Latest United Nation News | Top United Nation News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking United Nation News Today | English United Nation News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

Israel Orders Evacuation Of Humanitarian Zone In Gaza

July 27, 2024, 2:41 pm

Israel’s military ordered the evacuation of a crowded part of Gaza designated as a humanitarian zone on Saturday, signaling plans for an operation against Hamas militants in Khan Younis. The targeted area includes parts of Muwasi, a makeshift tent camp where thousands have sought refuge. This evacuation order follows rocket fire that Israel claims originated from the area. It marks the second evacuation order in a week for a region intended to provide sanctuary for Palestinians fleeing other parts of Gaza. Many Palestinians have been displaced multiple times during Israel’s extensive air and ground campaign.

Airstrikes and Casualties

Following the evacuation order on Monday, Israeli airstrikes around Khan Younis resulted in at least 70 deaths, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, citing figures from Nasser Hospital. This region is part of a 60-square-kilometer “humanitarian zone” where Israel has directed Palestinians to seek refuge throughout the conflict. The area, largely composed of tent camps, lacks adequate sanitation, medical facilities, and has limited access to aid, according to the United Nations and humanitarian organizations. Israel estimates about 1.8 million Palestinians, more than half of Gaza’s pre-war population of 2.3 million, are sheltering in the zone.

Casualties and Displacement

The ongoing war in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of over 39,100 Palestinians, according to the territory’s Health Ministry, which does not differentiate between combatants and civilians in its count. The United Nations estimated in February that approximately 17,000 children in Gaza are now unaccompanied, a number likely to have increased since.

The war began on October 7 with an assault by Hamas militants on southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and the abduction of around 250 hostages. According to Israeli authorities, about 115 hostages are still in Gaza, with approximately one-third believed to be deceased.

UN Report Reveals Most Global Development Goals in Danger of Missing 2030 Deadline

June 29, 2024, 6:36 pm

The United Nations has released a sobering report indicating that only a small fraction of its targets to improve global living conditions are on track to be achieved by the 2030 deadline.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, while launching the report, remarked, “It shows the world is getting a failing grade.” Adopted by world leaders in 2015, the 17 ambitious development goals include 169 specific targets ranging from eradicating global poverty to promoting gender equality. However, the report reveals that nearly half of these targets are showing minimal or moderate progress, while more than a third are either stagnant or regressing.

Guterres attributed this lack of progress to the global community’s failure to secure peace, address climate change, and increase international finance. These challenges, he believes, are hindering development efforts. The report also highlighted the ongoing impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, noting that an additional 23 million people were pushed into extreme poverty, and over 100 million more faced hunger in 2022 compared to 2019.

“In a world of unprecedented wealth, knowledge, and technologies, the denial of basic needs for so many is outrageous and unacceptable,” Guterres remarked. The report identified several concerning trends, such as slower per-capita GDP growth in half of the world’s most vulnerable nations compared to advanced economies, which threatens improvements in equality. Additionally, nearly 60% of countries faced moderate to abnormally high food prices in 2022.

The goal of quality education is also far off track, with only 58% of students worldwide achieving minimum proficiency in reading by the end of primary school. Recent assessments have revealed significant declines in math and reading scores in many countries. Despite these challenges, the report highlighted some positive developments. Mobile broadband is now accessible to 95% of the world’s population, up from 78% in 2015.

The global capacity to generate electricity from renewable sources has been expanding at an unprecedented 8.1% annually for the past five years. Increased access to treatment has prevented over 20.8 million AIDS-related deaths in the past three decades, and new malaria vaccines being rolled out could save millions of lives. Additionally, girls in most regions are now achieving parity with boys in education, and many women are breaking glass ceilings.

However, Guterres emphasized that the speed and scale of change needed for sustainable development are still far too slow. He called for action to end wars, combat climate change, and invest in people and peace. The report highlighted a $4 trillion annual gap in the investments needed to help developing countries reach the sustainable development goals. Guterres urged increased efforts to deliver resources, reduce debt pressures and servicing costs, expand access to contingency financing for countries at risk of a cash flow crisis, and multiply the lending capacity of the World Bank and other development banks.

“We must not give up on our promises to end poverty, protect the planet, and leave no one behind,” the secretary-general concluded.

India going to place platoon of women peacekeepers to UN Mission in Sudan.

January 6, 2023, 11:57 am

India going to place platoon of women peacekeepers to UN Mission in Sudan.

India is set to deploy a platoon of women Peacekeepers in Sudan Abyei region as a part of the Indian Battalion in the United Nations Interims Security Force (UNISFA). This will be India’s largest single unit of women Peacekeepers in a UN mission since it deployed the first-ever-all- women contingent in Liberia in 2007, stated the Permanent Mission of India to the Un press release. In, 2007, India became the first country to deploy all-women contingent to a UN peacekeeping mission.

The Security Counsil was deeply concerned by the violence, escalating tensions and population displacement. This deployment in Abyei is very important, because of the recent spurt in violence has triggered a spate of challenging humanitarian concerns for women and children in the conflict. UNISFA’s establishment came after the Government of Sudan and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) reached an agreement in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to demilitarize Abyei and let Ethiopian troops monitor the area.

S Jaishankar lambasted China for trying to unilaterally change LAC

January 3, 2023, 2:59 pm

External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar criticized China on Monday for trying to unilaterally change the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

While giving an interview Jaishankar said, “We had an agreement not to unilaterally change the LAC, which they have tried to unilaterally do. So there is, I think, an issue, a perception that we have which derives directly from our experiences.”

Meanwhile, in recent years flashpoints have been hosted in the Galwan Valley and Pangong Lake in the west of the LAC.

“I think there’s a larger concern based on our experiences. The concern is that we had agreements with China not to amass forces in our border areas, and they have not observed those agreements, which is why we have the currently tense situation that we do,” Jaishankar said.

Earlier on 20 December at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on the Chinese side, the 17th Round of Corps Commander Level Meeting was held in India and China.

Moreover, Jaishankar further said, China may blame India for not following the agreements but in the satellite pictures it is very clear who was at the fault.

“Now, where else the status quo may change or not change? I would hesitate as a foreign minister to predict publicly. I may have my own views and assessments, but I certainly can share my experience. And my experience is that written agreements were not observed and that we have seen levels of military pressure, which, in our view, has no justification. China would say the opposite. They would say that India had not obeyed different agreements. But obviously, no, I think it’s difficult for China to say that. For this reason, the record is very clear, because today there’s a lot of transparency. You have satellite pictures. If you see who moved the forces to the border areas first, I think the record is very clear. So it’s very difficult for China to say what you suggested they could,” Jaishankar said.

“India will probably overtake China as the world’s most populous country within this year. Is this fact of any political significance to India, or is it just a mere statistic? You know, we’ll know that when we reach there, won’t we? Because we have never used numbers in that manner. Maybe other countries have. I would still say it is a statistic to a large extent,” Jaishankar said on overtaking China as the most populous country.

Jaishankar also highlighted the need for reforms in the United Nations and said, “What does it say about the state of the UN? If that is the case? So it’s both a yes and a no. It’s partly a statistic, but I think it’s a statistic that means a lot. For several years, you have called for a permanent seat on the Security Council as if Brazil as Japan, or Germany. How long will it take, from your point of view, till this reform of the Council will actually become reality? Well, ideally, we’d like it yesterday, of course, but the problem, I think, is that those who are today enjoying the benefits of permanent membership clearly are not in a hurry to see the reform. I think it’s a very short-sighted view, in my opinion, because at the end of the day, the credibility of the UN, and frankly, their own interests and effectiveness, is at stake. So my sense is it will take some time, hopefully not too much time.”

“I can see a growing body of opinion among UN members who believe that there must be change. It’s not just us. You have entire Africa, entire Latin America left out developing countries vastly underrepresented, I think, the state of the world. This was an organization invented in 1945. It’s 2023. And when you would have to guess for a year when this will happen, what would it be? No, I wouldn’t guess, because I know the complexities of this process. It’s a tough one. I would be honest with you. It’s a tough one. But I don’t think we should give up because it’s a tough one. On the contrary, because it’s a tough one, we should actually up the ante, increase the feeling in bad parts of the world that this reform is essential,” Jaishankar said on the UN is not represented evenly.

UN chief condemns Kabul attack; expresses condolences to bereaved families

December 14, 2022, 11:42 am

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has strongly condemned the Kabul hotel attack and also expressed condolences to the bereaved families. The attacks resulted in multiple casualties.

“The Secretary-General strongly condemns the attack on 12 December on a Hotel in Kabul, resulting in multiple casualties. The Secretary-General expresses his condolences to the bereaved families and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured,” UN Secretary-General Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said.

The statement further stated, “The Secretary-General calls for the perpetrators to be held to account. He reiterates that attacks against civilians and civilian objects are strictly prohibited under international humanitarian law.”

Meanwhile, in the Kabul hotel attack, at least three people were killed and two foreigners were also injured.

Talking about the incident Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid said an attack was carried out in the Longan Hotel in which 21 casualties – 18 injured and three dead on arrival in Kabul’s Emergency Hospital.

Moreover, in Afghanistan, the UN mission also condemned the attack and said, “Violence in #Afghanistan serves no purpose but prolonging the agony of more than 40 years of war. We stand in solidarity with the victims.”

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin addressed the press conference and said, “In the wake of the attack, the Chinese Embassy in Afghanistan immediately lodged a serious representation with the Afghan interim government and asked the Afghan side to make every effort to search for and rescue Chinese nationals.”

However, the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for Afghanistan’s Kabul attack. A deadly attack was carried out on Monday on a hotel in Afghanistan’s capital used by Chinese businessmen.

‘Deeply disturbing’: UN condemns first public execution since Taliban takeover

December 8, 2022, 12:07 pm

The UN human rights office, OHCHR, expressed its disapproval of the alleged first public execution in Afghanistan since the Taliban took control last year.

Since the extremist group took control of the nation last year, the Taliban have executed one man in public, according to Voice of America (VOA). The public execution, according to Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, took place in a stadium in western Farah province. The execution was seen by hundreds of individuals, including the group’s top leaders. The executed victim, according to the Taliban spokesperson, was tried in Taliban courts and subsequent appeal tribunals.

OHCHR spokesperson Jeremy Laurence described it as a “deeply disturbing” development. Moreover, he added, it was performed in the presence of local residents and some senior members of the de facto authorities.
Reminding that public executions constitute a form of “cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment,” he stressed that they are “arbitrary in nature and contrary to the right to life protected under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Afghanistan is a state party.”

According to news reports, the man who was executed had been charged with murder in western Farah province five years earlier after being suspected of fatally stabbing another man. According to a Taliban spokesperson, the victim’s father carried out the execution.

There were reportedly around a dozen prominent Taliban officials present. The nation’s supreme court recently approved a return to public beatings of both men and women for crimes like robbery and adultery.

According to Jeremy Laurence of OHCHR, the use of the death penalty is incompatible with the core principles of human rights and cannot be justified while fully upholding the right to life.

“We urge the de facto authorities to establish an immediate moratorium on any further executions and act swiftly to prohibit use of the death penalty in its entirety”.
The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) echoed that message on social media. “The UN strongly opposes the death penalty in all circumstances”, it tweeted, urging the Taliban to establish an immediate moratorium on executions, “with a view to abolishing the death penalty”.

In the meantime, the Taliban has come under fire from the United States after allegations of public floggings and executions of Afghan citizens by the militant Islamic group surfaced.

At the briefing for the media on Wednesday, Ned Price, a spokesperson for the US State Department, said: “This signals to us that the Taliban intend to – seek a return to their regressive and abusive practises of the 1990s.”

“We’ve seen the reports that the Taliban has ordered judges to impose their interpretation of Sharia law. That includes public executions, amputations, and floggings. We’ve seen the reports of a public execution today,” the state department spokesperson said during a press briefing.
Taking note of “despicable videos circulated online”, Price said, “It was an affront to the dignity and the human rights of all Afghans then; it would be an affront to the dignity and the human rights of all Afghans now.”

In August 2021, the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan and enacted laws severely curtailing fundamental rights, especially those of women and girls. The Taliban have restricted critical reporting, imprisoned journalists, and physically assaulted journalists.

Afghanistan: UN ask Taliban to end gender-based violence

November 25, 2022, 2:27 pm

Taliban has been called to take immediate steps by the UN mission in Afghanistan to end violence against women and the broader deterioration of women’s rights as an important part of efforts to establish a meaningful and sustainable peace.
The request was made at the same time as the globe observed the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the beginning of the global “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.” In Afghanistan, a nation with one of the highest rates of violence against women in the world, many of the most fundamental rights for women have been curtailed or eliminated since the summer of 2021.
The request was made at the same time as the globe observed the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and the beginning of the global “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.” In Afghanistan, a nation with one of the highest rates of violence against women in the world, many of the most fundamental rights for women have been curtailed or eliminated since the summer of 2021.

The situation became worse by a dire humanitarian and economic crisis, and the restrictions on women’s basic rights, which includes the freedom to movement, work, education and public life participation.
These factors have combined to strengthen some traditional social norms that deliberately ignore the use of violence as a form of discipline and control. This has created an environment in which violence against women and girls is normalized, UN mission added.

The underlying social norms that support inequality have gained strength in the absence of laws and policies that defend and advance gender equality and women’s rights, as well as the introduction of decrees and edicts that contribute to the systematic exclusion of women from public and political life.
“Each day we continue to see the normalization of violence against women and girls, in their homes, places where they are allowed to work, online, and in public spaces,” said Alison Davidian, UN Women’s Representative in Afghanistan. “Globally we know it is impossible to create an environment where women and girls are free from violence without also having specific interventions to empower them, including initiatives to support their voice, agency and participation in the decisions affecting their lives. We need to renew our efforts to invest in both the protection and empowerment of women and girls in Afghanistan.”
An annual global campaign called the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence begins on November 25 and runs through December 10—International Human Rights Day. In order to end gender-based violence everywhere, it calls for global action to raise awareness, bolster advocacy efforts, and share knowledge and innovations.

UN calls on Taliban to stop gender-based violence in Afghanistan

November 25, 2022, 12:59 pm

The Taliban have been urged by the UN mission in Afghanistan to take immediate action to stop violence against women and the general erosion of women’s rights as a crucial component of attempts to forge a meaningful and long-lasting peace.

The request was made at the same time as the globe observed the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the beginning of the global “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.” In Afghanistan, a nation with one of the highest rates of violence against women in the world, many of the most fundamental rights for women have been curtailed or eliminated since the summer of 2021.

“The fundamental rights of Afghan women need to be protected, and concrete steps need to be taken for an enabling environment that is free from all forms of violence,” said Roza Otunbayeva, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan. “Protecting the rights of women is a crucial factor for stability, prosperity, and any lasting peace in Afghanistan” said Otunbayeva, who is also head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).

The severe humanitarian and economic crisis, as well as restrictions on women’s fundamental rights, such as the freedom to move around, work, pursue an education, and participate in public life, are said to be aggravating factors, according to the UNAMA statement.

According to the UN mission, these elements have combined to strengthen some long-standing social norms that support the use of violence as a method of discipline and control, normalising violence against women and girls in the process.

“Each day we continue to see the normalisation of violence against women and girls, in their homes, places where they are allowed to work, online, and in public spaces,” said Alison Davidian, UN Women’s Representative in Afghanistan.

“Globally, we know it is impossible to create an environment where women and girls are free from violence without also having specific interventions to empower them, including initiatives to support their voice, agency, and participation in the decisions affecting their lives. We need to renew our efforts to invest in both the protection and empowerment of women and girls in Afghanistan.”

An annual global campaign called the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence began on November 25 and runs through December 10—International Human Rights Day. In order to end gender-based violence everywhere, it calls for global action to raise awareness, bolster advocacy efforts, and share knowledge and innovations.

World population reaches 8 billion today, says UN

November 15, 2022, 11:04 am

The globe is expected to surpass a significant milestone today when the population reaches 8 billion, according to UN predictions published in July of this year.

The annual World Population Prospect also observed that, having decreased to less than 1% in 2020, the rate of population growth worldwide is at its lowest level since 1950.

In the past 12 years, India has made the biggest contribution toward pushing the world population from 7 billion to 8 billion.

United Nations Population Fund said that Asia and Africa drove much of that growth and is expected to drive the next billion, while Europe’s contribution will be negative due to declining population.

“India, the largest contributor to the 8 billion, will surpass China, which was the second largest contributor and whose contribution to the next billion will be negative, as the world’s most populous nation by 2023,” the UN sexual and reproductive health agency said.

In 1960, there were 3 billion people on the planet. This number increased to 4 billion in 1975, 5 billion in 1987, 6 billion in 1999, and 7 billion in 2011. According to UN predictions, it will take the population about 15 years to reach 9 billion people.

It is anticipated that the world population will reach a peak of roughly 10.4 billion people during the 2080s and then remain there until 2100, expanding at its slowest rate since World War II.

The population of just eight nations—Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Tanzania—will expand by more than half by the year 2050. Many of the 46 least developed nations are anticipated to see population growth rates among the fastest in the world between 2022 and 2050.

In 2023, India is anticipated to overtake China as the world’s most populated nation, according to United Nations estimates.

November 15 will be the day of 8 billion people: UN

November 11, 2022, 5:59 pm

The world’s population is expected to hit eight billion by November 15, according to the UN. India will overtake China as the world’s most populated country in 2023, according to a report.

The projection was made public in the UN World Population Prospects 2022 report, which was released on July 11 this year on World Population Day. However, it is now gaining popularity as the projected deadline approaches. The agency also stated that global population growth fell below one percent in 2020 for the first time since 1950.

According to the report, just eight nations—Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Tanzania—will account for more than half of the projected population growth up to 2050.

According to the most recent UN predictions, the world’s population might reach 8.5 billion people in 2030, 9.7 billion in 2050, peak at 10.4 billion in 2080, and remain at that level until 2100.

As a result of recent fertility drops, the majority of sub-Saharan African countries, as well as some areas of Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean, have seen a “demographic dividend.” This rise in the proportion of people in working age (between 25 and 64) offers a chance for per capita economic growth to accelerate.

“This is an occasion to celebrate our diversity, recognise our common humanity, and marvel at advancements in health that have extended lifespans and dramatically reduced maternal and child mortality rates,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is quoted as saying in the report.

The role of sustainability and sustainable goals were also discussed by the UN Secretary General. At the same time, he continued, “It is a moment to reflect on where we still fall short of our commitments to one another and a reminder of our shared responsibility to care for our planet.”

Over 70 per cent of the world’s refugees and displaced people dwell in Afghanistan: UN

November 9, 2022, 7:06 pm

Filippo Grandi, the Commissioner for Refugees, claimed more than 70% of the world’s refugees and displaced people reside in Afghanistan, according to reports.

Since the Taliban seized power in August last year, the Afghan people have endured the worst human rights abuses and continue to live in abject poverty. Other climate-vulnerable nations, such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Syria, and Yemen, in addition to Afghanistan, also have a sizable number of displaced people, according to Grandi.

“Afghanistan is not on the agenda of COP27, and there is no official representative of Afghanistan in this conference. I attended as an unofficial representative,” news reports quoted Abdul Hadi Achakzai, an unofficial representative of Afghanistan in the COP27, as saying.

The displaced families expressed concern that it has become more challenging to thrive on a daily basis as a result of climate change and impending winters.

As winter draws near, some Afghan families who have been uprooted by climate change expressed their extreme fear.

According to reports, Sharif is one of the people who had to leave the Parwan province and travel to Kabul as a result of the flooding that occurred there in August of this year.

“The flood hit our home and destroyed it. I have nothing here now,” said Basri Gul, another displaced person.
As the winter season is drawing closer, Afghanis’ concern for the humanitarian crisis has grown.

According to the most recent assessment from the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the country’s poverty rate increased from 47% to 97% in 3 years.

According to OCHA research, the poverty rate was 47% in 2020, increased to 70% in 2021, and reached 97% in 2022. According to the figures, 97% of Afghans live below the poverty line, and the country is experiencing one of the greatest humanitarian crises in the world.

According to Khaama Press, the rate of poverty in Afghanistan has been correlated with a number of circumstances, including a reduction in income, an increase in food prices and inflation, a drought, high unemployment, and natural disasters.

US to put United Nations focus on Iranian protest

October 29, 2022, 5:40 pm

The Iranian protests that were triggered by the murder of a young woman in police custody will be the focus of the United Nations next week as the US looks for ways to promote credible, independent investigations into Iranian human rights violations.

A note outlining the event, seen by Reuters, states that the US and Albania will hold a non-formal U.N. Security Council meeting on Wednesday. Shirin Ebadi, the Iranian campaigner and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, and Nazanin Boniadi, an actress, are scheduled to speak.

“The meeting will highlight the ongoing repression of women and girls and members of religious and ethnic minority groups in Iran,” the note said. “It will identify opportunities to promote credible, independent investigations into the Iranian government’s human rights violations and abuses.”

Other U.N. member states and rights organisations are welcome to the meeting, which will also feature independent U.N. investigator Javaid Rehman on the subject of human rights in Iran.

Since the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish woman, in police custody last month, Iran has been rocked by protests. One of the most audacious challenges to the clerical regime since the 1979 revolution, the unrest has evolved into a mass uprising by Iranians from all societal strata.

Iran has attributed the turmoil to its foreign adversaries and their agents.

The United States and its allies were accused of abusing their platform “to push their political agenda,” according to Iran’s delegation to the United Nations in New York.

Given its hypocrisy, use of a double standard, and selective application of human rights, we find the U.S.’s claims to support Iranian women to be deceptive and lacking in good faith,” it said.

Rights groups have said at least 250 protesters have been killed and thousands arrested across the country. Women have played a prominent part in the protests, removing and burning veils. The deaths of several teenage girls reportedly killed during protests have fuelled more anger.

“The meeting will underscore ongoing unlawful use of force against protesters and the Iranian regime’s pursuit of human rights defenders and dissidents abroad to abduct or assassinate them in contravention of international law,” read the note about the planned meeting.

U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Friday urged the Iranian authorities to address the “legitimate grievances of the population, including with respect to women’s rights.”

“We condemn all incidents that have resulted in death or serious injury to protestors and reiterate that security forces must avoid all unnecessary or disproportionate use of force against peaceful protestors,” Dujarric told reporters. “Those responsible must be held to account.”

UN expresses concern about catastrophic bombings in Kachin State, Myanmar

October 25, 2022, 12:13 pm

In response to reports of airstrikes in Hpakant, Kachin State, which left dozens of people dead, the United Nations (UN) in Myanmar has expressed grave concern.

The military of Myanmar attacked a musical performance in Hpakant Township, Kachin State, in the north of the country on Sunday. The concert took place as part of events honouring the 62nd birthday of the well-known ethnic rebel organisation, the Kachin Independence Organisation (KIO).

“The United Nations (UN) in Myanmar is deeply concerned and saddened by reports of airstrikes that took place in Hpakant, Kachin State around 8:00 PM on October 23, 2022. Initial reports suggest that over 100 civilians may have been affected by the bombing. Numerous fatalities have also been reported,” the UN mission in the country said in the statement.
“While the UN continues to verify the details of this attack, we offer our deepest condolences to the families and friends of all those who were killed or injured. The UN calls for those injured to be available for urgent medical treatment, as needed,” it added.
The UN said the airstrikes “appear to be excessive and disproportionate use of force by security forces against unarmed civilians is unacceptable and those responsible must be held to account.”

Amnesty’s deputy regional director, Hana Young, expressed fear that the air raids were “part of a pattern of unlawful aerial attacks by the military, which has killed and injured civilians in areas controlled by armed groups”.
“The military has shown ruthless disregard for civilian lives in its escalating campaign against opponents. It is difficult to believe the military did not know of a significant civilian presence at the site of this attack. The military must immediately grant access to medics and humanitarian assistance to those affected by these air strikes and other civilians in need,” Young added.

According to the London-based rights organisation, the KIO is the political arm of the Kachin Independence Army, which governs the region and has fought battles with the Myanmar military for decades.

Since seizing power in a coup in February of last year, the military has come to rely more on air power in its fight to maintain control of the nation.

According to a report released in July by Amnesty International, the military in Myanmar has repeatedly attacked civilian Karen and Karenni communities on the ground and in the air, detained them arbitrarily, frequently using torture or extrajudicial executions, and systematically looted and burned their villages.

Women’s participation in peace talks declined: UN

October 23, 2022, 5:47 pm

The proportion of women participating in peace negotiations has decreased, which is concerning given the rising discontent around the world. Only 19% of women were present at the UN-led peace negotiations in 2021, down from 23% in 2020. In processes not under the control of the UN, women were flatly and clearly excluded, according to the report, according to a United Nations research.

There is enough data, according to the research “Strengthening women’s resilience and leadership as a path to peace in regions afflicted by armed groups,” to demonstrate that peace agreements are more likely to be upheld when women leaders are involved. In order to mitigate the effects of reversed generational advances in women’s rights in conflict-affected nations, it emphasises the need of protecting women human rights defenders and reserving their seats during peace discussions.

The research highlighted the disarray in women’s lives in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, noting that a decline in peace and security everywhere doubles discrimination against women. According to reports, 29 female trade unionists, journalists, and human rights defenders were killed in 2021, though actual numbers may be much higher. This, according to the report, should be taken as a call for political support that is both explicit and obvious.

According to statistics, military spending increased to $2.1 trillion in 2021 at the expense of investments in human security, while support for women’s organisations in countries with ongoing conflicts decreased to $150 million in 2020, a further decrease from 2019. The research said that supporting women’s participation in peace and security can help rectify the issue, quoting UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous as saying that “commitment towards global peace should put women at the centre of its pursuit.”

Other recommendations made in the report included investing in long-term peace, conflict prevention, and women’s involvement and engagement in all areas of peace.

Jaishankar chides Pakistan and China in his address to the UNGA

September 25, 2022, 4:42 pm

Jaishankar, Minister of external affairs, sent a stern message to China on Friday regarding its opposition to the UN’s blacklisting of terrorists, stating those who politicise the UNSC 1267 Sanctions system in order to safeguard declared terrorists do so at their own peril.

Jaishankar made reference to Pakistan without naming it and stated that “no speech, however sanctimonious, can ever cover-up blood stains.”

“The United Nations responds to terrorism by sanctioning its perpetrators. Those who politicise the UNSC 1267 Sanctions regime, sometimes to the extent of defending proclaimed terrorists, do so at their own peril. Believe me, they advance neither their own interests nor indeed their reputation,” Jaishankar said at the United Nations General Assembly without naming China.

Sanctions are outlined in Resolution 1267 against people and organisations who enable or fund ISIL, Al-Qaida, or any affiliated terrorist organization’s deeds.

Jaishankar extended an invitation to all UN members to attend the Counter-Terrorism Committee meetings in Mumbai and New Delhi.

Additionally, he stated that India must develop a global architecture in response to the new technological instruments being used against pluralistic, open, and diverse civilizations.

“Having borne the brunt of cross-border terrorism for decades, India firmly advocates a “zero-tolerance” approach. In our view, there is no justification for any act of terrorism, regardless of motivation. And no rhetoric, however sanctimonious, can ever cover up blood stains,” Jaishankar said at the UNGA.

The External Affairs Minister stated during the meeting that the UN members supported the Security Council reforms. He added that because the current architecture is acknowledged to be outdated and ineffectual, UN members favour the overhaul.

According to Jaishankar, the justice of the developing world is “decisively addressed.”

“It is also perceived as deeply unfair, denying entire continents and regions a voice in a forum that deliberates their future. India is prepared to take up greater responsibilities. But it seeks at the same time to ensure that the injustice faced by the Global South is decisively addressed,” Jaishankar said.

“Our call is to allow serious negotiations on such a critical matter to proceed sincerely. They must not be blocked by procedural tactics. Naysayers cannot hold the IGN process hostage in perpetuity. In these turbulent times, it is essential that the world listens to more voices of reason. and experiences more acts of goodwill. India is willing and able on both counts. We believe and advocate that this is not an era of war and conflict. On the contrary, it is a time for development and cooperation,” he added.

On September 16, China blocked a resolution that the US and India had sponsored at the UN to name Sajid Mir of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) as a “global terrorist.”

He is the most wanted terrorist in India and took part in the Mumbai attacks in 2008. The US proposed that India blacklist Mir as a foreign terrorist under the 1267 Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council.

After Abdul Rehman Makki, a leader of the LeT and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), and Abdul Rauf Azhar, the brother of Jaish-e Mohammed (JEM) founder Masood Azhar, were given protection by Beijing, China has now thwarted an India-US request three times in recent months.

A Taj Hotel employee seeks justice in the United Nations for 26/11 attacks

September 10, 2022, 11:48 am

The ‘Global Congress of Victims of Terrorism’ was held by the United Nations in New York on Friday. The person speaking at the event was the general manager of the Taj Hotel during the 26/11 terror attacks. The name of the person is Karambir Kang.

Kang called upon the international community to “work together to seek justice for the victims who lost their lives during the attack and said… while the terrorists who entered the hotel met their fate, the people who planned it, financed it and organized the attack remain free.”

Kang said, “The entire world watched with horror when 10 terrorists attacked my country, city and my hotel, the Taj Mahal hotel in Mumbai, where I was the general manager,” sharing the painful memories of the attack in which he lost his family—including two young sons and wife. During the tragedy that continued over three long days and nights, over 34 previous lives were lost. My wife and two young sons could not escape and perished during the attack. I lost everything… We lost many brave colleagues and this heroic act saved thousands of lives that night.”

While asking for justice from the global leaders, Kang also said that while the company and the staff had received global accolades, the victims of the attack had spent 14 long and painful years trying to seek justice.

He also added, “While the terrorists who entered the hotel met their fate, the people who planned it, financed it and organised the attack remain free. Today I call upon the international community to work together to seek justice nationally and across borders. As our own act of defiance to the terrorism, we opened the hotel which was totally destroyed in 21 days.”

In the 2008 Mumbai attacks, 10 members of the Pakistani Islamist terrorist organization, Lashkar-e-Taiba, were involved and coordinated shooting and bombing attacks were carried across Mumbai over the course of four days.

Kang concluded by saying, “Member states must join us in defiance and ensure that there are no safe harbors for terrorists so that these heinous crimes are not given space to take root.”

982 dead and over 33 million affected amidst Pakistan flood

August 27, 2022, 2:32 pm

As floods ravage parts of Pakistan, 1,456 people have been injured and 982 have died. As a result, the Shehbaz Sharif government has turned to the Pakistan Army for assistance in rescue and relief efforts. According to Pakistan’s disaster management organisation, more than 3,000 km of roads, around 150 bridges, and almost seven lakh homes have been washed away or destroyed as a result of the flooding.

As Pakistani media reported on Saturday, “at present, more than half of (the country) is under water and millions of people have been rendered homeless as a result of flash flooding generated by abnormal monsoon rains…”

Over 5.7 million people are without shelter and food due to unprecedented rains.

In the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Sindh provinces, where heavy rain continues for a second day in a row and areas are blocked off owing to damaged roads and bridges, the media reported on a “new wave of death and destruction.”

The catastrophe also damaged crops and cattle.

According to the reports, Balochistan and Sindh were particularly hard hit, and several locations on Pakistan’s railway network had their operations interrupted.

Due to severe weather, Pakistan International Airlines on Friday suspended service to Quetta, the provincial capital of Balochistan.

Following the declaration of a “national emergency,” the Pakistani government, according to the reports will make a “flash plea” to the UN. $3 million has already been allotted by the UN Central Emergency Response Fund.

Due to the inability of the government to restore pipelines that were washed away by floods in the Bolan River, the floods and storms have also caused a severe gas shortage.

Torrential rain in different parts of KPK, flooding situation at Swat Bypass!#FloodSituation #Sindh #Sindhfloods #SindhNeedsDisasterRelief #balochistanfloods pic.twitter.com/pkjHO1lmjB
— Chaudhary Parvez (@ChaudharyParvez) August 26, 2022

Indian peacekeepers killed in violent Protests in Congo, US condemns attack

July 29, 2022, 11:21 am

On Thursday, the United States emphasised that attacks against UN employees and facilities are illegal under international law and applauded the Congo government’s efforts to conduct an investigation.

Ned Price, the spokesperson for the state department, said, “The United States underscores that attacks against UN personnel and facilities are contrary to international law. Freedom of expression, including peaceful protest, must be allowed, but not violence.”

This was in response to the violence inflicted on two Indian peacekeepers during an anti-UN protest in Congo.

Two members of the Border Security Force who were serving in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s UN peacekeeping mission were killed during violent demonstrations on Tuesday, according to the force’s spokesperson.

The United States extended condolences and deepest commiseration to the families and friends of those killed in the violence as well as to the stabilisation mission of the UNO in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Price outlined the specifics, saying, “Over the past four days, there have been protests against MONUSCO in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. A number of these protests have turned violent, resulting in the unacceptable and tragic deaths of UN peacekeepers, UN police officers, and Congolese protesters. “

MONUSCO assists in extending humanitarian aid and promoting peace and security to safeguard civilians.

Price added that the local and national authorities of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DCR) were called in to ensure the protection of MONUSCO sites and personnel and for demonstrators to express themselves peacefully.

He further stated, “We appreciate the government of the DRC’s commitment to investigating these events and holding accountable those responsible.”

India has been an active member of the PBC and is one of the top T/PCCs (Troop/Police Contributing Countries) to UN peacekeeping missions. India’s fundamental approach to peacebuilding initiatives is anchored in respect for the development priorities of member states.

India’s role has been significant, underscoring extensive development partnerships with the couriers of Glob South for maintaining peace.

India continues to offer generous grants and low-interest loans to nations in post-conflict situations through bilateral and international fora.

The Indian envoy stated, “Going forward, India will continue to be a force multiplier for peacebuilding efforts. We hope that these efforts will continue to be driven by a ‘people-centric’ approach.”

The two personnel who lost their lives were residents of Rajasthan, and we were designated as head constables. Two BSF platoons, each with 70–74 members, had been placed in the region and indoctrinated in May.

Alarming economic crisis in Sri Lanka, needs immediate assistance says UN

July 21, 2022, 10:52 am

UN Human Rights experts have expressed concern over the ongoing crisis in Sri Lanka, appealing for support from 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 other countries that must come to the country’s aid,” they stated on Wednesday.

The group of mine experts has expressed dismay over the growing inflation, rising prices of commodities, fuel crisis , power shortages as the country is under political turmoil.

The law functionaries elected six-time prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as Sri Lanka’s President on Wednesday.

Former Prime Minister Gotabaya Rajapakasa resigned last week after fleeing the country as the protests outraged and broke into the government buildings in Colombo. Sri Lanka has convulsed into violent protests due to a shortage of basic amenities like food, fuel, medicine, and other commodities.

In the opinion of the experts, the crisis is severely affecting human rights in Sri Lanka. People with illnesses and those in need of life assistance are experiencing shortages of food and healthcare amenities.

The UN expert on foreign debt and human rights, Attiya Waris, said, “Time and again, we have seen the grave systemic repercussions a debt crisis has had on countries, exposing deep structural gaps of the global financial system, and affecting the implementation of human rights.”

She further added, “Any response towards mitigating the economic crisis should have human rights at its core, including in the context of negotiation with the IMF.”

The issue of Lanka’s growing institutional debt was flagged earlier in 2029 in a report issued after the expert visit. The report found that repaying the debt is the country’s largest expenditure. The experts held the government responsible for deepening the crisis with its botched agricultural policies.