO confirms new heat record for Europe 

Gaza: ‘Simply not enough food’ to go around, warn UN humanitariansUN migration agency alert over Mediterranean deaths spikeWHO hails global progress on eliminating dangerous fats from food shelves

 World court issues appeal calling for prevention of genocidal acts in GazaGaza: UN rights office condemns ‘chaotic’ Israeli mass evacuation orders Sudan: Dire plight of more than 10 million displaced by conflictAlabama execution comment – UN rights chief Türk

According to energy industry experts, we’re in the middle of a massive expansion of renewable energy sources, and it’s likely to continue. At the UN climate conference in Dubai at the end of last year, governments committed to tripling global capacity by 2030, and the International Energy Agency, for one, is bullish about that goal being achieved.But will developing countries benefit? Moritz Brauchle is the managing director of Africa GreenTec Madagascar, a social enterprise which provides sustainable energy solutions to some of the 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa currently living without any access to electricity.He explained to Conor Lennon from UN News the advantages of minigrids and how they are breathing new life into communities that were formerly consigned to darkness once the sun went down.

Gaza: Top UN aid official calls for end to attacks on sites sheltering civilians $1.8 billion needed to restore Libyan communities after catastrophic floodingStigma and shame still surround leprosy victims, warn top rights experts 

Sudan is “on the brink of a learning catastrophe” as war is preventing 19 million children from continuing their education, which could translate into a staggering $26 billion lifetime earning loss. The warning comes from Mandeep O’Brien, Representative of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Sudan, where rival military forces have been battling since last April. She said UNICEF and partners are working to get schools to re-open safely, where conditions allow, in addition to providing e-learning and psychosocial support for children at camps for internally displaced people (IDPs).  Ms. O’Brien told UN News’s Abdelmonem Makki that as conflict rages in places such as Gaza and Ukraine, the world must not forget about Sudan. 

Displacement misery continues for GazansOCHA scales up response to cholera spread in SomaliaOn Education Day, UNESCO rallies teachers to counter hate speech

Gaza fighting spreads into hospitals where there’s ‘no way in and out’ UNHCR raises alarm over dramatic rise in Rohingya deaths at seaHalf of Yemen’s children are malnourished, warns UN health agency

No food, water, or health care facilities, no communication with the outside world, and the constant threat of bombardments.These are the desperate conditions under which Gazans are living, says Juliette Touma, the spokesperson for UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestine refugees, who visited Gaza in mid-January.On her return, she spoke to Conor Lennon from UN News, and described what she saw in the congested refugee camps of the occupied Palestinian territory.

Gaza war: 25,000 killed as humanitarian needs go on rising Tedros concern that countries will miss deadline for pandemic treaty UN migration agency issues first ever global annual appeal, calling for $7.9 billion 

Entire villages in the Republic of Congo have been affected by recent flooding, leaving more than 350,000 people in need of food, shelter, clothing and other basics.People are living on top of their houses and some women are even giving birth in rafts, said Chris Mburu, UN Resident Coordinator the country, speaking to UN News’s Alexandre Carette in Geneva.Mr. Mburu said the UN and partners are supporting the authorities to respond to the emergency as aid workers continue to try to reach survivors, amid immense difficulties. 

Emirati Hospital in southern Gaza is one of last functioning maternity facilities in all of Gaza where “there aren’t enough staff and not enough medicine” for women about to give birth, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warned on Friday.Amid ongoing active conflict that has killed tens of thousands, UNICEF is doing its utmost to help, by delivering essential relief supplies to health teams, formula milk, clothes and food for women too weak to breastfeed. But much more needs to be done to save lives - and ensure greater aid access to the enclave – said UNICEF’s Tess Ingram, who’s just back from a heartbreaking humanitarian mission to Rafah and Khan Younis.Here she is speaking to UN News’s Daniel Johnson.

Gaza aid obstacles continue to delay vital relief, warn UN aid teamsSudan war: UN investigators begin probe into human rights violations Sri Lanka anti-terror bill revisions are serious concern, says UN rights office

Gaza aid obstacles continue to delay vital relief, warn UN aid teamsSudan war: UN investigators begin probe into human rights violations Top rights expert on freedom of expression to visit the Philippines

Gaza crisis: Back two-State solution urges UN chief, ‘once and for all’UN migration agency chief urges action to help Sudan’s displaced Inflation rises hit international investment, warns UNCTAD

Nine months ago, UN teams in Sudan were forced to evacuate from their headquarters in Khartoum, as heavy fighting between government and rebel forces raged in the capital.The impact on the civilian population has been catastrophic, with half of the population in need of aid and more than seven million people forced to flee their homes. The security situation is so bad that humanitarian workers have been unable to bring aid to the areas worst hit by fighting.Peter Kioy, the head of the UN migration agency, IOM, in Sudan, told Conor Lennon from UN News about his team’s perilous evacuation under fire, his fears of the fighting moving closer to the UN temporary bases and his frustration at being unable to reach those in desperate need of help.

Gaza: Fewer than 1 in 4 aid missions given green light, says OCHASudan conflict passes sad milestone as UN rights office urges ceasefireWHO calls for urgent regulation of e-cigarettes 

As the war in Gaza between Israel and Palestinian militants reaches the 100 day mark, the UN is working flat out to meet the dire needs of hundreds of thousands of displaced civilians “through one door” at the Rafah crossing, a restriction imposed by Israel that has to change, said the UN newly-appointed Resident Coordinator on Saturday.At least 200 truckloads each day are needed and despite the “outstanding” efforts of national and international partners, UN humanitarians are stuck having to bring all supplies through a single choke point on Gaza’s southern frontier with Egypt, built as a pedestrian crossing, said Jamie McGoldrick.The veteran UN aid official spoke exclusively to UN News on Saturday, in his first interview since becoming the interim Resident Coordinator in the Palestinian Occupied Territory late last month.The Irish national served in the same role, where he is also UN Deputy Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, between 2018 and 2020.Prior to that, he was the UN’s Humanitarian and Resident Coordinator in Yemen at the height of the brutal civil conflict there which began in 2015. He has also worked with the International Red Cross.Mr. McGoldrick recently returned from Gaza, and spoke to Ezzat El-Ferri from Jerusalem, where the UN Special Coordinator’s office (UNSCO) is headquartered, with other offices in the West Bank city of Ramallah and the Gaza Strip.  Read the interview here.

 No let-up in Gaza violence as war passes 100-day mark Ukraine war: UN launches $4.2 billion appeal to help most vulnerable166 million people require health assistance in 2024: WHO

War against Hamas in Gaza is act of self-defence, Israel tells world courtPublic health risk from COVID remains high - WHOCabo Verde certified malaria-free 

Aid mission denials are latest threat to Gaza’s hospitals: OCHASustainable global recovery at risk from interlocking crises, warns UN labour agencyTop UN rights body elects Moroccan president for a year

Gaza: South Africa levels accusations of ‘genocidal conduct’ against IsraelHuman rights chief Türk rejects ‘blood libel’ accusation over Gaza criticismUN launches new plan to save migrants’ lives and promote legal pathways 

Aid relief arriving in Gaza but ‘too little, too late’, warns WHODozens killed in Ukraine fighting as UN aid teams cite urgent needsElections in 2024 must be free and fair, says UN rights chief

Gaza latest: Dire shortages of healthcare continueRights experts demand accountability for Israeli victims of sexual torturePlastic pollution study launches in the Antarctic: UN nuclear watchdog

Gaza latest: nearly 600 healthcare attacks since start of war, says WHOMigration agency launches $69 million appeal for Gaza reliefCOVID-19 infections rise 52 per cent in a month

Houthi rebel attacks on ships using the Red Sea trade route off the coast of Yemen, are bad for global business and consumers everywhere but have also exposed a chronic shortage of vessels in the supply chain.That’s according to John Hoffman, chief of the trade logistics branch at the UN trade and development body UNCTAD.He’s been talking to UN News’s Daniel Johnson about the impact of the action taken by the Houthis in protest at Israel’s continuing offensive in Gaza, the repercussions of protracted attacks on shipping for trade overall, and what the UN can do to help de-escalate the situation.  

Gaza crisis deepens as UN aid convoys face delays and obstacles UN rights chief Türk shocked by Iran mosque bombing On World Braille Day, UN health agency focuses on fixes for blurred vision 

Gaza war: ‘Intense ground battles’ reported, hospital hit kills fiveUN chief appeals for ‘maximum restraint’ to prevent Middle East escalationRights experts’ alarm at death row ‘experiment’ in U.S.

Everyone is hungry in Gaza now: UN humanitariansUkraine communities hit by surge in attacks from RussiaMyanmar refugees to receive boosted aid voucher

The enormous potential of GPT4 caught the popular imagination in 2023, with its ability to generate texts in a range of styles, in response to written prompts.But many expressed concern about the jobs that might be lost, the ease with which bad actors could produce highly convincing misinformation and, in a coming year full of elections, the risks AI could pose to democracy itself.Conor Lennon from UN News asks Carme Artigas, Spain’s first-ever Secretary of State for Digitalization and AI, and co-chair of the UN’s AI Advisory Body, if 2023 was the year the world finally woke up to the need to regulate the technology, and the potential threats it poses to democracy next year, when millions will go to the polls.  

Earlier in December, the UN Department of Global Communications hosted Knowledge, History and Power, an event featuring noted journalists Nikole Hannah-Jones and Laura Trevelyan.The event was organized by the Department of Global Communications Outreach Programme on the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Slavery in collaboration with the Universities Studying Slavery Consortium.Pauline Batista from UN News talked to both award-winning journalists about the challenges, hopes and dreams for “the future of reparations,” in the United States and globally.

Humanitarian workers visiting the frontline in Ukraine are showing solidarity with the people affected by the almost two-year-long conflict as “war does not stop on Christmas Day”, according to the UN’s most senior humanitarian representative in the country.Denise Brown, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator led a convoy of aid to Kupiansk in the east of the country.Saviano Abreu began by asking her what support the UN is providing on the frontline and elsewhere. 

UN humanitarians carried out an emergency fact-finding mission to central Gaza’s Al-Aqsa Hospital on Christmas Day, in response to fears of mass casualties after reports that three refugee camps were hit by Israeli airstrikes.Doctors at the hospital, which was already at full capacity, reported seeing “100-plus patients” brought in with serious injuries in just the first 30 minutes, with around the same number of dead bodies.With ever decreasing space in the Strip to treat men, women and children needing urgent lifesaving care, many more will die, warned Sean Casey from the World Health Organization (WHO).Mr. Casey is the UN health agency’s Emergency Medical Teams coordinator who took part in that mission to central Gaza. Here he is now talking to UN News’s Daniel Johnson.

Gaza crisis: Starvation must not be allowed to happen, says UN rights chief46.7 million children in West and Central Africa face ongoing humanitarian crisis  Global dengue cases on the rise again, posing public health challenge, WHO warns 

Gaza crisis: Starvation must not be allowed to happen, says UN rights chief46.7 million children in West and Central Africa face ongoing humanitarian crisis  Global dengue cases on the rise again, posing public health challenge, WHO warns 

Injured patients ‘waiting to die’ in northern GazaSudan: Up to 300,000 displaced by latest surge in fightingHope in malaria fight as WHO recommends second jab

Injured patients ‘waiting to die’ in northern GazaSudan: Up to 300,000 displaced by latest surge in fightingHope in malaria fight as WHO recommends second jab

Barely a drop of safe water to drink in Gaza, UN aid agency warns Ukraine: OCHA condemnation for strikes on aid infrastructure by Russian military IOM welcomes new migrant legislation in Greece   

Barely a drop of safe water to drink in Gaza, UN aid agency warns Ukraine: OCHA condemnation for strikes on aid infrastructure by Russian military IOM welcomes new migrant legislation in Greece   

Since the military incursion into Gaza, which followed deadly attacks by Hamas on Israel on the seventh of October, 135 staff members of UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestine refugees, are known to have been killed, the most ever in one incident.Despite the danger and extremely difficult working conditions, UNRWA is continuing to assist those caught up in the fighting through no fault of their own. And the task is monumental. Nearly two million people have been displaced across the Strip, many forced to move repeatedly in search of safety.Juliette Touma, the Director of Communications at UNRWA, is a veteran of high profile conflicts, including Libya, Syria, and Iraq. Conor Lennon from UN News asked her to compare the situation in Gaza with her experience in other countries.

Since the military incursion into Gaza, which followed deadly attacks by Hamas on Israel on the seventh of October, 135 staff members of UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestine refugees, are known to have been killed, the most ever in one incident.Despite the danger and extremely difficult working conditions, UNRWA is continuing to assist those caught up in the fighting through no fault of their own. And the task is monumental. Nearly two million people have been displaced across the Strip, many forced to move repeatedly in search of safety.Juliette Touma, the Director of Communications at UNRWA, is a veteran of high profile conflicts, including Libya, Syria, and Iraq. Conor Lennon from UN News asked her to compare the situation in Gaza with her experience in other countries.

Cemeteries in Gaza are being raided for wood as people affected by the ongoing bombardments look for ways to cook food and feed themselves; that’s according to the World Food Programme’s Samer Abdel Jaber who has just visited the south of the enclave. The conflict in Gaza began after the October 7th attacks by Hamas on Israel which left at least 1200 people dead.Khaled Mohamed of UN News asked Samer Abdel Jaber what he witnessed on his visit. 

Cemeteries in Gaza are being raided for wood as people affected by the ongoing bombardments look for ways to cook food and feed themselves; that’s according to the World Food Programme’s Samer Abdel Jaber who has just visited the south of the enclave. The conflict in Gaza began after the October 7th attacks by Hamas on Israel which left at least 1200 people dead.Khaled Mohamed of UN News asked Samer Abdel Jaber what he witnessed on his visit. 

‘Ten weeks of hell’ for children in GazaUkraine: civilian death toll passes 10,000 amid ‘gross rights violations’: TürkSudan: humanitarian crisis deepens as new front opens in conflict: OCHA  

‘Ten weeks of hell’ for children in GazaUkraine: civilian death toll passes 10,000 amid ‘gross rights violations’: TürkSudan: humanitarian crisis deepens as new front opens in conflict: OCHA  

Gaza hospital destroyed, WHO chief reiterates ceasefire callMigrants’ Day: UN chief calls for rights-based migration governanceRussia: Rights expert slams Navalny’s ‘enforced disappearance’  

Gaza hospital destroyed, WHO chief reiterates ceasefire callMigrants’ Day: UN chief calls for rights-based migration governanceRussia: Rights expert slams Navalny’s ‘enforced disappearance’  

In an exclusive interview with UN News, Volker Türk, High Commissioner for Human Rights, underlined that accountability is key and a fundamental “missing link” in most conflicts around the world which simply perpetuates cycles of violence.“It is absolutely critical that accountability is part of any future arrangement because we know that if impunity reigns, and if the facts are not told and if the truth is not told, we will have grievances going on and on and on,” he said, referring to the latest bloody cycle of the Israel-Palestine conflict.

In an exclusive interview with UN News, Volker Türk, High Commissioner for Human Rights, underlined that accountability is key and a fundamental “missing link” in most conflicts around the world which simply perpetuates cycles of violence.“It is absolutely critical that accountability is part of any future arrangement because we know that if impunity reigns, and if the facts are not told and if the truth is not told, we will have grievances going on and on and on,” he said, referring to the latest bloody cycle of the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Supporting refugees is all of humanity’s ‘obligation’: UN chief Afghanistan: instead of justice, women survivors of violence face prison: UNAMAUrgent help needed for millions of children affected by conflicts and disasters: UNICEFDR Congo mpox spread accelerating: WHO

Supporting refugees is all of humanity’s ‘obligation’: UN chief Afghanistan: instead of justice, women survivors of violence face prison: UNAMAUrgent help needed for millions of children affected by conflicts and disasters: UNICEFDR Congo mpox spread accelerating: WHO

Gaza flooding latest disaster to hit desperate PalestiniansCountries must stop e-cigarette boom among youth: WHODecline in vaccine coverage prompts measles surge in Europe, Central Asia: UNICEF

Gaza flooding latest disaster to hit desperate PalestiniansCountries must stop e-cigarette boom among youth: WHODecline in vaccine coverage prompts measles surge in Europe, Central Asia: UNICEF

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is poised for elections on 20 December, when votes will be cast for a new president and well as national and provincial legislatures.In a historic move, this election marks the first time that local representatives will be on the ballot, a significant stride towards enhancing community participation in the whole electoral process.“This is in my view, a very good step,” Bintou Keita, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the DRC and head of the UN peacekeeping mission (MONUSCO), told UN News, after briefing the Security Council earlier this week.She described to Jerome Bernard how MONUSCO was supporting the authorities ahead of voting, in three key provinces where the mission is deployed. 

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is poised for elections on 20 December, when votes will be cast for a new president and well as national and provincial legislatures.In a historic move, this election marks the first time that local representatives will be on the ballot, a significant stride towards enhancing community participation in the whole electoral process.“This is in my view, a very good step,” Bintou Keita, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the DRC and head of the UN peacekeeping mission (MONUSCO), told UN News, after briefing the Security Council earlier this week.She described to Jerome Bernard how MONUSCO was supporting the authorities ahead of voting, in three key provinces where the mission is deployed. 

Gaza ceasefire ‘in everybody’s interest’: UN humanitarian coordinatorFossil fuel phaseout ‘inevitable’: UN chief on COP28 outcome Global Refugee Forum opportunity to bolster forced displacement response: Grandi

Gaza ceasefire ‘in everybody’s interest’: UN humanitarian coordinatorFossil fuel phaseout ‘inevitable’: UN chief on COP28 outcome Global Refugee Forum opportunity to bolster forced displacement response: Grandi

Sixteen year-olds in Gaza are now in the middle of the fourth war of their short lifetimes, a leading UN humanitarian has told UN News, pointing out that for the youngest, it’s causing unimaginable trauma.Gemma Connell of UN humanitarian coordination office OCHA, is in Rafah, where she has spent the past week and says that for mothers, they’re also enduring terrible suffering and loss of dignity that is life-altering.Abdelmonem Makki asked her what she had seen, as local health authorities report that more than 18,000 have now been killed amidst the battle between Palestinian militants and Israeli forces – mostly women and children.

Sixteen year-olds in Gaza are now in the middle of the fourth war of their short lifetimes, a leading UN humanitarian has told UN News, pointing out that for the youngest, it’s causing unimaginable trauma.Gemma Connell of UN humanitarian coordination office OCHA, is in Rafah, where she has spent the past week and says that for mothers, they’re also enduring terrible suffering and loss of dignity that is life-altering.Abdelmonem Makki asked her what she had seen, as local health authorities report that more than 18,000 have now been killed amidst the battle between Palestinian militants and Israeli forces – mostly women and children.

Vanessa Frazier, Malta’s Permanent Representative to the UN, has told UN News that the Security Council must insist on the release of all Hamas hostages in Gaza, and the unhindered and sufficient flow of humanitarian aid into the Strip.As part of an unofficial fact-finding trip organized by the United Arab Emirates, Ms. Frazier along with other UN ambassadors representing their countries on the Security Council, were taken on Monday close to the border between Egypt and Gaza to see for themselves the humanitarian efforts being made to bring in aid, and to care for those wounded during the ongoing Israeli military operation. Resolution 2712, a Security Council Resolution drafted and tabled by Malta, calling for “humanitarian pauses” in the fighting, was adopted on 15 November, succeeding where other resolutions calling for a ceasefire have so far failed. On Tuesday, after concluding the visit, Ms. Frazier spoke to Conor Lennon from UN News, who began by asking her to describe what they had seen.

Vanessa Frazier, Malta’s Permanent Representative to the UN, has told UN News that the Security Council must insist on the release of all Hamas hostages in Gaza, and the unhindered and sufficient flow of humanitarian aid into the Strip.As part of an unofficial fact-finding trip organized by the United Arab Emirates, Ms. Frazier along with other UN ambassadors representing their countries on the Security Council, were taken on Monday close to the border between Egypt and Gaza to see for themselves the humanitarian efforts being made to bring in aid, and to care for those wounded during the ongoing Israeli military operation. Resolution 2712, a Security Council Resolution drafted and tabled by Malta, calling for “humanitarian pauses” in the fighting, was adopted on 15 November, succeeding where other resolutions calling for a ceasefire have so far failed. On Tuesday, after concluding the visit, Ms. Frazier spoke to Conor Lennon from UN News, who began by asking her to describe what they had seen.

‘Humanitarian disaster zone’: Gaza hospital capacity decimated – WHO Invest in primary healthcare, save lives: TedrosRecord hunger in West and Central Africa: UN humanitarians

‘Humanitarian disaster zone’: Gaza hospital capacity decimated – WHO Invest in primary healthcare, save lives: TedrosRecord hunger in West and Central Africa: UN humanitarians

Gaza humanitarian crisis deepens as fighting rages on across the Strip COP28: UN chief urges climate talks ambition as clock runs outHuman rights at 75: Türk calls on countries to overcome divisions 

Gaza humanitarian crisis deepens as fighting rages on across the Strip COP28: UN chief urges climate talks ambition as clock runs outHuman rights at 75: Türk calls on countries to overcome divisions 

Clear and unequivocal language on the phasing out of fossil fuels is the only way forward to prevent the human rights crisis that is caused by climate change. This is the message from Benjamin Schachter, the UN human rights office Environment and Climate Change Team Leader, who is coordinating the OHCHR delegation at the COP28 climate conference, now underway in Dubai, UAE.The climate summit is in its final stretch, coinciding with the annual observance of Human Rights Day on December 10, and the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), putting a spotlight on links between human rights and climate change.Speaking to UN News, Mr. Schachter explained that a human rights-based approach and a participatory and inclusive process can lead to climate solutions and better outcomes.

Clear and unequivocal language on the phasing out of fossil fuels is the only way forward to prevent the human rights crisis that is caused by climate change. This is the message from Benjamin Schachter, the UN human rights office Environment and Climate Change Team Leader, who is coordinating the OHCHR delegation at the COP28 climate conference, now underway in Dubai, UAE.The climate summit is in its final stretch, coinciding with the annual observance of Human Rights Day on December 10, and the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), putting a spotlight on links between human rights and climate change.Speaking to UN News, Mr. Schachter explained that a human rights-based approach and a participatory and inclusive process can lead to climate solutions and better outcomes.

As the focus at COP28 turns to food and agriculture, the spotlight is on smallholder farmers in developing countries on the frontlines of climate change, clinging on to their livelihoods amid drought and floods.Bernhard Kowatsch, the head and founder of the UN World Food Programme’s Innovation Accelerator, told UN News’ Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer that innovation is the key to helping climate-proof their businesses – not just tomorrow, but right now. He called for more investments in small projects that can go big, ramping up funds for recovery but also anticipatory action before disaster strikes, and making more climate microfinance available to women food entrepreneurs.

As the focus at COP28 turns to food and agriculture, the spotlight is on smallholder farmers in developing countries on the frontlines of climate change, clinging on to their livelihoods amid drought and floods.Bernhard Kowatsch, the head and founder of the UN World Food Programme’s Innovation Accelerator, told UN News’ Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer that innovation is the key to helping climate-proof their businesses – not just tomorrow, but right now. He called for more investments in small projects that can go big, ramping up funds for recovery but also anticipatory action before disaster strikes, and making more climate microfinance available to women food entrepreneurs.

Taking 5 per cent of global military expenditures and directing it towards education and the climate crisis, would free up $100 billion a year to respond to climate change.Speaking to UN News on the sidelines of COP28 conference in Dubai, Yasmine Sherif, Executive Director of the UN global fund for education, sent a strong message to countries as she launched an appeal for $150 million to empower teachers and millions of children affected by forced displacement and climate change.Ms. Sherif expressed concern that from the Sahel to the Middle East and Asia, children are bearing the brunt of floods, wildfires, drought, heatwaves, and other extreme weather events, which directly impact their education.She said that the climate crisis has become an education crisis.

Taking 5 per cent of global military expenditures and directing it towards education and the climate crisis, would free up $100 billion a year to respond to climate change.Speaking to UN News on the sidelines of COP28 conference in Dubai, Yasmine Sherif, Executive Director of the UN global fund for education, sent a strong message to countries as she launched an appeal for $150 million to empower teachers and millions of children affected by forced displacement and climate change.Ms. Sherif expressed concern that from the Sahel to the Middle East and Asia, children are bearing the brunt of floods, wildfires, drought, heatwaves, and other extreme weather events, which directly impact their education.She said that the climate crisis has become an education crisis.

The war has taken a huge toll on Gaza, leaving “everybody” grieving, said the Director of the UN Palestinian refugee support agency, UNRWA, in an interview with UN News on Friday.Tom White warned that staffers are overwhelmed while people continue dying in and around some shelters, due to Israeli airstrikes, where they are seeking UN protection. “We are essentially starved of the resources that we need to provide for people”, he told Abdelmonem Makki.

The war has taken a huge toll on Gaza, leaving “everybody” grieving, said the Director of the UN Palestinian refugee support agency, UNRWA, in an interview with UN News on Friday.Tom White warned that staffers are overwhelmed while people continue dying in and around some shelters, due to Israeli airstrikes, where they are seeking UN protection. “We are essentially starved of the resources that we need to provide for people”, he told Abdelmonem Makki.

Gaza humanitarian disaster announces “breakdown” of societyHaiti humanitarian crisis deepens as country awaits support missionSudan conflict-shattered health system overwhelmed by disease outbreaks

Gaza humanitarian disaster announces “breakdown” of societyHaiti humanitarian crisis deepens as country awaits support missionSudan conflict-shattered health system overwhelmed by disease outbreaks

With global temperatures hitting record highs, and extreme weather events affecting people around the globe, this year’s UN climate change conference, COP28, is a pivotal opportunity to get on track and accelerate action to tackle the climate crisis.In Dubai, Ezzat El-Ferri from UN News spoke with 20-year-old activist Connor Greaux-Taylor, from St. Kitts, who dropped out of high school to work in the tourism industry. He’s part of UNICEF’s Innovation30 initiative and works on “the frontlines” to sustainably repurpose sargassum, a large brown seaweed which is polluting local beaches.

With global temperatures hitting record highs, and extreme weather events affecting people around the globe, this year’s UN climate change conference, COP28, is a pivotal opportunity to get on track and accelerate action to tackle the climate crisis.In Dubai, Ezzat El-Ferri from UN News spoke with 20-year-old activist Connor Greaux-Taylor, from St. Kitts, who dropped out of high school to work in the tourism industry. He’s part of UNICEF’s Innovation30 initiative and works on “the frontlines” to sustainably repurpose sargassum, a large brown seaweed which is polluting local beaches.

Gaza fighting further compromises aid amid near ‘apocalyptic’ conditionsUN warns of humanitarian emergency as 500,000 risk lives in the DarienOver three in four people in Africa can’t afford healthy food

Gaza fighting further compromises aid amid near ‘apocalyptic’ conditionsUN warns of humanitarian emergency as 500,000 risk lives in the DarienOver three in four people in Africa can’t afford healthy food

Türk calls for independent investigations into alleged sexual attacks during Hamas massacre Myanmar violence taking an unbearable toll on civilians, warns TürkCOP28 is about action, not politics, ‘posturing or point scoring,’ says UN climate chief

Türk calls for independent investigations into alleged sexual attacks during Hamas massacre Myanmar violence taking an unbearable toll on civilians, warns TürkCOP28 is about action, not politics, ‘posturing or point scoring,’ says UN climate chief

WFP forced to pause food aid distribution across northern YemenChaotic conditions for civilians in Gaza ‘getting worse by the hour’ Level playing field essential for human rights in sport 

WFP forced to pause food aid distribution across northern YemenChaotic conditions for civilians in Gaza ‘getting worse by the hour’ Level playing field essential for human rights in sport 

Being denied access to sites where some of the most horrific crimes and human rights violations are alleged to have taken place during the military’s brutal repression of dissent, is a major challenge for the IIMM, the UN-appointed Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar.But the investigation team has nonetheless been able to interview victims and witnesses outside the country and sift through a vast amount of useful data that has laid at least the groundwork for future prosecutions, says the IIIMM head, Nicholas Koumjian.He explained to UN News’s Vibhu Mishra how the UN Human Rights Council-mandated independent investigators go about their work, and what they hope to achieve.

Being denied access to sites where some of the most horrific crimes and human rights violations are alleged to have taken place during the military’s brutal repression of dissent, is a major challenge for the IIMM, the UN-appointed Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar.But the investigation team has nonetheless been able to interview victims and witnesses outside the country and sift through a vast amount of useful data that has laid at least the groundwork for future prosecutions, says the IIIMM head, Nicholas Koumjian.He explained to UN News’s Vibhu Mishra how the UN Human Rights Council-mandated independent investigators go about their work, and what they hope to achieve.

Gaza: Aid access to north entirely blocked amid escalating war in southCOP28: Call to aid developing countries coping with climate shocks Somalia floods leave more than one million displaced

Gaza: Aid access to north entirely blocked amid escalating war in southCOP28: Call to aid developing countries coping with climate shocks Somalia floods leave more than one million displaced

Saying nowhere is safe in Gaza is not a cliché, according to UNICEF’s James Elder, speaking to UN News from Rafah in southern Gaza.“That’s the message we keep trying to share”, he told Reem Abaza, just hours after the pause in fighting ended between Israel and Palestinian militants.The UN children’s agency official said leaders’ enabling fighting to resume simply means the death of more and more children, noting that the only aid route at Rafah, is closed once more.

Saying nowhere is safe in Gaza is not a cliché, according to UNICEF’s James Elder, speaking to UN News from Rafah in southern Gaza.“That’s the message we keep trying to share”, he told Reem Abaza, just hours after the pause in fighting ended between Israel and Palestinian militants.The UN children’s agency official said leaders’ enabling fighting to resume simply means the death of more and more children, noting that the only aid route at Rafah, is closed once more.

Saying nowhere is safe in Gaza is not a cliché, according to UNICEF’s James Elder, speaking to UN News from Rafah in southern Gaza.“That’s the message we keep trying to share”, he told Reem Abaza, just hours after the pause in fighting ended between Israel and Palestinian militants.The UN children’s agency official said leaders’ enabling fighting to resume, simply means the death of more and more children, noting that the only aid route at Rafah is closed once more.

Gaza: Fighting resumes as pause ends Guterres calls for real climate leadership at COP28‘Let Communities Lead’ on World AIDS DayWFP seeks $26 million to support Afghan returnees from Pakistan 

Gaza: Fighting resumes as pause ends Guterres calls for real climate leadership at COP28‘Let Communities Lead’ on World AIDS DayWFP seeks $26 million to support Afghan returnees from Pakistan 

COP28: UN chief warns that world is on course for ‘climate collapse’Israel-Palestine crisis: New pause in fighting extends aid relief windowEnd ‘repugnant’ chemical weapons use once and for all, says UN chief

COP28: UN chief warns that world is on course for ‘climate collapse’Israel-Palestine crisis: New pause in fighting extends aid relief windowEnd ‘repugnant’ chemical weapons use once and for all, says UN chief

2023 is on track to be the hottest year ever and the last 10 years have proven to be the warmest decade so far. These are worrying trends that suggest increasing floods, wildfires, glacier melt and heatwaves, lie immediately ahead.This is the warning issued by Petteri Taalas, World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Secretary-General, who spoke to UN News in Dubai, ahead of the launch of the agency’s provisional State of the Global Climate report on the opening day of COP28.He told Sachin Gaur that the average temperature for the year has now increased to 1.4 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial times – very close to the 1.5 degrees target limit as laid out by the Paris climate agreement in 2015.

2023 is on track to be the hottest year ever and the last 10 years have proven to be the warmest decade so far. These are worrying trends that suggest increasing floods, wildfires, glacier melt and heatwaves, lie immediately ahead.This is the warning issued by Petteri Taalas, World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Secretary-General, who spoke to UN News in Dubai, ahead of the launch of the agency’s provisional State of the Global Climate report on the opening day of COP28.He told Sachin Gaur that the average temperature for the year has now increased to 1.4 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial times – very close to the 1.5 degrees target limit as laid out by the Paris climate agreement in 2015.

When it comes to mitigating loss and damage caused by climate change, the global response is often failing to keep pace, according to Gernot Laganda of the UN World Food Programme (WFP).“We have had decades now where the temperature curve has really kept climbing, while adaptation financing was often too little, too late,” said the senior official.For many years, WFP has been using multiple tools to tackle the issue of hunger caused by weather extremes. One of those is climate risk insurance, which has helped millions of smallholder farmers get back on their feet after disaster struck. Mr. Laganda, the WFP’s Director of Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction, told UN News’s Anton Uspensky it was an issue that should be on the agenda in Dubai as COP28 gets underway.

When it comes to mitigating loss and damage caused by climate change, the global response is often failing to keep pace, according to Gernot Laganda of the UN World Food Programme (WFP).“We have had decades now where the temperature curve has really kept climbing, while adaptation financing was often too little, too late,” said the senior official.For many years, WFP has been using multiple tools to tackle the issue of hunger caused by weather extremes. One of those is climate risk insurance, which has helped millions of smallholder farmers get back on their feet after disaster struck. Mr. Laganda, the WFP’s Director of Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction, told UN News’s Anton Uspensky it was an issue that should be on the agenda in Dubai as COP28 gets underway.

Israel-Palestine crisis: Gaza City a ‘ghost town’, reports UN aid agencyCost of eating healthily has risen 4.3 per cent since 2020: FAO WHO: Europe has highest number of children with type 1 diabetes

Israel-Palestine crisis: Gaza City a ‘ghost town’, reports UN aid agencyCost of eating healthily has risen 4.3 per cent since 2020: FAO WHO: Europe has highest number of children with type 1 diabetes

Despite intense national efforts geared towards eliminating AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, the Deputy Executive Director for the UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Angeli Achrekar, says that so far, the “job isn't done.” Ms. Achrekar, spoke with Pauline Batista from UN News as UNAIDS launched its latest report on Tuesday, Let Communities Lead. It suggests the world can still end AIDS by the ambitious deadline, but only if communities on the frontlines get the full support they need from governments and donors.

Despite intense national efforts geared towards eliminating AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, the Deputy Executive Director for the UN Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Angeli Achrekar, says that so far, the “job isn't done.” Ms. Achrekar, spoke with Pauline Batista from UN News as UNAIDS launched its latest report on Tuesday, Let Communities Lead. It suggests the world can still end AIDS by the ambitious deadline, but only if communities on the frontlines get the full support they need from governments and donors.

Just one book can turn a displaced child’s life around and help unite the world, said the newly minted winner of the UN refugee agency’s (UNHCR) annual Nansen award on Tuesday.Somali-born Abdullahi Mire, who sought refuge with his mother at the vast Dadaab refugee complex in northern Kenya in the 1990s, told UN News the prize money was “a milestone for us” that would benefit kids in the camp by expanding bookshelves and boosting internet connectivity.The education advocate who founded the Refugee Youth Education Hub at Dadaab, told Thelma Mwadzaya he was dedicating the award to all the displaced children and volunteers who are determined to help turn lives around, one book at a time.

Just one book can turn a displaced child’s life around and help unite the world, said the newly minted winner of the UN refugee agency’s (UNHCR) annual Nansen award on Tuesday.Somali-born Abdullahi Mire, who sought refuge with his mother at the vast Dadaab refugee complex in northern Kenya in the 1990s, told UN News the prize money was “a milestone for us” that would benefit kids in the camp by expanding bookshelves and boosting internet connectivity.The education advocate who founded the Refugee Youth Education Hub at Dadaab, told Thelma Mwadzaya he was dedicating the award to all the displaced children and volunteers who are determined to help turn lives around, one book at a time.

UN rights office appalled by #BurkinaFaso attack Support grassroots communities fighting AIDS Olympian Mo Farah first @UNMigration global Goodwill Ambassador 

UN rights office appalled by #BurkinaFaso attack Support grassroots communities fighting AIDS Olympian Mo Farah first @UNMigration global Goodwill Ambassador 

A child in hospital who’s lost his mother and sisters but doesn’t know they’re dead; another who dare not close his eyes in case he forgets what his dead parents look like – just some of the tragic testimony relayed to Spokesperson James Elder of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in the past few days while in Gaza.He spoke to UN News’s Abdelmonem Makki, who began by asking what the situation was like on the ground there for children, as a fragile ceasefire holds amid the release of hostages.

A child in hospital who’s lost his mother and sisters but doesn’t know they’re dead; another who dare not close his eyes in case he forgets what his dead parents look like – just some of the tragic testimony relayed to Spokesperson James Elder of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in the past few days while in Gaza.He spoke to UN News’s Abdelmonem Makki, who began by asking what the situation was like on the ground there for children, as a fragile ceasefire holds amid the release of hostages.

Gaza: Vital aid reaches shattered north as halt to fighting enters fourth dayWHO chief calls on leaders to deliver on global health at COP28 in Dubai Sudan: UN hails humanitarian milestone in Darfur, calls for broader access

Gaza: Vital aid reaches shattered north as halt to fighting enters fourth dayWHO chief calls on leaders to deliver on global health at COP28 in Dubai Sudan: UN hails humanitarian milestone in Darfur, calls for broader access

The climate crisis is also a health crisis. This is the message the UN Health agency will deliver to world leaders and negotiators gathering at this year’s UN Climate Change Conference, COP28, in Dubai. The WHO says, the same pollution that impacts the climate also affects our lungs, and extreme weather events lead to a large range of diseases. UN News’ Nathalie Minard spoke with Dr. Maria Neira, Director of the Department of Public Health and Environment at the World Health Organization (WHO), ahead of COP28. 

The climate crisis is also a health crisis. This is the message the UN health agency will deliver to world leaders and negotiators gathering at this year’s UN Climate Change Conference, COP28, in Dubai. The WHO says, the same pollution that impacts the climate also affects our lungs, and extreme weather events lead to a large range of diseases. UN News’ Nathalie Minard spoke with Dr. Maria Neira, Director of the Department of Public Health and Environment at the World Health Organization (WHO), ahead of COP28. 

Gaza: start of truce feeds hopes for respite, access to people in needFrom Antarctica, UN chief calls on leaders to stop ‘climate anarchy’ Eastern DRC: ‘Pattern of abuse’ of civilians amid massive displacement

Gaza: start of truce feeds hopes for respite, access to people in needFrom Antarctica, UN chief calls on leaders to stop ‘climate anarchy’ Eastern DRC: ‘Pattern of abuse’ of civilians amid massive displacement

The UN General Assembly last month passed a resolution calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas – the first collective call to action to come out of the UN since the start of the conflict on 7 October.The General Assembly comprises all 193 UN Member States and although its resolutions are non-binding, they represent “the conscience of humanity”.That’s the message from General Assembly President Dennis Francis, who also encourages people who believe the UN is ineffective to instead engage with the global body.UN News’s Dianne Penn asked Mr. Francis how he is ensuring that countries will work together to address his priority areas of peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability. 

The UN General Assembly last month passed a resolution calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas – the first collective call to action to come out of the UN since the start of the conflict on 7 October.The General Assembly comprises all 193 UN Member States and although its resolutions are non-binding, they represent “the conscience of humanity”.That’s the message from General Assembly President Dennis Francis, who also encourages people who believe the UN is ineffective to instead engage with the global body.UN News’s Dianne Penn asked Mr. Francis how he is ensuring that countries will work together to address his priority areas of peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability. 

Negotiations continued on Thursday towards the implementation of the Israel-Hamas truce in Gaza, where staff from the UN agency that assists Palestine refugees, UNRWA, remain “on the ground doing an impossible mission”.That’s according to Maha Hijazi, UNRWA Warehousing and Distribution Officer, who was responsible for securing food for hundreds of thousands of people in the enclave, which continues to face dire shortages of food, water fuel and medicines. Ms. Hijazi and her family fled to Egypt on Monday.  She spoke to UN News’s Nancy Sarkis about what life was like in Gaza, where during the day she worked to support thousands sheltered in UNRWA facilities while at night she would comfort her children so they could fall asleep amid the sound of bombardment. 

Negotiations continued on Thursday towards the implementation of the Israel-Hamas truce in Gaza, where staff from the UN agency that assists Palestine refugees, UNRWA, remain “on the ground doing an impossible mission”.That’s according to Maha Hijazi, UNRWA Warehousing and Distribution Officer, who was responsible for securing food for hundreds of thousands of people in the enclave, which continues to face dire shortages of food, water fuel and medicines. Ms. Hijazi and her family fled to Egypt on Monday.  She spoke to UN News’s Nancy Sarkis about what life was like in Gaza, where during the day she worked to support thousands sheltered in UNRWA facilities while at night she would comfort her children so they could fall asleep amid the sound of bombardment. 

With Gaza truce on horizon, UN relief teams stand ready to ramp up aid China: WHO asks for data on spread of respiratory diseases ‘Good news for climate’: new UNECE convention to boost rail transport 

With Gaza truce on horizon, UN relief teams stand ready to ramp up aid China: WHO asks for data on spread of respiratory diseases ‘Good news for climate’: new UNECE convention to boost rail transport 

Gaza: UN welcomes deal for pause in fighting, hostage-release pactNorth Korea: UN chief condemns satellite launch, calls for dialogue‘Breakthrough moment’ in Africa’s fight against malaria: WHO

Gaza: UN welcomes deal for pause in fighting, hostage-release pactNorth Korea: UN chief condemns satellite launch, calls for dialogue‘Breakthrough moment’ in Africa’s fight against malaria: WHO

Gaza crisis: humanitarians warn of ‘tragic, entirely preventable surge’ in child deathsAfghan nationals face uncertain future after Pakistan eviction order: UNHCR, IOMRecord numbers of Sudan refugees seek shelter from fighting in Chad

Gaza crisis: humanitarians warn of ‘tragic, entirely preventable surge’ in child deathsAfghan nationals face uncertain future after Pakistan eviction order: UNHCR, IOMRecord numbers of Sudan refugees seek shelter from fighting in Chad

Gazans have ‘no options’ for safety as offensive continuesEnd the killing of children in armed conflict, urges top rights panelUN agency WIPO in chorus with Abba icon over creatives’ platform 

Gazans have ‘no options’ for safety as offensive continuesEnd the killing of children in armed conflict, urges top rights panelUN agency WIPO in chorus with Abba icon over creatives’ platform 

In northern Gaza, nearly 200 people were killed and injured following attacks this weekend on the UN-run Al-Fakoura school, according to Adnan Abu Hasna, a spokesperson for the UN agency for Palestine refugees (UNRWA).As the Israel-Palestine crisis continues, he told UN News’s Reem Abaza that “things are getting worse.”Speaking to us from Gaza, Mr. Hasna gave an update on the developing situation and what’s to come as the intensifying humanitarian crisis continues amidst fighting between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants.

In northern Gaza, nearly 200 people were killed and injured following attacks this weekend on the UN-run Al-Fakoura school, according to Adnan Abu Hasna, a spokesperson for the UN agency for Palestine refugees (UNRWA).As the Israel-Palestine crisis continues, he told UN News’s Reem Abaza that “things are getting worse.”Speaking to us from Gaza, Mr. Hasna gave an update on the developing situation and what’s to come as the intensifying humanitarian crisis continues amidst fighting between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants.

The world needs a “strong, ambitious and just” treaty to cut down on the mass-produced plastics which are helping fuel the climate crisis, said the head of the UN-backed secretariat steering international negotiations towards a binding agreement to end the scourge, in an interview this week with UN News.The negotiations process is at its midpoint now. And for the first time, a text of the future treaty is being discussed by the Member States in its ‘zero draft’. The negotiators’ ambition is to have the final text ready by the end of next year and open for signing soon sfter that.  From Nairobi, Ms. Mathur-Filipp told UN News’s Anton Uspensky that the momentum is there, and explained why tackling plastic pollution is so vital to protect human health and the environment. 

The world needs a “strong, ambitious and just” treaty to cut down on the mass-produced plastics which are helping fuel the climate crisis, said the head of the UN-backed secretariat steering international negotiations towards a binding agreement to end the scourge, in an interview this week with UN News.The negotiations process is at its midpoint now. And for the first time, a text of the future treaty is being discussed by the Member States in its ‘zero draft’. The negotiators’ ambition is to have the final text ready by the end of next year and open for signing soon sfter that.  From Nairobi, Ms. Mathur-Filipp told UN News’s Anton Uspensky that the momentum is there, and explained why tackling plastic pollution is so vital to protect human health and the environment. 

‘Endless needs’ reflect spiralling situation as hospitals closeUN’s Guterres in action call to stop road deaths Myanmar’s surrendering soldiers must be treated humanely: OHCHR

‘Endless needs’ reflect spiralling situation as hospitals closeUN’s Guterres in action call to stop road deaths Myanmar’s surrendering soldiers must be treated humanely: OHCHR

Gaza: UN’s Türk urges political path out of ‘horror’ Ethiopia: Food distributions resume with new safeguardsClimate action holds key to peace: young Sudanese activist

Gaza: UN’s Türk urges political path out of ‘horror’ Ethiopia: Food distributions resume with new safeguardsClimate action holds key to peace: young Sudanese activist

Food systems in Gaza are collapsing and the food aid entering the enclave is barely 10 per cent of the amount needed for the 2.2 million people there.The warning comes from the World Food Programme (WFP) which says Gazans are not getting enough to eat, making them more susceptible to diseases that can be easily spread.UN News’s Abdelmonem Makki asked Alia Zaki, WFP Palestine Head of Communications, how the agency is responding now to the immense needs. 

Food systems in Gaza are collapsing and the food aid entering the enclave is barely 10 per cent of the amount needed for the 2.2 million people there.The warning comes from the World Food Programme (WFP) which says Gazans are not getting enough to eat, making them more susceptible to diseases that can be easily spread.UN News’s Abdelmonem Makki asked Alia Zaki, WFP Palestine Head of Communications, how the agency is responding now to the immense needs. 

Gaza: ‘Hospitals are not battlegrounds’, children’s suffering must stop, UN humanitarians sayNew hopes for climate meeting while greenhouse gases reach record level: WMOPakistan’s expulsions of Afghans must stop amid abuse allegations: TürkSudan: With hunger on the rise FAO helps farmers grow food, save livestock

Gaza: ‘Hospitals are not battlegrounds’, children’s suffering must stop, UN humanitarians sayNew hopes for climate meeting while greenhouse gases reach record level: WMOPakistan’s expulsions of Afghans must stop amid abuse allegations: TürkSudan: With hunger on the rise FAO helps farmers grow food, save livestock

Five weeks into the Gaza-Israel crisis, the UN’s top emergency relief official on Wednesday reiterated growing international calls for the warring parties to de-escalate, while expressing solidarity with hundreds of thousands of Gazans displaced by bombardment and an order from the Israeli military to leave the north of the enclave.In an interview with UN News’s Daniel Johnson, Martin Griffiths highlighted the plight of patients at Gaza City’s embattled Al-Shifa hospital, amid reports that medics have been trying to keep newborns warm in swaddling blankets because power for incubators has failed.The top UN official also called for fuel to be allowed into the Strip so that humanitarian convoys can operate.“Our role and our pledge and our message is, we are right there sitting in front of those people on the borders of Gaza in Rafah, ready to go at the right scale if we get the means to do so,” he said.ends

Five weeks into the Gaza-Israel crisis, the UN’s top emergency relief official on Wednesday reiterated growing international calls for the warring parties to de-escalate, while expressing solidarity with hundreds of thousands of Gazans displaced by bombardment and an order from the Israeli military to leave the north of the enclave.In an interview with UN News’s Daniel Johnson, Martin Griffiths highlighted the plight of patients at Gaza City’s embattled Al-Shifa hospital, amid reports that medics have been trying to keep newborns warm in swaddling blankets because power for incubators has failed.The top UN official also called for fuel to be allowed into the Strip so that humanitarian convoys can operate.“Our role and our pledge and our message is, we are right there sitting in front of those people on the borders of Gaza in Rafah, ready to go at the right scale if we get the means to do so,” he said.ends

The UN-appointed independent human rights expert on racism and xenophobia said on Tuesday that the United States is suffering a form of “selective amnesia” when it comes to “enduring systemic racism”.Special Rapporteur Ashwini K.P. has just finished a 14-day fact finding mission across the US where she had conversations with marginalized groups from Black, Brown, and Latino communities and lawmakers, among others. In an interview with UN News’s Pauline Batista at UN Headquarters in New York, where she presented some initial findings, she outlined the many challenges human rights activists face as “racism very much persists and has manifested in different forms.”

The UN-appointed independent human rights expert on racism and xenophobia said on Tuesday that the United States is suffering a form of “selective amnesia” when it comes to “enduring systemic racism”.Special Rapporteur Ashwini K.P. has just finished a 14-day fact finding mission across the US where she had conversations with marginalized groups from Black, Brown, and Latino communities and lawmakers, among others. In an interview with UN News’s Pauline Batista at UN Headquarters in New York, where she presented some initial findings, she outlined the many challenges human rights activists face as “racism very much persists and has manifested in different forms.”

Besieged Gaza hospital horror continues‘Close the climate ambition gap’ at COP28: GuterresWorld Diabetes Day: WHO warning over rise in diseaseRise in landmine victims, fuelled by Ukraine war

Besieged Gaza hospital horror continues‘Close the climate ambition gap’ at COP28: GuterresWorld Diabetes Day: WHO warning over rise in diseaseRise in landmine victims, fuelled by Ukraine war

Gaza City: Babies dying in hospital amid scenes of devastation and despair Grim outlook for millions going hungry across East Africa: WFP Iraq: UN migration agency welcomes new Yazidi Genocide Memorial 

Gaza City: Babies dying in hospital amid scenes of devastation and despair Grim outlook for millions going hungry across East Africa: WFP Iraq: UN migration agency welcomes new Yazidi Genocide Memorial 

The heavy fighting that erupted in Sudan on 15 April has forced more than six million people from their homes and created a humanitarian catastrophe that the world must not continue to ignore.That’s the urgent message from the UN refugee agency (UNHCR’s) Dominique Hyde, who’s just back from White Nile state, where she witnessed the deadly impact of months of conflict on the country’s most vulnerable people, who are now sheltering in hundreds of displacement camps.Here she is now, speaking to UN News’s Daniel Johnson.

The heavy fighting that erupted in Sudan on 15 April has forced more than six million people from their homes and created a humanitarian catastrophe that the world must not continue to ignore.That’s the urgent message from the UN refugee agency (UNHCR’s) Dominique Hyde, who’s just back from White Nile state, where she witnessed the deadly impact of months of conflict on the country’s most vulnerable people, who are now sheltering in hundreds of displacement camps.Here she is now, speaking to UN News’s Daniel Johnson.

Israel-Palestine crisis: Amid war crimes fears, UN rights chief renews calls to stop violence, free hostages Sudan: Killings, torture in Darfur echo atrocities from two decades ago: UNHCRMyanmar: humanitarian needs soar amid conflict, displacement and monsoon: OCHAThis is the News in Brief from the United Nations.  

Israel-Palestine crisis: Amid war crimes fears, UN rights chief renews calls to stop violence, free hostages Sudan: Killings, torture in Darfur echo atrocities from two decades ago: UNHCRMyanmar: humanitarian needs soar amid conflict, displacement and monsoon: OCHAThis is the News in Brief from the United Nations.  

Thursday saw five new judges elected to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) at UN Headquarters in New York, a reminder of its central role as the principal judicial organ for the world body.In addition to disputes brought before the “world court”, intergovernmental bodies can also submit petitions seeking advice on key issues.That’s according to Philippe Gautier, ICJ Registrar, who highlights that these “advisory opinions” do not deal with a judgement to settle a dispute between nations, but to help bodies such as the General Assembly make important decisions.Mr. Gautier spoke with UN News’ Jerome Bernard, and started by explaining one of the 18 cases currently on its docket, brought by Ukraine against Russia. 

Thursday saw five new judges elected to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) at UN Headquarters in New York, a reminder of its central role as the principal judicial organ for the world body.In addition to disputes brought before the “world court”, intergovernmental bodies can also submit petitions seeking advice on key issues.That’s according to Philippe Gautier, ICJ Registrar, who highlights that these “advisory opinions” do not deal with a judgement to settle a dispute between nations, but to help bodies such as the General Assembly make important decisions.Mr. Gautier spoke with UN News’ Jerome Bernard, and started by explaining one of the 18 cases currently on its docket, brought by Ukraine against Russia. 

Israel-Palestine crisis: Silence the guns, UN relief chief tells Paris forum‘Striking’ regional inequalities in early breast cancer detection: WHO/IARCFunding needed to prevent El Niño from aggravating global hunger: FAO

Israel-Palestine crisis: Silence the guns, UN relief chief tells Paris forum‘Striking’ regional inequalities in early breast cancer detection: WHO/IARCFunding needed to prevent El Niño from aggravating global hunger: FAO

Gazans struggle for survival; north sealed off – latest from agenciesCountries ‘doubling down’ on fossil fuels spells climate chaos: UN chief2023 likely hottest year on record; warming El Niño effect to continue into April 2024: WMO

Gazans struggle for survival; north sealed off – latest from agenciesCountries ‘doubling down’ on fossil fuels spells climate chaos: UN chief2023 likely hottest year on record; warming El Niño effect to continue into April 2024: WMO

A major challenge for humanitarians in Nepal supporting those impacted by last Friday’s devastating earthquake, is accessing remote and high-altitude areas that are the worst hit.UN agencies and humanitarian partners must rely on helicopters to ferry personnel and relief supplies as there are no roads, according to Rafeeque Ahmad Siddiqui, Head of Karnali Field Office at UNDP-Nepal.The weather is also posing challenges, he says, adding that there are limited times the helicopters can fly as high winds often pickup cutting areas off.Mr. Siddiqui spoke with UN News’ Vibhu Mishra shortly after arriving in Jajarkot, one of the districts affected by the earthquake, and described what he was seeing. 

A major challenge for humanitarians in Nepal supporting those impacted by last Friday’s devastating earthquake, is accessing remote and high-altitude areas that are the worst hit.UN agencies and humanitarian partners must rely on helicopters to ferry personnel and relief supplies as there are no roads, according to Rafeeque Ahmad Siddiqui, Head of Karnali Field Office at UNDP-Nepal.The weather is also posing challenges, he says, adding that there are limited times the helicopters can fly as high winds often pickup cutting areas off.Mr. Siddiqui spoke with UN News’ Vibhu Mishra shortly after arriving in Jajarkot, one of the districts affected by the earthquake, and described what he was seeing. 

Some 50,000 pregnant women are among the 2.2 million people in besieged Gaza, and 5,500 are due to give birth in the coming weeks, the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) has reported.As the conflict between Israel and Hamas enters a second month, UNFPA is working round the clock to provide support to pregnant women and hospitals, which face a lack of electricity, water, medicines, supplies and personnel.Laila Baker, UNFPA Regional Director for the Arab States, said a humanitarian ceasefire is needed now to allow aid in and to protect both civilians and aid workers.Speaking from Cairo, she told UN News’s Khaled Mohamed how the agency continues to deliver for women and girls in Gaza, including mothers-to-be.

Some 50,000 pregnant women are among the 2.2 million people in besieged Gaza, and 5,500 are due to give birth in the coming weeks, the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) has reported.As the conflict between Israel and Hamas enters a second month, UNFPA is working round the clock to provide support to pregnant women and hospitals, which face a lack of electricity, water, medicines, supplies and personnel.Laila Baker, UNFPA Regional Director for the Arab States, said a humanitarian ceasefire is needed now to allow aid in and to protect both civilians and aid workers.Speaking from Cairo, she told UN News’s Khaled Mohamed how the agency continues to deliver for women and girls in Gaza, including mothers-to-be.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, some households missed out on food aid “simply because their family looks different,” such as members of the LGBTQI community.That’s according to the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health, Tlaleng Mofokeng, who recently presented her latest report to the General Assembly in New York.UN News’s Cristina Silveiro asked her to explain her findings, which examine how the link between food and health goes beyond nutrition and can also determine who gets excluded or included in social programmes. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, some households missed out on food aid “simply because their family looks different,” such as members of the LGBTQI community.That’s according to the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health, Tlaleng Mofokeng, who recently presented her latest report to the General Assembly in New York.UN News’s Cristina Silveiro asked her to explain her findings, which examine how the link between food and health goes beyond nutrition and can also determine who gets excluded or included in social programmes. 

Israel-Palestine crisis: UN humanitarians plead for ‘access, access, access’Sudan: World ‘scandalously silent’ on dire humanitarian crisis: UNHCRMore efforts needed to end TB: WHOWorld’s poorest nations need climate and development finance now: UNCTAD

Israel-Palestine crisis: UN humanitarians plead for ‘access, access, access’Sudan: World ‘scandalously silent’ on dire humanitarian crisis: UNHCRMore efforts needed to end TB: WHOWorld’s poorest nations need climate and development finance now: UNCTAD

Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a wide range of solutions from pre to post-production across the film industry but it also represents the most seismic shift in its history, one senior academic tells us.So-called generative AI is causing anxiety among technicians, actors and creators, warns Rizwan Ahmed, Director of the Media Centre at MANUU, in Hyderabad, India. In an interview with UN News’s Sachin Gaur, Mr. Ahmed underscored the need for policies and measures to address concerns over intellectual property rights, human creativity, and to promote transparency in AI-generated content. 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a wide range of solutions from pre to post-production across the film industry but it also represents the most seismic shift in its history, one senior academic tells us.So-called generative AI is causing anxiety among technicians, actors and creators, warns Rizwan Ahmed, Director of the Media Centre at MANUU, in Hyderabad, India. In an interview with UN News’s Sachin Gaur, Mr. Ahmed underscored the need for policies and measures to address concerns over intellectual property rights, human creativity, and to promote transparency in AI-generated content. 

Israel-Palestine crisis: ‘Enough is enough’ say UN humanitarians‘True cost of food’ at least $10 trillion higher than price tags show: FAOSouth Sudan malnutrition alert: WFPUkraine: UNESCO condemns new attack on Odesa World Heritage site

Israel-Palestine crisis: ‘Enough is enough’ say UN humanitarians‘True cost of food’ at least $10 trillion higher than price tags show: FAOSouth Sudan malnutrition alert: WFPUkraine: UNESCO condemns new attack on Odesa World Heritage site

The World Health Organization (WHO) has condemned the reported Israeli airstrike which hit a convoy of ambulances near the Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City on Friday. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on social platform X that he was “utterly shocked” by the reports, and in an interview with UN News, the agency’s Regional Director Dr. Ahmed Al Mandhari, condemned “such acts of hostility”.Dr. Al Mandhari told Khaled Mohamed how the cumulative bombardment has not only led to hospital closures but also deprived thousands of healthcare, amounting to a “very criminal breach” of international humanitarian law.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has condemned the reported Israeli airstrike which hit a convoy of ambulances near the Al Shifa Hospital in Gaza City on Friday. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on social platform X that he was “utterly shocked” by the reports, and in an interview with UN News, the agency’s Regional Director Dr. Ahmed Al Mandhari, condemned “such acts of hostility”.Dr. Al Mandhari told Khaled Mohamed how the cumulative bombardment has not only led to hospital closures but also deprived thousands of healthcare, amounting to a “very criminal breach” of international humanitarian law.

The international community must take three steps, if they are to help end the “nightmare” that people in Myanmar are living every day.  That’s according to Tom Andrews, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar. First, cut the coup leaders’ cash flow, then the flow of weapons; and finally, deny them any legitimacy.Mr. Andrews – an independent rights expert who is not a UN staff member – sat down with UN News’s Vibhu Mishra, and described the atrocities the military are committing on civilians, stressing that no one is safe in Myanmar today. 

The international community must take three steps, if they are to help end the “nightmare” that people in Myanmar are living every day.  That’s according to Tom Andrews, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar. First, cut the coup leaders’ cash flow, then the flow of weapons; and finally, deny them any legitimacy.Mr. Andrews – an independent rights expert who is not a UN staff member – sat down with UN News’s Vibhu Mishra, and described the atrocities the military are committing on civilians, stressing that no one is safe in Myanmar today. 

Israel-Palestine crisis: ‘It’s the innocent civilians who are losing’Sudan: women and girls abducted, held ‘in slave-like conditions’ in Darfur: OHCHR ‘Our best bet for preventing the next pandemic’: WHO, UNEP call for investments in ‘One Health’ approach

Israel-Palestine crisis: ‘It’s the innocent civilians who are losing’Sudan: women and girls abducted, held ‘in slave-like conditions’ in Darfur: OHCHR ‘Our best bet for preventing the next pandemic’: WHO, UNEP call for investments in ‘One Health’ approach

With more than 80 countries set to hold elections next year, the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is urging governments to ensure that journalists are protected throughout the entire period leading up to the vote.UNESCO data reveals that journalists have been attacked, and some even killed, while providing coverage throughout the electoral cycle. Recent years have seen some 759 attacks, and five deaths.To find out more, UN News’s Felipe de Carvalho spoke to Guilherme Canela, Chief of the agency’s Section on Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists. He asked Mr. Canela how shutting down the internet – as reporters experienced in embattled Gaza last Friday – can impact journalists. 

With more than 80 countries set to hold elections next year, the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is urging governments to ensure that journalists are protected throughout the entire period leading up to the vote.UNESCO data reveals that journalists have been attacked, and some even killed, while providing coverage throughout the electoral cycle. Recent years have seen some 759 attacks, and five deaths.To find out more, UN News’s Felipe de Carvalho spoke to Guilherme Canela, Chief of the agency’s Section on Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists. He asked Mr. Canela how shutting down the internet – as reporters experienced in embattled Gaza last Friday – can impact journalists. 

Israel-Palestine crisis: Gaza’s north cut off from aid; death toll risingUN chief pleads for urgent AI governance to advance peace, rights, developmentProgress slows on climate change adaptation while needs surge: UNEPClimate crisis ‘a health crisis’ increasingly deadly for the most vulnerable: WMO, WHO

Israel-Palestine crisis: Gaza’s north cut off from aid; death toll risingUN chief pleads for urgent AI governance to advance peace, rights, developmentProgress slows on climate change adaptation while needs surge: UNEPClimate crisis ‘a health crisis’ increasingly deadly for the most vulnerable: WMO, WHO

More than 3,500 children have been killed and over 6,800 injured in Gaza during the current Israel-Palestine crisis according to the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF). UNICEF official Salim Oweis emphasized in an interview with UN News that beyond the numbers, those are lives, dreams and futures lost because of the ongoing crisis in the Gaza Strip.He told UN News’s Abdelmonem Makki that it was the children who are “facing the worst of times” in the enclave and called again for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.

More than 3,500 children have been killed and over 6,800 injured in Gaza during the current Israel-Palestine crisis according to the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF). UNICEF official Salim Oweis emphasized in an interview with UN News that beyond the numbers, those are lives, dreams and futures lost because of the ongoing crisis in the Gaza Strip.He told UN News’s Abdelmonem Makki that it was the children who are “facing the worst of times” in the enclave and called again for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.

Israel-Palestine crisis: UN welcomes first medical evacuations from GazaSport must be inclusive of LGBT and intersex persons: rights experts‘Possible starvation’ looms in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and 17 other ‘hunger hotspots’: WFP, FAO

Israel-Palestine crisis: UN welcomes first medical evacuations from GazaSport must be inclusive of LGBT and intersex persons: rights experts‘Possible starvation’ looms in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and 17 other ‘hunger hotspots’: WFP, FAO

The Spokesperson for the UN Palestine refugee agency (UNRWA) in Gaza has seen his own home partially destroyed and family members injured as Israel continues its assault and bombardment. Adnan Abu Hasna, told UN News on Tuesday that his son, brother and many other family members have been injured following displacement from the north, driving home the reality that nowhere is safe inside the enclave. The death toll for UNRWA workers since 7 October so far stands at 67.He told UN News’s Ezzat El-Ferri that unless more fuel can be allowed into Gaza to keep hospitals and bakeries running, the agency may be forced to suspend or reduce operations within days.

The Spokesperson for the UN Palestine refugee agency (UNRWA) in Gaza has seen his own home partially destroyed and family members injured as Israel continues its assault and bombardment. Adnan Abu Hasna, told UN News on Tuesday that his son, brother and many other family members have been injured following displacement from the north, driving home the reality that nowhere is safe inside the enclave. The death toll for UNRWA workers since 7 October so far stands at 67.He told UN News’s Ezzat El-Ferri that unless more fuel can be allowed into Gaza to keep hospitals and bakeries running, the agency may be forced to suspend or reduce operations within days.

Toll of Israel-Palestine crisis on children ‘beyond devastating’Ukraine: deadly Russian missile attack on café had no military target: OHCHRSudan: ‘lethal’ combination of disease outbreaks puts millions at risk: WHOAfghanistan: Taliban must release women human rights defenders, say top rights experts 

Toll of Israel-Palestine crisis on children ‘beyond devastating’Ukraine: deadly Russian missile attack on café had no military target: OHCHRSudan: ‘lethal’ combination of disease outbreaks puts millions at risk: WHOAfghanistan: Taliban must release women human rights defenders, say top rights experts 

Gaza hospitals hanging on by a thread: UN humanitarians ‘Stop the madness’ says UN chief as record Himalaya glacier melt threatens devastation DRC displacement nears 7 million: IOM

Gaza hospitals hanging on by a thread: UN humanitarians ‘Stop the madness’ says UN chief as record Himalaya glacier melt threatens devastation DRC displacement nears 7 million: IOM

“Genocidal calls’ in Israel have become dominant as Israel’s assault on Gaza continues, the UN independent human rights expert for the Occupied Palestinian Territory warned in an interview earlier this week.Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese also had a message for the Arab world in the face of the Hamas terror attacks of 7 October, saying it was “necessary and imperative” to condemn the atrocities.In an in-depth interview, Ms. Albanese told UN News’s Ezzat El-Ferri that after decades of illegal occupation and international inaction, the current catastrophe leaves her fearful for the future of both Israel and Palestine.

“Genocidal calls’ in Israel have become dominant as Israel’s assault on Gaza continues, the UN independent human rights expert for the Occupied Palestinian Territory warned in an interview earlier this week.Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese also had a message for the Arab world in the face of the Hamas terror attacks of 7 October, saying it was “necessary and imperative” to condemn the atrocities.In an in-depth interview, Ms. Albanese told UN News’s Ezzat El-Ferri that after decades of illegal occupation and international inaction, the current catastrophe leaves her fearful for the future of both Israel and Palestine.

Israel-Palestine crisis: humanitarians face “terrible choices” amid Gaza death and destructionUN rights office calls on Pakistan to suspend forced returns of AfghansColonial-era anti-LGBT laws must be scrapped: top rights expert

Israel-Palestine crisis: humanitarians face “terrible choices” amid Gaza death and destructionUN rights office calls on Pakistan to suspend forced returns of AfghansColonial-era anti-LGBT laws must be scrapped: top rights expert

The recent conflict in Ethiopia can often make people forget about the country’s vibrancy, robust economic growth and burgeoning young population, according to the top UN official there.UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Ramiz Alakbarov said citizens across Ethiopia have voiced support for the 2022 peace agreement that ended two years of fighting between Government troops and forces in Tigray.UN News’s Nargiz Shekinskaya asked Mr. Alakbarov about the reaction to a recent report by a UN human rights commission which found that a “staggering” level of atrocities was committed in the conflict.He also addressed the humanitarian response to assist more than 17 million people, including refugees, and the need for cutting-edge policies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The recent conflict in Ethiopia can often make people forget about the country’s vibrancy, robust economic growth and burgeoning young population, according to the top UN official there.UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Ramiz Alakbarov said citizens across Ethiopia have voiced support for the 2022 peace agreement that ended two years of fighting between Government troops and forces in Tigray.UN News’s Nargiz Shekinskaya asked Mr. Alakbarov about the reaction to a recent report by a UN human rights commission which found that a “staggering” level of atrocities was committed in the conflict.He also addressed the humanitarian response to assist more than 17 million people, including refugees, and the need for cutting-edge policies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Artificial Inteligence (AI) has become increasingly present in our daily lives, and as a result, a potential threat to the “human touch” that is so essential to the visual arts.That’s according to award-winning director and producer Joseph McGinty Nichols (McG), who’s been talking to UN News’s Pauline Batista about the evolution of AI in film.He says from Scorsese to Taylor Swift, AI will usher in a new era of “hyper personalized entertainment” – for better or worse.

Artificial Inteligence (AI) has become increasingly present in our daily lives, and as a result, a potential threat to the “human touch” that is so essential to the visual arts.That’s according to award-winning director and producer Joseph McGinty Nichols (McG), who’s been talking to UN News’s Pauline Batista about the evolution of AI in film.He says from Scorsese to Taylor Swift, AI will usher in a new era of “hyper personalized entertainment” – for better or worse.

Israel-Palestine: UN humanitarians insist civilians must be protected and hostages releasedUkraine: Kakhovka dam breach impact will be felt ‘for decades’: UNEPClosing childcare policy gaps offers high return on investment: ILO

Israel-Palestine: UN humanitarians insist civilians must be protected and hostages releasedUkraine: Kakhovka dam breach impact will be felt ‘for decades’: UNEPClosing childcare policy gaps offers high return on investment: ILO

A draft treaty on the right to development should give extra momentum to global efforts to achieve a more just and equitable and future for all people and the planet.That’s the opinion of Ambassador Zamir Akram of Pakistan, chair-rapporteur of the Working Group that developed the text.  It upholds everyone’s right to decent work, education, healthcare and housing, for example, which are all crucial for peace and progress.UN News’s Nadeem Saaed asked Mr. Akram about the background of the proposed treaty, where it currently stands, and will it support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

A draft treaty on the right to development should give extra momentum to global efforts to achieve a more just and equitable and future for all people and the planet.That’s the opinion of Zamir Akram, a former Ambassador of Pakistan and chair-rapporteur of the Working Group that developed the text.  It upholds everyone’s right to decent work, education, healthcare and housing, for example, which are all crucial for peace and progress.UN News’s Nadeem Saaed asked Mr. Akram about the background of the proposed treaty, where it currently stands, and how it will support achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

A draft treaty on the right to development should give extra momentum to global efforts to achieve a more just and equitable and future for all people and the planet.That’s the opinion of Zamir Akram, a former Ambassador of Pakistan and chair-rapporteur of the Working Group that developed the text.  It upholds everyone’s right to decent work, education, healthcare and housing, for example, which are all crucial for peace and progress.UN News’s Nadeem Saaed asked Mr. Akram about the background of the proposed treaty, where it currently stands, and how it will support achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The first trucks carrying medical supplies provided by the World Health Organization (WHO) arrived in Gaza this weekend, but more aid is still desperately needed, Spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic said on Wednesday.Speaking from Cairo, he said the UN agency continues to call for safe humanitarian access – both for aid deliveries and for the workers distributing these supplies.He also highlighted the critical need for fuel, which is running out, putting healthcare at risk because without it, hospitals will not have any electricity or clean water.UN News’s Abdelmenom Makki asked Mr. Jasarevic about WHO’s operations in Gaza, and its response to criticism that aid is not reaching the north of the enclave. 

The first trucks carrying medical supplies provided by the World Health Organization (WHO) arrived in Gaza this weekend, but more aid is still desperately needed, Spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic said on Wednesday.Speaking from Cairo, he said the UN agency continues to call for safe humanitarian access – both for aid deliveries and for the workers distributing these supplies.He also highlighted the critical need for fuel, which is running out, putting healthcare at risk because without it, hospitals will not have any electricity or clean water.UN News’s Abdelmenom Makki asked Mr. Jasarevic about WHO’s operations in Gaza, and its response to criticism that aid is not reaching the north of the enclave. 

The first trucks carrying medical supplies provided by the World Health Organization (WHO) arrived in Gaza this weekend, but more aid is still desperately needed, Spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic said on Wednesday.Speaking from Cairo, he said the UN agency continues to call for safe humanitarian access – both for aid deliveries and for the workers distributing these supplies.He also highlighted the critical need for fuel, which is running out, putting healthcare at risk because without it, hospitals will not have any electricity or clean water.UN News’s Abdelmonem Makki asked Mr. Jasarevic about WHO’s operations in Gaza, and its response to criticism that aid is not reaching the north of the enclave. 

Israel-Palestine: Blockade puts Gaza aid on the line, WHO spotlights soaring mental health needs in IsraelGlobal displacement on the rise as conflicts escalate: UNHCRHurricane Otis is a ‘nightmare’ for southern Mexico: the latest from WMO

Israel-Palestine: Blockade puts Gaza aid on the line, WHO spotlights soaring mental health needs in IsraelGlobal displacement on the rise as conflicts escalate: UNHCRHurricane Otis is a ‘nightmare’ for southern Mexico: the latest from WMO

Israel-Palestine: Blockade puts Gaza aid on the line, WHO spotlights soaring mental health needs in IsraelGlobal displacement on the rise as conflicts escalate: UNHCRHurricane Otis is a ‘nightmare’ for southern Mexico: the latest from WMO

The fact women and children accounted for almost 90 per cent of those killed was reflective of the social norms and cultural restrictions in remote villages where men impose restrictions on women.That’s according to senior UN Development Programme (UNDP) official in the country, Stephen Rodriques, who said many men were outside farming or working across the border while women and children stayed at home.From Kabul, he told UN News’s Vibhu Mishra what he had seen for himself when he visited the deadly quake zone.

The fact women and children accounted for almost 90 per cent of those killed was reflective of the social norms and cultural restrictions in remote villages where men impose restrictions on women.That’s according to senior UN Development Programme (UNDP) official in the country, Stephen Rodriques, who said many men were outside farming or working across the border while women and children stayed at home.From Kabul, he told UN News’s Vibhu Mishra what he had seen for himself when he visited the deadly quake zone.

The fact women and children accounted for almost 90 per cent of those killed was reflective of the social norms and cultural restrictions in remote villages where men impose restrictions on women.That’s according to senior UN Development Programme (UNDP) official in the country, Stephen Rodriques, who said many men were outside farming or working across the border while women and children stayed at home.From Kabul, he told UN News’s Vibhu Mishra what he had seen for himself when he visited the deadly quake zone.

Israel-Palestine: Gaza buckles under fuel shortage, healthcare in crisisSudan humanitarian crisis deepens; more than 5.6 million displaced Australia: ‘No’ vote on Indigenous Peoples’ recognition a ‘missed opportunity’: Türk

Israel-Palestine: Gaza buckles under fuel shortage, healthcare in crisisSudan humanitarian crisis deepens; more than 5.6 million displaced Australia: ‘No’ vote on Indigenous Peoples’ recognition a ‘missed opportunity’: Türk

Israel-Palestine: Gaza buckles under fuel shortage, healthcare in crisisSudan humanitarian crisis deepens; more than 5.6 million displaced Australia: ‘No’ vote on Indigenous Peoples’ recognition a ‘missed opportunity’: Türk

The World Food Programme (WFP) says the situation in Gaza is “catastrophic,” with virtually no access to essential supplies for over two weeks as the Israeli bombardment continues.Water and food remain in very short supply and unless more fuel is allowed in, the remaining hospitals will be forced to shut down in just a few days. WFP Palestine Head of Communications, Alia Zaki, spoke with UN News’s Khaled Mohamed about the agency’s priorities and the need for a continuous supply of aid across the Rafah frontier with Egypt.

The World Food Programme (WFP) says the situation in Gaza is “catastrophic,” with virtually no access to essential supplies for over two weeks as the Israeli bombardment continues.Water and food remain in very short supply and unless more fuel is allowed in, the remaining hospitals will be forced to shut down in just a few days. WFP Palestine Head of Communications, Alia Zaki, spoke with UN News’s Khaled Mohamed about the agency’s priorities and the need for a continuous supply of aid across the Rafah frontier with Egypt.

The World Food Programme (WFP) says the situation in Gaza is “catastrophic,” with virtually no access to essential supplies for over two weeks as the Israeli bombardment continues.Water and food remain in very short supply and unless more fuel is allowed in, the remaining hospitals will be forced to shut down in just a few days. WFP Palestine Head of Communications, Alia Zaki, spoke with UN News’s Khaled Mohamed about the agency’s priorities and the need for a continuous supply of aid across the Rafah frontier with Egypt.

Gaza death toll rises with no ceasefire in sightMali Government urged to support UN Mission’s safe withdrawalCountries must do more to curb femicide ‘pandemic’: top rights expertNortheast Syria ‘world’s largest detention site for children on the grounds of terrorism’: UN Special Rapporteur 

Gaza death toll rises with no ceasefire in sightMali Government urged to support UN Mission’s safe withdrawalCountries must do more to curb femicide ‘pandemic’: top rights expertNortheast Syria ‘world’s largest detention site for children on the grounds of terrorism’: UN Special Rapporteur 

Gaza death toll rises with no ceasefire in sightMali Government urged to support UN Mission’s safe withdrawalCountries must do more to curb femicide ‘pandemic’: top rights expertNortheast Syria ‘world’s largest detention site for children on the grounds of terrorism’: UN Special Rapporteur 

The 40,000 litres of drinking water trucked into Gaza on Saturday represent ‘a drop in the ocean’, considering the immense needs following two weeks of conflict.That’s the assessment of Jeremy Hopkins, Representative of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Egypt, speaking hours after a humanitarian convoy crossed the border with lifesaving supplies – the first since the crisis erupted on 7 October.UN News’s Khaled Mohamed asked him about the agency's support to Gaza, the prospect for more convoys, and the arrangements for delivering aid inside the enclave. 

The 40,000 litres of drinking water trucked into Gaza on Saturday represent ‘a drop in the ocean’, considering the immense needs following two weeks of conflict.That’s the assessment of Jeremy Hopkins, Representative of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Egypt, speaking hours after a humanitarian convoy crossed the border with lifesaving supplies – the first since the crisis erupted on 7 October.UN News’s Khaled Mohamed asked him about the agency's support to Gaza, the prospect for more convoys, and the arrangements for delivering aid inside the enclave. 

The 40,000 litres of drinking water trucked into Gaza on Saturday represent ‘a drop in the ocean’, considering the immense needs following two weeks of conflict.That’s the assessment of Jeremy Hopkins, Representative of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Egypt, speaking hours after a humanitarian convoy crossed the border with lifesaving supplies – the first since the crisis erupted on 7 October.UN News’s Khaled Mohamed asked him about the agency's support to Gaza, the prospect for more convoys, and the arrangements for delivering aid inside the enclave. 

Gaza: UN chief at Rafah says aid convoy is 'difference between life and death'Afghanistan earthquakes: ‘staggering’ health consequences as winter approaches: WHOUkraine: rights probe finds continuing evidence of war crimes Republic of the Congo joins international efforts to end statelessness: UNHCR

Gaza: UN chief at Rafah says aid convoy is 'difference between life and death'Afghanistan earthquakes: ‘staggering’ health consequences as winter approaches: WHOUkraine: rights probe finds continuing evidence of war crimes Republic of the Congo joins international efforts to end statelessness: UNHCR

Gaza: UN chief at Rafah says aid convoy is 'difference between life and death'Afghanistan earthquakes: ‘staggering’ health consequences as winter approaches: WHOUkraine: rights probe finds continuing evidence of war crimes Republic of the Congo joins international efforts to end statelessness: UNHCR

The external affairs director for the UN’s Palestine refugee agency (UNRWA) Tamara Alrifai said conditions remain ‘very dire’ across the Gaza Strip and only a continuous flow of aid across the border will be enough to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe.Most UNRWA staff themselves have been displaced to shelters following the evacuation order, and 16 of them have now been killed as Israeli airstrikes and shelling continue.She told UN News’ Ezzat El-Ferri that safe humanitarian access to the large aid convoy massed at the Rafah crossing must be granted immediately along with a ceasefire.

The external affairs director for the UN’s Palestine refugee agency (UNRWA) Tamara Alrifai said conditions remain ‘very dire’ across the Gaza Strip and only a continuous flow of aid across the border will be enough to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe.Most UNRWA staff themselves have been displaced to shelters following the evacuation order, and 16 of them have now been killed as Israeli airstrikes and shelling continue.She told UN News’ Ezzat El-Ferri that safe humanitarian access to the large aid convoy massed at the Rafah crossing must be granted immediately along with a ceasefire.

The external affairs director for the UN’s Palestine refugee agency (UNRWA) Tamara Alrifai said conditions remain ‘very dire’ across the Gaza Strip and only a continuous flow of aid across the border will be enough to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe.Most UNRWA staff themselves have been displaced to shelters following the evacuation order, and 16 of them have now been killed as Israeli airstrikes and shelling continue.She told UN News’ Ezzat El-Ferri that safe humanitarian access to the large aid convoy massed at the Rafah crossing must be granted immediately along with a ceasefire.

Recent strikes by US writers and actors voicing concerns about transparency, intellectual property rights and fair compensation following the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, speak to the tangible effects being felt across the film and other creative industries.In Paris, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) hosted an event on Friday called Film Sector on the Frontlines, inviting global experts to discuss the powerful impact of AI. UN News’s Thelma Mwadzaya spoke with award-winning visual effects artist Yvonne Muinde, who was one of speakers taking part.

Recent strikes by US writers and actors voicing concerns about transparency, intellectual property rights and fair compensation following the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, speak to the tangible effects being felt across the film and other creative industries.In Paris, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) hosted an event on Friday called Film Sector on the Frontlines, inviting global experts to discuss the powerful impact of AI. UN News’s Thelma Mwadzaya spoke with award-winning visual effects artist Yvonne Muinde, who was one of speakers taking part.

Recent strikes by US writers and actors voicing concerns about transparency, intellectual property rights and fair compensation following the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, speak to the tangible effects being felt across the film and other creative industries.In Paris, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) hosted an event on Friday called Film Sector on the Frontlines, inviting global experts to discuss the powerful impact of AI. UN News’s Thelma Mwadzaya spoke with award-winning visual effects artist Yvonne Muinde, who was one of speakers taking part.

Western Afghanistan has been hit by a series of “devastating” earthquakes in the last 10 days that have displaced thousands and created a humanitarian crisis in the already-vulnerable region.That’s according to Philip Kropf, Head of Communications for the World Food Programme (WFP) in Afghanistan.“Dozens of villages have been damaged, some of them completely flattened,” said Mr. Kropf. In an interview with UN News’ Cristina Silveiro, he discussed what he’d seen on the ground and outlined the UN’s urgent interagency response.

Western Afghanistan has been hit by a series of “devastating” earthquakes in the last 10 days that have displaced thousands and created a humanitarian crisis in the already-vulnerable region.That’s according to Philip Kropf, Head of Communications for the World Food Programme (WFP) in Afghanistan.“Dozens of villages have been damaged, some of them completely flattened,” said Mr. Kropf. In an interview with UN News’ Cristina Silveiro, he discussed what he’d seen on the ground and outlined the UN’s urgent interagency response.

Western Afghanistan has been hit by a series of “devastating” earthquakes in the last 10 days that have displaced thousands and created a humanitarian crisis in the already-vulnerable region.That’s according to Philip Kropf, Head of Communications for the World Food Programme (WFP) in Afghanistan.“Dozens of villages have been damaged, some of them completely flattened,” said Mr. Kropf. In an interview with UN News’ Cristina Silveiro, he discussed what he’d seen on the ground and outlined the UN’s urgent interagency response.

In all regions across the world, women, girls, and gender non-conforming persons are a major target of disinformation and restrictions on expression, UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression, Irene Khan has warned. “We want to live in a world where there is gender equality today. There have been great strides made in bringing forward women, and now is the time to deal with these issues” said the Human Rights Council-appointed independent expert, in an interview with UN News’s Mehboob Khan. She explains why social media should be available to all, “gendered disinformation,” and the harmful impact on women and girls arising from restrictions on expression. 

In all regions across the world, women, girls, and gender non-conforming persons are a major target of disinformation and restrictions on expression, UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression, Irene Khan has warned. “We want to live in a world where there is gender equality today. There have been great strides made in bringing forward women, and now is the time to deal with these issues” said the Human Rights Council-appointed independent expert, in an interview with UN News’s Mehboob Khan. She explains why social media should be available to all, “gendered disinformation,” and the harmful impact on women and girls arising from restrictions on expression. 

In all regions across the world, women, girls, and gender non-conforming persons are a major target of disinformation and restrictions on expression, UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression, Irene Khan has warned. “We want to live in a world where there is gender equality today. There have been great strides made in bringing forward women, and now is the time to deal with these issues” said the Human Rights Council-appointed independent expert, in an interview with UN News’s Mehboob Khan. She explains why social media should be available to all, “gendered disinformation,” and the harmful impact on women and girls arising from restrictions on expression. 

Gaza aid ready for delivery as humanitarians await final green light AI use for health must be regulated to fight misinformation and bias: WHOSand and dust storm hazards boosted by global warming: WMOClimate change ‘a matter of life and death’ for people with albinism: top rights expert

Gaza aid ready for delivery as humanitarians await final green light AI use for health must be regulated to fight misinformation and bias: WHOSand and dust storm hazards boosted by global warming: WMOClimate change ‘a matter of life and death’ for people with albinism: top rights expert

Gaza aid ready for delivery as humanitarians await final green light AI use for health must be regulated to fight misinformation and bias: WHOSand and dust storm hazards boosted by global warming: WMOClimate change ‘a matter of life and death’ for people with albinism: top rights expert

In the wake of the deadly Gaza hospital blast on Tuesday, the World Health Organization (WHO) is calling on all warring parties to comply with international humanitarian law by making the protection of civilians a priority. WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. Ahmed Al Mandhari, spoke with UN News’s Khaled Mohamed about the urgent need to protect all aspects of healthcare, warning that unless fuel supplies are replenished in Gaza, there will soon be no electricity to treat desperate patients.He said teams were standing by at the Egypt-Gaza frontier, waiting to bring lifesaving aid into the besieged enclave. 

In the wake of the deadly Gaza hospital blast on Tuesday, the World Health Organization (WHO) is calling on all warring parties to comply with international humanitarian law by making the protection of civilians a priority. WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. Ahmed Al Mandhari, spoke with UN News’s Khaled Mohamed about the urgent need to protect all aspects of healthcare, warning that unless fuel supplies are replenished in Gaza, there will soon be no electricity to treat desperate patients.He said teams were standing by at the Egypt-Gaza frontier, waiting to bring lifesaving aid into the besieged enclave. 

In the wake of the deadly Gaza hospital blast on Tuesday, the World Health Organization (WHO) is calling on all warring parties to comply with international humanitarian law by making the protection of civilians a priority. WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. Ahmed Al Mandhari, spoke with UN News’s Khaled Mohamed about the urgent need to protect all aspects of healthcare, warning that unless fuel supplies are replenished in Gaza, there will soon be no electricity to treat desperate patients.He said teams were standing by at the Egypt-Gaza frontier, waiting to bring lifesaving aid into the besieged enclave. 

Israel-Gaza: UN chief urges ceasefire with region ‘on the precipice’Afghanistan: earthquake survivors face hunger with funding stretched to the maximum: WFPSudan: thousands of young children may die deprived of food and healthcare: UNICEF, WHOGuinea: deadly diphtheria outbreak: WHO 

Israel-Gaza: UN chief urges ceasefire with region ‘on the precipice’Afghanistan: earthquake survivors face hunger with funding stretched to the maximum: WFPSudan: thousands of young children may die deprived of food and healthcare: UNICEF, WHOGuinea: deadly diphtheria outbreak: WHO 

Israel-Gaza: UN chief urges ceasefire with region ‘on the precipice’Afghanistan: earthquake survivors face hunger with funding stretched to the maximum: WFPSudan: thousands of young children may die deprived of food and healthcare: UNICEF, WHOGuinea: deadly diphtheria outbreak: WHO 

Nearly 1,500 people have been killed and another 66,000 have had their lives upended by a series of powerful earthquakes that have rocked Afghanistan’s Herat Province since 7 October, UN aid coordination office OCHA reported on Tuesday.To help, $93 million needed urgently to assist 114,000 people ahead of the coming winter. With more on the UN’s response and the development challenges that lie  ahead, here’s OCHA’s deputy head in Kabul, Katherine Carey, who’s been speaking to UN News’s Katy Dartford.

Nearly 1,500 people have been killed and another 66,000 have had their lives upended by a series of powerful earthquakes that have rocked Afghanistan’s Herat Province since 7 October, UN aid coordination office OCHA reported on Tuesday.To help, $93 million needed urgently to assist 114,000 people ahead of the coming winter. With more on the UN’s response and the development challenges that lie  ahead, here’s OCHA’s deputy head in Kabul, Katherine Carey, who’s been speaking to UN News’s Katy Dartford.

Nearly 1,500 people have been killed and another 66,000 have had their lives upended by a series of powerful earthquakes that have rocked Afghanistan’s Herat Province since 7 October, UN aid coordination office OCHA reported on Tuesday.To help, $93 million needed urgently to assist 114,000 people ahead of the coming winter. With more on the UN’s response and the development challenges that lie  ahead, here’s OCHA’s deputy head in Kabul, Katherine Carey, who’s been speaking to UN News’s Katy Dartford.

Dire situation in Afghanistan’s west following deadly quakes: OCHAUN rights office voices deepening concern for Gaza civiliansNearly 4,000 killed in Darfur amid spiralling Sudan civil war

Dire situation in Afghanistan’s west following deadly quakes: OCHAUN rights office voices deepening concern for Gaza civiliansNearly 4,000 killed in Darfur amid spiralling Sudan civil war

Dire situation in Afghanistan’s west following deadly quakes: OCHAUN rights office voices deepening concern for Gaza civiliansNearly 4,000 killed in Darfur amid spiralling Sudan civil war

Aid access into Gaza is ‘overwhelming priority’: UN relief chiefRights expert warns of child recruitment by armed groups in Sudan warFAO calls for action to bridge ‘green social divide’ in cities

Aid access into Gaza is ‘overwhelming priority’: UN relief chiefRights expert warns of child recruitment by armed groups in Sudan warFAO calls for action to bridge ‘green social divide’ in cities

Aid access into Gaza is ‘overwhelming priority’: UN relief chiefRights expert warns of child recruitment by armed groups in Sudan warFAO calls for action to bridge ‘green social divide’ in cities

Amid a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where essential supplies and even body bags have reportedly run out, the UN’s top aid official insisted on Monday that reliable, dependable and constant supplies were needed immediately.Martin Griffiths’ strong appeal comes as more than a million people have been uprooted from northern to southern Gaza since the Israeli military warned of an imminent offensive, prompted by Palestinian military group Hamas’s 7 October attack on Israel.In an interview with UN News’s Daniel Johnson, the veteran humanitarian expresses hope for his upcoming diplomatic mission to the Middle East, beginning with Cairo on Tuesday. 

Amid a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where essential supplies and even body bags have reportedly run out, the UN’s top aid official insisted on Monday that reliable, dependable and constant supplies were needed immediately.Martin Griffiths’ strong appeal comes as more than a million people have been uprooted from northern to southern Gaza since the Israeli military warned of an imminent offensive, prompted by Palestinian military group Hamas’s 7 October attack on Israel.In an interview with UN News’s Daniel Johnson, the veteran humanitarian expresses hope for his upcoming diplomatic mission to the Middle East, beginning with Cairo on Tuesday. 

Just as the UN is calling for the unconditional release of hostages by Hamas, it’s crucial for Israel to give “immediate unconditional access” to humanitarian aid for desperate civilians forced to move south, the UN’s top official in the Occupied Palestinian Territory told UN News on Sunday.Humanitarian Coordinator Lynn Hastings said the UN is in intensive discussions with Israeli authorities over humanitarian corridors and a vital ceasefire, to avert further castastrophe for civilians, with a million Palestinians already displaced amid the total “collapse” of Gaza’s already fragile health system.Israel says “they want to destroy Hamas, but the current trajectory is going to destroy Gaza” she told UN News’s Reem Abaza.

Just as the UN is calling for the unconditional release of hostages by Hamas, it’s crucial for Israel to give “immediate unconditional access” to humanitarian aid for desperate civilians forced to move south, the UN’s top official in the Occupied Palestinian Territory told UN News on Sunday.Humanitarian Coordinator Lynn Hastings said the UN is in intensive discussions with Israeli authorities over humanitarian corridors and a vital ceasefire, to avert further castastrophe for civilians, with a million Palestinians already displaced amid the total “collapse” of Gaza’s already fragile health system.Israel says “they want to destroy Hamas, but the current trajectory is going to destroy Gaza” she told UN News’s Reem Abaza.

Water is essential to produce food so it is no surprise to hear that a current global shortage threatens to push more vulnerable people into hunger. A frightening prospect, when you consider that more than 700 million already have too little to eat today. Ahead of World Food Day, observed on 16 October, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has shared information about the latest technical innovations that countries can implement to produce the food that they need.With more, here’s FAO’s Deputy Director-General, Maria Helena Semedo, who’s been speaking to UN News’s Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer.  

Water is essential to produce food so it is no surprise to hear that a current global shortage threatens to push more vulnerable people into hunger. A frightening prospect, when you consider that more than 700 million already have too little to eat today. Ahead of World Food Day, observed on 16 October, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has shared information about the latest technical innovations that countries can implement to produce the food that they need.With more, here’s FAO’s Deputy Director-General, Maria Helena Semedo, who’s been speaking to UN News’s Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer.  

With the Gaza Strip completely closed off, civilians there are in "desperate need" of humanitarian aid, the World Food Programme (WFP) Representative and Country Director in Palestine, Samer AbdelJaber, said on Friday.In an interview with UN News's Ezzat El-Ferri, Mr. AbdelJaber discussed the unique complexities of the situation, warning that Israel has threatened to shut off Internet access on Saturday.He underscored the vital need for unimpeded corridors to transport humanitarian aid into the enclave and highlighted the dedication of WFP staff who remain on the ground. 

With the Gaza Strip completely closed off, civilians there are in "desperate need" of humanitarian aid, the World Food Programme (WFP) Representative and Country Director in Palestine, Samer AbdelJaber, said on Friday.In an interview with UN News's Ezzat El-Ferri, Mr. AbdelJaber discussed the unique complexities of the situation, warning that Israel has threatened to shut off Internet access on Saturday.He underscored the vital need for unimpeded corridors to transport humanitarian aid into the enclave and highlighted the dedication of WFP staff who remain on the ground. 

Health care facilities in Gaza are struggling to cope as attacks on healthcare targets increase in scale and intensity, and supplies dwindle amid overwhelming demand.“My call again and again is to respect the international law when it comes to protecting the safety of healthcare facilities and the people inside these ambulances,” said Dr. Ahmed Al Mandhari, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, in an interview with UN News. Mr. Al Mandhari emphasised to Abdelmonem Makki the heightened need for humanitarian assistance to Gaza and discussed ongoing WHO efforts to prevent a wider humanitarian disaster. 

Health care facilities in Gaza are struggling to cope as attacks on healthcare targets increase in scale and intensity, and supplies dwindle amid overwhelming demand.“My call again and again is to respect the international law when it comes to protecting the safety of healthcare facilities and the people inside these ambulances,” said Dr. Ahmed Al Mandhari, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, in an interview with UN News. Mr. Al Mandhari emphasised to Abdelmonem Makki the heightened need for humanitarian assistance to Gaza and discussed ongoing WHO efforts to prevent a wider humanitarian disaster. 

As the Israel-Gaza crisis worsens, the UN Children’s Fund’s (UNICEF) Salim Oweis says that more than 500 children have already been killed and more than 1600 injured, leaving the two million overall trapped inside the Gaza Strip on the “brink of a humanitarian catastrophe.” Speaking from his headquarters in the Jordanian capital Amman, Mr. Oweis told UN News’s Khaled Mohamed about the huge scale of need and suffering, including the importance of creating a humanitarian corridor – as Israel demands over a million withdraw from the north of Gaza, in just 24 hours. 

As the Israel-Gaza crisis worsens, the UN Children’s Fund’s (UNICEF) Salim Oweis says that more than 500 children have already been killed and more than 1600 injured, leaving the two million overall trapped inside the Gaza Strip on the “brink of a humanitarian catastrophe.” Speaking from his headquarters in the Jordanian capital Amman, Mr. Oweis told UN News’s Khaled Mohamed about the huge scale of need and suffering, including the importance of creating a humanitarian corridor – as Israel demands over a million withdraw from the north of Gaza, in just 24 hours. 

Six days since violence erupted in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, UN human rights chief Volker Türk on Friday urged combatants to respect the Geneva Conventions – the rules of war. Countries with influence on both sides should take steps to defuse the “powder keg” situation, Mr. Türk has insisted, amid evidence of summary execution of civilians by Palestinian armed groups and of on-going Israeli airstrikes on residential towers in Gaza city. With more, here’s UN rights office, OHCHR, Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani, who’s been speaking to UN News’s Daniel Johnson in Geneva. 

Six days since violence erupted in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, UN human rights chief Volker Türk on Friday urged combatants to respect the Geneva Conventions – the rules of war. Countries with influence on both sides should take steps to defuse the “powder keg” situation, Mr. Türk has insisted, amid evidence of summary execution of civilians by Palestinian armed groups and of on-going Israeli airstrikes on residential towers in Gaza city. With more, here’s UN rights office, OHCHR, Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani, who’s been speaking to UN News’s Daniel Johnson in Geneva. 

Gaza relocation order a ‘death sentence’ for the vulnerableAfghanistan: funding urgently needed for earthquake survivors: UNHCREthiopia: end of rights probe mars prospects for accountability, experts say

Gaza relocation order a ‘death sentence’ for the vulnerableAfghanistan: funding urgently needed for earthquake survivors: UNHCREthiopia: end of rights probe mars prospects for accountability, experts say

Gaza relocation order a ‘death sentence’ for the vulnerableAfghanistan: funding urgently needed for earthquake survivors: UNHCREthiopia: end of rights probe mars prospects for accountability, experts say

The UN appointed independent expert on the sale and exploitation of children is calling on governments to make so-called “voluntarism” – tourists who are ostensibly volunteering as charity workers – better regulated to prevent potential abuse and sexual exploitation. Mama Fatima Singhateh was at UN Headquarters recently and spoke to UN News’s Dina Neskorozhana about her report’s recommendations, stressing that the already vulnerable were most at risk, and that this pernicious abuse could damage children’s lives well into the future.

The UN appointed independent expert on the sale and exploitation of children is calling on governments to make so-called “voluntarism” – tourists who are ostensibly volunteering as charity workers – better regulated to prevent potential abuse and sexual exploitation. Mama Fatima Singhateh was at UN Headquarters recently and spoke to UN News’s Dina Neskorozhana about her report’s recommendations, stressing that the already vulnerable were most at risk, and that this pernicious abuse could damage children’s lives well into the future.

Humanitarians call for urgent aid access to GazaWater for food and energy production is running out, UN weather agency warnsGlobal funding for aid off-track: OCHA

Humanitarians call for urgent aid access to GazaWater for food and energy production is running out, UN weather agency warnsGlobal funding for aid off-track: OCHA

Humanitarians call for urgent aid access to GazaWater for food and energy production is running out, UN weather agency warnsGlobal funding for aid off-track: OCHA

The humanitarian situation in Gaza is “indescribable” and “unprecedented” as the battle between extremist Palestinian armed groups and Israeli forces escalates.That’s according to a senior UN official with humanitarian office OCHA inside the enclave, speaking to UN News on Wednesday.“Every hour that passes brings more fighting and devastation,” Hamada El Bayari told us.Mr. El Bayari described the latest situation on the ground to Khaled Mohamed, saying that there is currently no “safe passage” anywhere for civilians trying to find cover from Israeli airstrikes, with around 340,000 Palestinians now displaced.The shutting off of all services, is making an already disastrous situation worse by the minute.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza is “indescribable” and “unprecedented” as the battle between extremist Palestinian armed groups and Israeli forces escalates.That’s according to a senior UN official with humanitarian office OCHA inside the enclave, speaking to UN News on Wednesday.“Every hour that passes brings more fighting and devastation,” Hamada El Bayari told us.Mr. El Bayari described the latest situation on the ground to Khaled Mohamed, saying that there is currently no “safe passage” anywhere for civilians trying to find cover from Israeli airstrikes, with around 340,000 Palestinians now displaced.The shutting off of all services, is making an already disastrous situation worse by the minute.

Over one in 10 Gaza residents displaced: humanitarian updateInvest in girls’ leadership: UN chiefNew plan to prevent tens of thousands of deaths in childbirth: WHOUN agencies supporting major push to eradicate polio

Over one in 10 Gaza residents displaced: humanitarian updateInvest in girls’ leadership: UN chiefNew plan to prevent tens of thousands of deaths in childbirth: WHOUN agencies supporting major push to eradicate polio

Over one in 10 Gaza residents displaced: humanitarian updateInvest in girls’ leadership: UN chiefNew plan to prevent tens of thousands of deaths in childbirth: WHOUN agencies supporting major push to eradicate polio

Families escaping the shelling and bombardment in Gaza have sought refuge in premises belonging to UNRWA, the UN agency that supports Palestine refugees across the Middle East.Some of the agency’s 13,000 staff members are among them, said Juliette Touma, UNRWA Director of Communications, who is based in Amman, Jordan.She told UN News's Ezzat El-Ferri that despite displacement and loss – of loved ones, neighbours and even colleagues – these “unsung heroes” continue to deliver, even while fearful for their own lives.Ms. Touma began by outlining damage UNRWA has sustained four days into the conflict, which some of her colleagues said is the worst they have experienced by far.

Families escaping the shelling and bombardment in Gaza have sought refuge in premises belonging to UNRWA, the UN agency that supports Palestine refugees across the Middle East.Some of the agency’s 13,000 staff members are among them, said Juliette Touma, UNRWA Director of Communications, who is based in Amman, Jordan.She told UN News's Ezzat El-Ferri that despite displacement and loss – of loved ones, neighbours and even colleagues – these “unsung heroes” continue to deliver, even while fearful for their own lives.Ms. Touma began by outlining damage UNRWA has sustained four days into the conflict, which some of her colleagues said is the worst they have experienced by far.

Poverty and lack of education are pushing boys into joining armed groups and forcing girls to marry way before they should, warns Virginia Gamba, UN Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict.  Her latest report documents more than 27,000 instances of grave violations against children caught up in war, including use in conflict, killing and maiming, and rape and sexual violence. It also reveals a worrisome rise in attacks against schools, with nearly half carried out by government forces.Ms. Gamba recently spoke to UN News’s Felipe De Carvalho about the main drivers of child recruitment and the unique challenges that conflict poses to children and education systems. 

Poverty and lack of education are pushing boys into joining armed groups and forcing girls to marry way before they should, warns Virginia Gamba, UN Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict.  Her latest report documents more than 27,000 instances of grave violations against children caught up in war, including use in conflict, killing and maiming, and rape and sexual violence. It also reveals a worrisome rise in attacks against schools, with nearly half carried out by government forces.Ms. Gamba recently spoke to UN News’s Felipe De Carvalho about the main drivers of child recruitment and the unique challenges that conflict poses to children and education systems. 

Mental health not a privilege but a ‘fundamental human right’: GuterresIsrael/ Palestine: UN urges to spare civilian livesAfghanistan earthquake: humanitarian update

Mental health not a privilege but a ‘fundamental human right’: GuterresIsrael/ Palestine: UN urges to spare civilian livesAfghanistan earthquake: humanitarian update

Mental health not a privilege but a ‘fundamental human right’: GuterresIsrael/ Palestine: UN urges to spare civilian livesAfghanistan earthquake: humanitarian update

Amid ongoing Israeli reprisals in the Occupied Palestinian Territory following Hamas’s massive attack against Israel at the weekend, more than 73,000 people in Gaza have now sought shelter in UN schools there. That’s the latest from the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which expects the number of new arrivals to increase, while the violence continues to escalate. With more, here’s UNWRA’s chief of communications Tamara Alrifai, whose been speaking to UN News’s Daniel Johnson from Amman. 

Amid ongoing Israeli reprisals in the Occupied Palestinian Territory following Hamas’s massive attack against Israel at the weekend, more than 73,000 people in Gaza have now sought shelter in UN schools there. That’s the latest from the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which expects the number of new arrivals to increase, while the violence continues to escalate. With more, here’s UNWRA’s chief of communications Tamara Alrifai, whose been speaking to UN News’s Daniel Johnson from Amman. 

Aftershocks continue to be felt from the deadly earthquake that pummeled parts of western Afghanistan on Saturday, a senior official with the World Health Organization (WHO) reported on Monday.Roughly 1,300 people were killed in the disaster, which struck just west of the city of Herat, affecting eight villages. Those injured or otherwise impacted are estimated to be in the tens of thousands.Dr. Alaa Abouzeid, WHO Health Emergency Team Lead in Afghanistan, said some people who were treated for mild injuries are now living in tents because they have nowhere else to go.UN News’s Abdelmonem Makki spoke to Dr. Abouzeid who was in the capital, Kabul. He outlined the magnitude of the emergency and how the UN and partners are responding to the immense needs.

Aftershocks continue to be felt from the deadly earthquake that pummeled parts of western Afghanistan on Saturday, a senior official with the World Health Organization (WHO) reported on Monday.Roughly 1,300 people were killed in the disaster, which struck just west of the city of Herat, affecting eight villages. Those injured or otherwise impacted are estimated to be in the tens of thousands.Dr. Alaa Abouzeid, WHO Health Emergency Team Lead in Afghanistan, said some people who were treated for mild injuries are now living in tents because they have nowhere else to go.UN News’s Abdelmonem Makki spoke to Dr. Abouzeid who was in the capital, Kabul. He outlined the magnitude of the emergency and how the UN and partners are responding to the immense needs.

Top rights body observes minutes of silence for Israel/Gaza, AfghanistanUkraine: “blatant and unabated” violations of human rights continue: UN deputy rights chiefHumanitarian funding shortfall to get worse in 2024: UN refugee chiefChina: rights experts concerned over Hong Kong mass trial, arrests

Top rights body observes minutes of silence for Israel/Gaza, AfghanistanUkraine: “blatant and unabated” violations of human rights continue: UN deputy rights chiefHumanitarian funding shortfall to get worse in 2024: UN refugee chiefChina: rights experts concerned over Hong Kong mass trial, arrests

Top rights body observes minutes of silence for Israel/Gaza, AfghanistanUkraine: “blatant and unabated” violations of human rights continue: UN deputy rights chiefHumanitarian funding shortfall to get worse in 2024: UN refugee chiefChina: rights experts concerned over Hong Kong mass trial, arrests

Needs are immense among people who fled Karabakh for Armenia, the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) reports.The UN’s sexual and reproductive health agency has rushed to support women and girls, helping them to maintain their dignity amidst the chaos of displacement.More than 2,000 pregnant women are among the refugees and UNFPA is also making sure that hospitals and health facilities can assist them, especially with some 230 women set to deliver next month.UN News’s Dianne Penn spoke to Emmanuel Roussier, Humanitarian Coordinator for UNFPA’s Emergency Response in Armenia, about its work there.

Needs are immense among people who fled Karabakh for Armenia, the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) reports.The UN’s sexual and reproductive health agency has rushed to support women and girls, helping them to maintain their dignity amidst the chaos of displacement.More than 2,000 pregnant women are among the refugees and UNFPA is also making sure that hospitals and health facilities can assist them, especially with some 230 women set to deliver next month.UN News’s Dianne Penn spoke to Emmanuel Roussier, Humanitarian Coordinator for UNFPA’s Emergency Response in Armenia, about its work there.

Nobel Peace Prize choice of Narges Mohammadi highlights “courage and determination” of Iranian women: OHCHRUkraine: UN rights chief condemns deadly strike in HrozaEach day 20,000 children displaced by weather-related disasters: UNICEFRights expert warns about child sexual abuse risks from “voluntourism” 

Nobel Peace Prize choice of Narges Mohammadi highlights “courage and determination” of Iranian women: OHCHRUkraine: UN rights chief condemns deadly strike in HrozaEach day 20,000 children displaced by weather-related disasters: UNICEFRights expert warns about child sexual abuse risks from “voluntourism” 

Nobel Peace Prize choice of Narges Mohammadi highlights “courage and determination” of Iranian women: OHCHRUkraine: UN rights chief condemns deadly strike in HrozaEach day 20,000 children displaced by weather-related disasters: UNICEFRights expert warns about child sexual abuse risks from “voluntourism” 

In one week, more than 100,000 people arrived in Armenia from Karabakh, including around 30,000 children. The UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) is among humanitarian agencies mobilized to help the refugees.UNICEF Representative in Armenia Christine Weigand said children arrive there very tired, hungry and in a state of shock. Their immediate needs are very much linked to health issues. Speaking to UN News’s Anton Uspensky, she explained that in the long run, assistance will be provided to support children’s integration into the educational system. They will also receive psychological support to help them overcome the shock and trauma.

In one week, more than 100,000 people arrived in Armenia from Karabakh, including around 30,000 children. The UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) is among humanitarian agencies mobilized to help the refugees.UNICEF Representative in Armenia Christine Weigand said children arrive there very tired, hungry and in a state of shock. Their immediate needs are very much linked to health issues. Speaking to UN News’s Anton Uspensky, she explained that in the long run, assistance will be provided to support children’s integration into the educational system. They will also receive psychological support to help them overcome the shock and trauma.

Ban autonomous weapons now, UN and Red Cross chiefs tell countriesStates ‘can and must do more’ to counter religious hatred: TürkSudan: humanitarians call for ‘much more’ international solidarity, slam interference from warring partiesSouth Sudan: rights probe calls out media censorship, civil society 

Ban autonomous weapons now, UN and Red Cross chiefs tell countriesStates ‘can and must do more’ to counter religious hatred: TürkSudan: humanitarians call for ‘much more’ international solidarity, slam interference from warring partiesSouth Sudan: rights probe calls out media censorship, civil society 

Ban autonomous weapons now, UN and Red Cross chiefs tell countriesStates ‘can and must do more’ to counter religious hatred: TürkSudan: humanitarians call for ‘much more’ international solidarity, slam interference from warring partiesSouth Sudan: rights probe calls out media censorship, civil society 

Lebanon’s refugee population is especially vulnerable to misinformation and disinformation campaigns, making navigating the country’s multi-layered humanitarian crises increasingly challenging.That's according to Imran Riza, UN Resident Coordinator in Lebanon, who has overseen the UN humanitarian mission in Lebanon since September last year. He told UN News’ Khaled Mohamed that progress has “regressed incredibly” in the last four years, emphasising the need for increased international support for refugee populations in areas such as health, education, and social protection.

Lebanon’s refugee population is especially vulnerable to misinformation and disinformation campaigns, making navigating the country’s multi-layered humanitarian crises increasingly challenging.That's according to Imran Riza, UN Resident Coordinator in Lebanon, who has overseen the UN humanitarian mission in Lebanon since September last year. He told UN News’ Khaled Mohamed that progress has “regressed incredibly” in the last four years, emphasising the need for increased international support for refugee populations in areas such as health, education, and social protection.

Global economy a mixed bag, high debt stifles development in poorer countries: UNCTAD World needs millions more teachers but profession deemed ‘unattractive’: UNESCO‘Stop taking water for granted’: FAO chief India: Nipah virus outbreak latest: WHO

Global economy a mixed bag, high debt stifles development in poorer countries: UNCTAD World needs millions more teachers but profession deemed ‘unattractive’: UNESCO‘Stop taking water for granted’: FAO chief India: Nipah virus outbreak latest: WHO

Global economy a mixed bag, high debt stifles development in poorer countries: UNCTAD World needs millions more teachers but profession deemed ‘unattractive’: UNESCO‘Stop taking water for granted’: FAO chief India: Nipah virus outbreak latest: WHO

Misinformation poses a significant risk to UN peacekeeping. If left unchecked, it damages how the mission is perceived, creates confusion about its role, and puts lives of ‘blue helmets’ in danger.MONUSCO, the UN mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), was recently a target of fake news, according to Bintou Keita, head of the operation.She told UN News’ Jerome Bernard what motivates those spreading malicious information, and how the mission is combatting it.But she began, by addressing the DRC president’s call at the UN General Debate for the mission to speed up its withdrawal from the country.

Misinformation poses a significant risk to UN peacekeeping. If left unchecked, it damages how the mission is perceived, creates confusion about its role, and puts lives of ‘blue helmets’ in danger.MONUSCO, the UN mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), was recently a target of fake news, according to Bintou Keita, head of the operation.She told UN News’ Jerome Bernard what motivates those spreading malicious information, and how the mission is combatting it.But she began, by addressing the DRC president’s call at the UN General Debate for the mission to speed up its withdrawal from the country.

Armenia: urgent health assistance required for Karabakh refugees: WHO‘We need to stop deaths of people on the move’: IOM, UNHCR chiefsHundreds of thousands of South Sudanese fleeing Sudan face hunger emergency: WFPLibya: Storm Daniel’s heavy toll on health workers: WHO

Armenia: urgent health assistance required for Karabakh refugees: WHO‘We need to stop deaths of people on the move’: IOM, UNHCR chiefsHundreds of thousands of South Sudanese fleeing Sudan face hunger emergency: WFPLibya: Storm Daniel’s heavy toll on health workers: WHO

Armenia: urgent health assistance required for Karabakh refugees: WHO‘We need to stop deaths of people on the move’: IOM, UNHCR chiefsHundreds of thousands of South Sudanese fleeing Sudan face hunger emergency: WFPLibya: Storm Daniel’s heavy toll on health workers: WHO

The UN Security Council took a historic step on Monday by authorizing the deployment of a multinational security mission to help the Haitian police combat rampant gang violence.Kenya has offered to lead the force, which is not a UN operation, and other countries have signalled their participation.Ahead of the Council vote, UN News’s Cristina Silveiro spoke to Ambassador Bob Rae of Canada, Chair of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Ad Hoc Advisory Group on Haiti.He said the mission “is not going to be a walk in the park” and began by explaining the force’s relationship with the UN Office in Haiti, BINUH. 

The UN Security Council took a historic step on Monday by authorizing the deployment of a multinational security mission to help the Haitian police combat rampant gang violence.Kenya has offered to lead the force, which is not a UN operation, and other countries have signalled their participation.Ahead of the Council vote, UN News’s Cristina Silveiro spoke to Ambassador Bob Rae of Canada, Chair of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Ad Hoc Advisory Group on Haiti.He said the mission “is not going to be a walk in the park” and began by explaining the force’s relationship with the UN Office in Haiti, BINUH. 

After around 100,000 refugees left the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan in the past few days, there is now a “hidden humanitarian emergency” unfolding across Armenia.That’s according to Joe Lowry a Spokesperson with the UN migration agency IOM based in Vienna, who has been on the ground in Armenia as part of the UN relief operation.He told UN News's Vibhu Mishra that many have lived through a “nightmare” and UN humanitarians are already focusing on the need to support the Armenian Government with providing mental health services for new arrivals.

After around 100,000 refugees left the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan in the past few days, there is now a “hidden humanitarian emergency” unfolding across Armenia.That’s according to Joe Lowry a Spokesperson with the UN migration agency IOM based in Vienna, who has been on the ground in Armenia as part of the UN relief operation.He told UN News's Vibhu Mishra that many have lived through a “nightmare” and UN humanitarians are already focusing on the need to support the Armenian Government with providing mental health services for new arrivals.

Amy Pope took office as the chief of UN migration agency IOM on 1 October, becoming the first woman to lead the organisation.In her very first week on the job, she sat down with UN News’s Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer to talk about a comprehensive view of migration and its causes.She insisted on the urgent need for more regular pathways for people whose lives are uprooted because of poverty, gang violence or climate change. She’s also advocating for a new narrative around the issue, arguing that in an ageing world, “ultimately, countries will be competing for migrants”.

Amy Pope took office as the chief of UN migration agency IOM on 1 October, becoming the first woman to lead the organisation.In her very first week on the job, she sat down with UN News’s Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer to talk about a comprehensive view of migration and its causes.She insisted on the urgent need for more regular pathways for people whose lives are uprooted because of poverty, gang violence or climate change. She’s also advocating for a new narrative around the issue, arguing that in an ageing world, “ultimately, countries will be competing for migrants”.

Cities can be key players on the road to sustainability: UN chiefNew IOM chief pledges to help world ‘harness benefits and promise of migration’Myanmar: humanitarian needs, landmine threats surge: OCHA

Cities can be key players on the road to sustainability: UN chiefNew IOM chief pledges to help world ‘harness benefits and promise of migration’Myanmar: humanitarian needs, landmine threats surge: OCHA

Cities can be key players on the road to sustainability: UN chiefNew IOM chief pledges to help world ‘harness benefits and promise of migration’Myanmar: humanitarian needs, landmine threats surge: OCHA

Karabakh emergency escalates with tens of thousands pouring into Armenia: UNHCR, UNICEFSharp rise in number of unaccompanied children crossing Mediterranean: UNICEFSouth Sudan and Sudan ‘most dangerous’ for aid workers, amid dire needs and underfunding: OCHAVietnam: UN rights office calls for jailed environmental rights defenders to be set free

Karabakh emergency escalates with tens of thousands pouring into Armenia: UNHCR, UNICEFSharp rise in number of unaccompanied children crossing Mediterranean: UNICEFSouth Sudan and Sudan ‘most dangerous’ for aid workers, amid dire needs and underfunding: OCHAVietnam: UN rights office calls for jailed environmental rights defenders to be set free

Karabakh emergency escalates with tens of thousands pouring into Armenia: UNHCR, UNICEFSharp rise in number of unaccompanied children crossing Mediterranean: UNICEFSouth Sudan and Sudan ‘most dangerous’ for aid workers, amid dire needs and underfunding: OCHAVietnam: UN rights office calls for jailed environmental rights defenders to be set free

The refugee emergency in Armenia is escalating as tens of thousands have poured into the country from the Karabakh region in less than a week.UN refugee agency (UNHCR) representative in the country, Kavita Belani, has been on the ground since day one of the crisis. She told UN News’s Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer about the vulnerable people arriving in registration centres, massive accommodation and humanitarian needs, and how UN agencies and partners are working with the Armenian Government to ramp up support.

The refugee emergency in Armenia is escalating as tens of thousands have poured into the country from the Karabakh region in less than a week.UN refugee agency (UNHCR) representative in the country, Kavita Belani, has been on the ground since day one of the crisis. She told UN News’s Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer about the vulnerable people arriving in registration centres, massive accommodation and humanitarian needs, and how UN agencies and partners are working with the Armenian Government to ramp up support.

Karabakh displacement increasing ‘by the hour’: UNHCR chiefIndigenous Peoples’ rights must be central to green investmentsIndependent rights experts slam ‘systemic racism’ in US police and justice systemsCollective efforts needed to stop wasting food while millions go hungry

Karabakh displacement increasing ‘by the hour’: UNHCR chiefIndigenous Peoples’ rights must be central to green investmentsIndependent rights experts slam ‘systemic racism’ in US police and justice systemsCollective efforts needed to stop wasting food while millions go hungry

Karabakh displacement increasing ‘by the hour’: UNHCR chiefIndigenous Peoples’ rights must be central to green investmentsIndependent rights experts slam ‘systemic racism’ in US police and justice systemsCollective efforts needed to stop wasting food while millions go hungry

UN chief calls for investments in sustainable tourismMaritime transport needs to decarbonize ‘as soon as possible’: UNCTADCyberbullying can be deadly, requires holistic approach, Human Rights Council hearsRegional action needed to address record numbers of people on the move in Central America and Mexico: IOM

UN chief calls for investments in sustainable tourismMaritime transport needs to decarbonize ‘as soon as possible’: UNCTADCyberbullying can be deadly, requires holistic approach, Human Rights Council hearsRegional action needed to address record numbers of people on the move in Central America and Mexico: IOM

UN chief calls for investments in sustainable tourismMaritime transport needs to decarbonize ‘as soon as possible’: UNCTADCyberbullying can be deadly, requires holistic approach, Human Rights Council hearsRegional action needed to address record numbers of people on the move in Central America and Mexico: IOM

Peaceful future depends on ending nuclear threat: UN chiefMali’s children in danger: UNICEFBrazil: UN rights office hails ‘encouraging’ ruling on Indigenous Peoples’ land claimsBan smoking and vaping in school, urges WHO

Peaceful future depends on ending nuclear threat: UN chiefMali’s children in danger: UNICEFBrazil: UN rights office hails ‘encouraging’ ruling on Indigenous Peoples’ land claimsBan smoking and vaping in school, urges WHO

Peaceful future depends on ending nuclear threat: UN chiefMali’s children in danger: UNICEFBrazil: UN rights office hails ‘encouraging’ ruling on Indigenous Peoples’ land claimsBan smoking and vaping in school, urges WHO

A lot of work is required now one the part of UN and other humanitarians to ease suffering in Ukraine during the on-going Russian invasion, but even more will be needed to help heal trauma once the fighting stops, said the Chair of the UN Human Rights Council-mandated Commission of Inquiry on Monday. Erik Møse said in an interview with UN News, a victim-centred approach was crucial and psychosocial support should be prioritized.The independent investigator was speaking just hours after briefing the Council in Geneva on the continuing alleged war crimes being committed by Russian forces in areas where his team can gain access.He told Nana Karikari that accountability for potential war crimes would be best served if there is better coordination and efficiency between the different human rights investigations taking place on the local and international level.

A lot of work is required now on the part of UN and other humanitarians to ease suffering in Ukraine during the on-going Russian invasion, but even more will be needed to help heal trauma once the fighting stops, said the Chair of the UN Human Rights Council-mandated Commission of Inquiry on Monday. Erik Møse said in an interview with UN News, a victim-centred approach was crucial and psychosocial support should be prioritized.The independent investigator was speaking just hours after briefing the Council in Geneva on the continuing alleged war crimes being committed by Russian forces in areas where his team can gain access.He told Nana Karikari that accountability for potential war crimes would be best served if there is better coordination and efficiency between the different human rights investigations taking place on the local and international level.

Ukraine: Continued use of torture, rape by Russian troops: rights expertsZaporizhzhya nuclear power plant situation still ‘very fragile’: GrossiChad: Sudan refugee health crisis escalates: WHOReproductive rights must be respected in crises, say experts

Ukraine: Continued use of torture, rape by Russian troops: rights expertsZaporizhzhya nuclear power plant situation still ‘very fragile’: GrossiChad: Sudan refugee health crisis escalates: WHOReproductive rights must be respected in crises, say experts

Ukraine: Continued use of torture, rape by Russian troops: rights expertsZaporizhzhya nuclear power plant situation still ‘very fragile’: GrossiChad: Sudan refugee health crisis escalates: WHOReproductive rights must be respected in crises, say experts

Russia rights expert says her mandate is ‘bridge to the Russian people’India: UN rights chief welcomes new bill to boost women’s representation in parliament Iran: new hijab bill must be shelved: Türk Health care under threat in eastern DRC: WHO

Russia rights expert says her mandate is ‘bridge to the Russian people’India: UN rights chief welcomes new bill to boost women’s representation in parliament Iran: new hijab bill must be shelved: Türk Health care under threat in eastern DRC: WHO

Russia rights expert says her mandate is ‘bridge to the Russian people’India: UN rights chief welcomes new bill to boost women’s representation in parliament Iran: new hijab bill must be shelved: Türk Health care under threat in eastern DRC: WHO

Global business is rethinking the world of work and by 2030 well over half of the jobs we do, will have undergone fundamental change.That’s according to Sarah Steinberg, the Head of Global Public Policy Partnerships at social media platform LinkedIn, who was here at UN Headquarters this week to talk about trends in the job market and gender disparities in science and technology.She told UN News’s Maoqi Li that while change in the workplace has major implications for us all, it doesn't represent ‘a runway train’ beyond our control

Global business is rethinking the world of work and by 2030 well over half of the jobs we do, will have undergone fundamental change.That’s according to Sarah Steinberg, the Head of Global Public Policy Partnerships at social media platform LinkedIn, who was here at UN Headquarters this week to talk about trends in the job market and gender disparities in science and technology.She told UN News’s Maoqi Li that while change in the workplace has major implications for us all, it doesn't represent ‘a runway train’ beyond our control

Peace is a ‘call to action’: GuterresHigh seas treaty open for signatures at General AssemblyMore and more Palestinians displaced by settler violence in occupied West Bank: OCHAPolio outbreak in Ukraine ends: WHO

Peace is a ‘call to action’: GuterresHigh seas treaty open for signatures at General AssemblyMore and more Palestinians displaced by settler violence in occupied West Bank: OCHAPolio outbreak in Ukraine ends: WHO

Peace is a ‘call to action’: GuterresHigh seas treaty open for signatures at General AssemblyMore and more Palestinians displaced by settler violence in occupied West Bank: OCHAPolio outbreak in Ukraine ends: WHO

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said on Wednesday that Iran is “restricting” cooperation with his inspection teams over its nuclear programme as a way of retaliating to criticism.Director-General Mariano Grossi spoke to UN News’s Cristina Silveiro about the “complex logic” behind the move to bar multiple inspectors there, the safety of nuclear power plants in Ukraine amid Russia’s invasion, and the latest on the Fukushima nuclear wastewater issue.

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said on Wednesday that Iran is “restricting” cooperation with his inspection teams over its nuclear programme as a way of retaliating to criticism.Director-General Mariano Grossi spoke to UN News’s Cristina Silveiro about the “complex logic” behind the move to bar multiple inspectors there, the safety of nuclear power plants in Ukraine amid Russia’s invasion, and the latest on the Fukushima nuclear wastewater issue.

Climate Ambition Summit: UN chief urges governments to ‘hit fast forward’Armenia/ Azerbaijan: UN reiterates calls for humanitarian accessAfghanistan must stop torture of detainees: UNAMA, TürkUN launches star-studded road safety campaign

Climate Ambition Summit: UN chief urges governments to ‘hit fast forward’Armenia/ Azerbaijan: UN reiterates calls for humanitarian accessAfghanistan must stop torture of detainees: UNAMA, TürkUN launches star-studded road safety campaign

Climate Ambition Summit: UN chief urges governments to ‘hit fast forward’Armenia/ Azerbaijan: UN reiterates calls for humanitarian accessAfghanistan must stop torture of detainees: UNAMA, TürkUN launches star-studded road safety campaign

As Executive Director of UNFPA, the UN’s sexual and reproductive health agency, Dr. Natalia Kanem oversees its life-saving policy, development, and humanitarian work in over 120 countries. Speaking as High Level Week got underway, she told UN News’s Pauline Batista that ending gender-based violence means having “full respect for women” which will improve the lives of all.

As Executive Director of UNFPA, the UN’s sexual and reproductive health agency, Dr. Natalia Kanem oversees its life-saving policy, development, and humanitarian work in over 120 countries. Speaking as High Level Week got underway, she told UN News’s Pauline Batista that ending gender-based violence means having “full respect for women” which will improve the lives of all.

Derna, Libya a ‘sad snapshot’ of the state of our world: UN chiefSudan: Children dying amid health care system collapse‘Reparatory justice’ for people of African descent must be a priority: Türk

Derna, Libya a ‘sad snapshot’ of the state of our world: UN chiefSudan: Children dying amid health care system collapse‘Reparatory justice’ for people of African descent must be a priority: Türk

Derna, Libya a ‘sad snapshot’ of the state of our world: UN chiefSudan: Children dying amid health care system collapse‘Reparatory justice’ for people of African descent must be a priority: Türk

Acclaimed UN Goodwill Ambassador with reproductive health agency UNFPA, the writer and actor Ashley Judd, is fiercely committed to social justice. She believes that the sexual and reproductive health of girls and women needs to be at the heart of poverty eradication and sustainable development.Just ahead of High Level Week, she told UN News’s Pauline Batista that amidst so much suffering around the world, young people must find their voice, access it, and use it. 

Acclaimed UN Goodwill Ambassador with reproductive health agency UNFPA, the writer and actor Ashley Judd, is fiercely committed to social justice. She believes that the sexual and reproductive health of girls and women needs to be at the heart of poverty eradication and sustainable development.Just ahead of High Level Week, she told UN News’s Pauline Batista that amidst so much suffering around the world, young people must find their voice, access it, and use it. 

Transcend divisions, Guterres urges world leaders gathering in New York.Ethiopia: Mass killings and rape continue, risk of further atrocities: rights expertsLampedusa: ‘Real solutions’ needed to refugees’ and migrants’ tragedy: Grandi

Transcend divisions, Guterres urges world leaders gathering in New York.Ethiopia: Mass killings and rape continue, risk of further atrocities: rights expertsLampedusa: ‘Real solutions’ needed to refugees’ and migrants’ tragedy: Grandi

Transcend divisions, Guterres urges world leaders gathering in New York.Ethiopia: Mass killings and rape continue, risk of further atrocities: rights expertsLampedusa: ‘Real solutions’ needed to refugees’ and migrants’ tragedy: Grandi

‘We need a system that delivers for all humanity’: UN chief to G-77 and ChinaMorocco and Libya: UN scales up support in tale of two disastersSaudi Arabia: revoke death penalty for social media activity: rights experts 

‘We need a system that delivers for all humanity’: UN chief to G-77 and ChinaMorocco and Libya: UN scales up support in tale of two disastersSaudi Arabia: revoke death penalty for social media activity: rights experts 

‘We need a system that delivers for all humanity’: UN chief to G-77 and ChinaMorocco and Libya: UN scales up support in tale of two disastersSaudi Arabia: revoke death penalty for social media activity: rights experts 

UNICEF’s top official in Libya said on Thursday the aid distributed so far following the flood disaster is just a ‘drop in the ocean’ compared to what will be needed in the weeks ahead.Michele Servadei, Libya Representative for the UN Children’s Fund, told UN News’s Khaled Mohamed that the damage caused by that “terrible night” which has left thousands dead and missing, means psychosocial support will be needed as much as other lifesaving supplies.The UN has launched a flash appeal for $71 million to aid 250,000 Libyans affected by Sunday’s deadly deluge.

UNICEF’s top official in Libya said on Thursday the aid distributed so far following the flood disaster is just a ‘drop in the ocean’ compared to what will be needed in the weeks ahead.Michele Servadei, Libya Representative for the UN Children’s Fund, told UN News’s Khaled Mohamed that the damage caused by that “terrible night” which has left thousands dead and missing, means psychosocial support will be needed as much as other lifesaving supplies.The UN has launched a flash appeal for $71 million to aid 250,000 Libyans affected by Sunday’s deadly deluge.

Climate inaction puts lives and sustainable development on the line: WMOHalt sanctions that threaten people's lives and health: TürkNew charter on patient safety rights: WHO

Climate inaction puts lives and sustainable development on the line: WMOHalt sanctions that threaten people's lives and health: TürkNew charter on patient safety rights: WHO

Climate inaction puts lives and sustainable development on the line: WMOHalt sanctions that threaten people's lives and health: TürkNew charter on patient safety rights: WHO

The situation for ordinary Syrians is as bad as it’s ever been in the 12-plus years since war erupted there, top UN-appointed human rights investigators have said.A new report from the UN Commission of Inquiry for Syria has highlighted some of the causes: escalating violence along multiple front lines, severe economic woes and persistent human rights violations and abuse.With more, here’s Commissioner Lynn Welchman, talking to UN News’s Daniel Johnson in Geneva.

The situation for ordinary Syrians is as bad as it’s ever been in the 12-plus years since war erupted there, top UN-appointed human rights investigators have said.A new report from the UN Commission of Inquiry for Syria has highlighted some of the causes: escalating violence along multiple front lines, severe economic woes and persistent human rights violations and abuse.With more, here’s Commissioner Lynn Welchman, talking to UN News’s Daniel Johnson in Geneva.

Libya: UN scales up support to victims of deadly floodsOver 330 million children worldwide living in extreme poverty: UNICEF, World BankUganda: restored royal burial site no longer under threat: UNESCO

Libya: UN scales up support to victims of deadly floodsOver 330 million children worldwide living in extreme poverty: UNICEF, World BankUganda: restored royal burial site no longer under threat: UNESCO

Libya: UN scales up support to victims of deadly floodsOver 330 million children worldwide living in extreme poverty: UNICEF, World BankUganda: restored royal burial site no longer under threat: UNESCO

‘What next for Afghanistan’ with half the population excluded, asks Türk   24 million more could face emergency levels of hunger in 2023: WFPUS-Mexico border world’s deadliest migration land route: IOM

‘What next for Afghanistan’ with half the population excluded, asks Türk   24 million more could face emergency levels of hunger in 2023: WFPUS-Mexico border world’s deadliest migration land route: IOM

‘What next for Afghanistan’ with half the population excluded, asks Türk   24 million more could face emergency levels of hunger in 2023: WFPUS-Mexico border world’s deadliest migration land route: IOM

As global health systems rebound following the COVID-19 pandemic, more must be done to ensure access to adequate and equitable healthcare for all.That’s the message from Mandeep Dhaliwal, Director of the UN Development Programme’s (UNDP) HIV and Health Group, highlighting the central role that health policy will play at the upcoming UN General Assembly High Level Week. In an interview with UN News’s Jordan Larrabee, she discussed the need to hold international partners accountable, to learn the lessons of the pandemic, and get to grips with the impact of the climate crisis on global health.

As global health systems rebound following the COVID-19 pandemic, more must be done to ensure access to adequate and equitable healthcare for all.That’s the message from Mandeep Dhaliwal, Director of the UN Development Programme’s (UNDP) HIV and Health Group, highlighting the central role that health policy will play at the upcoming UN General Assembly High Level Week. In an interview with UN News’s Jordan Larrabee, she discussed the need to hold international partners accountable, to learn the lessons of the pandemic, and get to grips with the impact of the climate crisis on global health.

Türk blasts ‘politics of repression and division’, insists on link between freedom and developmentMorocco earthquake: UN offers supportSudan: $123 million needed to save rural livelihoods: FAO 

Türk blasts ‘politics of repression and division’, insists on link between freedom and developmentMorocco earthquake: UN offers supportSudan: $123 million needed to save rural livelihoods: FAO 

Türk blasts ‘politics of repression and division’, insists on link between freedom and developmentMorocco earthquake: UN offers supportSudan: $123 million needed to save rural livelihoods: FAO 

UN migration agency IOM, is working to identify and address what forces people to move when it comes to the conflict in Ukraine, Ugochi Daniels, Deputy Director General for Operations has told UN News.Returning recently from Moldova and Ukraine, Ms. Daniels shared her reflections with UN News’s Caitlin Kelly on the situation and movement of people across the war-scarred region. 

UN migration agency IOM, is working to identify and address what forces people to move when it comes to the conflict in Ukraine, Ugochi Daniels, Deputy Director General for Operations has told UN News.Returning recently from Moldova and Ukraine, Ms. Daniels shared her reflections with UN News’s Caitlin Kelly on the situation and movement of people across the war-scarred region. 

Nathalie Fustier, UN Resident Coordinator in Morocco, says the UN is ready to assist the Government in any way needed as the huge search and rescue effort continues following Friday night's deadly earthquake. Ms. Fustier spoke to UN News's Reem Abaza from the capital, Rabat.

Nathalie Fustier, UN Resident Coordinator in Morocco, says the UN is ready to assist the Government in any way needed as the huge search and rescue effort continues following Friday night's deadly earthquake. Ms. Fustier spoke to UN News's Reem Abaza from the capital, Rabat.

DR Congo: One of the most dangerous places for childrenUNHCR: Over 7 million refugee children out of schoolUN Women: Around 340 million women and girls destined for extreme poverty by 2030

DR Congo: One of the most dangerous places for childrenUNHCR: Over 7 million refugee children out of schoolUN Women: Around 340 million women and girls destined for extreme poverty by 2030

DR Congo: One of the most dangerous places for childrenUNHCR: Over 7 million refugee children out of schoolUN Women: Around 340 million women and girls destined for extreme poverty by 2030

Southeast Asia: ASEAN bloc has vital bridge building role says UN chiefTime to act together to slash deadly air pollution: GuterresUNICEF: Children moving across Latin America, Caribbean, in record numbers

Southeast Asia: ASEAN bloc has vital bridge building role says UN chiefTime to act together to slash deadly air pollution: GuterresUNICEF: Children moving across Latin America, Caribbean, in record numbers

Southeast Asia: ASEAN bloc has vital bridge building role says UN chiefTime to act together to slash deadly air pollution: GuterresUNICEF: Children moving across Latin America, Caribbean, in record numbers

Hottest summer on record: UN chief calls for ‘surge in action’ Sudan displacement tops five million: IOMPeople of African descent face ‘immense challenges’ in public square: OHCHR

Hottest summer on record: UN chief calls for ‘surge in action’ Sudan displacement tops five million: IOMPeople of African descent face ‘immense challenges’ in public square: OHCHR

Hottest summer on record: UN chief calls for ‘surge in action’ Sudan displacement tops five million: IOMPeople of African descent face ‘immense challenges’ in public square: OHCHR

Record civilian cluster munitions deaths as experts urge global banUN provides new funding boost for ‘neglected’ humanitarian crisesConcern over refugees and migrants attempting dangerous Darien Gap crossing: OHCHR

Record civilian cluster munitions deaths as experts urge global banUN provides new funding boost for ‘neglected’ humanitarian crisesConcern over refugees and migrants attempting dangerous Darien Gap crossing: OHCHR

Record civilian cluster munitions deaths as experts urge global banUN provides new funding boost for ‘neglected’ humanitarian crisesConcern over refugees and migrants attempting dangerous Darien Gap crossing: OHCHR

Africa bears brunt of global warming it did little to cause: WMOSudan: ‘Dire’ health situation faces those on the run, $1 billion support package needed: UNHCRUkraine: ‘Immense challenges’ impede justice for war victims say rights experts

Africa bears brunt of global warming it did little to cause: WMOSudan: ‘Dire’ health situation faces those on the run, $1 billion support package needed: UNHCRUkraine: ‘Immense challenges’ impede justice for war victims say rights experts

Africa bears brunt of global warming it did little to cause: WMOSudan: ‘Dire’ health situation faces those on the run, $1 billion support package needed: UNHCRUkraine: ‘Immense challenges’ impede justice for war victims say rights experts

Niger: IOM calls for humanitarian corridor to help stranded migrantsDR Congo: Concerns over use of force as dozens killed, injured at anti-UN protestHaiti: Deadly violence shows no sign of abating

Niger: IOM calls for humanitarian corridor to help stranded migrantsDR Congo: Concerns over use of force as dozens killed, injured at anti-UN protestHaiti: Deadly violence shows no sign of abating

Niger: IOM calls for humanitarian corridor to help stranded migrantsDR Congo: Concerns over use of force as dozens killed, injured at anti-UN protestHaiti: Deadly violence shows no sign of abating

Pervasive discrimination’ against people of African descent must stop: UN chiefRefusal to waive intellectual property for COVID-19 vaccines violates human rights in global South, experts say‘Last line of defence’ against extinction: UNESCO World Heritage sites under climate change threat

Pervasive discrimination’ against people of African descent must stop: UN chiefRefusal to waive intellectual property for COVID-19 vaccines violates human rights in global South, experts say‘Last line of defence’ against extinction: UNESCO World Heritage sites under climate change threat

As the world observes the International Day for People of African Descent on 31 August, progress on eradicating racism is mixed and the road to equality and justice remains long.Renowned historian Verene Shepherd, who chairs the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD), sat down with UN News’s Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer to talk about how the human rights body works with States towards this goal. Professor Shepherd also recounted how her own experiences as a woman of African descent strengthened her resolve and fuelled her anti-racist advocacy.

As the world observes the International Day for People of African Descent on 31 August, progress on eradicating racism is mixed and the road to equality and justice remains long.Renowned historian Verene Shepherd, who chairs the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD), sat down with UN News’s Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer to talk about how the human rights body works with States towards this goal. Professor Shepherd also recounted how her own experiences as a woman of African descent strengthened her resolve and fuelled her anti-racist advocacy.

Enforced disappearance: Experts urge justice for victims and an end to impunitySudan: Over 4.8 million displaced says IOMWHO welcomes African States’ commitment to combat antimicrobial resistance

Enforced disappearance: Experts urge justice for victims and an end to impunitySudan: Over 4.8 million displaced says IOMWHO welcomes African States’ commitment to combat antimicrobial resistance

Ukraine’s children fall behind in school as attacks on education rage on: UNICEFNiger spirals into protection crisis post-military takeover: UNHCRHundreds of thousands trafficked into online criminality in southeast Asia: OHCHR

Ukraine’s children fall behind in school as attacks on education rage on: UNICEFNiger spirals into protection crisis post-military takeover: UNHCRHundreds of thousands trafficked into online criminality in southeast Asia: OHCHR

The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child issued legal guidance on Monday outlining measures governments must take to protect children from climate change.It cements the connection between children’s rights and the environmental crisis, marking a major step forward in ensuring they live in a clean, healthy and sustainable world.UN News’s Bessie Du spoke to Āniva Clarke, a 17-year-old climate activist from Samoa and member of the Children’s Advisory Team supporting the consultation process. Āniva began by talking about her own activism, how climate change is affecting Samoa and other Pacific islands, and why the guidance could make ‘a huge difference’ for young people worldwide.

The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child issued legal guidance on Monday outlining measures governments must take to protect children from climate change.It cements the connection between children’s rights and the environmental crisis, marking a major step forward in ensuring they live in a clean, healthy and sustainable world.UN News’s Bessie Du spoke to Āniva Clarke, a 17-year-old climate activist from Samoa and member of the Children’s Advisory Team supporting the consultation process. Āniva began by talking about her own activism, how climate change is affecting Samoa and other Pacific islands, and why the guidance could make ‘a huge difference’ for young people worldwide.

‘End nuclear testing forever’: UN chiefStates must protect children’s right to a clean and healthy environment: independent expertsUN refugee chief hears ‘stories of fear and violence’ from those who fled Sudan

‘End nuclear testing forever’: UN chiefStates must protect children’s right to a clean and healthy environment: independent expertsUN refugee chief hears ‘stories of fear and violence’ from those who fled Sudan

The UN Mission in Mali, MINUSMA, has begun its gradual withdrawal from the country at the request of Mali’s transitional authorities which is mandated by the Security Council to be complete by the last day of the year.Shortly before the Council met to discuss the latest situation in Mali on Monday, the head of MINUSMA, El-Ghassim Wane, spoke exclusively to UN News. In his interview with Jerome Bernard, he had a powerful message for the Malian people: “MINUSMA is leaving, but the UN is staying”. 

The UN Mission in Mali, MINUSMA, has begun its gradual withdrawal from the country at the request of Mali’s transitional authorities which is mandated by the Security Council to be complete by the last day of the year.Shortly before the Council met to discuss the latest situation in Mali on Monday, the head of MINUSMA, El-Ghassim Wane, spoke exclusively to UN News. In his interview with Jerome Bernard, he had a powerful message for the Malian people: “MINUSMA is leaving, but the UN is staying”. 

The top UN official in Libya has underscored the importance of inclusive and transparent elections for peace and security in the country.Abdoulaye Bathily, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) was in New York this week to brief the Security Council.Mr. Bathily spoke to UN News’s Khaled Mohamed about why stability in Libya is also critical to regional security.The envoy began by detailing his recent intensified consultations with major players, and ordinary citizens, in Libya. 

The top UN official in Libya has underscored the importance of inclusive and transparent elections for peace and security in the country.Abdoulaye Bathily, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) was in New York this week to brief the Security Council.Mr. Bathily spoke to UN News’s Khaled Mohamed about why stability in Libya is also critical to regional security.The envoy began by detailing his recent intensified consultations with major players, and ordinary citizens, in Libya. 

Millions of people in Niger could fall further into severe food insecurity due to the impact of sanctions in the wake of the 26 July power grab, the World Food Programme (WFP) said on Friday.Some 4.3 million people in the country need assistance, including 3.3 million facing severe food insecurity. Another 7.3 million were already facing moderate food insecurity prior to the crisis and are at risk of falling deeper into hunger.UN News’s Cristina Silveiro spoke with Jean-Noel Gentile, the WFP Representative in Niger, who said $92 million is still needed to maintain its operations between September and February. 

Millions of people in Niger could fall further into severe food insecurity due to the impact of sanctions in the wake of the 26 July power grab, the World Food Programme (WFP) said on Friday.Some 4.3 million people in the country need assistance, including 3.3 million facing severe food insecurity. Another 7.3 million were already facing moderate food insecurity prior to the crisis and are at risk of falling deeper into hunger.UN News’s Cristina Silveiro spoke with Jean-Noel Gentile, the WFP Representative in Niger, who said $92 million is still needed to maintain its operations between September and February. 

 Sudan: hundreds of thousands of children risk starving to death: UN relief chiefPakistan floods: one year on, millions still without safe water, basic services: UNICEFFAO hails boost to biodiversity efforts with creation of new fund

 Sudan: hundreds of thousands of children risk starving to death: UN relief chiefPakistan floods: one year on, millions still without safe water, basic services: UNICEFFAO hails boost to biodiversity efforts with creation of new fund

Climate adaptation, sustainable development funding ‘a matter of justice’: GuterresEnd impunity for Myanmar military’s crimes against Rohingya: UN rights chiefJapan’s Fukushima water release: IAEA continues safety review

Climate adaptation, sustainable development funding ‘a matter of justice’: GuterresEnd impunity for Myanmar military’s crimes against Rohingya: UN rights chiefJapan’s Fukushima water release: IAEA continues safety review

‘End slavery’s legacy of racism’: UN chiefGreece: Rights experts condemn “racist violence” against asylum-seekersUNEP touts wastewater’s untapped potential for climate solutions

‘End slavery’s legacy of racism’: UN chiefGreece: Rights experts condemn “racist violence” against asylum-seekersUNEP touts wastewater’s untapped potential for climate solutions

Afghanistan’s Taliban responsible for revenge killings, torture of officialsDRC: Millions face hunger as funding dries up: WFPGenerative AI likely to augment rather than destroy jobs: ILO

Afghanistan’s Taliban responsible for revenge killings, torture of officialsDRC: Millions face hunger as funding dries up: WFPGenerative AI likely to augment rather than destroy jobs: ILO

UN chief honours survivors of terrorism working for peaceHurricane Hilary update: UN weather agency on ‘widespread’ US floodsSudan: UN deplores intensified fighting, displacement in Kordofan states

UN chief honours survivors of terrorism working for peaceHurricane Hilary update: UN weather agency on ‘widespread’ US floodsSudan: UN deplores intensified fighting, displacement in Kordofan states

The UN is standing by the people of Niger as border closures increasingly impact the movement of lifesaving supplies into the country which has been wracked by the fallout from last month’s military takeover.That’s according to the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Representative in the country, Stefano Savi, who issued a plea for restrictions to end, allowing aid stranded at logistics hubs such as polio and measles vaccines, into the landlocked West African nation.Florence Westergard from our UN News French service began by asking him to outline the needs faced by vulnerable Nigeriens today.

The UN is standing by the people of Niger as border closures increasingly impact the movement of lifesaving supplies into the country which has been wracked by the fallout from last month’s military takeover.That’s according to the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Representative in the country, Stefano Savi, who issued a plea for restrictions to end, allowing aid stranded at logistics hubs such as polio and measles vaccines, into the landlocked West African nation.Florence Westergard from our UN News French service began by asking him to outline the needs faced by vulnerable Nigeriens today.

Niger: Türk calls for immediate restoration of constitutional orderCape Verde: UN support activated after deadly boat accidentA scorching ‘new normal’ as world buckles under extreme heat: WMO

The parents of an American teenager killed in one of the nation’s worst school shootings are hoping the international community will do more to end gun violence.Manuel and Patricia Oliver visited the UN this week for a tour and briefing, part of their cross-country road trip visiting communities affected by mass shootings.  Their son Joaquin, 17, was murdered in Florida’s Parkland high school shooting in February 2018 but lives on through their non-profit Change the Ref, which uses art and non-violent creative confrontation to raise awareness about mass shootings.Dianne Penn spoke with the Olivers, who came to the UN through the Non-Violence Project Foundation, a non-governmental organization that has consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).John McKenna, US Country Director, began by providing an example of how art, activism, non-violence and peace, are linked here at UN Headquarters in New York. 

Since the beginning of the brutal military showdown in Sudan, 18 aid workers have been killed, while the impact of the war on civilians has been exacerbated by the climate crisis, and major food insecurity.Humanitarians are having to work under extreme conditions to support refugees and Sudanese civilians, providing often life-saving support. Just ahead of World Humanitarian Day, UN News’s Abdelmonem Makki spoke to Mathilde Vu - who’s waiting for a visa to return to Sudan - Advocacy Manager with the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), which has lost two of its own workers to the violence.

Aid worker casualties show no sign of abating in 2023: OCHAWHO summit aims to unlock power of traditional medicine through science: Tedros Somalia: FAO works to protect vulnerable communities from potential flood of the century

Africa can become new force in global supply chain: UNCTADLibya: UN Mission calls for end to deadly Tripoli violenceHaiti: dangerous makeshift sites spell more suffering for displaced: IOM

Sudan: Humanitarians urge immediate action for peace and aid access Afghanistan: on Taliban takeover anniversary Türk advocates for human rights Jordan’s new cybercrime law unduly restricts freedom of expression: OHCHR

 ‘Indiscriminate’ Russian attacks in southern Ukraine on the rise: UN humanitarian officialDisability rights threatened by bad working conditions for carers: independent expertFive-day cholera vaccination campaign to prevent outbreaks in drought-stricken Somalia: WHO, UNICEF

Young climate advocates are preparing to tell leaders at a UN summit next month that they are out of options: they must deliver now on ambitious climate action that pushes the world faster towards sustainability and empowers younger generations with the ‘green skills’ that will secure our future. International Youth Day, marked annually on 12 August, this year spotlights green skills and the major role young people will play in driving the much-needed shift towards  environmentally sustainable and climate-friendly policies. To hear about which skills will be crucial in creating our green future, UN News's Anton Uspensky spoke to four members of the Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change who offer their expertise to the UN Secretary-General.

More than one million barrels of oil have been transferred from a decaying supertanker off war-torn Yemen, averting a major spill in the Red Sea.The emptying of the FSO Safer marked the culmination of nearly two years of political negotiations, technical planning and fund-raising, against a backdrop of ongoing conflict between Yemeni Government forces, backed by a Saudi-led coalition, and Houthi rebels.David Gressly, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Yemen, has been in the lead on this “very hard process”.He spoke to UN News’s Abdelmonem Makki about what will happen to the oil, lessons learned and why average Yemenis have welcomed the news.Mr. Gressly began by providing background on the operation, which was spearheaded by the UN Development Programme (UNDP). 

 UN condemns killing of presidential candidate in EcuadorFAO: “Sudan most food insecure country on the planet” UN human rights office warns against execution in Vietnam

A law student and activist from the United States is using her personal experience in the foster care system to fuel her advocacy for Indigenous children.Autumn Adams of the Yakama Nation took part in a UN virtual event on Wednesday to mark the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, which this year focused on youth as agents of change.“I believe children are our future. We don’t have a future without the next generation,” she said, speaking from the southwestern state of Arizona after the event.Autumn spoke to UN News’s Elena Fu about her journey to become a strong voice for Indigenous rights.

UNHCR warn of looming cholera and malaria outbreaks in SudanUN investigators: surging war crimes in MyanmarWHO says India-made syrup contaminated

UN chief calls for Niger’s president’s immediate release over health concernsIOM, UNHCR, UNICEF: States must step up search and rescue efforts in MediterraneanChina: UN experts demand information on nine imprisoned human rights defenders

UN: Deal reached with Syria to reopen main border crossing from TurkiyeUN chief calls for elimination of nuclear weapons on Nagasaki anniversaryUNRWA returns to Ein El Hilweh camp after armed clashes

As conflict escalates in Sudan, the need for humanitarian support keeps growing as people “die and suffer”, a senior UN aid official has said.Edem Wosornu, Director of the Operations and Advocacy Division at UN humanitarian affairs office, OCHA, recently visited the country and neighbouring Chad.According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than two-thirds of hospitals in Sudan remain out of service amid increasing reports of attacks on health facilities.Ms. Wosornu spoke to UN News’s Abdelmonem Makki about the humanitarian efforts underway in Sudan and ongoing operations in Niger, in the wake of the attempted coup.

UNICEF: 76% of children in South Asia face extreme heatHaiti: UNICEF says spike in kidnappings of children and womenWHO calls for effective international action against biological weapons

 UN human rights close office in UgandaOCHA: Spike in settler violence against Palestinian communitiesWheat and rice see price rise hikes in July, warn UN food economists

 FAO raises alarm on escalating food crisis in SudanColombia: UN Mission to monitor ceasefire with ELN rebel groupUN: Solutions needed to situation in Darien Gap

IOM: Four million displaced from Sudan conflictUN demands immediate end to expulsion of migrants from TunisiaUNEP: Earth Overshoot Day shows nature can only deliver so much 

Supportive workplaces key to achieve global breastfeeding targetsAgencies warn against South Sudan food crisis Pakistan: Security Council condemns 'heinous' suicide bombing on Sunday

WHO highlights need for more protective measures against tobaccoUN condemns seizure of power by force in NigerIPCC Head warns against overstating the threat of warming

The continuing battle for control of Sudan between rival militaries has had a destabilizing effect on the contested area of Abyei claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan, for both the UN mission there, UNIFSA, and the civilians they are mandated to protect.That’s according to Major General Benjamin Sawyerr, acting head and Force Commander for UNIFSA, who said the months-long clashes have seen close to 6,000 flee into Abyei and forced the mission to switch all its supply routes to South Sudan, increasing costs and logistical challenges.

Sudan health crisis at ‘gravely serious’ level warns WHOForced returns to Burkina Faso must end says UNHCRNew liver care campaign launched on World Hepatitis Day

Climate-related court cases around the world are growing fast, and on Thursday the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) together with the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law at Columbia University, highlighted the trend in their new Global Climate Litigation Report. Andrew Raine, Head of the Frontiers in Environmental Law Unit of UNEP, spoke to UN News’s Anton Uspensky about the report’s findings, which show cases are surging in the Global South with human rights emerging as a powerful driver behind climate litigation. 

As the UN weather agency WMO declared on Thursday that July is likely to be the hottest on record, UN News reporter Katy Dartford had other problems on her mind: filing her news bulletin from Greece, where forest fires have been raging.Speaking from Corfu - where the wildfires have thankfully calmed down a bit since Monday – Katy puts the WMO’s announcement into context.Here she is now, talking to Daniel Johnson.

July set to be hottest month on record: WMO‘Surge in diplomacy for peace’ needed on Korean PeninsulaNiger: Guterres condemns ‘unconstitutional’ coup declaration

As technology becomes increasingly accessible across the globe, more must be done to ensure its use in education remains equitable, scalable, and sustainable.That’s according to Manos Antoninis, Director of the Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report, produced by the UN agency specializing in education, science and culture, UNESCO.In an interview for UN News, he’s been outlining the advantages and disadvantages of using technology in education, how to improve safety online, the future of artificial intelligence (AI), and describing how online education resources can be tailored to a more diverse, global audience.Jordan Larrabee spoke with Mr. Antoninis just ahead of the launch of this year’s GEM Report in Uruguay on Wednesday.

UNESCO calls for global ban on smartphones in schoolsUN calls on Uganda to repeal Anti-Homosexuality Act, condemns killings of Indigenous in BrazilFAO: Rate of mangroves loss slowed in last decade

Climate-induced disasters in Asia and the Pacific have become increasingly frequent and severe, resulting in loss of lives and livelihoods, hampering the post-pandemic recovery and potentially derailing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).The effects of devastating floods, severe droughts and rising sea levels are not confined within national borders; they have international implications too, including for trade, communal tensions and forced migration. Climate change is only making things worse.  Against this backdrop, Vibhu Mishra from UN News spoke to Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), who outlined how countries can reduce disaster risk, and strengthen climate action. 

Yemen: UN starts high-risk operation to prevent catastrophic oil spill from decaying tankerIAEA: Anti-personnel mines found in Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in UkraineUN warns of looming disaster emergency in Asia-Pacific region

Artificial Intelligence may be the buzzword of the day, but before we know it, two new concepts may soon steal the limelight: Disruptive-tech and Artificial General Intelligence. That’s according to Janet Adams, chief operating officer of AI experts SingularityNet, who maintains that these up-and-coming technologies have massive potential to combat inequality, in line with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Agenda. To find out more, UN News's Elma Okic caught up with Ms. Adams at the AI For Good Summit in Geneva earlier this month.

UN chief lends support to tackle global hunger.Sudan: At least 435 children killed and 2025 injured says UNICEFWHO: 20,000 deaths a year from drowning are ‘entirely preventable’ in Europe

UN expert demands end to mass detention and child separation in northeast Syria WHO warns of Dengue increase amidst changing climate patternsWFP warns of ripple effects of Sudan across West and Central Africa

Nelson Mandela was a giant of the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa and the country’s first democratically elected President, but he also had a wonderful sense of humour.That is just one of the recollections of American politician and activist Andrew Young, a former US Ambassador to the UN and friend of the man who was affectionately known as Madiba, his Xhosa clan name.Mr. Young was US Ambassador in the late 1970s, when Mr. Mandela was still serving out a lifetime sentence for treason before being released in 1990 after 27 years in prison.Mr. Young, 91, was back at the UN on Thursday for the official commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day.  He spoke to UN News’s Dianne Penn.  

The artificial sweetener aspartame that’s widely used in fizzy drinks has just been classified as “possibly” cancer-causing by UN scientists - but there’s no cause for alarm.That’s the key message from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), whose assessment of aspartame was carried out on behalf of the World Health Organization (WHO), by an expert panel of nutritional epidemiology and nutritional toxicology scientists.With more details on what these findings mean for all of us, UN News’s Daniel Johnson spoke to IARC’s Mary Schubauer-Berigan, who’s head of the agency’s Monographs Programme.

UN condemns attacks on Odesa PortUNHCR: Rohingya refugees face more hunger as aid cuts biteUNODC partners with Royal Foundation to combat illegal wildlife crime

UN Secretary-General urges regulation of AI at inaugural security council meetingUnitaid: Close to one million deaths by 2035 if TB prevention is not implemented.UN Women team up with FIFA to promote gender equality

Health risks on the rise as heatwave intensifies across Europe: WMOChild vaccination makes unequal post-COVID recovery across regions: WHO, UNICEFMore than 90 per cent of world’s women live in countries with large gender gap: UNDP, UN Women

Honour Mandela’s legacy by fighting for equality and justice, says UN chiefRussia: UN experts call for release of journalist Evan GershkovichDevastating violations against Indigenous Peoples’ rights must stop: Türk

As the deadline to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030 approaches, urgent action is needed to accelerate efforts.The latest report by UNAIDS highlights the critical role of strong political leadership, and a comprehensive response, to address emerging challenges and ensure progress towards achieving this ambitious global goal.UN News’s Anshu Sharma in India spoke to Eamonn Murphy, UNAIDS Regional Director for Asia Pacific, Eastern Europe and Central Asia.Warning against complacency, he said countries must leverage innovative solutions that are now available, and modernize their response, to target the people most at risk today. 

Sudan: Thousands may die due to healthcare disruptions: WHOChildren’s deaths on central Mediterranean route have doubled this year: UNICEF165 million newly impoverished in past three years: UNDP

Fresh allegations of crimes against humanity in Sudan’s Darfur are the latest indication that the world is failing to live up to the promise of “never again” forged in the ashes of the Second World War.Special Adviser to the UN Secretary-General on the Prevention of Genocide, Alice Wairimu Nderitu, sat down with UN News’s Sandra Miller to warn against risk factors for atrocity crimes in a rising number of countries, including Sudan, as the brutal conflict between rival militaries continues there.She also described the framework of analysis for atrocity crimes which allows the UN to assess situations and sound the alarm, with hate speech as both a key indicator and trigger of genocide.

A new publication released today by UNAIDS shows that bringing the pandemic to a close by 2030, is possible, provided governments make the right political and financial choices.The Path that Ends AIDS, contains data and case studies which highlight the way out, and shows that countries and leaders who have committed to the fight, are achieving extraordinary results.For more insight on the new report and how governments and communities can collaborate to end the disease once and for all, UN News’s Pauline Batista spoke to Dr. Angeli Achrekar, Deputy Executive Director for the Programme Branch at UNAIDS. 

UN chief condemns North Korea missile launchSudan: Türk calls for investigation over at least 87 buried in mass grave in West Darfur Ending AIDS by 2030 a “political and financial choice”: UNAIDS

‘Crushing’ debt crisis spells development disaster for billions: UN chiefTürk: Accountability needed for ‘shocking’ violations by Russian forces in UkraineSand and dust storms know no borders: global action needed, says UN

Sudan crisis: Thousands continue to flee Darfurs seeking safety in Chad, warn UN aid teams Financial distress affects eight in 10 of Ukraine’s displaced, warns UN migration agencyUN rights chief calls for respect as States gather to discuss Quran burning stunt

Average global temperatures reached record levels on land and sea last month, the UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Monday.The WMO announcement follows a report from the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service declaring record global temperatures that extended into the first week of July, breaking the previous record set in August 2016.There’s little doubt among UN scientists that higher-than-normal temperatures will come at a cost, with negative impacts expected in fishing grounds and knock-on climate emergencies, such as hurricanes, tropical cyclones, heavy rains and drought. For more insight on the global temperature spike and a look ahead to weather trends for the rest of the year, UN News’s Nancy Sarkis spoke to Dr. Omar Baddour, who’s Chief of Climate Monitoring at WMO in Geneva. 

Temperatures off the charts, but more records are to come: WMOUkraine: UN deplores killing of civilians during aid distribution Honduras: UN experts deployed to help lay foundation for anti-corruption body

Renewal of Black Sea Initiative urgent as consumers await lower food prices: FAOJenin: Soaring needs in aftermath of Israel’s military operation: UNRWAUkraine: Support needed to rebuild homes destroyed by war, flooding: UNHCR

UN chief says guardrails needed for AI to ‘benefit everyone’Myanmar atrocities and impunity must end: TürkSudan: close to three million displaced

Developing countries face $4 trillion investment gap in SDGs: UNCTADIran must end crackdown against protesters: rights expertsYemen: Surge in number of Horn of Africa migrants: IOM

Joan Baez needs no introduction. The legendary artist and peace icon has been inspiring generations of activists for decades to stand up against war, poverty and injustice.While at the UN in Geneva, she sat down with UN News’s Daniel Johnson to talk about her earliest encounter with the UN and which of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) resonates the most with her. She pointed to the climate crisis as today’s most pressing struggle, warning that “if we don’t get it, it’s going to get us”.The performer famous for her era-defining rendition of the protest song “We Shall Overcome” also spoke about why in the face of conflict and despair, she continues to choose action and “do her part”.

UN chief, humanitarians concerned over Israeli military operation in JeninEl Niño onset likely to bring surging record temperaturesTajikistan: rights experts’ concern over sentencing, torture of human rights defenders

Climate solidarity urgent to ensure Caribbean states’ survival: GuterresUN rights chief tells Governments: “Don’t leave the climate crisis for our children to fix” ‘Rewrite the narrative’ on food security: FAO

 Myanmar: Military’s obstruction of humanitarian aid could be international crimeCholera and measles rampant in eastern DRC as health system nears collapseJob guarantee programmes needed to end poverty: top rights expert

Universal access to safer water, sanitation and hygiene could save 1.4 million lives: WHOUN-brokered grain and fertilizer accord vital to help alleviate crippling cost-of-living crisis: UNCTAD chief12-month extension of Syria cross-border aid corridor ‘a critical step’ UN relief chief

The cost-of-living crisis continues to affect the world’s poorest families, which is all the more reason to redouble efforts to push for grain and fertilizer to leave key Black Sea ports, top UN economist Rebeca Grynspan said on Tuesday.Ms. Grynspan, who is Secretary-General of the UN trade and development body UNCTAD, said although “there are things that are very difficult to solve… the UN will not spare any effort in trying to make this continue working for the future”. Before 18 July – when a 60-day extension of the Black Sea Initiative by Russia is set to expire – Ms. Grynspan told UN News’s Daniel Johnson she’d likely head to Moscow to continue negotiations.

In 2020 alone, over 30 million people were displaced from their homes due to weather-related events, mainly devastating droughts. But those who cross national borders to flee climate change-related disasters are not recognized as refugees under international law.The first-ever UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in the context of climate change, Ian Fry, sat down with UN News’s Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer as he prepared to present his report to the Human Rights Council in Geneva this week. He talked about his call for full legal protection for people displaced by the climate crisis and how the private sector could help finance a “loss and damage fund” to support countries buckling under the effects of our warming planet. Special Rapporteurs and other independent rights experts are appointed by the UN Human Rights Council. They are not UN staff and do not receive a salary for their work. 

Northeastern Nigeria: malnourished children fighting for their livesTop rights expert proposes legal status for millions displaced by climate changeLimiting asylum access leads to rise in trafficking risks: rights expert

Ukraine: Russian forces face new allegations of arbitrary detention, torture of civiliansSudan displacement higher than projected, humanitarian access thwartedAfghanistan: rise in suicide attacks against civilians since Taliban takeover

Close to 200 million people around the world are unemployed, and fears are rising that artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as Chat GPT will put even more people out of a job.Alongside AI threats to the labour market, positive effects are also expected, such as helping workers automate more repetitive tasks to free up time for higher value work. But given the gaping digital divide between wealthier and poorer nations, will developing countries be able to reap AI’s productivity benefits?Senior Economist Janine Berg from the International Labour Organization (ILO) is currently driving new research on the impact of AI on the world of work. She sat down with UN News’s Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer to assess the latest developments.

With security and humanitarian crises mounting across much of Africa, the international community is making a mistake by not engaging fully with South Sudan, which is at the centre of an increasingly volatile region.That’s the view of the head of the UN peacekeeping mission in the world’s youngest nation, Nicholas Haysom, who told UN News that if a fresh crisis erupts there in combination with the military power struggle in neighbouring Sudan, it would be “catastrophic” for the whole Horn of Africa.Maoqi Li asked the head of UNMISS and UN Special Representative why he thought South Sudan was not getting the attention it deserved.

 Stop stigmatizing drug users and focus on treatment, rehabilitation: GuterresHorn of Africa hunger emergency: 60 million food insecurePaths to regularization crucial so migrants can enjoy basic human rights

UN welcomes sentencing of ISIL member for Yazidi genocideTunisia must ‘change course’ amid media freedom crackdown: UN rights chiefSudan update: 2.5 million displaced by fighting

Global financial system must evolve to serve the most vulnerable: GuterresUN chief condemns violence against civilians in Occupied Palestinian TerritoryTechnology can jeopardize right to health by exposing individuals’ sensitive data: top rights expert

A new report from UN global fund Education Cannot Wait (ECW) warns there are 224 million children and adolescents now in desperate need of education support: around 72 million are out of school because of conflict, crisis, and other emergencies.Yasmine Sherif, ECW’s Executive Director, spoke to UN News’s Abdelmonem Makki about the fundraising challenge of helping the huge influx or refugees fleeing into Chad from Sudan, as well as the continuing crisis for girls’ education in Afghanistan.

Ukraine: ‘Marshall Plan’ approach needed to stop landmines from blighting economy: UNDPSafe, voluntary returns of Rohingya to Myanmar remain impossible, warns UN rights office Belize certified malaria-free by WHO

In the nearly two years since Afghanistan’s de-facto authorities seized power, the “ambitions, dreams and potential” of girls and women have perished, a rights activist has told the Human Rights Council in Geneva.And in an exclusive interview with UN News’s Nancy Sarkis, Afghan civil rights activist Shaharzad Akbar explains that women and girls there talk of “being buried alive, breathing, but not being able to do much else”. 

World Refugee Day: UN leaders call for solidarity and inclusion amid record displacementDRC: Lives shattered by violence and hunger in ‘forgotten crisis’: WFPLebanon’s economic meltdown leaves cash-strapped families at breaking point

Sudan: Guterres calls on donors to step up aid response‘Vital’ human rights cooperation must be above the fray of politics: UN rights chiefEurope is world’s fastest-warming continent: WMO

From Afghanistan to Ukraine, the survivors of some of the world’s worst conflicts live in fear of landmines killing them or their children.The UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS) coordinates the Organization’s work to rid the world of mines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices.Ahead of Mine Action Week beginning 19 June, which brings major demining stakeholders to Geneva, UNMAS Director of Policy Abigail Hartley sat down with UN News’s Dominika Tomaszewska-Mortimer to express sadness at the deaths last week of 27 civilians – most of them minors – killed by unexploded ordnance in the Lower Shabelle region of Somalia.The UN mine action service veteran also shared her optimism that Ukraine will one day be mine-free, too.

Sudan’s Darfur spiralling into ‘humanitarian calamity’: UN aid chief Ukraine: hundreds of thousands affected by water shortages from Kakhovka Dam disaster Mediterranean migrant shipwreck: swift action needed to prevent further loss of life 

Nobody yet knows what the full long-term effects of taking cannabis are and legalizing it for recreational use runs the risk of trivializing the dangers for teen consumers, the President of the UN-administered international narcotics watchdog has warned.In an interview with UN News, Professor Jallal Toufiq also raised the alarm over the continuing proliferation of synthetic opioids on the black market, describing it as the International Narcotics Board’s number one issue - stating the INCB was doing all it can to tackle the scourge.Khaled Mohamed of our Arabic news service, began by asking him to sum up the impact of cannabis on public health, and the push to legalize it recreationally.

People living with Down syndrome and other disabilities need a place at the table, according to a Canadian activist participating at a key UN event focused on their rights.Inclusion is one of the key issues at the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which is taking place at UN Headquarters in New York.Eileen Travers sat down with Nicholas Herd and his colleague Warren Pot, from L’Arche Canada, part of an international non-profit organization striving towards the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.She began by asking Mr. Herd why he came to the United Nations.

UN chief calls for solidarity with people of Syria, with no time to spareSudan: Displaced people victims of Darfur violenceUN rights chief hails European AI regulation push

Mine Action Week takes place from 19 to 23 June in Geneva; it’s an opportunity to highlight how the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) works with partners to eliminate the menace posed by these explosive devices in more than 30 countries – including Ukraine. To find out more about the challenge of clearing mines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices, UN News’s Nathalie Minard sat down with Hansjörg Eberle, head of the Swiss demining NGO, FSD.

Number of people forced to flee their homes at a record high: UNHCRDRC: Security Council, UN officials condemn ‘horrific’ attack on displaced people’s campCyclone Biparjoy approaches India and Pakistan coast: WMO 

In its new flagship report published on Wednesday the UN refugee agency UNHCR reveals that the 46 least developed countries are hosting more than 20 per cent of the refugee population – even though they account for only 1.3 per cent of GDP.That’s one of the important data points contained in Global Trends in Forced Displacement 2022, which shows a record level of displacement, for the second year running, now standing at 108.4 million, UNHCR Director in New York, Ruven Menikdiwela told us.UN News’s Pauline Batista began by asking her to outline the key findings.

Kakhovka dam disaster a health crisis in the making: WHOMyanmar must re-instate aid access to communities hit by Cyclone Mocha, UN saysSenegal: stop crackdown on protests and freedom of expression: OHCHR

The environmental and economic consequences of the dam disaster that’s inundated parts of southern Ukraine, flooding what is one of the world’s breadbaskets, is going to an awful shock to the people of the country and the entire ‘Global South’, the UN relief chief has told UN News.In an interview on Friday night, Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths, said the world stands by Ukraine in the wake of this latest disaster stemming from the Russian invasion, but with agricultural land swamped, food security is bound to be hit.Nargiz Shekinskaya began by asking him in the wake of initial criticism from President Volodomyr Zelenskyy, if the UN could have acted sooner with aid, once disaster struck.

 One in every 10 children worldwide works instead of going to school: ILOUkraine Kakhovka dam humanitarian effort reaches 180,000 people despite inclement weatherUnited States decides to rejoin UN cultural agency