Category: Asia

29 March 2024Climate and Environment When the landfill in Osaki, in the southwest of Japan, reached capacity, an incinerator was the logical next step. Instead, the town decided to get serious about recycling. Ahead of International Zero Waste day, marked on 30 March, Kasumi Fujita, a town councillor committed to Osaki’s low waste policies, tells UN… Continue reading First Person: Japanese town leads the way to a low waste society

UN News spoke to Commissioner Aina Randriambelo, who described what efforts her country is making to promote gender equality and a better understanding of what constitutes sexual exploitation and abuse. Commissioner Aina Randriambelo, Madagascar’s Chief Inspector of Police. “I was really surprised when I heard that a 12-year-girl who had attended one of our school-based… Continue reading First Person: ‘Courageous’ 12-year-old reports relative after being raped in Madagascar

20 March 2024Human Rights The UN’s deputy human rights chief on Wednesday underscored the need to ensure accountability for ongoing serious violations in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), stressing that it would also benefit long-term peace and security across the region. In an oral update to the Human Rights Council – UN’s paramount… Continue reading Accountability essential to counter human rights abuse in DPR Korea

In February 2021 the military overthrew the elected Government in Myanmar arresting hundreds of officials, political leaders and activists, including President Win Myint and State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. The takeover triggered an intensification of armed conflicts with separatists and opposition forces across the country, including indiscriminate air strikes which have killed numerous civilians. There have… Continue reading UN rights expert urges global action to halt Myanmar junta atrocities

19 March 2024Human Rights The accelerated adoption of a national security bill in Hong Kong represents “a regressive step” for human rights there, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said on Tuesday.   “It is alarming that such consequential legislation was rushed through the legislature through an accelerated process, in spite of serious concerns raised… Continue reading Hong Kong: Rushed adoption of new security law a ‘regressive step’ – UN rights chief

Addressing the Human Rights Council in Geneva, the International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran – a group of Council-appointed independent experts – said that Ms. Amini’s death in September 2022 was “unlawful and caused by physical violence” for which the State is responsible. Chairperson Sara Hossain told the forum’s 47 Member States that after Ms. Amini’s death, young… Continue reading Iran: Repression continues two years after nationwide protests

28 February 2024Law and Crime Prevention A revival of Taliban-ordered public executions by gunfire taking place in sports stadiums in several cities in Afghanistan “must cease immediately”, the UN human rights office (OHCHR) said on Wednesday. “We are appalled by the public executions of three people at sports stadiums in Afghanistan in the past week,… Continue reading Afghanistan: UN appalled at revival of public floggings, executions

Describing the move as a further sign of the junta’s “weakness and desperation”, Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews called for stronger international action to protect vulnerable populations across the country. “While wounded and increasingly desperate, the Myanmar military junta remains extremely dangerous,” he said. “Troop losses and recruitment challenges have become existential threats for the junta,… Continue reading Myanmar: Mandatory conscription shows junta’s ‘desperation’, rights expert says

Police enforcement has increased harassment in public spaces and further limited women’s ability to leave their homes, according to testimony from 745 Afghan women participating in the latest survey by UN Women, International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UN’s Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). The insights follow recent reports of the arbitrary and severe enforcement… Continue reading Drastic erosion of women’s rights in Afghanistan continues

Global perspective Human stories Badshahi Mosque in Lahore in the Punjab province of Pakistan close to the border with India. 6 February 2024Human Rights UN Human Rights High Commissioner Volker Türk has urged authorities in Pakistan to ensure that parliamentary elections this week are free and fair, his office, OHCHR, said on Tuesday.  OHCHR denounced… Continue reading UN rights office voices concern ahead of elections in Pakistan

The incidents, which have surged since early January, are purportedly linked to violations of the Taliban’s stringent dress code for women. The Human Rights Council-appointed experts called on de facto authorities to comply with Afghanistan’s human rights obligations, including under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. The Taliban crackdown… Continue reading Afghanistan: Taliban’s crackdown on women over ‘bad hijab’ must end

24 January 2024Human Rights UN independent human rights experts on Wednesday urged the Government of Bangladesh to undertake key reforms to reverse “repressive trends” and restore dialogue. The Human Rights Council-appointed experts’ call follows on from the election victory of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina earlier this month, who secured a controversial fourth term with the… Continue reading Bangladesh: Citing ‘dangerous decline’ of human rights, experts urge key reforms

22 January 2024Human Rights Hundreds of Afghan women were forced to quit their jobs or have been arrested and denied access to essential services in the last quarter of 2023, a UN report revealed on Monday, as Taliban officials continue undermining their basic human rights. Among those whose working lives have been upended, de facto… Continue reading Restrictions on Afghan women continue unabated: UN report

22 January 2024Human Rights A group of independent UN human rights experts on Monday called on the authorities in Hong Kong to drop all charges against pro-democracy media entrepreneur Jimmy Lai and release him immediately. Mr. Lai is the founder of the campaigning pro-democracy Apple Daily newspaper, which was shut down in 2021 in the… Continue reading Hong Kong: UN human rights experts call for immediate release of Jimmy Lai

“At this particularly difficult moment in securing global peace and security, it is imperative to deescalate the situation on the Korean Peninsula so that it once again becomes an area for cooperation,” said Khaled Khiari, UN Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific. Mr. Khiari briefed the Council in the wake of… Continue reading DPR Korea urged to ‘embrace diplomacy’ after latest ballistic missile launch

12 December 2023Law and Crime Prevention Myanmar is now the world’s largest opium producer, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reported on Tuesday, as the economic and political crisis following the 2021 coup and widening conflict between the military and armed groups continues to drive farmers towards illicit opium poppy production. The southeast… Continue reading Myanmar overtakes Afghanistan as world’s top opium producer

21 November 2023Migrants and Refugees The UN International Organization for Migration (IOM) and humanitarian partners are providing critical aid at border crossing points between Pakistan and Afghanistan in the face of a surge in forced returns of Afghan nationals. According to IOM, in the past two months alone, nearly 375,000 Afghans left Pakistan, primarily utilizing… Continue reading Desperate Afghan returnees from Pakistan face uncertain future: IOM

6 November 2023Humanitarian Aid UN agencies in Nepal continue their response to the deadly earthquake that struck western parts of the country over the weekend, claiming 153 lives, injuring over 330 and forcing thousands to spend nights in the open amid freezing temperatures. According to agencies on the ground, more than 380 aftershocks have been… Continue reading Nepal quake: UN response continues, as aftershocks leave families traumatized

5 November 2023Law and Crime Prevention Opium poppy production in Afghanistan has plummeted since the de facto authorities imposed a drug ban last year, new UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) data reveals. According to the Afghanistan Opium Survey 2023, released by the agency on Sunday, the supply of opium declined by an estimated… Continue reading Opium cultivation declines by 95 per cent in Afghanistan: UN survey

4 November 2023Humanitarian Aid United Nations teams in Nepal are responding to the devastating earthquake in the west of the country, amid reports that over 150 people have been killed and hundreds more injured. The powerful 6.4M earthquake struck the remote and rural districts of Rukum (West) and Jajarkot shortly before midnight on Friday (local… Continue reading UN teams respond to deadly earthquake in western Nepal

Visceral leishmaniasis – a parasitic disease spread by sandflies – has been wiped out in Bangladesh, along with rubella in the Democratic Republic of Korea (more commonly known as North Korea) said WHO in a statement. Bangladesh has become the first country to be validated for the elimination of visceral leishmaniasis (also known as kala… Continue reading Bangladesh, Maldives, DPR Korea make ‘tremendous’ strides toward disease elimination

Water is crucial to rice farmers and when it is lacking, they tend to rely on groundwater. Globally, water taken from underground reservoirs supports 40 per cent of agriculture, but if groundwater levels fall, it becomes harder to reach over time. In Punjab known by some as India’s breadbasket, groundwater is being depleted faster than… Continue reading First Person: Farmers running out of water in Punjab, India

20 October 2023Humanitarian Aid Families in western Afghanistan, who have lost everything to a series of devastating earthquakes, need urgent assistance to withstand the harsh winter, the UN relief wing reported on Friday. Temperatures have already started to drop into single figures. With about two-thirds of the affected areas assessed, more than 21,500 homes are… Continue reading Afghanistan earthquakes: ‘Staggering’ health consequences

The experts were alarmed that hundreds of escapees – the vast majority of whom are women – have been sent back, despite repeated appeals by multiple international human rights bodies. Hundreds more reportedly are in detention awaiting the same fate. There are long-standing and credible reports that people returned to the DPRK, more commonly known… Continue reading China urged not to repatriate DPR Korea escapees

16 October 2023Humanitarian Aid A powerful earthquake struck western Afghanistan again on Sunday, making it the third to hit the impoverished region since 7 October, causing more suffering for families left with little to survive on as the hard winter approaches, UN agencies have reported. The latest, 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck areas northeast of Herat… Continue reading ‘A mountain of hardship’, as Afghanistan suffers yet another earthquake

13 October 2023Humanitarian Aid UN agencies are appealing for urgent funds to assist the hundreds of thousands affected by deadly earthquakes in western Afghanistan. The region was struck by two massive earthquakes on Saturday, followed a series of aftershocks, including a major one on Wednesday that flattened several homes spared by the original quake. Women… Continue reading Afghanistan: Agencies launch funding appeal for quake-hit families

12 October 2023Human Rights The United Nations premier human rights body on Thursday extended the mandate of the independent expert on the situation of human rights in Russia for a further year. The UN Human Rights Council also “strongly urged” Russian authorities to comply with all the State’s obligations under international human rights law. It… Continue reading UN rights body extends mandate of Special Rapporteur on Russia

11 October 2023Humanitarian Aid UN teams have stepped up their response after another strong earthquake struck western Afghanistan early on Wednesday, just days after powerful earthquakes killed over 2,000 people in the same region.   The 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck near the city of Herat at 5:10 AM (00:40 AM GMT) local time, injuring over… Continue reading UN teams ramp up aid after another earthquake strikes Afghanistan

Narges Mohammadi winner of the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize. 11 October 2023Human Rights UN independent human rights experts on Wednesday called for the immediate release of Narges Mohammadi, an imprisoned Iranian human rights activist who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her unwavering commitment to women’s rights in the country. Ms. Mohammadi has been… Continue reading Iran: Rights experts ‘dismayed’ over continued imprisonment of Nobel Laureate Mohammadi

10 October 2023Humanitarian Aid Nearly 500 people are still missing from the worst-affected area of a 6.3 magnitude earthquake that rocked Herat province in western Afghanistan on Saturday, UN aid coordinators said on Tuesday.  At the epicentre of the earthquake in Zindajan district, the UN aid coordination office (OCHA) recorded nearly 1,300 deaths and 1,700 injuries. In some… Continue reading 500 still missing following Afghanistan earthquake, say UN aid teams

Ahead of the International Day of the Girl Child, marked annually on 11 October, Asa Torkelsson, the Fund’s Country Director in Thailand, spoke to UN News and explained how the UN is supporting access to sexual and reproductive health, especially for young people. UN News: How widespread is teen pregnancy in Thailand? Asa Torkelsson: The Thai… Continue reading INTERVIEW: Reducing teen pregnancy in Thailand

9 October 2023Human Rights A UN independent human rights expert on Monday called for urgent structural reforms in Cambodia following the “restricted” general elections earlier this year. Vitit Muntarbhorn, UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Cambodia, also said that the hereditary succession to power raised serious concerns with respect to human… Continue reading UN rights expert urges key reforms in Cambodia

8 October 2023Humanitarian Aid The death toll from the major earthquake that pummelled western Afghanistan soared to more than 2,000 overnight as rescue operations continued to fan out over affected villages, UN agencies said on Sunday. “The United Nations and our partners in Afghanistan are coordinating with the de facto authorities to swiftly assess needs… Continue reading Afghanistan: Aid efforts rapidly expand as post-quake death toll rises

7 October 2023Humanitarian Aid A major earthquake struck Herat, Afghanistan early Saturday killing at least 100 people and triggering a spate of rescue and assessment missions by UN agencies, partners, and the de facto authorities. Initial assessments indicate that the 6.3 magnitude quake caused deaths across eight villages, with a further 500 people injured, according… Continue reading Earthquake kills at least 100 in Herat, Afghanistan

5 October 2023Humanitarian Aid UN teams on the ground in Armenia are providing vital support to help address the needs of over 100,000 refugees who recently fled the Karabakh region. The UN Refugee Agency, UNHCR, has continued its aid efforts by distributing essential relief items.   UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said a shipment of 180… Continue reading Karabakh crisis: UN response continues

In a statement issued following Sunday’s mission led by the UN’s Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, together with other senior agency officials, they heard and saw for themselves that in the city of Khankendi at least, there were no signs of damage to public buildings. “The mission was struck by the sudden manner in which the… Continue reading UN Karabakh mission told ‘sudden’ exodus means as few as 50 ethnic Armenians may remain

1 October 2023Humanitarian Aid UN World Health Organization (WHO) teams in Goris, Armenia, are tirelessly working to assist not only the vast numbers of refugees fleeing the Karabakh region but also to provide urgent medical support to individuals grappling with severe burn injuries resulting from a massive fuel depot explosion that occurred last week amidst… Continue reading UN teams support burn victims amidst Karabakh crisis

29 September 2023Human Rights The UN human rights office (OHCHR) on Friday expressed grave concern at the spate of recent arrests and convictions of human rights defenders pushing for clean energy reforms in Viet Nam. On Thursday, Hoang Thi Minh Hong, an acclaimed climate activist and former World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) employee, was… Continue reading Viet Nam: UN rights office condemns crackdown on climate activists

To that end, representation of developing countries that make up the absolute majority of United Nations, must be expanded and strengthened, said Kim Song, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of DPRK to the UN. “The issue to be addressed before anything else in the UN activities is to ensure that the Security Council is not allowed… Continue reading Security Council’s ‘west-led irrational structure’ must be reformed, DPRK tells UN

“Each day, the people of Myanmar are enduring horrifying attacks, flagrant human rights violations and the crumbling of their livelihoods and hopes,” said Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. He was briefing the Human Rights Council – the UN’s primary body for the protection and promotion of rights globally, including findings since his… Continue reading Myanmar: ‘Inhumanity in its vilest form’ continues, warns Türk

Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs, said “we often advocate the promotion of a rules-based order. From time to time, respect for the UN Charter is also invoked.” “But for all the talk, there are still a few nations who shape the agenda and seek to define the norms. This cannot go on indefinitely. Nor… Continue reading More than just a few countries should set the agenda, Indian Minister says at UN

Sheikh Hasina said that achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in developing countries has been greatly impeded by lingering impacts of the pandemic, the effects of an existential climate crisis, and the wide ramifications of the war in Ukraine affecting global food, financial, and energy securities have greatly impeded the. Looking ahead to next year’s… Continue reading Shun path of confrontation and work together for the SDGs, urges Bangladesh leader

Addressing the Assembly’s annual general debate, Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, said, “the world cannot afford Cold War 2.0,” because there are a raft of challenges facing humankind that can only be addressed through global cooperation. Multiple shocks Indeed, a series of external “shocks” – COVID-19, climate change and conflict – have devastated developing economies, reversed decades of… Continue reading ‘The world cannot afford Cold War 2.0,’ Pakistan leader tells UN Assembly

“China is firm in supporting the international system with the UN at its core,” and opposes hegemony, power politics, unilateralism, and a Cold War mentality, Han Zheng reiterated. He stressed that China “will never practise hegemony,” and that “a small number of countries have arbitrarily imposed illegal and unilateral sanctions,” severely undermining the harmony and… Continue reading Strong multilateralism key to international cooperation, says China’s Vice-President

21 September 2023UN Affairs Addressing the UN General Assembly on Thursday, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, Prime Minister of Nepal emphasized the importance of collective action in tackling global challenges through peaceful means and diplomatic dialogue. He highlighted Nepal’s unique position as regards climate change, saying that even with low emissions, vast forested areas that help preserve… Continue reading At UN Assembly, Nepali Prime Minister urges focus on common goals

Addressing the UN General Assembly on Thursday, Presidents of Kiribati, Timor-Leste, Micronesia and Nauru called for accelerated climate action, urging major emitters worldwide to commit to substantial reductions in emissions by 2030. These nations, while contributing negligibly to global emissions, highlighted bold ambitions to curb their own carbon footprints, exemplified by Micronesia’s pledge to reduce… Continue reading At UN, Pacific Island leaders sound alarm on climate crisis, call for urgent action

Peace remains elusive despite compromises by the Yemeni government and welcome support from Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Oman, as well as the UN, to end years of strife in the country, President Rashad Mohammed Al-Alimi told the high-level debate at the UN General Assembly. “We hope that the Houthi militias will recognize a… Continue reading Yemen’s leader says peace is possible, but flow of arms and resources to Houthi militias must stop

In his address to the UN General Assembly’s annual debate, President Yoon referred to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to the DPRK and underscored that any deal struck between those two countries will “threaten the peace and security of not only Ukraine, but also the Republic of Korea.”  It is paradoxical, he said, that Russia,… Continue reading Republic of Korea: Russia providing weapons tech to DPRK ‘will be a direct provocation’

19 September 2023UN Affairs The Prime Minister of Japan said on Tuesday that he is open to meeting President Kim Jong-Un of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) at any time and without any conditions “to open up a new era together” between the countries.  Addressing the General Assembly’s annual high-level debate Fumio Kishida… Continue reading Reforms vital to build confidence, Japanese leader tells UN Assembly

Twenty-two-year-old Jina Mahsa Amini was arrested and forced into a van by Iran’s so called “morality police” in the capital Tehran on 13 September last year. Authorities alleged she was not in conformity with the country’s strict laws on mandatory veiling. She died on 16 September reportedly after suffering a heart attack. Her family, however,… Continue reading Iran: Harassment, reprisals continue for Mahsa Amini’s family

Gita Sabharwal spoke to UN News ahead of the SDG Summit 2023 which gets underway at UN Headquarters in New York on 18 September. The summit marks the beginning of a new phase of accelerated progress towards the achieving the SDGs by 2030.   “Whenever I meet the young people of Thailand, I always encourage them… Continue reading ‘Robust progress’ towards SDGs in Thailand: A UN Resident Coordinator blog

“Human rights in Afghanistan are in a state of collapse,” he told the Human Rights Council, before sounding the alarm over ongoing reports of extrajudicial killings, torture and ill-treatment and arbitrary arrests and detentions, as well as serious violations against former Government officials, as documented in a new human rights office (OHCHR) report. “Compounding all of this… Continue reading Afghanistan: Human rights ‘in a state of collapse’, warns Türk

11 September 2023Human Rights Political and democratic reforms have not materialized in Sri Lanka despite popular protests last year calling for change, the UN’s deputy human rights chief told the Human Rights Council on Monday. Addressing the forum in Geneva, Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, Nada-Al Nashif also urged the Sri Lankan authorities to accelerate… Continue reading Sri Lanka urged to conduct probe into 2019 attack

António Guterres was speaking in Jakarta, Indonesia, at the opening of ASEAN-United Nations Summit, addressing Member States of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and declaring “our partnership is more important than ever.” Tests ‘as far as eye can see’ The international community faces tests “as far as the eye can see – from the… Continue reading UN chief hails SE Asia for vital role ‘building bridges of understanding’

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, stressed the urgency of addressing these challenges if the country is to move forward, recalling the 2022 anti-Government protests demanding a fairer and more inclusive society. “But the potential for a historic transformation that would address long-standing challenges is far from being realized.” The UN rights chief’s… Continue reading Accountability key to Sri Lanka’s future: UN rights chief

5 September 2023Humanitarian Aid Food assistance to two million people in Afghanistan will have to be cut later this month, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) said on Tuesday.  Forced to take the drastic measures citing a “massive funding shortfall”, WFP will only be able to provide emergency assistance to three million people per month across the… Continue reading Afghanistan: WFP forced to cut food aid for 2 million more

OHCHR said that at least 120,000 people across Myanmar and another 100,000 in Cambodia may be held in situations where they are forced to execute lucrative online scams – from illegal gambling to crypto fraud. Other States including Lao PDR, the Philippines and Thailand have also been identified as main countries of destination or transit.… Continue reading Hundreds of thousands trafficked into online criminality across SE Asia

When the parents of an injured five-year-old boy told Dr. Fai’zah A. Salim that he fell off a ladder, she was not convinced and suspected otherwise. Trained by UNFPA in the Central Sulawesi capital city of Palu to identify both physical and psychological signs of domestic violence, she referred the boy to a social counsellor.… Continue reading Indonesian doctors act on tell-tale signs of family violence

24 August 2023Humanitarian Aid Millions of children in Pakistan remain dependent on humanitarian assistance as recovery and rehabilitation efforts from last year’s catastrophic floods lack sufficient funding, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warned on Friday. Speaking one year on from the unprecedented disaster, Abdullah Fadil, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan, noted new challenges for about four… Continue reading Pakistan: Flood waters have gone but horror continues for children, UNICEF warns

Friday, 25 August, marks the sixth anniversary of the start of a massive offensive by Myanmar’s military against the mainly Muslim minority in Rakhine state. Some 10,000 Rohingya men, women, children and newborns were killed, more than 300 villages burnt to the ground, and over 700,000 forced to flee to Bangladesh in search of safety,… Continue reading Six years on, still no justice for Myanmar’s Rohingya

This week marks six years since over 700,000 mostly-Muslim Rohingya men, women, and children joined the hundreds of thousands of others already sheltering in Bangladesh, following a brutal crackdown by security forces in Myanmar. As humanitarian conditions in the world’s largest refugee settlement worsen, however, the challenges surrounding this protracted crisis continue to increase.  Funds… Continue reading Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh need urgent support as crises multiply: UNHCR

Mary Lawlor, UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders. 21 August 2023Human Rights An independent UN human rights expert has called for India to release an activist imprisoned since 2017, expressing concern over his persistent detention and deteriorating health.  GN Saibaba, a former English professor at Delhi University, was arrested in 2014… Continue reading Rights expert urges India to release detained activist

Afghanistan continues to face a humanitarian crisis brought on by decades of instability, exacerbated by severe drought and natural disasters.  As a result, millions are living with poor or no access to healthcare and food, putting them at severe risk of malnutrition and disease outbreaks. WHO added that the vulnerability of women and girls has further… Continue reading WHO calls for greater investment in Afghanistan’s health system

15 August 2023Women The head of the UN agency that champions gender equality on Tuesday urged the international community  to continue pressing for change in Afghanistan, accusing the Taliban of imposing “the most comprehensive, systematic, and unparalleled assault on the rights of women and girls” across the country.     Sima Bahous, Executive Director of UN Women,… Continue reading Keep pressuring Afghanistan amid ‘unparalleled assault’ on women’s rights

The outbreak, which escalated rapidly since late June, has seen a total of 69,483 confirmed cases and 327 related deaths between 1 January and 7 August, with a case fatality rate of 0.47 per cent, according to the UN health agency. The cases were reported from all 64 districts in the country. In July alone,… Continue reading WHO urges swift action as dengue cases surge in Bangladesh

A young mother sits on a low wooden stool above burning embers from a piece of bark placed in a small earthenware pot. A bright purple and white cloth covers her legs and keeps the smoke from escaping. This is part of a lower-body treatment process for mothers who have given birth as teenagers. She… Continue reading International Youth Day: Battling the stigmatization of teen pregnancy in Thailand

The experts sounded the alarm on the lack of information provided by Chinese authorities – deeming it a deliberate attempt to “make the world forget” about the individuals who are spending year after year in isolation.  Between 2010 and 2019, nine environmental human rights defenders were arrested and imprisoned after they protested against allegedly illegal mining activities and hunting of… Continue reading China: UN experts demand information on nine imprisoned human rights defenders

Mr. Tendulkar was on a visit to Sri Lanka, where met with and advocated for children and their families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2022 economic crisis, which left millions in need of assistance. As the country moves towards recovery, prices remain high for essential items and schooling, leaving families with the difficult… Continue reading ‘Master Blaster’ Sachin Tendulkar bats for children’s education, nutrition

These include indiscriminate attacks on civilians from aerial bombing, mass executions of civilians and detained combatants, and large-scale and intentional burning of civilian homes and buildings, resulting in the destruction of entire villages in some cases, the Mechanism said in a news release. “Every loss of life in Myanmar is tragic, but the devastation caused… Continue reading ‘Increasingly brazen’ war crimes evident in Myanmar, reports Independent Mechanism

2 August 2023Human Rights The lead-up to, and the results of, the recent elections in Cambodia are “extremely disconcerting”, UN human rights experts said on Wednesday, adding that the credibility of the entire electoral process was affected. Cambodians went to the polls on 23 July, amid shrinking civic and political space, including a ban on… Continue reading Cambodia: National elections ‘extremely disconcerting’, say human rights experts

26 July 2023Human Rights The UN human rights chief on Wednesday lamented the severe electoral clampdown by the Cambodian Government during the weekend vote, including restrictions on opposition parties, NGOs and media. In a news release issued by his Office, Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, denounced “constant shrinkage” in Cambodia’s democratic space… Continue reading Cambodia: UN rights chief regrets ‘severely restricted’ poll and opposition clampdown

Unintended teenage pregnancies are significant among poorer parts of the north of the country, where accessibility to service and information is harder to reach than elsewhere, and there is anecdotal evidence in some schools showing an increase during the COVID-19 pandemic. Palang Jo, or Youth’s Power, is an NGO based in Phrae in northern Thailand whose… Continue reading INTERVIEW: Supporting comprehensive sexuality education in Thailand

Ahead of World Population Day, marked annually on 11 July, Chompunuch Maneechat, known as Baitoey, spoke with UN News about the importance of young people seizing every opportunity to improve themselves and contribute to society with meaningful work. “I left school in my hometown, Phrae, when I was 15 years old as I preferred going out… Continue reading First Person: Thai teenage drop-out turns peer educator

2 July 2023Law and Crime Prevention A police trainer in Thailand has told UN News about her “inspiration, passion, and strength” for teaching police cadets how to tackle the illicit trafficking of drugs and other contraband through her country and onwards through Southeast Asia. The trainee police officers are part of a network of law… Continue reading First Person: A Thai police trainer’s ‘passion’ for fighting the SE Asia drug trade

The effort is centred on the Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet and from where illicit items including drugs are trafficked to lucrative markets across Southeast Asia. UN News spoke with Jeremy Douglas, the Regional Representative of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for Southeast Asia and the… Continue reading INTERVIEW: Policing one of the world’s ‘biggest drug trafficking corridors’

Afghanistan, one of the world’s largest producers of heroin and methamphetamine – most of it smuggled abroad – is home to nearly 4 million drugs users, according to the UN. The worsening crisis has left most of the country’s drug treatment and rehabilitation centers struggling to cope. A walk through what is considered in Kabul… Continue reading A knowledge-based approach to tackling Afghanistan’s drug abuse crisis

“I first started taking drugs when I was 15,” says 49-year-old Prapat Sukkeaw. “I smoked marijuana, but it was laced with heroin. I felt like I was floating, and it meant that I could forget about all the problems that I faced as a teenager. It was a beautiful feeling.” Prapat Sukkeaw is one of… Continue reading Thailand: Moving from punishment to treatment of people who use drugs

“The overall human rights situation in the Islamic Republic of Iran has markedly deteriorated against the backdrop of continuously worsening socio-economic conditions, aggravated by sanctions and the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Nada Al-Nashif, UN deputy human rights chief, presenting the report to the Human Rights Council in Geneva. The report focuses on developments… Continue reading Record executions, large-scale arrests and detentions: New Iran human rights report

19 June 2023Human Rights The plight of women and girls in Afghanistan featured prominently at the Human Rights Council on Monday where independent UN-appointed rights experts warned of systematic “gender apartheid” and “gender persecution”. Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, expressed similar concerns on the opening day of the Council’s summer session, adding… Continue reading Afghanistan: Taliban ‘may be responsible for gender apartheid’ says rights expert

The agency has been working with village security units in communities in Thailand as part of its border management programme. UNODC says that the supply of synthetic drugs through the region “remains at extreme levels.” UN News spoke to UNODC’s Regional Representative, Jeremy Douglas, and Eakkachai Suphan, a village security volunteer in the village of… Continue reading INTERVIEW: Tackling transnational trafficking in Southeast Asia from the grass roots up

Some 1.6 million people in Rakhine, Chin, Magway, Sagaing, and Kachin states are in dire need of assistance after Mocha’s 250 kilometre per hour wind gusts destroyed homes, farmland and livestock. Speaking from hard-hit Rakhine State capital Sittwe, UN Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in Myanmar, Titon Mitra, said that time was of the essence as food reserves… Continue reading Time running out to save Myanmar’s Rakhine from hunger and disease post-Cyclone Mocha

A Thai Navy launch travels at high speed down the muddy brown waters of the Mekong River close to the border town of Chiang Saen in the north of Thailand. To the right is Laos, where huge construction projects funded by foreign investment are rising out of the lush undergrowth along the riverbank and ahead… Continue reading Huge increase in transnational crime and synthetic drugs in SE Asia requires cross-border cooperation

The Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran, said in a statement that the executions on Friday of Majid Kazemi, Saleh Mirhashemi and Saeed Yaghoubi, were “profoundly concerning in view of the reported involvement of these individuals in the protests that commenced in Iran on 16 September 2022, and allegations of their having been convicted and sentenced through confessions obtained under torture.”… Continue reading UN rights experts ‘deeply alarmed’ at continuing executions of Iran protesters

18 May 2023Humanitarian Aid Roughly 90 per cent of the population in Afghanistan is on the brink of poverty “and children bear the brunt of it,” the Representative of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in the country, Fran Equiza, told journalists in New York on Thursday.  “Because, in what is a deeply troubled country –… Continue reading Children bearing the brunt of Afghanistan crisis: UNICEF

With coastal winds recorded at up to 250 kilometers per hour making landfall off the Bay of Bengal, the storm tore through villages in Myanmar’s Rakhine state, leaving villagers to piece together their ruined homes while they wait for aid and support. According to news reports, Mocha ripped off roofs, smashed fishing boats, uprooted trees… Continue reading Dozens feared dead in Myanmar as Cyclone Mocha creates ‘nightmare scenario’

OCHA said that communities there had spent the day cleaning up, and counting the cost of the storm, categorized as Extremely Severe, when it smashed into Myanmar’s western states and regions on Sunday, with guests as strong as 250km per hour – continuing to lash some areas the day after, with heavy rain. Authorities and humanitarian aid… Continue reading Cyclone Mocha leaves ‘trail of devastation’ in Myanmar

The very severe cyclonic storm is quickly strengthening in the Bay of Bengal, threatening the region with violent winds, flooding, and landslides that could potentially affect hundreds of thousands of the world’s most vulnerable people, said Clare Nullis, of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The agency’s regional specialized meteorological centre in New Delhi forecast that… Continue reading UN agencies brace for disaster as Cyclone Mocha intensifies in Bay of Bengal

11 May 2023Human Rights “Brutal and undignified” forms of punishment in Afghanistan and the use of capital punishment coupled with a lack of fair trial guarantees, violate international law and must stop immediately, a group of UN-appointed independent human rights experts said on Thursday. The urgent call from the ten Special Rapporteurs and members of… Continue reading Afghanistan: Rights experts alarmed over Taliban use of ‘brutal’ punishments

9 May 2023Human Rights The “frightening” number of executions carried out this year in Iran prompted the UN human rights chief Volker Türk on Tuesday, to call on the country’s authorities to abolish the death penalty or halt all executions. More than 10 people are put to death each week in Iran, High Commissioner Türk… Continue reading Iran: Over 200 executed since January; Türk calls for end to death penalty

8 May 2023Human Rights The use of corporal punishment by the de facto authorities in Afghanistan runs counter to international law and must stop, the UN Assistance Mission in the country (UNAMA), said on Monday. “Corporal punishment is a violation of the Convention against Torture and must cease,” said UNAMA’s human rights chief Fiona Frazer,… Continue reading UN calls on Taliban to end corporal punishment in Afghanistan

Secretary-General António Guterres was speaking to reporters in Doha, Qatar, after convening an international meeting of Special Envoys on Afghanistan. He said they had agreed on the need for a “strategy of engagement” with the Taliban, to help the country’s most vulnerable people. No question of Taliban recognition Mr. Guterres made clear that the gathering had not focussed… Continue reading Afghanistan: Guterres says women worker ban ‘unacceptable and puts lives in jeopardy’

28 April 2023Human Rights Experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council on Friday called for Singapore to impose an immediate moratorium on capital punishment, denouncing the Government’s continued use of the death penalty for drug-related crimes.  They strongly condemned the execution this week of Tangaraju s/o Suppiah, who was convicted of conspiring to traffic… Continue reading Singapore: Rights experts call for moratorium on the death penalty

27 April 2023Women In a landmark resolution, the UN Security Council on Thursday condemned the de facto rulers of Afghanistan’s decision to ban women nationals from working for the United Nations, calling for Taliban leaders to “swiftly reverse” their decision. The resolution passed unanimously by the 15-member body in New York, calls for the “full, equal,… Continue reading Afghanistan: Security Council condemns Taliban’s ban on women working for UN

27 April 2023Human Rights So-called “labour transfer” and “vocational training” programmes in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, threaten Tibetan cultural identity and could lead to forced labour conditions, UN independent human rights experts warned on Thursday.   “Hundreds of thousands of Tibetans have reportedly been ‘transferred’ from their traditional rural lives to low-skilled and low-paid… Continue reading China: ‘Vocational training’ programmes for Tibetans carry risk of forced labour

22 April 2023Human Rights On Mother Earth Day, marked annually on 22 April, Naw Ei Ei Min, a member of Myanmar’s indigenous Karen people, explains why indigenous peoples have an important role to play, in protecting the environment and addressing the climate crisis. “For indigenous peoples, the land, the forest, water, is life. We depend… Continue reading First Person: Why indigenous peoples can help save the planet

An OCHA woman staff member meets displaced women in eastern Afghanistan 11 April 2023UN Affairs The UN has launched an operational review in Afghanistan, and told national staff to remain at home, following the decision by the Taliban de facto authorities to ban Afghan women from working with the Organization.  “UN national personnel – women… Continue reading Afghanistan: UN forced to make ‘appalling choice’ following ban on women nationals

Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov, UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Afghanistan, said that amid severe underfunding, the move would “further undermine humanitarian partners’ ability to support the population, especially the most vulnerable such as women and girls”. “The world cannot abandon the people of Afghanistan at this precarious moment,” Dr. Alakbarov insisted, before urging the international community “not… Continue reading ‘The world cannot abandon the people’: Top humanitarian official in Afghanistan

In statements on Wednesday, Secretary-General António Guterres was joined by deputy chief Amina Mohammed, in describing the latest escalation of the de facto authorities’ suppression of women, as a violation of their inalienable fundamental human rights. “It also violates Afghanistan’s obligations under international human rights law, and infringes on the principle of non-discrimination, which is a core tenet… Continue reading Top officials strongly condemn Taliban ban on Afghan women working for UN

4 April 2023Women Taliban authorities in Afghanistan have issued an order banning women nationals who are UN staff members from continuing to work, the UN spokesperson said on Tuesday. “Our colleagues on the ground at the UN mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) received word of an order by the de facto authorities that bans female national… Continue reading Taliban order bars women from working with UN

29 March 2023Human Rights The de facto Taliban authorities in Afghanistan must immediately release activists detained for advocating for girls’ and women’s rights, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said on Wednesday, expressing alarm over ongoing arrests.  Since the beginning of the year, several civil society activists and journalists have been detained for speaking out… Continue reading Afghanistan: OHCHR alarm over arrests of activists speaking up for women and girls

A new report by the UN human rights office (OHCHR) details enforced disappearances and abductions dating back to 1950. Heart-breaking testimony from some 80 victims shows how the crimes have caused long-lasting trauma, said UN rights chief Türk, who added that “entire generations of families have lived with the grief of not knowing the fate of… Continue reading DPR Korea: Truth, justice needed amid ‘tragic’ legacy of enforced disappearances

Her appeal follows the latest arrest of prominent rights defender Khurram Parvez, who has been in detention for more than a year on charges related to conspiracy and terrorism.   “Indian authorities appear to be intensifying the long-standing repression of Kashmiri civil society,” Ms. Lawlor said.  “The State must respect its human rights obligations and be… Continue reading Rights expert urges India to stop crackdown on Kashmir activists

UN Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia, and the Americas Miroslav Jenča told the Council that the Korean Peninsula must be “an area for cooperation” and not for escalating tensions. In this regard, the Security Council’s unity is “essential” to ease tensions and overcome the diplomatic impasse. Drill simulates ‘nuclear counterattack’ DPRK has conducted 14… Continue reading Spate of missile launches triggers call for unity on Korean Peninsula

Food rations for vulnerable families in Afghanistan are to be cut by the World Food Programme. 17 March 2023Humanitarian Aid The UN food agency in Afghanistan announced on Friday that a lack of funds has forced deep cuts to life-saving assistance in March for at least four million people. The World Food Programme (WFP) appealed… Continue reading Funding drought forces UN food agency to cut rations in Afghanistan

Now in its third year, Noeleen Heyzer said that “the impact of the military takeover on the country and its people, has been devasting.” She thanked Member States for renewing the resolution for the continuation of her mandate and support for an “all-stakeholder approach in promoting a Myanmar-led process, reflective of the will of the… Continue reading More than two years on, impact of Myanmar military coup ‘devastating’

In an appeal to internet chat platforms to monitor content more carefully and allocate sufficient resources to do so, the rights experts warned that Telegram in particular had become “a hotbed of pro-military activity”. ‘Violent and misogynistic’ Tens of thousands of followers had been drawn to the junta’s “violent and misogynistic content”, warned the rights… Continue reading Myanmar: Social media companies urged to stand up to junta

9 March 2023Humanitarian Aid UN humanitarian coordinators have deployed to Vanuatu to help with the aid response, a week since back-to-back tropical cyclones and a 6.5 magnitude earthquake hit the Pacific island nation. According to the Vanuatu National Disaster Management Office, more than 250,000 people have been affected, which is almost 80 per cent of the… Continue reading Vanuatu emergency: UN supports aid effort after cyclones, earthquake

Roza Isakovna Otunbayeva, UN Special Representative and head of the UN’s Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, UNAMA, strongly condemned recent Taliban decrees that have further eroded the rights of Afghan women. However, she also urged the international community to preserve “whatever political space exists” for frank discussions with Afghanistan’s leaders, warning of rapidly deteriorating humanitarian and… Continue reading Afghanistan now ‘most repressive country’ for women, Security Council hears

The Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) called for the authorities to provide full reparation and an official apology to the survivors, who have suffered decades of physical, psychological and other consequences.  ‘Symbolic’ victory  “This is a symbolic moment of victory for these victims who were previously silenced, ignored, written off and… Continue reading Philippines urged to compensate women survivors of wartime rape by Japanese soldiers

7 March 2023Humanitarian Aid Six months after the devastating floods in Pakistan, humanitarians have reached more than seven million people with food and other essential services, the United Nations has reported.  The unprecedented flooding, triggered by severe monsoon rains, submerged a third of the country and resulted in some 1,700 deaths.  Millions displaced, infrastructure damaged … Continue reading UN continues to support Pakistan flood response

Like many women in Tajikistan, Shermatova Marjona has experienced gender-based violence. Ms. Shermatova met her husband while she was working abroad as a cleaner in Moscow, Russia. It wasn’t long before they were married, and he persuaded her to send all the money she earned to her father-in-law in Tajikistan, who was to use the… Continue reading ‘Mum does not cry or scream anymore’: Breaking the silence of domestic abuse in Tajikistan

“Hope is rare now in Myanmar,” said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) Volker Türk said, calling for robust support for its citizens under fire. “The disregard and contempt for human life and human rights that are continuously demonstrated by the military, constitute an outrage to the conscience of humanity,” he said. The latest… Continue reading ‘Hope is rare now in Myanmar’, UN Human Rights Council hears

The Mandalika project includes parks, resorts, hotels and a motorcycle racetrack hosting international sporting events. It is located on Lombok island, in impoverished West Nusa Tenggara Province.  The experts said they have received alarming accounts of alleged human rights violations committed by police and military forces, including excessive use of force to evict and restrict… Continue reading Rights experts concerned over intimidation around mega tourism project in Indonesia

The development follows the UN World Food Programme (WFP)’s announcement that it would be cutting back on assistance to those sheltering in the vast Cox’s Bazar camp complex from 1 March because of a lack of funding. “These rations cuts are a stain on the conscience of the international community,” said Tom Andrews, UN Special Rapporteur on Myanmar. “I have… Continue reading Food rationing for Rohingya refugees a ‘matter of life and death’: rights expert

Ramiz Alakbarov, UN Deputy Special Representative and Humanitarian Coordinator for Afghanistan, updated journalists in New York on developments in a country where 28 million people now depend on aid to survive.  Immense humanitarian needs  “Afghanistan remains the world’s largest humanitarian crisis in 2023, notwithstanding, of course, the recent devastating earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria,” he… Continue reading Afghanistan still a grave humanitarian crisis, senior aid official says

These are the first cases of avian influenza, known as H5N1, reported in Cambodia since a widespread outbreak in 2014, the World Health Organization (WHO) said. The infection, which largely affects animals, has a 50 per cent mortality rate in humans. “The global H5N1 situation is worrying given the wide spread of the virus in… Continue reading Avian flu reappears in Cambodia, UN health agency warns

“We are very disturbed that in recent years the residential school system for Tibetan children appears to act as a mandatory large-scale programme intended to assimilate Tibetans into majority Han culture, contrary to international human rights standards,” they said in a statement.  Erosion of identity  Residential schools provide educational content and an environment centred around… Continue reading China: Tibetan children forced to assimilate, independent rights experts fear

Representing the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC), they stressed that the world’s largest humanitarian operation – supporting some 28 million people in Afghanistan – simply cannot function without women staff.  The officials reported on their mission to the country last week, in the wake of the edict prohibiting Afghan women from working with local and international… Continue reading Afghanistan: Humanitarians await guidelines on women’s role in aid operations

5 April 2021Humanitarian Aid United Nations agencies in Timor-Leste are supporting response efforts, as floods and landslides left widespread damage across the country, including in the capital, Dili.   According to preliminary official figures, 21 people are reported to have died and about 2,065 households – approximately 10,325 people – affected across Timor-Leste. About 76… Continue reading UN steps up response, as thousands impacted by Timor-Leste floods

More than three decades of armed conflict has left Afghanistan with a sorry legacy of mines and other explosive remnants of war contaminating much of the the country. Since 1989, the Mine Action Programme of Afghanistan (MAPA) has been working to clear this dangerous material but, with conflict still ongoing, some 120 civilian mine-related casualties… Continue reading First Person: The Afghan woman putting her life at risk to rid her home of mines

2 April 2021Peace and Security Senior United Nations officials on Thursday strongly condemned the ongoing violence by Myanmar’s security forces against civilians, including children, as the members of the Security Council expressed alarm at the rapidly deteriorating situation in the country.  Hundreds of civilians, including at least 44 children (as of 31 March) have been… Continue reading Stop ‘widespread violence’ against children in Myanmar, UN officials urge

In addition to the political strife across the country, renewed fighting between Myanmar’s military and ethnic armed organizations in some border areas, including airstrikes in Kayin province, are driving people to flee within the country and across borders.  Gillian Triggs, Assistant High Commissioner for Protection at UNHCR, said in a press note that “it is… Continue reading Protect all those fleeing Myanmar, UN offices urge countries in the region

The blaze destroyed about 9,500 shelters and also reduced to ashes over 1,600 vital facilities, including hospitals, schools, and food and aid distribution centres. As of Tuesday, at least 11 people are confirmed to have perished in the fire and over 300 are still missing.   Richard Ragan, UN World Food Programme (WFP) Country Director… Continue reading UN agencies ramp up response for Rohingya refugees in wake of ‘unprecedented’ fire

31 March 2021Human Rights UN rights experts, on Wednesday, raised alarm over forced evictions of locals and indigenous peoples, and threats against human rights defenders, to make way for a $3 billion tourism project on the Indonesian island of Lombok. In a joint statement led by Olivier De Schutter, UN Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty… Continue reading Indonesia: UN experts denounce mega tourism project that ‘tramples on human rights’

As the world watches in horror as Myanmar’s military continues to defy calls, including by UN Security Council, to end fundamental human rights violations and “return to the path of democracy”, she told a closed session of the Council that more than 520 people have been killed since the coup began, adding that “the urgency… Continue reading Myanmar: ‘Significant action’ needed by Security Council to prevent ‘bloodbath’ 

Following another day of widespread bloodshed by the Myanmar military, Alice Wairimu Nderitu, Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide, and Michelle Bachelet, High Commissioner for Human Rights, strongly condemned the Myanmar military’s widespread, lethal, increasingly systematic attacks against peaceful protesters, as well as other serious violations of human rights since it seized power on… Continue reading Myanmar: Top UN officials condemn military’s ‘shameful, cowardly’ attacks on peaceful protesters 

27 March 2021Climate and Environment The UN  is scaling up its efforts to help Nepal, which faces numerous natural threats, to become more resilient, minimize human casualties and preserve livelihoods. Nepal is susceptible to flooding during the monsoon season., by UNDP Nepal Floods, landslides and wildfires are regularly occurring threats in Nepal, and the climate crisis is… Continue reading FROM THE FIELD: Preparing for disaster in Nepal

27 March 2021Peace and Security The UN chief condemned in the strongest terms, the killing of dozens of civilians, including children and young people, by security forces in Myanmar on Saturday.  In a statement issued by Deputy Spokesman Farhan Haq, Secretary-General António Guterres said, “the continuing military crackdown…is unacceptable and demands a firm, unified and… Continue reading Myanmar: UN chief condemns killing of civilians during brutal crackdown on protestors

27 March 2021Health India shipped out 200,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines on Saturday to inoculate UN blue helmets serving in peacekeeping missions. The donated AstraZeneca vaccines left Mumbai for the Danish capital of Copenhagen, where they will be safely stored and distributed to UN peacekeepers serving in various missions.    Lauding India as “a longstanding… Continue reading India donates 200,000 vaccines to protect UN blue helmets against COVID

26 March 2021Peace and Security The military in Myanmar has turned on citizens and is putting the nation’s future at risk, the UN Special Envoy for the country warned on Friday in a statement issued on the eve of the annual celebration of Armed Forces Day.  Christine Schraner Burgener underscored her commitment to efforts to… Continue reading Myanmar army putting country’s future at risk, UN Special Envoy warns

“It was the morning of a normal working day before fighting escalated close to the hospital. I heard a mother screaming at the gate”, midwife Shrook Khalid Saeed told UNFPA, at the Al Shaab Hospital in the district of Crater, in Yemen. By the time she arrived at the entrance to the hospital, hostilities in… Continue reading Motherhood on the brink in Yemen

In a statement on Thursday, Tom Andrews warned that the “pace and scope” of the international response to the military coup in the southeast Asian nation “is falling short of what is required to head off a deepening crisis”.  “Conditions in Myanmar are deteriorating … but they will likely get much worse without an immediate… Continue reading Myanmar: UN expert calls for emergency summit, warns conditions ‘likely to get much worse’

25 March 2021Migrants and Refugees The United Nations’ top relief official on Wednesday released $14 million in emergency funding to provide life-saving assistance to thousands of Rohingya refugee families, after a massive fire ripped through the Kutupalong camp in southern Bangladesh, earlier this week.  The blaze displaced more than 45,000 mostly Rohingya refugees originally from neighbouring… Continue reading UN emergency fund allocates $14 million for Rohingya refugees left homeless by massive fire

Though exact numbers are yet to be confirmed, initial estimates indicate that more than 87,000 mostly Rohingya refugees, originally from neighbouring Myanmar, could have been caught up in the blaze, which started around 3pm on Monday (local time) in Camp 8W of the Kutupalong mega camp.  The fire rapidly spread to Camps 8E, 9 and 10. In all, about… Continue reading UN teams assisting tens of thousands of refugees, after massive fire rips through camp in Bangladesh

Addressing the eighth Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development, convened by the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), Amina Mohammed, highlighted the importance of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  “[They] show the way to inclusive, resilient and sustainable economies and societies that respect people… Continue reading ‘Seize the moment’ to recover and rebuild better, UN deputy chief urges Asia-Pacific nations

More than six months after formal Afghan peace negotiations between the Government and Taliban representatives were launched in September, Deborah Lyons, who also heads the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), said via video conference that now was “a timely moment to take stock” and assess what must be done to support the path towards… Continue reading Amidst ‘heightened intensity’ actions toward peace must be ‘in the best interests’ of Afghans

23 March 2021Human Rights The United Nations Human Rights Council has been given a mandate to collect and preserve information and evidence of crimes related to Sri Lanka’s 37-year long civil war that ended in 2009. The 47-member council on Tuesday adopted a resolution on Tuesday, brought by Britain on behalf of a group of… Continue reading Human Rights Council strengthens rights office probe into Sri Lanka’s long civil war

21 March 2021Economic Development Tea garden workers in Bangladesh, who are mainly women, are one of the most marginalized groups in the country, with limited access to education for their children and prone to dire health risks. A programme supported by the UN’s Joint SDG Fund, which funds initiatives focused on sustainable development, aims to… Continue reading Exploited and marginalized, Bangladeshi tea workers speak up for their rights

“The killing of peaceful demonstrators and arbitrary arrests, including of journalists, is utterly unacceptable”, reiterated UN chief António Guterres, in a statement issued by his Spokesperson.   ‘Firm unified response, is urgently needed’ “The military continues to defy calls, including by the Security Council, to end violations of fundamental human rights and return to the path of… Continue reading Scores of schools ‘reportedly occupied’ by security forces in Myanmar, as Guterres condemns continuing brutality

Jean Arnault, then Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Colombia, speaks to the press in Bogota. (file photo) 18 March 2021UN Affairs The United Nations Secretary-General on Wednesday announced the appointment of seasoned mediator Jean Arnault as his new Personal Envoy on Afghanistan and Regional Issues, reflecting the Organization’s continued commitment to the peaceful resolution… Continue reading Secretary-General appoints Jean Arnault as his personal envoy on Afghanistan

18 March 2021Human Rights United Nations independent human rights experts on Thursday called on Iran to immediately release Iranian-Swedish academic Ahmadreza Djalali, reported to be in a “near death” condition after months of prolonged solitary confinement.  The situation of the arbitrarily detained academic “is truly horrific” and that they are “shocked and distressed by the cruel… Continue reading Rights experts demand Iran release academic ‘nearing death’ in solitary confinement

18 March 2021Peace and Security The UN Special Envoy for Myanmar continues her work towards engaging with officials in the country nearly two months after the military coup, the global Organization said on Thursday.  Christine Schraner Burgener is seeking to visit Myanmar as part of her efforts to calm the situation and set the stage… Continue reading UN envoy continues efforts to access Myanmar, amidst increasingly brutal crackdown

At least 11 people were killed on Monday and 57 over the weekend, marking the bloodiest days since protests started last month.  Among the dead, are a group killed during a violent crackdown in the Hlaing Tharyar township in Yangon by security forces, after unknown actors set fire to factories which were either operated or part-owned… Continue reading Myanmar: UN rights office ‘deeply disturbed’ over intensifying violence against protesters

17 March 2021Health Severe disruptions in health services due to the COVID-19 pandemic may have resulted in an additional 239,000 child and maternal deaths in South Asia last year, United Nations agencies said on Wednesday.  In a new report, UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), World Health Organization (WHO) and UN Population Fund (UNFPA) said that the… Continue reading South Asia: Sharp rise in child and maternal deaths due to COVID-19

Violence continues to rage across the south-east Asian nation at the hands of forces loyal to leaders of the 1  Feb military coup, and, according to media reports, dozens of people lost their lives, including around 50 on Sunday alone.   “The killing of demonstrators, arbitrary arrests and the reported torture of prisoners violate fundamental human rights and stand in… Continue reading Myanmar crisis: UN chief ‘appalled’ by escalating violence with dozens reported killed over weekend

Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, Executive Director of UN-Women. (file photo) 12 March 2021Peace and Security The United Nations entity dedicated to protection of women’s rights has voiced deep concerns over “targeted and disproportionate” violence against women being recorded during the crackdown against peaceful protesters in Myanmar.  In addition, women in detention are also reportedly experiencing sexual harassment… Continue reading UN agency raises alarm over ‘targeted’ violence against women in Myanmar protests

“By nearly every feasible measurement, and in every area of human rights – economic, social and cultural, as much as civil and political – Myanmar has profoundly regressed,” he said. “Despite clear legal obligations for the military to protect civilians in the conduct of hostilities, there has been consistent disregard for the related rules of… Continue reading Myanmar mired ever deeper in crisis as human rights spiral backwards, warns Türk

Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, the Executive Director of UN Women, Sima Bahous, and the Assistant Secretary-General for UN political, peacebuilding and peace operations, Khaled Khiari, spend four days on a fact-finding mission in Afghanistan, to engage with Taliban leaders, and “underscore UN solidarity with the Afghan people”, according to a press release issued to correspondents on Friday. … Continue reading Afghanistan: Top UN delegation tells Taliban to end confinement, deprivation, abuse of women’s rights

18 January 2023Human Rights Sri Lanka must fully compensate victims of the Easter Sunday 2019 terrorist attacks, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said on Wednesday, following a recent decision by the country’s top court.  Last week, the Supreme Court ordered the former President and three other senior officials to compensate the families of the… Continue reading Sri Lanka must ensure compensation for victims of 2019 terrorist attacks

17 January 2023Humanitarian Aid Four million children are fighting for survival near contaminated and stagnant flood waters in Pakistan, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warned on Tuesday. While “the rains have ended…to a great degree, so has media attention,” UNICEF Representative in Pakistan, Abdullah Fadil, told reporters in Geneva adding that, with homes destroyed,… Continue reading Pakistan still an ‘ongoing nightmare’ for millions of children, following major flooding

16 January 2023Women Top independent human rights experts expressed alarm on Monday at a rise in abductions of girls as young as 13 in Pakistan, who are forced to marry and convert to Islam. In their appeal to the authorities to stop the alleged abuse, the experts warned that teenagers had been “kidnapped from their… Continue reading Pakistan: rights experts urge action on coerced religious conversions, child marriage

13 January 2023Human Rights The UN human rights office, OHCHR, welcomed on Friday the Indonesian President’s statement of regret earlier this week, for serious rights violations dating back to the 1960s.  President Joko Widodo reportedly acknowledged “gross human rights violations” during his country’s past, and expressed regret for a dozen past incidents, stretching back more… Continue reading Indonesia: President’s apology for past rights violations a ‘step on the long road to justice’

Volker Türk’s allegation that criminal proceedings and the death penalty had been weaponized to stamp out dissent, follows the execution in the last months of four people involved in nationwide protests, that were sparked by the death in police custody of Mahsa Amini, in September. “The weaponization of criminal procedures to punish people for exercising their basic… Continue reading Iran: UN rights chief Türk warns against further ‘State-sanctioned killing’

“The release of political prisoners in Myanmar is not only a relief to those unfairly detained, but also their families”, OHCHR Spokesperson Jeremy Laurence told journalists in Geneva. “Importantly, however, we take this opportunity to call for the release of the thousands of others who remain in detention for opposing military rule”. Tortured in prison… Continue reading Myanmar: Hundreds of political prisoners released, but thousands remain in jail

3 January 2023Health Amid a reported surge in COVID-19 infections in China, coronavirus experts have been meeting at the UN health agency on Tuesday, to discuss next steps. In Geneva, a spokesperson for the WHO confirmed to journalists in Geneva that Chinese scientists had been invited to participate in a meeting of the Technical Advisory… Continue reading COVID-19: China infection surge on agenda at WHO coronavirus meeting

“Banning women from humanitarian work has immediate life-threatening consequences for all Afghans,” they insisted. Some aid programmes have already had to stop temporarily, owing to a lack of female staff, at a time when more than 28 million people in Afghanistan need “assistance to survive” the brutal winter, economic collapse and the risk of famine,… Continue reading UN and top aid officials slam Afghan rulers’ NGO ban for women

27 December 2022Human Rights The UN rights chief, Volker Türk, called on Tuesday for the Taliban de facto authorities to revoke immediately a raft of policies that target the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, saying that they cause “terrible, cascading effects” on their lives and risk destabilizing the nation.   “No country can develop – indeed… Continue reading ‘Unfathomable restrictions’ on women’s rights risk destabilizing Afghanistan

25 December 2022Women Amid reports on Saturday that the Taliban had barred women from working for local and international NGOs, the United Nations said the decision would undermine the efforts of numerous organizations working throughout Afghanistan to help the most vulnerable, especially women and girls. A statement issued by Spokesman Stéphane Dujarric said that Secretary-General António Guterres was “deeply… Continue reading UN Secretary-General ‘deeply disturbed’ by Taliban’s reported ban on women working for NGOs in Afghanistan

22 December 2022Health Millions of Afghan children have been vaccinated during the first nationwide integrated measles and polio campaign in Afghanistan since the Taliban took power in August 2021, the UN health agency said on Thursday. Afghanistan has vaccinated 5.36 million nine- to 59-month old children against measles while 6.1 million infants to 59-month-olds received… Continue reading Millions of Afghan children inoculated against measles, polio in 1st Statewide drive since 2021 transition

These punishments began after Taliban Supreme Leader Haibatullah Akhundzada last month ordered judges to uphold aspects of Islamic law.  “We call on the de facto authorities to immediately establish a moratorium on the death penalty, prohibit flogging and other physical punishments that constitute torture, or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment and guarantee… Continue reading Afghanistan: Taliban urged to halt public floggings and executions

Mama Fatima Singhateh, Special Rapporteur on the sale and sexual exploitation of children, concluded an 11-day visit to the country on Friday, where she met with government officials, UN agencies, civil society representatives, faith-based leaders, diplomats, and local boys and girls.  She commended a recent law that requires social media platforms and internet service providers… Continue reading Philippines: Rights expert urges greater action to combat child sexual exploitation

“The military continues to hold proceedings in secretive courts in violation of basic principles of fair trial and contrary to core judicial guarantees of independence and impartiality”, Volker Türk added, calling for the suspension of all executions and a return to a moratorium on death penalty.  Dealing out death   On Wednesday, a military court sentenced… Continue reading Myanmar: Secretive military courts sentence scores of people to death 

Mr. Guterres was speaking at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, memorial site of the infamous S-21 interrogation and detention centre under the bloody regime, which lasted from 1975 to 1979. ‘An essential reminder’ It is estimated that up to 18,000 people from across Cambodia were brought to the facility, located in a former secondary school… Continue reading Cambodia: In visit to genocide museum, UN chief warns of the dangers of hate and persecution

Csaba Kőrösi painted a near apocalyptic picture of ordinary life in the Taliban-ruled nation that has endured almost five decades of “relentless conflict”, urging the international community to make up the $2.3 billion shortfall in the UN humanitarian appeal for $4.4 billion. ‘Moral imperative’ In a powerful speech to ambassadors in New York, during a full session… Continue reading Crime and terrorism thriving again in Afghanistan amid economic ruin, warns Kőrösi

8 November 2022Humanitarian Aid Amidst Sri Lanka’s worst economic crisis since independence, the UN on Tuesday revised its joint Humanitarian Needs and Priorities (HNP) Plan, appealing for more life-saving assistance to aid 3.4 million people. Since June, the UN team in Sri Lanka and NGOs have used the HNP to respond to the Government’s request… Continue reading UN ramps up humanitarian appeal for life-saving assistance to 3.4 million Sri Lankans

1 November 2022Health Although flood waters have continued to recede in many flood-affected areas across Pakistan in recent weeks, around eight million people need essential health assistance, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Tuesday. Public health risks are increasing, driven by damaged infrastructure, stagnant water and inadequate sanitation facilities, the UN health agency said.… Continue reading Public health risks increasing in flood-affected Pakistan, warns WHO

Opium cultivation in Afghanistan – latest findings and emerging threats, is the first report on the illicit opium trade since the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021. The authorities banned all cultivation of opium poppy and all narcotics under strict new laws, in April 2022. Opium is the essential ingredient for manufacturing the street… Continue reading Afghanistan: Opium cultivation up nearly a third, warns UNODC

6 October 2022Culture and Education A horrific attack on a childcare centre in northern Thailand that has left dozens dead, prompted strong international condemnation on Thursday. UN Secretary-General António Guterres, said he was shocked and saddened by the mass shooting.  More than 35 people have been killed, according to news reports, many of them children, said… Continue reading Horrific Thailand nursery attack prompts swift international condemnation

The UN Secretary-General on Tuesday strongly condemned the launch of a ballistic missile by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), more commonly known as North Korea, which reportedly travelled over Japan.

The UN has condemned a suicide bombing in the Afghan capital Kabul which has left more than 20 dead, according to latest news reports, many of them young women who were sitting mock exams at an education centre.

The acting High Commissioner for Human Rights Nada Al-Nashif, expressed alarm on Tuesday at the death in custody in Iran of a woman after she was detained for wearing an “improper” hijab

“Patience is running out” for many in the international community when it comes to effectively engaging with Afghanistan’s de facto rulers, the Taliban, senior UN envoy for the country, Markus Potzel, told the Security Council on Tuesday.

Since the Myanmar military launched its “disastrous” coup last year, UN-appointed independent human rights expert Tom Andrews said on Wednesday that conditions have worsened, “by any measure”.

Sri Lanka is at a critical juncture and the new Government must make progress on accountability as well as institutional and security sector reforms, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said in a report published on Tuesday.

5 October 2022Peace and Security The international community must step up efforts to eliminate nuclear weapons in the wake of the latest firing of a ballistic missile by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), a senior UN official told the Security Council on Wednesday. Assistant-Secretary-General Khaled Khiari briefed ambassadors on the UN’s response to… Continue reading Latest DPR Korea missile launch risks escalating tensions, Security Council hears

30 September 2022Peace and Security The UN has condemned a suicide bombing in the Afghan capital Kabul which has left more than 20 dead, according to latest news reports, many of them young women who were sitting mock exams at an education centre. Dozens more were wounded at the Kaaj tuition centre, in the Dasht-e-Barchi… Continue reading Afghanistan: UN condemns ‘callous’ suicide attack on education centre

“We strongly condemn the sentencing of Ms. Sedighi-Hamadani and Ms. Choubdar to death and call on authorities to stay their executions and annul their sentences as soon as possible,” they said in a statement. ‘Corruption on earth’ Iran’s legal system explicitly prohibits homosexuality, which under the country’s penal code is punishable by death. The women… Continue reading Iran: UN experts demand stay of execution for two women LGBT rights activists

Authorities in Iran must fully respect the rights of protestors calling for justice for Mahsa Amini, the young woman who died in custody after being arrested for allegedly violating strict dress codes, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said on Tuesday.  OHCHR said it was very concerned about the continued violent response to the protests,… Continue reading Iran: UN human rights office condemns violent crackdown against hijab protests

Despite the world’s current phase of “turbulence and transformation”, there are “reasons for hope” amid broadening cooperation and deepening economic globalization, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told the UN on Saturday, as he also upheld the ‘One China’ policy as “international consensus.” “We are at a time fraught with challenges. COVID-19 keeps resurfacing, global security… Continue reading At UN, Foreign Minister Wang Yi sees ‘hope’ in turbulent times, reaffirms ‘One China’ policy

India was represented at the opening of the 77th General Assembly by Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, who reminded his audience that India is celebrating 75 years of independence, which he described as a story of the “toil, determination, innovation, and enterprise of millions of ordinary Indians”.  The Minister outlined India’s commitment to multilateralism,… Continue reading ‘We must continue to believe in the power of diplomacy,’ India says in UN speech

“No words can describe the shock we are living through or how the face of the country lies transformed,” Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif told the General Assembly’s annual high-level debate. “For 40 days and 40 nights a biblical flood poured down on us, smashing centuries of weather records, challenging everything we knew about disaster, and how… Continue reading Flood-ravaged Pakistan’s leader appeals for urgent global support in UN address

The final Khmer Rouge leader to be prosecuted under a UN-backed special tribunal in Cambodia, has had his 2018 conviction upheld for genocide and crimes against humanity, committed during the brutal rule of the Khmer Rouge during the late 1970s, during which nearly a quarter of the country’s population was killed. The decision of the Extraordinary… Continue reading Cambodia: UN-backed tribunal ends with conviction upheld for last living Khmer Rouge leader

UN independent human rights experts on Thursday strongly condemned the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who died in police custody following her arrest for allegedly failing to comply with Iran’s strict rules on women’s dress, by wearing what authorities said was “an improper hijab”. “We are shocked and deeply saddened by the death of Ms… Continue reading UN experts strongly condemn death of Mahsa Amini, ‘victim of Iran’s sustained repression’

More than 75 years have passed since the establishment of the United Nations as a guardian of global peace “we are still witnessing the devastation in Ukraine and around the world”, said Japanese Prime Minister, Kishida Fumio, during his speech to the UN General Assembly. He noted that the UN has been playing a central… Continue reading Russia’s invasion of Ukraine ‘tramples on the UN Charter’ says Japanese Prime Minister

Mahsa Amini was arrested a week ago by Iran’s “morality police” in Teheran. The 22-year-old, whose Kurdish name is Jhina – fell into a coma shortly after collapsing at a detention centre, and died three days later, officially of a heart attack. In Geneva, Spokesperson for the UN rights office OHCHR, Ravina Shamdasani, said that… Continue reading Alarm over Iranian woman’s death after ‘improper’ hijab arrest

The Geneva-based body was briefed by Nicholas Koumjian, Head of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), who presented its latest report.  The Mechanism was established by the Council to collect and preserve evidence of the most serious international crimes in the country.  Lack of accountability  Mr. Koumjian began by pointing out that it has… Continue reading Myanmar: Increasing evidence of crimes against humanity since coup

A $7 million disbursement from the UN’s Central Emergency Relief Fund (CERF), announced on Friday, will bolster response to the devastating monsoon floods in Pakistan, the worst in more than a decade.  The funding will help prevent waterborne diseases and epidemics, and provide nutrition supplements, clean water and reproductive health care for the most vulnerable… Continue reading Pakistan: UN scales up financial and other support after ‘latest climate tragedy’

Pakistan has been inundated with near continuous monsoon rainfall, flash flooding, and rain-induced landslides since mid-June, causing widespread devastation and casualties affecting millions of people across the South Asian country. Upon his arrival, Mr. Guterres was briefed on the latest developments and the Pakistan-led response by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto… Continue reading In flood-hit Pakistan, Guterres appeals for ‘massive’ global support, tougher action on climate change

Their statement follows the recent publication of a long-awaited report by the UN human rights office, OHCHR, which found that “serious human rights violations” had been committed against the Uyghur and other predominantly Muslim communities there.  Support for UN report  In supporting the assessment, the experts highlighted the conclusion, which stated that “the extent of… Continue reading Rights experts urge China to address grave violations in Xinjiang province

The country is in the grip of a serious economic crisis which has had a severe impact on the human rights of all communities.  This has sparked demands for deeper reforms and accountability, giving the authorities a fresh opportunity to steer a new way forward, said the report, which calls for holding a national dialogue… Continue reading Sri Lanka: New Government urged to make progress on accountability, institutional reforms

Following conflict and election-related violence in Papua New Guinea, more than 15,000 people have been internally displaced in Hela, Southern Highlands and Enga provinces, the International Organization for Migration´s (IOM) said on Tuesday. From 13 to 30 August, IOM partnered with local authorities in deploying its Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) team to track and monitor… Continue reading Papua New Guinea: Conflict and election-related violence trigger wave of displacement

The scale of the humanitarian crisis in Pakistan is unprecedented, with a third of the country under water, UN humanitarians warned on Friday. With more than 33 million people impacted, that represents 15 per cent of the total Pakistani population, said Dr. Palitha MAHIPALA, World Health Organization (WHO) Representative in the country. Some “6.4 plus million… Continue reading Pakistan: More than 6.4 million in ‘dire need’ after unprecedented floods

The report published on Wednesday in the wake of the visit by UN High Commissioner of Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet in May, said that “allegations of patterns of torture, or ill-treatment, including forced medical treatment and adverse conditions of detention, are credible, as are allegations of individual incidents of sexual and gender-based violence.” In a… Continue reading China responsible for ‘serious human rights violations’ in Xinjiang province: UN human rights report

An ongoing economic crisis and political turmoil have pushed food price inflation to above 90 percent, with a shortage of fuel disrupting access, livelihoods, and food safety programmes, leaving millions vulnerable to food insecurity. Pregnant and anxious As the food voucher distribution gets underway, the women make their way up through an open staircase to… Continue reading Sri Lanka: WFP helps alleviate stress of pregnancy amidst skyrocketing food prices 

Major health risks are unfolding in Pakistan as unprecedented flooding continues, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday, warning of the threat of further spread of malaria, dengue fever and other water- and vector-borne diseases. More than 33 million people, and three-quarters of all districts, have been affected by the disaster, which was brought… Continue reading Pakistan: WHO warns of significant health risks as floods continue

A $160 million emergency plan to help Pakistan deal with devastating flooding has been launched by the United Nations, aiming to reach “5.2 million of the most vulnerable people in the country”. An estimated 33 million people have been affected by the “worst flooding in decades “and more than 1,000 people, mostly children”, have died… Continue reading Pakistan: $160 million UN emergency plan launched, as ‘monsoon on steroids’ continues

UN Special Rapporteur Vitit Muntarbhorn announced the plan on Friday at the conclusion of an 11-day mission to the country.  Although Cambodia has achieved much internationally-recognised progress, and ratified most core human rights treaties, he noted that a “pervasive paradox” persists.  “Since 2017, when the main opposition party was disbanded unjustly by judicial order, the… Continue reading UN expert proposes action plan to boost human rights in Cambodia

Staple foods have become unaffordable, warned UNICEF Regional Director for South Asia, George Laryea-Adjei on Friday, who pointed out that severe malnutrition in crisis-wracked Sri Lanka was already among the highest in the region.  The alert from the UN Children’s Fund, comes as Sri Lanka continues to suffer its worst financial slump since independence in… Continue reading Sri Lanka: Devastating crisis for children, a ‘cautionary tale’ for South Asia 

On Thursday, UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, warned of the danger faced by Afghan refugees who continue to be detained and deported from Tajikistan, reiterating that it’s illegal to force those fleeing persecution back to their homeland. In the latest incident, some five Afghans, including a family comprising three children and their mother, were returned… Continue reading Afghanistan: UNHCR alarm over forced refugee returns from Tajikistan

The UN human rights chief on Monday welcomed the announcement from the Prime Minister of Singapore, that the city State would move to repeal a law known as 377A, which for decades has criminalized sex between men. “This colonial era law has more broadly impacted and stigmatised the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) people as a whole”,… Continue reading Singapore: UN rights chief welcomes repeal of colonial-era law banning sex between men

Sri Lanka is in the midst of the worst socio-economic crisis in its history, and the once robust health-care system is nearing collapse, with patients at risk from power shortages, a lack of medicines, and equipment shortages. When Ruchika found out she was pregnant with her second child, in October 2021, she could not have… Continue reading Sri Lanka’s economic crisis pushes health system to brink of collapse

The visit follows the Security Council’s latest call for an end to the violence and unimpeded humanitarian access to the Southeast Asian nation. Ms. Heyzer, a women’s rights activist from Singapore, will focus on addressing the deteriorating situation there, according to the UN.  News agencies cited security officials who wished to remain anonymous in reporting that… Continue reading Amidst military rule, UN envoy travels to Myanmar for first time

“It has been a year of increasing disrespect for their right to live free and equal lives, denying them opportunity to livelihoods, access to health care and education, and escape from situations of violence,” said Sima Bahous, Executive Director at UN Women.  🚨What is happening in #Afghanistan is an alarm bell for us all. 🚨… Continue reading UN agencies underline commitment to women and girls in Afghanistan one year after Taliban takeover

“The future is immensely bleak for Afghans if more is not done by the international community to ensure the Taliban changes its modus operandi and complies with its human rights obligations,” they said in a statement.  The experts recalled that following the Taliban takeover last August, they had appealed for the international community to take… Continue reading ‘Immensely bleak’ future for Afghanistan unless massive human rights reversal, experts warn

On the island nation of Fiji, young people are working in solidarity with their elders, benefiting from their knowledge and experience to protect the fragile ecosystem. “Projects Abroad” youth volunteers conserving Fiji’s beaches., by UNDP One such project involves young people conserving and protecting Fiji’s coral reef and the marine environment around the island. The… Continue reading From the Field: Young Fijians work with older generation for a sustainable future

In China, ethnic minority women from the 55 ethnic minority groups formally recognized by the country, are playing a vital role in protecting traditional knowledge and preserving cultural heritage. Women of the Lisu ethnic minority, from Yunnan province, China, in traditional dress., by UNDP China  On the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, celebrated… Continue reading From the Field: Keeping China’s minority traditions alive

The UN sexual and reproductive health agency, UNFPA, is leading efforts to protect women and girls’ rights to give birth safely and live without gender-based violence, according to a statement issued on Monday. “UNFPA is committed to meeting the critical health and protection needs of women and girls,” said Kunle Adeniyi, UNFPA representative in Sri… Continue reading Sri Lanka: UNFPA appeals for $10.7 million for ‘critical’ women’s healthcare

All of the 65 journalists interviewed in the State of Press Freedom in Cambodia said they had faced some form of interference in the course of their work – and more than 80 per cent described being put under surveillance, facing disproportionate or unnecessary restrictions, including access to information. “The findings in this report are… Continue reading Press freedom increasingly under threat in Cambodia – UN human rights report

The UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) denounced on Tuesday the hanging of two inmates in Changi Prison, located in the eastern part of Singapore. “We deplore the hanging today of two men in Singapore and are deeply troubled by the planned execution of two others on 5 August,” OHCHR Spokesman Liz Throssell said in a… Continue reading UN Human Rights Office ‘deplores’ executions in Singapore

Nazeri Bin Lajim, a Malay Singaporean national, was arrested in April 2012 for trafficking more than 33 grammes of diamorphine. He was executed last Friday.   “Under international law, States that have not yet abolished the death penalty may only impose it for the ‘most serious crimes’, involving intentional killing,” the experts said. “Drug offences… Continue reading Singapore: Rights experts call for moratorium on executions for drugs offences

Independent UN-appointed human rights experts who have urged China to repeal Hong Kong’s 2020 national security law (NSL) after claiming that its use had led to the arrest of children, said on Wednesday that they welcomed pledges to replace it with a more transparent and consultative process. Chinese and Hong Kong officials have said the… Continue reading Top rights experts urge repeal of Hong Kong’s national security law

Thomas Andrews said he was “outraged and devastated” following what’s believed to be the first use of capital punishment in the Southeast Asian nation in decades. I’m devastated by news that former parliamentarian Zeyar Thaw and longtime activist Ko Jimmy were executed with two others today. UN Member States must honor their lives by making… Continue reading Myanmar junta’s execution of four democracy activists condemned by UN

The UN on Thursday “unequivocally” condemned the recent escalation of violence across the Highlands region of Papua New Guinea (PNG) which has erupted during the ongoing two week period of staggered voting for national elections. The UN Country Team called for an “immediate cessation” to the election-related violence amidst a deteriorating security situation in the Highlands region… Continue reading UN condemns election-related violence across Papua New Guinea Highlands

Greater support must be given to Sri Lanka as the country faces economic crisis and political turmoil, a group of UN human rights experts said on Wednesday in an appeal to the international community.  “Sri Lanka’s economic collapse needs immediate global attention, not just from humanitarian agencies, but from international financial institutions, private lenders and… Continue reading Sri Lanka economic crisis requires ‘immediate global attention’: Rights experts

Ms. Ressa, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2021 for her work defending freedom of expression as a co-founder of independent news outlet Rappler, was convicted of “cyber libel” in 2020. It followed publication of an article on alleged corruption involving the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in the Philippines. The ruling… Continue reading Philippines: Top rights expert appeals to President Marcos over Maria Ressa conviction

As prices keep healthy meals out of reach, some 61 per cent of households are regularly using coping strategies to cut down on costs, such as reducing the amount they eat and consuming increasingly less nutritious meals.  And with opportunities to make enough income in the medium to long-term decreasing for an estimated 200,000 families,… Continue reading Record inflation and skyrocketing prices leave over 6 million Sri Lankans food insecure 

The UN human rights chief called on Tuesday for a prompt, impartial and “transparent investigation” into the deaths of at least 18 people during clashes at protests in the Uzbek region of Karakalpakstan last Friday. “The reports we have received about serious violence, including killings, during the protests are very concerning,” said High Commissioner Michelle… Continue reading Bachelet calls for impartial, ‘transparent investigation’ into Uzbekistan protest deaths

The situation for women is so desperate in Afghanistan that they are committing suicide at a rate of one or two every day, the Human Rights Council has heard. It comes as the top UN rights forum in Geneva agreed to Member States’ request for a rare Urgent Debate on the issue this Friday. Addressing… Continue reading In Afghanistan, women take their lives out of desperation, Human Rights Council hears

Myanmar’s military junta is responsible for shocking violence against children caught up in the bloody aftermath of last February’s coup, a top independent Human Rights Council-appointed investigator said on Wednesday.  Three months since his last update to the UN rights forum in Geneva, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, Thomas Andrews,… Continue reading Myanmar: Shocking toll on children must be spur to action, says UN rights expert 

The top UN official in Afghanistan appealed on Sunday for greater international support for the country, following a one-day visit to communities hit hard by the devastating earthquake on Wednesday. “Yesterday’s visit reaffirmed to me both the extreme suffering of people in Afghanistan and their tremendous resolve in the face of great adversity,” said Dr.… Continue reading Countries urged to ‘dig deep’ and support Afghanistan in aftermath of deadly earthquake

Emergency lifesaving aid relief continued to flow into quake-hit eastern Afghanistan on Friday, as UN humanitarians and partners rushed to help the most vulnerable communities. One of the UN teams on the ground, the refugee agency UNHCR, transported tons of relief items into the provinces of Khost and Paktika, where several thousand houses were destroyed or damaged… Continue reading Life-saving relief continues to reach quake-hit eastern Afghanistan

The UN human rights office, OHCHR, is urging Iran to call off plans to amputate the fingers of eight prisoners convicted of burglary, Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said on Wednesday.  The men were sentenced to “have four fingers on their right hands completely cut off so that only the palms of their hands and their thumbs… Continue reading Iran urged to halt imminent finger amputation of eight prisoners

The UN and partners have rushed to support Afghanistan following a devastating earthquake that hit two provinces in the east of the country early on Wednesday morning.  At least 1,000 people have been killed, according to media reports, and numbers are expected to rise.    .@UNICEF has dispatched several mobile health and nutrition teams to… Continue reading UN agencies rush to aid Afghanistan following deadly quake

The World Food Programme (WFP) on Thursday began distributing food vouchers to pregnant women in underserved districts of the Sri Lankan capital, Colombo, marking the start of the UN agency’s emergency response in the country, which is facing its gravest political and economic crisis since independence. WFP is working to provide life-saving food, cash and… Continue reading Sri Lanka: WFP ramps up emergency support, beginning with pregnant mothers in need

“In the wake of years of conflict, and since the takeover by the Taliban in August last year, the country has been plunged into a deep economic, social, humanitarian and human rights crisis,” said High Commissioner Michelle Bachelet. Systematic oppression She admired the courage of Afghan women in demanding their inalienable rights while facing a… Continue reading Afghanistan facing ‘the darkest moments’ in a generation

The six Special Rapporteurs were alarmed by the recent escalation of arbitrary arrests of teachers, labour activists, union leaders, lawyers, human rights defenders, and others.  Demonstrations have spread across Iran since early May, following the Government’s decision to cut subsidies on food items. At least five protesters have been killed as a result of excessive… Continue reading Rights experts alarmed by violent civil society crackdown in Iran

A critical $150 million dollar lifeline for rural families in Afghanistan was announced by the World Bank on Monday, part of an overall package of $195 million, for critical livelihood and life-saving assistance, the UN agriculture agency FAO, said on Monday. Some 19.7 million people – almost half of Afghanistan’s population – are facing acute… Continue reading Afghanistan: World Bank provides $150 million lifeline to stem rural hunger 

“Strengthening engagement with independent human rights experts and Human Rights Council mechanisms is crucial to full and transparent enforcement of China’s human rights obligations,” the group of more than 40 experts said, ahead of the Council’s landmark 50th session, which begins on Monday.   Systemic violations  In a statement, they recalled the Government’s high-level engagement with… Continue reading UN human rights experts urge China to allow them ‘full access’ 

Special Rapporteurs Thomas Andrews and Morris Tidball-Binz, fear the development could signal the start of a spate of executions in a country which has not carried out capital punishment in more than 30 years.  Disregard for human rights  “The illegitimate military junta is providing the international community with further evidence of its disregard for human… Continue reading Myanmar: Death sentences ‘vile attempt at instilling fear’, rights experts charge

In response to the country’s request for UN-backed international assistance, the Organization and other partners launched a joint Humanitarian Needs and Priorities (HNP) Plan to aid 1.7 million people worst-hit by the economic crisis. Covering the period from June to September this year, it aims to address the most urgent needs – with a particular focus… Continue reading Sri Lanka: UN appeals for $47 million for life-saving aid to 1.7 million people

A UN report issued on Thursday, describes “limited progress” towards justice for human rights violations and abuses committed against dissenters exercising their right to free speech in Iraq. “The Government of Iraq admittedly operates in a complex environment, including within the context of stalled government formation,” said the Update on Accountability in Iraq, jointly published… Continue reading UN report finds ‘limited progress’ on human rights protections for Iraqis

More than one billion methamphetamine tablets were seized in East and Southeast Asia last year, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has warned. The staggering drugs haul across the vast region is further proof that illicit manufacturing there continues to expand unchecked, with “extreme volumes of methamphetamine” in production, along with a decreasing number of new… Continue reading Over a billion methamphetamine tabs seized in East and Southeast Asia

At the end of her official visit to China, the first such trip in 17 years, UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet announced new areas of engagement between her office and the Chinese Government on rights issues, and summarized the many rights issues raised during her six-day May mission. During Saturday’s virtual press conference, Ms. Bachelet,… Continue reading UN rights chief concludes China trip with promise of improved relations

Afghanistan is at a crossroads and the de facto authorities, the Taliban, must pursue a path towards stability and freedom for all citizens, especially women, the UN independent expert on human rights there said in the capital, Kabul, on Thursday.  Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett was speaking to journalists at the end of an 11-day visit… Continue reading Afghan authorities urged to address serious human rights challenges

On day three of her official mission to China, top UN rights official Michelle Bachelet described having a “valuable opportunity” to highlight rights issues and concerns with President Xi Jinping and other senior officials, the first such visit by a UN rights chief since 2005. In a tweet on Wednesday, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ms. Bachelet, indicated that she… Continue reading UN rights chief Bachelet holds ‘valuable’ meeting with China’s President Xi

The finding follows a complaint submitted to the UN body by the girl’s parents, who said they had exhausted all possible avenues for securing justice and accountability at home.  Case underscores impunity   “The gravity of this case has not faded with time even though 18 years have passed,” said Committee member Hélène Tigroudja.   “This… Continue reading Nepal responsible for torture, rape and killing of teenage girl: UN rights committee

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday expressed concern over the current COVID-19 outbreak in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), where no public vaccination programme has been put in place, reiterating its commitment to support the country response to the pandemic. In a statement, WHO took note of the “deaths and large number… Continue reading WHO ‘concerned’ over COVID-19 outbreak in DPR Korea, reiterates full support

The latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis for the country also revealed a pocket of “catastrophic” levels of food insecurity in the northeast, affecting thousands.  Record levels of hunger persist in #Afghanistan as lingering drought and the deep economic crisis continue to threaten lives and livelihoods. Humanitarian assistance averted a catastrophe in the… Continue reading Afghanistan: Nearly 20 million going hungry

The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) issued a statement of deep concern on Saturday in response to an announcement made by the Taliban de facto authorities saying that women should only leave their homes in cases of necessity and then, with their faces covered in public. According to information received by UNAMA, this is a formal… Continue reading Afghanistan: Taliban orders women to stay home; cover up in public

In Singapore, the UN rights office, OHCHR, called on Monday for a stay of execution for two Malaysian nationals accused of drug offences.  The execution of Nagaenthran Dharmalingam and Datchinamurthy Kataiah is imminent, the UN rights office said in a statement, before pointing to an apparently “alarming acceleration in execution notices” in Singapore, since the… Continue reading UN rights office calls for Singapore stay of execution for Malaysia nationals 

Millions of volunteers in Indonesia have given their time and expertise to help build a fairer and more inclusive society according to Valerie Julliand, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in the country.  As Indonesia celebrates Ramadan, Ms Julliand and Toily Kurbanov, Executive Coordinator, United Nations Volunteers explain* why volunteerism encapsulates the generosity and compassion of… Continue reading Volunteers demonstrate compassion of Ramadan in Indonesia: A UN Resident Coordinator blog

In Papua New Guinea, defending women accused of sorcery, has become a life-threatening occupation. The UN and European Union run Spotlight Initiative, is promoting legislation that will protect threatened human rights defenders in the country, who risk violence, torture, and death. “When we are trying to help others, or when we go to court to… Continue reading The dangers of defending women accused of sorcery in Papua New Guinea

Following this week’s crackdown on non-violent demonstrations in Sri Lanka, independent UN human rights experts urged the government on Friday to “ensure that all human rights be respected and protected” and guarantee the fundamental rights of peaceful assembly and expression. A foreign exchange scarcity has stoked an economic crisis, coupled with rising inflation, shortages of… Continue reading Respect and protect basic human rights in Sri Lanka, UN experts urge

OHCHR said that the situation has worsened and that there have been shortages of food and fuel, along with power cuts, prompting new protests by desperate Sri Lankans.   Following the state of emergency and other restrictions, Liz Throssell, Spokesperson for OHCHR said her office was “concerned that such measures are aimed at preventing or discouraging… Continue reading Sri Lanka: Mishandling of economic crisis triggers alarm over rights violations 

Despite persistent humanitarian needs sparked by years of conflict and recurring drought, the current situation in Afghanistan is unparalleled, with more than 24.4 million people requiring humanitarian assistance to survive, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). Food security levels have plunged at an alarming rate, leaving half the population… Continue reading World can end ‘downward humanitarian spiral’ of Afghanistan

“The de facto authorities’ failure to adhere to commitments to reopen schools for girls above the sixth grade – in spite of repeated commitments towards girls’ education, including during my visit to Kabul two weeks ago – is deeply damaging for Afghanistan”, High Commissioner  Michelle Bachelet said in a statement. The denial of education violates… Continue reading Taliban’s backtracking on girls’ education, ‘deeply damaging’

People in Afghanistan are today facing a food insecurity and malnutrition crisis of “unparalleled proportions”, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator said on Tuesday. Ramiz Alakbarov, who also serves as Deputy Special Representative, issued a statement saying that acute hunger in the country rose from 14 million in July, to 23 million in March, forcing… Continue reading Afghanistan: Food insecurity and malnutrition threaten ‘an entire generation’

Security forces in Myanmar have killed at least 1,600 people and detained more than 12,500, since the military coup last year, the UN rights office said on Tuesday. In a new report warning that serious rights abuses uncovered in Myanmar may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights,… Continue reading Myanmar: ‘Appalling’ violations demand ‘unified and resolute international response’

Whether as peacebuilders, humanitarians or pivotal actors courageously pushing their communities forward, Afghan women must be given the space to lead if the country is to find peace and progress, the UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet stressed in a statement on Thursday. Speaking from Kabul, where she is listening to women share their experiences – and talking to the… Continue reading Women must be given space to lead if Afghanistan is to find peace: Bachelet

Shocking abuses against indigenous Papuans have been taking place in Indonesia, UN-appointed rights experts said on Tuesday, citing child killings, disappearances, torture and enforced mass displacement.  “Between April and November 2021, we have received allegations indicating several instances of extrajudicial killings, including of young children, enforced disappearance, torture and inhuman treatment and the forced displacement… Continue reading Indonesia: Shocking abuses against indigenous Papuans, rights experts report 

Sri Lanka has taken steps towards legal, institutional and security sector reforms, but more action is still needed, according to a report issued on Friday by the UN human rights office, OHCHR, which examines developments over the past year.  Although UN Human Rights High Commissioner Michelle Bachelet has recognized the authorities’ efforts to initiate reforms,… Continue reading Sri Lanka: UN rights chief welcomes reform but concerns remain

The United Nations has condemned the killing of eight polio vaccination workers in four locations in northern Afghanistan on Thursday, the first such attacks since nationwide campaigns resumed last November.  One member of the vaccination transit team was killed in Taloqan district in Takhar province, while four members of house-to-house teams were murdered in two… Continue reading UN condemns brutal killing of eight polio workers in Afghanistan

UN-appointed independent rights experts issued a statement on Monday calling on India to end relentless misogynistic and sectarian attacks against an investigative journalist. The appeal from Special Rapporteurs on the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Irene Khan and situation of human rights defenders, Mary Lawlor follows what they have called “relentless misogynistic and sectarian attacks” against Rana… Continue reading Halt all retaliation attacks against Indian journalist Rana Ayyub – UN experts

Although child marriage and “bride kidnapping” are illegal in Kyrgyzstan, both practices still exist in parts of the country. An initiative from a UN-backed programme is finally leading to a change in attitudes, and a decline in these harmful practices. Every year, according to official government figures, between seven and nine thousand very young girls… Continue reading The ongoing fight against child marriage and ‘bride kidnapping’ in Kyrgyzstan

“A decade after the killing of the two journalists, there is still no justice as a result of an appalling and pervasive culture of impunity in Bangladesh,” the five UN Special Rapporteurs said in a statement.   Mr.Sarowar and Ms. Runi, who were married, were stabbed to death in their home in the capital, Dhaka,… Continue reading Bangladesh: Rights experts decry ‘appalling’ culture of impunity around killing of journalists

The many families on the island nation of Tonga who rely solely on the ocean for their food and income, are struggling to recover from last month’s volcanic eruption and tsunami. The natural disasters were a major blow to 74-year-old Fangupō Lātū, from the village of Pātangata. His fishing boat was sunk and destroyed during… Continue reading Tonga volcano aftermath: UN aids islanders facing long-term challenges

Jolina, 23, is eight months pregnant and lives in Burgos on the island of Siargao, which suffered some of the worst fallout of the typhoon. Her nearest health centre was completely destroyed and she will likely have to travel some 50 kilometres to give birth, she told the UN’s sexual and reproductive health agency, UNFPA,… Continue reading More support needed for women and girls in super typhoon-ravaged Philippines

Humanitarians are scaling up assistance in the Philippines to assist hundreds of thousands still impacted by Typhoon Rai which struck the islands seven weeks ago, the UN said on Wednesday, launching a $169 million revised appeal to meet the urgent and growing needs.   The revised Humanitarian Needs and Priorities Plan (HNP) targets 840,000 people… Continue reading Philippines: More support needed for thousands still reeling from Typhoon Rai

The UN human rights office OHCHR, has said it is very alarmed over the continued disappearance of six people who were abducted in the Afghan capital Kabul, in connection with recent women’s rights protests. “We are gravely concerned for their well-being and safety”, Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the High Commissioner for Human Rights, told journalists at… Continue reading Six women’s rights activists still missing in Afghanistan 

Scenes of relatives desperately trying to find oxygen supplies for hospitalized COVID-19 patients in India last year, alerted the world to an acute, deadly problem. Yet that was not this first time the country’s hospitals have been hit by a shortage of the life-saving gas, prompting the question of whether there will be enough supplies,… Continue reading Putting an end to India’s oxygen crises

A Tongan family’s trip to visit relatives on Mango island earlier this month turned into a nightmare, when the country was devastated by the eruption of the Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha’apai underwater volcano, and subsequent tsunami. Pauline Vaiangina, her husband, and their four young children, who live in Tongatapu, Tonga’s main island, were visiting their… Continue reading Tonga tsunami: ‘Kids were screaming as if a war was upon us’

As news coverage of the eruption and tsunami that hit Tonga starts to fade away, the United Nations Coordination Specialist in the country has a message to the outside world: Tonga’s people are going to need sustained support responding to a disaster of this scale.  “The resources that we have in the ground are not… Continue reading UN coordinator in Tonga: ‘Resources on the ground are not enough’

When a tsunami swept over much of Tonga last weekend, Joseph Sikulu, a Tongan national, was in Sydney, Australia, exiled from home by strict COVID-19 travel restrictions. For three days, with most communications lines severed, his family and friends were cut off from the outside world, and Mr. Sikulu feared the worst. “I grew up… Continue reading First Person: ‘We saw people running from the tsunami, screaming’

In total, about 84,000 people, more than 80 per cent of the population of the South Pacific Kingdom, have been affected by the disaster.  Besides the three fatalities reported earlier in the week, no further deaths have been confirmed. In an update released on Thursday, OCHA confirms that the whole economically vital agricultural sector, including… Continue reading 80% of Tonga population impacted by eruption and tsunami

At least three people have died in Tonga following the massive volcanic eruption and subsequent tsunami wave that hit over the weekend. Homes and other buildings across the archipelago have suffered major damage. Islands covered in ash, dozens of homes destroyed According to a Tongan Government press release on Tuesday, the three fatalities are a… Continue reading Tonga volcano eruption: At least 3 dead, amid severe destruction

Iran must halt the looming execution of juvenile offender Hossein Shahbazi, four experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council said on Thursday.  Mr. Shahbazi, now 20, was 17 when he was arrested for fatally stabbing a classmate during a fight involving four people.    He was scheduled to be executed on 5 January, which… Continue reading Experts urge Iran to halt imminent execution of juvenile offender

Just two days ago, the United Nations launched its largest-ever humanitarian appeal for a single country, requiring more than $5 billion this year. Speaking to journalists in New York, the UN chief said the scale of the appeal “reflects the scale of the despair.” “Babies being sold to feed their siblings. Freezing health facilities overflowing with malnourished children. People burning their possessions to… Continue reading UN chief: ‘We are in a race against time to help the Afghan people’

The UN and partners launched a more than $5 billion funding appeal for Afghanistan on Tuesday, in the hope of shoring up collapsing basic services there, which have left 22 million in need of assistance inside the country, and 5.7 million people requiring help beyond its borders. Speaking in Geneva, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths said… Continue reading Afghanistan: UN launches largest single country aid appeal ever

Ten months since the military takeover in February 2021, food insecurity in Myanmar has risen sharply, the World Food Programme (WFP) said on Friday.   According to the agency, the rise is driven by the ongoing political crisis, poverty, displacement, and the economic fallout from COVID-19.  Needs are now widespread, from areas affected by conflict in border… Continue reading Myanmar: WFP plans to aid 4 million through 2022 

Despite travel bans and other COVID-19 restrictions, the small team at Viet Nam’s wildlife forensic lab has been bolstering police efforts to crack down on illegal trafficking, with support from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).  The limited research lab worked on almost 250 criminal cases last year, representing hundreds of individual samples… Continue reading Forensic lab aids crack down on illegal wildlife trade in Viet Nam

Communities are still reeling from the effects of the typhoon, which made landfall in no less than nine places across an area the size of Austria, killing some 500 people. Relief teams have compared Rai to Typhoon Haiyan in 2013, which killed more than 6,000 people and left four million homeless. “It just ripped across… Continue reading Relief teams fear worsening aftermath of Super Typhoon Rai

Speaking to journalists on Thursday in New York, the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, Stéphane Dujarric, said the Organization continues to follow the situation “very closely.”  Mr. Dujarric confirmed several contacts between the UN and the authorities in the country, including a call on Thursday morning between Special Representative Natalia Gherman and the Deputy Foreign Minister, Mukhtar… Continue reading UN urges restraint in Kazakhstan, with dozens reportedly killed 

Most of the strikers were women and many of the arrests were conducted in “a violent way”, the experts added. The arrests appeared to contravene the right to freedom of association, assembly and expression.  “We also strongly condemn the manner in which the first arrests took place, after dark, on a day where multiple other events diverted public attention”, the experts said.   For them, this could be seen as “an… Continue reading Cambodia: Arrests of strikers may be breach of human rights law 

The people of Myanmar are facing an unprecedented political, socioeconomic, human rights and humanitarian crisis with needs escalating dramatically since the military takeover and a severe COVID-19 third wave.   According to a UN Humanitarian Needs Overview published on Friday by OCHA, the turmoil is projected to have driven almost half the population into poverty heading into 2022, wiping out… Continue reading People of Myanmar face ‘unprecedented’ crisis in 2022 

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) condemned on Tuesday the reported killing of at least 35 people, including four children and two humanitarian workers, in the Kayah state, in Myanmar.  The UN agency was “shocked and saddened” by the reported killing and burning of victims on 24 December, during a time when many prepared to celebrate Christmas.  … Continue reading Myanmar: Attack leaves 35 dead, including 4 children 

Two UN-appointed independent rights experts condemned the arbitrary execution in the strongest terms on Wednesday, of an Iranian Kurdish prisoner as a sign of “clear disregard for their obligations under international human rights law”. The prisoner, Heidar Ghorbani, was secretly executed in Sanandaj Central Prison at dawn on Sunday – without prior notice to his… Continue reading Iran: UN independent experts condemn secret execution of Kurdish prisoner

Mr. Parvez has documented serious human rights violations in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, including enforced disappearances and unlawful killings, they said, and has faced reprisals reportedly for sharing information with the UN.  Apparent new retaliation  He was arrested in November by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on charges related to conspiracy and terrorism.    “We… Continue reading Experts call for immediate release of Kashmiri human rights defender

A UN independent expert on Sunday commended Bangladesh for providing a safe haven to Rohingya refugees fleeing atrocity crimes in Myanmar, offering to do all he can to “push for a stronger, more coordinated international response” to the crisis. “Bangladesh saved untold numbers of lives when it opened its arms and hearts to Rohingya people who… Continue reading UN expert underscores importance of human rights for Rohingya

Authorities in Viet Nam must immediately release four activists jailed this week for spreading anti-State propaganda, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said on Friday.  Over a three-day period, prominent human rights defenders Trinh Ba Phoung, Nguyen Thi Tam, Do Nam Trung and independent author Pham Doan Trang, were sentenced to up to a decade in jail, and five years on probation.  Silence and intimidate  Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said OHCHR was… Continue reading UN rights office urges Viet Nam to release jailed activists

Four UN independent human rights experts called on Thursday for Morocco to reverse its decision to extradite a Uyghur Muslim to China as his return would place him under threat of serious human rights violations. If he is made to return, human rights defender Yidiresi Aishan risks detention, enforced disappearance, or torture and other cruel,… Continue reading Morocco’s extradition of Uyghur asylum seeker to China could lead to serious rights violations, argue UN experts

IOM’s Chief of Mission, Christa Rottensteiner, explained that “immunizing people on the move is key to combatting the spread of the disease.”  An estimated 36,000 migrants have been stranded on their journeys due to mobility restrictions, nearly 3,500 in Ma’rib alone. Many are sleeping in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions where the virus can easily spread.   “Vaccinating against COVID-19 is even more crucial in… Continue reading UN agency begins COVID vaccine rollout for 7,500 stranded migrants in Yemen 

More than 10 months since Myanmar’s military seized power, the country’s human rights situation is deepening on an unprecedented scale, the UN rights office, OHCHR, has warned. In a strongly worded statement on Friday, OHCHR said that it was “appalled by the alarming escalation of grave human rights abuses” in the country.  “In the last week alone,… Continue reading Rights abuses in Myanmar ‘deepening on an unprecedented scale’  

The UN General Assembly on Monday adopted a resolution to delay a decision on who will represent Afghanistan and Myanmar at the world body.  The Assembly agreed to defer action, which means the current ambassadors for the two countries will remain in place for the time being.   The de facto Taliban authorities in Afghanistan, as well… Continue reading General Assembly defers decision on Afghanistan and Myanmar seats

The development follows media reports that a military vehicle slammed into demonstrators in the city of Yangon over the weekend, leaving an unknown number injured and at least five dead. Political motives In a statement on Monday, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet maintained that Ms. Suu Kyi’s guilty verdict was the result… Continue reading Myanmar: UN deplores conviction and sentencing of Aung San Suu Kyi

A UN human rights expert welcomed India’s decision to repeal three contentious farm laws that sparked a year of nationwide protests which left 600 people dead.  In a statement released this Friday, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food, Michael Fakhri, also urged the Government to ensure accountability for the casualties.  “To truly turn the page on this painful chapter, it is incumbent on the authorities to heed calls for accountability… Continue reading UN expert welcomes India plan to repeal farm laws that sparked deadly protests

Shahpirai, 30, is the sole provider for her husband and three children. “With my salary as a teacher, I could just afford to pay rent and buy food for my family, but not to seek treatment for my child”, she said. An upturn Her situation took a turn for the better last July, when while… Continue reading Feature: Mobile health teams save lives in Afghanistan’s most remote areas

The UN human rights office, OHCHR, on Thursday condemned Iran’s execution of a young man who was a minor at the time he was charged with committing a crime.  Arman Abdolali, 25, is the second juvenile offender to be executed in the country this year.    OHCHR expressed serious concern that his case follows the… Continue reading Iran: Execution of juvenile offender ‘deeply alarming and shocking’

UN-appointed independent human rights experts urged the Chinese authorities on Monday to release on humanitarian grounds, imprisoned citizen journalist and human rights defender, Zhang Zhan.  Since beginning a hunger strike, Ms. Zhan’s health has deteriorating rapidly, she is unable to walk, and her life is in danger, the rights experts said.   “Failure by the Chinese authorities to act swiftly and effectively could have fatal consequences for Zhang Zhan”, the Special Rapporteurs warned in a joint statement before calling… Continue reading Immediately release sick Chinese journalist, rights experts urge

The number of musk deer in Mongolia has plummeted by some 83 per cent since the 1970s, landing them on the country’s red list of critically endangered species. A UN-supported biodiversity initiative is helping to stop the deer from disappearing altogether. Herder community members. Snow Leopard Conservation Foundation The Ensuring Sustainability and Resilience (ENSURE) of… Continue reading From the Field: Saving the Mongolian musk deer

Nadya Zafira, an international relations student at Indonesia’s Gadjah Mada University, won a writing competition for her letter to UN chief António Guterres, in which she addressed the inequalities laid bare by the COVID-19 pandemic, and how indigenous communities and youth are marginalized in global conversations on climate crisis. “In the past two years, my… Continue reading First Person: ‘Bridge the gap between indigenous youth and the world’

While humanitarian access has never been better, prices are soaring and needs continue to outpace the resources provided, the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) explained.  “The situation is disastrous. Every farmer we’ve spoken to has lost almost all of their crops this year, many were forced to sell their livestock, they have accumulated enormous debts… Continue reading Afghanistan’s farmers, herders desperate for seed, food and cash 

UN News spoke with Samantha Mort, Chief of Communication, Advocacy and Civic Engagement at UNICEF Afghanistan, who assured that all offices remain open and warehouses full.  Some 22.8 million people across the country are facing food insecurity, she explained, adding that they cannot access affordable or nutritious food.   Of the 38 million people living in Afghanistan, some 14 million children are food insecure.  For Ms. Mort, “there’s no childhood” these days in Afghanistan. “It’s all about survival and getting… Continue reading Interview: On brink of humanitarian crisis, there’s ‘no childhood’ in Afghanistan

Deborah Lyons, UN Special Representative and Head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), said that despite an improvement in the security situation, Afghans feel abandoned by the international community and anxious about their new leadership. Snow and ice will soon block roads in hard-to-reach areas across Afghanistan, leaving thousands without access to fresh… Continue reading Anxiety in Afghanistan as Taliban struggles for legitimacy

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on Friday urged authorities in Myanmar to immediately release all journalists who have been jailed for practicing their profession.  Rights chief Michelle Bachelet said the conviction and harsh sentencing of American journalist Danny Fenster was emblematic of a wider plight of journalists in the country who have faced… Continue reading Conviction of US journalist symbolic of media repression in Myanmar: UN rights chief

The UN Security Council has called for an immediate cessation of violence across Myanmar, and efforts to ensure the safety of civilians, following reports of more clashes between the armed forces and militant groups.  In a statement issued on Wednesday evening, the Council expressed deep concern over the violence, noting that “recent developments pose particular… Continue reading Security Council appeals for end to violence in Myanmar

Ahead of Thursday’s Security Council meeting behind closed doors on Yemen, the UN Special Envoy, Hans Grundberg, said that a UN-led political process could still be part of a sustainable solution to the conflict. Participating by teleconference, Mr. Grundberg briefed the Council Members about his three-day visit to Taiz governorate, where he held meetings in Taiz city, Turbah and Mokha, and discussed the urgent necessity for an end to the violence.  “These visits have given me a… Continue reading Yemen: UN Special Envoy calls for urgent end to fighting, as humanitarian needs escalate 

From rising sea temperatures, to deadly and devastating storms and floods, climate change is increasing threats in the southwest Pacific, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said in a report published on Wednesday.  The State of the Climate in the South-West Pacific 2020 is part of a new series of regional climate reports by the UN… Continue reading Climate change increasing threats in southwest Pacific: WMO report

Growing conflict, insecurity, COVID-19, and a failing economy, has rendered some three million Burmese in in need of life-saving humanitarian assistance across Myanmar, the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator said on Monday.   “The humanitarian situation in Myanmar is deteriorating”, Martin Griffiths said in a statement, adding that “without an end to violence and a peaceful resolution of Myanmar’s crisis, this number will only rise”.  Growing displacement   Since a military… Continue reading Myanmar: 3 million in need of humanitarian aid, ‘world is watching’ UN relief chief warns generals 

 A group of UN human rights experts appealed on Monday for Singapore to halt the execution of a Malaysian man who has intellectual disabilities.  Nagaenthran K. Dharmalingam, known as Naga, was originally scheduled to be hanged on Wednesday for drug offences after spending more than a decade on death row.  “We note that a temporary stay has been granted today… Continue reading Rights experts urge Singapore to halt execution of man with mental disability

Refugees in Indonesia, many of whom have fled Afghanistan’s mounting crises, have lagged far behind the rest of the population when it comes to COVID-19 vaccinations. The UN is helping to reverse this trend. One recent Thursday, Ali Madad Ibrahimi accompanied an elderly man from Afghanistan to a registration desk under a big red and… Continue reading Vaccinating refugees in Indonesia, for the benefit of all

Preliminary evidence shows a widespread and systematic attack on civilians in Myanmar in the wake of the coup in February, amounting to crimes against humanity, the head of a fact-finding body established by the UN Human Rights Council said on Friday.  Nicholas Koumjian of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar was updating journalists on its work to collect, preserve and analyze evidence… Continue reading Myanmar: Systematic attack on civilians, rights mechanism reveals