United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reprimanded the world on Tuesday for the inequitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, describing it as an 'obscenity' and giving the globe an 'F in Ethics.' Watch this report for more details.

WION-USA Direct: UN Chief laments wastage of vaccines

UN Chief Antonio Guterres opened the UNGA week with a five-point Sustainable development agenda for 2030.

WION-USA Direct: UNGA President talks about sustainable development goals

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday, while addressing the United Nation General Assembly said that a 'malady of mistrust' is spreading in the world when people see their fundamental rights and freedoms curtailed, when they see corruption, when they see billionaires joyriding to space while millions go hungry on Earth, and when young people see no future at all.

The statement was made in reference to the private space trips by three billionaire entrepreneurs Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Richard Branson as they are vying to usher in a new era of private commercial space travel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-general-assembly-2021-alarm-to-wake-up-world-key-points-from-strong-speech-by-secretary-general-antonio-guterres-414680">Also read |&nbsp;UN General Assembly 2021 | Alarm to wake up world: Key points from strong speech by Secretary General Antonio Guterres</a>

Musk, Bezos and Branson have been investing billions of dollars into their space startups as they promised to ferry paying customers on rides to space.

Guterres also warned global leaders that the world has never been more threatened or more divided, and is facing the "greatest cascade" of crises, citing the COVID-19 pandemic, a global climate crisis, and unrest in Afghanistan and other countries as examples.

In his address to the General Debate of the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Guterres stated that human rights are under attack, science is under attack, and economic lifelines for the most vulnerable are arriving too late and too little, if at all, and solidarity is lacking in action just when the world needs it most.&nbsp;

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday, while addressing the United Nation General Assembly said that a 'malady of mistrust' is spreading in the world when people see their fundamental rights and freedoms curtailed, when they see corruption, when they see billionaires joyriding to space while millions go hungry on Earth, and when young people see no future at all.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday, while addressing the United Nation General Assembly said that a 'malady of mistrust' is spreading in the world when people see their fundamental rights and freedoms curtailed, when they see corruption, when they see billionaires joyriding to space while millions go hungry on Earth, and when young people see no future at all. The statement was made in reference to the private space trips by three billionaire entrepreneurs Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Richard Branson as they are vying to usher in a new era of private commercial space travel. Also read | UN General Assembly 2021 | Alarm to wake up world: Key points from strong speech by Secretary General Antonio Guterres Musk, Bezos and Branson have been investing billions of dollars into their space startups as they promised to ferry paying customers on rides to space. Guterres also warned global leaders that the world has never been more threatened or more divided, and is facing the "greatest cascade" of crises, citing the COVID-19 pandemic, a global climate crisis, and unrest in Afghanistan and other countries as examples. In his address to the General Debate of the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Guterres stated that human rights are under attack, science is under attack, and economic lifelines for the most vulnerable are arriving too late and too little, if at all, and solidarity is lacking in action just when the world needs it most.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres says a 'malady of mistrust' is spreading as he talks about private space ventures

In his address during the 76th Session of the UNGA, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned global leaders that the world has never been more threatened or more divided, and is facing the "greatest cascade" of crises, citing the COVID pandemic, a global climate crisis, and unrest in Afghanistan and other countries as examples.

WION USA Direct: UN Chief General Antonio Guterres speaks on Covid, Afghan unrest at UNGA Summit

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday warned global leaders that the world has never been more threatened or more divided, and is facing the "greatest cascade" of crises, citing the COVID-19 pandemic, a global climate crisis, and unrest in Afghanistan and other countries as examples.

In his address to the General Debate of the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Guterres stated that human rights are under attack, science is under attack, and economic lifelines for the most vulnerable are arriving too late and too little, if at all, and solidarity is lacking in action just when the world needs it most.&nbsp;

Here are the highlights of his strong speech:

<ul>
	<li>"I fear our world is creeping towards two different sets of economic, trade, financial, and technology rules, two divergent approaches in the development of artificial intelligence, — and ultimately, two different military and geopolitical strategies," he said. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>"I am here to sound the alarm: The world must wake up. We are on the edge of an abyss — and moving in the wrong direction. Our world has never been more threatened. Or more divided. We face the greatest cascade of crises in our lifetimes,". 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The COVID-19 pandemic, which has killed more than 4.6 million people and infected over 228 million people globally, has exposed glaring inequalities among nations over vaccine access and affordability. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>"More than 5.7 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered globally, but only 2 per cent of them in Africa, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).Perhaps one image tells the tale of our times. The picture we have seen from some parts of the world of COVID-19 vaccine doses... in the garbage. Expired and unused, " Guterres said. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The UN chief noted that while on the one hand, vaccines have been developed in a record time, on the other hand, "we see that triumph undone by the tragedy of a lack of political will, selfishness, and mistrust." 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>"A surplus in some countries. Empty shelves in others. A majority of the wealthier world is vaccinated. Over 90 per cent of Africans are still waiting for their first dose. This is a moral indictment of the state of our world. It is an obscenity, ".</li>
</ul>

(With inputs from agencies)

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday warned global leaders that the world has never been more threatened or more divided, and is facing the "greatest cascade" of crises, citing the COVID-19 pandemic, a global climate crisis, and unrest in Afghanistan and other countries as examples.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday warned global leaders that the world has never been more threatened or more divided, and is facing the "greatest cascade" of crises, citing the COVID-19 pandemic, a global climate crisis, and unrest in Afghanistan and other countries as examples. In his address to the General Debate of the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Guterres stated that human rights are under attack, science is under attack, and economic lifelines for the most vulnerable are arriving too late and too little, if at all, and solidarity is lacking in action just when the world needs it most. Here are the highlights of his strong speech: "I fear our world is creeping towards two different sets of economic, trade, financial, and technology rules, two divergent approaches in the development of artificial intelligence, — and ultimately, two different military and geopolitical strategies," he said. "I am here to sound the alarm: The world must wake up. We are on the edge of an abyss — and moving in the wrong direction. Our world has never been more threatened. Or more divided. We face the greatest cascade of crises in our lifetimes,". The COVID-19 pandemic, which has killed more than 4.6 million people and infected over 228 million people globally, has exposed glaring inequalities among nations over vaccine access and affordability. "More than 5.7 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered globally, but only 2 per cent of them in Africa, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).Perhaps one image tells the tale of our times. The picture we have seen from some parts of the world of COVID-19 vaccine doses... in the garbage. Expired and unused, " Guterres said. The UN chief noted that while on the one hand, vaccines have been developed in a record time, on the other hand, "we see that triumph undone by the tragedy of a lack of political will, selfishness, and mistrust." "A surplus in some countries. Empty shelves in others. A majority of the wealthier world is vaccinated. Over 90 per cent of Africans are still waiting for their first dose. This is a moral indictment of the state of our world. It is an obscenity, ". (With inputs from agencies)

UN General Assembly 2021 | Alarm to wake up world: Key points from strong speech by Secretary General Antonio Guterres

Warning of a potential new Cold War, the head of the United Nations implored China and the United States to repair their “completely dysfunctional” relationship before problems between the two large and deeply influential countries spill over even further into the rest of the planet. Watch this report for more details.

UN Chief warns China and US to avoid cold war

The United Nations chief warned Friday that the world is "moving in the wrong direction" and exhorted nations to take urgent action to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change.&nbsp;

"COVID-19 is a wake-up call, and we are oversleeping," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said at a press conference.

Speaking ahead the UN General Assembly that kicks off in New York on September&nbsp;21, Guterres lamented that vaccine-manufacturing nations have been unable to ramp up production toward the goal of vaccinating some 70 percent of the world population by the first half of 2022.&nbsp;

"The pandemic has demonstrated our collective failure to come together and make joint decisions for the common good, even in the face of an immediate, life-threatening global emergency," Guterres said.&nbsp;

Guterres dismissed calls to delay a major UN climate summit, known as COP26, due to take place in Scotland in November. Climate activists have called for postponing the event due to vaccine inequality, the raging Covid pandemic and logistical difficulties in organising the event.

"To delay the COP is not a good thing," Guterres said. "Delays have been so many and the issue is so urgent."

Guterres urged the United States and China, the world's two biggest polluters, to do more to combat climate change.

"We need a stronger engagement of the US, namely in financing for development, for climate-related development issues, mitigation, adaptation, and we need an additional effort from China in relation to emissions," Guterres said.

The United Nations chief warned Friday that the world is "moving in the wrong direction" and exhorted nations to take urgent action to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change.

The United Nations chief warned Friday that the world is "moving in the wrong direction" and exhorted nations to take urgent action to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change. "COVID-19 is a wake-up call, and we are oversleeping," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said at a press conference. Speaking ahead the UN General Assembly that kicks off in New York on September 21, Guterres lamented that vaccine-manufacturing nations have been unable to ramp up production toward the goal of vaccinating some 70 percent of the world population by the first half of 2022. "The pandemic has demonstrated our collective failure to come together and make joint decisions for the common good, even in the face of an immediate, life-threatening global emergency," Guterres said. Guterres dismissed calls to delay a major UN climate summit, known as COP26, due to take place in Scotland in November. Climate activists have called for postponing the event due to vaccine inequality, the raging Covid pandemic and logistical difficulties in organising the event. "To delay the COP is not a good thing," Guterres said. "Delays have been so many and the issue is so urgent." Guterres urged the United States and China, the world's two biggest polluters, to do more to combat climate change. "We need a stronger engagement of the US, namely in financing for development, for climate-related development issues, mitigation, adaptation, and we need an additional effort from China in relation to emissions," Guterres said.

UN chief calls for action on COVID-19, climate

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres pleaded for countries to continue dialogue with the Taliban. He said this during an interview with AFP on Thursday. He expressed fears that hardline Islamists' return to power in Afghanistan may embolden jihaidists in Sahel region of Africa.&nbsp;

"We must maintain a dialogue with the Taliban, where we affirm our principles directly -- a dialogue with a feeling of solidarity with the Afghan people," he said.

"Our duty is to extend our solidarity to a people who suffer greatly, where millions and millions risk dying of hunger," added the secretary-general.

He said that the world must avoid an "econnomic collapse" in Afghanistan.

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Guterres said there were "no guarantees" about what might come out of talks but that discussions are a must "if we want Afghanistan not to be a center of terrorism, if we want women and girls to not lose all the rights acquired during the previous period, if we want different ethnic groups to be able to feel represented."

Without calling for the lifting of international sanctions or the release of Afghan funds frozen around the world, the UN head predicted that "financial instruments" would allow Afghanistan's economy "to breathe."

"Until now, in the discussions that we have had, there is at least a receptivity to talk," added Guterres, who does not rule out going to Afghanistan one day if conditions are right.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-20-changed-visas-painted-walls-new-airport-names-hint-at-changed-afghanistan-411938">Taliban 2.0? Changed visas, painted walls, new airport names hint at changed Afghanistan</a>

What the UN wishes is "an inclusive government," where all components of Afghan society are represented, and "this first preliminary government" announced a few days ago "does not give that impression," he added, regretfully.

He said Afghanistan must be governed "in peace and stability, with the rights of the people respected."

Guterres added that the Taliban wants recognition, financial support and sanctions to be abolished.&nbsp; 
"That gives a certain leverage to the international community," he said.

Asked about the risks of an Afghanistan-like scenario occurring in the Sahel, the secretary-general said he feared the "psychological and real impact" of what happened in recent weeks.

"There is a real danger. (Some) terrorist groups may feel enthusiastic about what happened and have ambitions beyond what they thought a few months ago," he warned.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres pleaded for countries to continue dialogue with the Taliban. He said this during an interview with AFP on Thursday.

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres pleaded for countries to continue dialogue with the Taliban. He said this during an interview with AFP on Thursday. He expressed fears that hardline Islamists' return to power in Afghanistan may embolden jihaidists in Sahel region of Africa. "We must maintain a dialogue with the Taliban, where we affirm our principles directly -- a dialogue with a feeling of solidarity with the Afghan people," he said. "Our duty is to extend our solidarity to a people who suffer greatly, where millions and millions risk dying of hunger," added the secretary-general. He said that the world must avoid an "econnomic collapse" in Afghanistan. × Guterres said there were "no guarantees" about what might come out of talks but that discussions are a must "if we want Afghanistan not to be a center of terrorism, if we want women and girls to not lose all the rights acquired during the previous period, if we want different ethnic groups to be able to feel represented." Without calling for the lifting of international sanctions or the release of Afghan funds frozen around the world, the UN head predicted that "financial instruments" would allow Afghanistan's economy "to breathe." "Until now, in the discussions that we have had, there is at least a receptivity to talk," added Guterres, who does not rule out going to Afghanistan one day if conditions are right. Also Read | Taliban 2.0? Changed visas, painted walls, new airport names hint at changed Afghanistan What the UN wishes is "an inclusive government," where all components of Afghan society are represented, and "this first preliminary government" announced a few days ago "does not give that impression," he added, regretfully. He said Afghanistan must be governed "in peace and stability, with the rights of the people respected." Guterres added that the Taliban wants recognition, financial support and sanctions to be abolished. "That gives a certain leverage to the international community," he said. Asked about the risks of an Afghanistan-like scenario occurring in the Sahel, the secretary-general said he feared the "psychological and real impact" of what happened in recent weeks. "There is a real danger. (Some) terrorist groups may feel enthusiastic about what happened and have ambitions beyond what they thought a few months ago," he warned. (With inputs from agencies)

'Must maintain a dialogue with Taliban', says UN Secretary General

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called a meeting of the permanent members of the Security Council to discuss the chaotic situation in&nbsp;Afghanistan, diplomats said.

Guterres sent letters formally inviting the United States, Britain, France, Russia and China to meet on Monday, the diplomats told AFP.

Some member countries of the so-called P5 had been discussing the possibility of a meeting for a few days, they added.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-hunt-you-down-joe-biden-warns-kabul-bombers-vows-to-avenge-deaths-of-us-soldiers-408665">'Will hunt you down': Joe Biden warns Kabul bombers, vows to avenge deaths of US soldiers</a>

Russia was supposedly reticent but all of the five are expected to join, one diplomat said.

A spokesperson for Guterres confirmed the meeting, which will not include the current ten non-permanent members of the Security Council.

The full Security Council last met on&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;on August 16, a day after the Taliban swept to power in the country.

Monday's discussion comes as Britain and France work on a UN resolution on&nbsp;Afghanistan.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pentagon-says-threat-persists-after-suicide-bombings-at-kabul-airport-408668">Pentagon says threat persists after suicide bombings at Kabul airport</a>

The resolution would require the agreement of all five permanent members, each of which holds veto powers, but a text has not yet been shared, diplomats said.

Guterres ducked a question about what he hoped Monday's meeting would achieve.

"There are normal meetings that take place in the context of the work of the UN," he told reporters.

Guterres also condemned Thursday's bombings at Kabul airport, which killed dozens of Afghans as well as 13&nbsp;US servicemen and have been claimed by the Islamic State group.

"This incident underscores the volatility of the situation on the ground in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;but also strengthens our resolve as we continue to deliver urgent assistance across the country in support of the Afghan people," he said in a statement.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called a meeting of the permanent members of the Security Council to discuss the chaotic situation in Afghanistan, diplomats said.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called a meeting of the permanent members of the Security Council to discuss the chaotic situation in Afghanistan, diplomats said. Guterres sent letters formally inviting the United States, Britain, France, Russia and China to meet on Monday, the diplomats told AFP. Some member countries of the so-called P5 had been discussing the possibility of a meeting for a few days, they added. ALSO READ | 'Will hunt you down': Joe Biden warns Kabul bombers, vows to avenge deaths of US soldiers Russia was supposedly reticent but all of the five are expected to join, one diplomat said. A spokesperson for Guterres confirmed the meeting, which will not include the current ten non-permanent members of the Security Council. The full Security Council last met on Afghanistan on August 16, a day after the Taliban swept to power in the country. Monday's discussion comes as Britain and France work on a UN resolution on Afghanistan. ALSO READ | Pentagon says threat persists after suicide bombings at Kabul airport The resolution would require the agreement of all five permanent members, each of which holds veto powers, but a text has not yet been shared, diplomats said. Guterres ducked a question about what he hoped Monday's meeting would achieve. "There are normal meetings that take place in the context of the work of the UN," he told reporters. Guterres also condemned Thursday's bombings at Kabul airport, which killed dozens of Afghans as well as 13 US servicemen and have been claimed by the Islamic State group. "This incident underscores the volatility of the situation on the ground in Afghanistan but also strengthens our resolve as we continue to deliver urgent assistance across the country in support of the Afghan people," he said in a statement.

Kabul blasts: UN chief calls Afghanistan meet for Security Council permanent five

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the terrorist attack at the Kabul airport. He also called a meeting of the permanent members of the Security Council amidst the security collapse in Afghanistan.

UN Chief condemns Kabul airport blasts, calls permanent members' meet

The United Nations Security Council held a meeting in New York over the ongoing political and humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. The session was called at the request of Estonia and Norway by India, which holds the presidency of the UNSC for the month of August.

UNSC holds special session on Afghanistan requested by Estonia and Norway

The United Nations Security Council held a meeting under India's presidency in New York over the ongoing political and humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.

UN Security Council holds emergency meeting on Afghanistan under India's presidency

The 15-member United Nations Security Council met on Monday to discuss Afghanistan under India's presidency as the Taliban has taken control over the country and the capital city Kabul is under its grips.

15-member UN Security Council holds emergency meet on Afghanistan

The United Nations has issued a statement on the situation unfolding in the war-ravaged country, Afghanistan. The UN chief Antonio Guterres has urged the Taliban to follow utmost restraint in order to protect rights and ensure humanitarian needs can be addressed. Antonio Guterres is particularly concerned about the future of women and girls in the country.

Antonio Guterres urges restraint as Taliban reach Kabul

United Nations General Assembly on Friday, appointed UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for a second five-year term.

"I will give it my all to ensure the blossoming of trust between and among nations large and small, to build bridges, and to engage relentlessly in confidence building," Guterres told the General Assembly after taking the oath of office. His second term starts on January 1,&nbsp; 2022.

The UN Security Council had recommended reappointment of Guterres earlier this month.

Guterres succeeded Ban Ki-moon in January 2017, just weeks before Donald Trump became US&nbsp;president. Much of Guterres' first term was focused on placating Trump, who questioned the value of the United Nations and multilateralism.

US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the United Nations faced historic challenges, but she hoped that with Guterres at the helm "the next five years will see more peace, more security, and more prosperity than the last."

"It will require hard work, political will, and accountability from all UN&nbsp;member states," she said in a statement, adding every member states should have "an impassioned commitment" to human rights.

The US is the largest financial contributor to the UN. It contributes 22 per cent of the regular budget and about quarter of the peacekeeping budget. US President Joe Biden has started restoring funding cuts made by Trump to UN agencies and re-engaged with the world body.

Guterres, 72, was prime minister of Portugal from 1995 to 2002 and head of the UN&nbsp;refugee agency from 2005 to 2015. As secretary-general, he has been a cheerleader for climate action, COVID-19 vaccines for all and digital cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations General Assembly on Friday, appointed UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for a second five-year term. "I will give it my all to ensure the blossoming of trust between and among nations large and small, to build bridges, and to engage relentlessly in confidence building," Guterres told the General Assembly after taking the oath of office.

United Nations General Assembly on Friday, appointed UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for a second five-year term. "I will give it my all to ensure the blossoming of trust between and among nations large and small, to build bridges, and to engage relentlessly in confidence building," Guterres told the General Assembly after taking the oath of office. His second term starts on January 1, 2022. The UN Security Council had recommended reappointment of Guterres earlier this month. Guterres succeeded Ban Ki-moon in January 2017, just weeks before Donald Trump became US president. Much of Guterres' first term was focused on placating Trump, who questioned the value of the United Nations and multilateralism. US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the United Nations faced historic challenges, but she hoped that with Guterres at the helm "the next five years will see more peace, more security, and more prosperity than the last." "It will require hard work, political will, and accountability from all UN member states," she said in a statement, adding every member states should have "an impassioned commitment" to human rights. The US is the largest financial contributor to the UN. It contributes 22 per cent of the regular budget and about quarter of the peacekeeping budget. US President Joe Biden has started restoring funding cuts made by Trump to UN agencies and re-engaged with the world body. Guterres, 72, was prime minister of Portugal from 1995 to 2002 and head of the UN refugee agency from 2005 to 2015. As secretary-general, he has been a cheerleader for climate action, COVID-19 vaccines for all and digital cooperation. (With inputs from agencies)

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reappointed for second term

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar his on a five day trip to the United States, where he will hold the key bilateral meeting with the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. He is also scheduled to meet the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Indian EAM Jaishankar to pitch for vaccine equity in meeting with UN chief

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has started his week long trip to the United States, where he has been scheduled to meet the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and also hold a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Indian EAM Jaishankar to meet Blinken, UN Chief Guterres during US visit

Russia President Vladimir Putin as well as United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called on Israel and Palestine to end the conflict.

"In light of the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, it was stated that the primary task is to stop violent actions on both sides and ensure the safety of the civilian population," the Kremlin said in a statement after their video call.

The situation between Israel and Palestine is worst in last 7 years with violence erupting at number of places.

Violence at al-Aqsa mosque over the weekend has triggered unrest. Al Aqsa mosque is held to be a Holy place by Jews as well as Muslims.

Israel Defence Minister Benny Gantz on Thursday ordered a "massive reinforcement" in order to contain internal unrest rocking mixed Jewish and Arab communities within the country.

In Gaza, 83 people were reportedly killed since Monday. This includes 17 children. The heavy bombardment has rocked Gaza and has brought entire tower blocks crumbling down.

The Israeli military said it had struck Gaza targets more than 600 times, while Hamas had fired over 1,600 rockets towards Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia President Vladimir Putin as well as United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called on Israel and Palestine to end the conflict.

Russia President Vladimir Putin as well as United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called on Israel and Palestine to end the conflict. "In light of the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, it was stated that the primary task is to stop violent actions on both sides and ensure the safety of the civilian population," the Kremlin said in a statement after their video call. The situation between Israel and Palestine is worst in last 7 years with violence erupting at number of places. Violence at al-Aqsa mosque over the weekend has triggered unrest. Al Aqsa mosque is held to be a Holy place by Jews as well as Muslims. Israel Defence Minister Benny Gantz on Thursday ordered a "massive reinforcement" in order to contain internal unrest rocking mixed Jewish and Arab communities within the country. In Gaza, 83 people were reportedly killed since Monday. This includes 17 children. The heavy bombardment has rocked Gaza and has brought entire tower blocks crumbling down. The Israeli military said it had struck Gaza targets more than 600 times, while Hamas had fired over 1,600 rockets towards Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine: UN chief Antonio Guterres, Vladimir Putin appeal for calm

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a CBC interview broadcast on Sunday that the UN held "serious talks" with China for unbridled access to the Xinjiang region to verify that Muslim Uighurs were being persecuted.

UN Chief Antonio Guterres demands Xinjiang region's access from China

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> pandemic has caused grave danger for the socially disadvantaged groups of society all around the world.

Now, on Thursday, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned that millions of people around the world may die of hunger if the conditions do not improve.

"Without immediate action, millions of people will reach the brink of extreme hunger and death," Guterres said in a meeting of the Security Council on the links between food and security.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-has-increased-social-inequality-in-uk-survey-369696">&nbsp;Coronavirus has increased social inequality in UK: Survey</a>

He has warned that more than 30 million people in more than three dozen countries risk dying due to extreme famine.

The UN has warned that these people from the socially disadvantaged groups are "just one step away from a declaration of famine."

He also pointed out that coronavirus and climate crisis is making things worse for such groups. "Climate shocks and the COVID-19 pandemic are adding fuel to the flames," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/black-and-hispanic-communities-grapple-with-vaccine-misinformation-369476" hreflang="en">Black and Hispanic communities grapple with vaccine misinformation</a>

Guterres also urged people to come ahead and help people by donating and volunteering.&nbsp;

"I have one simple message: if you don't feed people, you feed conflict," he said. "Famine and hunger are no longer about lack of food. They are now largely man-made — and I use the term deliberately.

"There is no place for famine and starvation in the 21st century."

Taking help of numbers to thrust his concern, he reported that at the end of the pandemic year 2020, more than 88 million people were suffering from acute hunger, which has been worsened due to conflicts and instability.

The year 2020 saw an increase of 20 per cent within a year, he reported, stressing that the trend seems to be worsening in 2021.

He also highlighted that areas such as the Sahel, the Horn of Africa, South Sudan, Yemen and Afghanistan are the high-risk zones.

Guterres also took this opportunity to announce the launch of a task force "to avert catastrophe". This hs been set up as the World Food Program and UN Food and Agriculture Organization appealed for emergency mobilisation of $5.5 billion.

The coronavirus pandemic has caused grave danger for the socially disadvantaged groups of society all around the world. Now, on Thursday, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned that millions of people around the world may die of hunger if the conditions do not improve.

The coronavirus pandemic has caused grave danger for the socially disadvantaged groups of society all around the world. Now, on Thursday, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned that millions of people around the world may die of hunger if the conditions do not improve. "Without immediate action, millions of people will reach the brink of extreme hunger and death," Guterres said in a meeting of the Security Council on the links between food and security. Also read | Coronavirus has increased social inequality in UK: Survey He has warned that more than 30 million people in more than three dozen countries risk dying due to extreme famine. The UN has warned that these people from the socially disadvantaged groups are "just one step away from a declaration of famine." He also pointed out that coronavirus and climate crisis is making things worse for such groups. "Climate shocks and the COVID-19 pandemic are adding fuel to the flames," he said. Also read | Black and Hispanic communities grapple with vaccine misinformation Guterres also urged people to come ahead and help people by donating and volunteering. "I have one simple message: if you don't feed people, you feed conflict," he said. "Famine and hunger are no longer about lack of food. They are now largely man-made — and I use the term deliberately. "There is no place for famine and starvation in the 21st century." Taking help of numbers to thrust his concern, he reported that at the end of the pandemic year 2020, more than 88 million people were suffering from acute hunger, which has been worsened due to conflicts and instability. The year 2020 saw an increase of 20 per cent within a year, he reported, stressing that the trend seems to be worsening in 2021. He also highlighted that areas such as the Sahel, the Horn of Africa, South Sudan, Yemen and Afghanistan are the high-risk zones. Guterres also took this opportunity to announce the launch of a task force "to avert catastrophe". This hs been set up as the World Food Program and UN Food and Agriculture Organization appealed for emergency mobilisation of $5.5 billion.

More than 30 million risk dying from hunger: UN chief Antonio Guterres

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday said that White supremacy constitutes a “trans-national” threat.

Guterres, speaking to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, said, racist groups had exploited the coronavirus pandemic to boost their support. The danger was growing by the day.

He said: “White supremacy and neo-Nazi movements are more than domestic terror threats. They are becoming a transnational threat.

“Today, these extremist movements represent the number one internal security threat in several countries."

In the United States, racial tensions simmered during the turbulent four-year presidency of Donald Trump. His successor Joe Biden has said the Jan. 6 siege of the U.S. Capitol by Trump supporters was carried out by “thugs, insurrectionists, political extremists and white supremacists”.

“Far too often, these hate groups are cheered on by people in positions of responsibility in ways that were considered unimaginable not long ago,” Guterres said. “We need global coordinated action to defeat this grave and growing danger.”

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet is to report to the council on March 18 on systemic racism against people of African descent. The global inquiry was launched after George Floyd died in Minneapolis last May when a white police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes.

Guterres also accused authorities in some countries of using the COVID-19 pandemic to deploy “heavy-handed security responses and emergency measures to crush dissent”.

“At times, access to life-saving COVID-19 information has been concealed - while deadly misinformation has been amplified - including by those in power,” he said.

Guterres warned about the power of digital platforms and the use and abuse of data.

“I urge all Member States to place human rights at the centre of regulatory frameworks and legislation on the development and use of digital technologies,” he said. “We need a safe, equitable and open digital future that does not infringe on privacy or dignity.”

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday said that White supremacy constitutes a “trans-national” threat. Guterres, speaking to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, said, racist groups had exploited the coronavirus pandemic to boost their support.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday said that White supremacy constitutes a “trans-national” threat. Guterres, speaking to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, said, racist groups had exploited the coronavirus pandemic to boost their support. The danger was growing by the day. He said: “White supremacy and neo-Nazi movements are more than domestic terror threats. They are becoming a transnational threat. “Today, these extremist movements represent the number one internal security threat in several countries." In the United States, racial tensions simmered during the turbulent four-year presidency of Donald Trump. His successor Joe Biden has said the Jan. 6 siege of the U.S. Capitol by Trump supporters was carried out by “thugs, insurrectionists, political extremists and white supremacists”. “Far too often, these hate groups are cheered on by people in positions of responsibility in ways that were considered unimaginable not long ago,” Guterres said. “We need global coordinated action to defeat this grave and growing danger.” UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet is to report to the council on March 18 on systemic racism against people of African descent. The global inquiry was launched after George Floyd died in Minneapolis last May when a white police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes. Guterres also accused authorities in some countries of using the COVID-19 pandemic to deploy “heavy-handed security responses and emergency measures to crush dissent”. “At times, access to life-saving COVID-19 information has been concealed - while deadly misinformation has been amplified - including by those in power,” he said. Guterres warned about the power of digital platforms and the use and abuse of data. “I urge all Member States to place human rights at the centre of regulatory frameworks and legislation on the development and use of digital technologies,” he said. “We need a safe, equitable and open digital future that does not infringe on privacy or dignity.” (With inputs from agencies)

White supremacy a 'global threat', UN chief Antonio Guterres warns

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday urged Myanmar's military, which seized power three weeks ago, to halt repression and release hundreds detained since the coup.&nbsp;

Guterres, speaking to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, said, "We see the undermining of democracy, the use of brutal force, arbitrary arrests, repression in all its manifestations. Restrictions of civic space. Attacks on civil society. Serious violations against minorities with no accountability, including what has rightly been called ethnic cleansing of the Rohingya population. The list goes on."&nbsp;

"Today, I call on the Myanmar military to stop the repression immediately. Release the prisoners. End the violence. Respect human rights, and the will of the people expressed in recent elections."&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, Myanmar police began to disperse pro-democracy protesters on Monday as businesses around the country shut in a general strike called to oppose the military coup despite a threat from authorities that confrontation could cost lives.&nbsp;

Three weeks after seizing power, the junta has failed to stop daily protests and a civil disobedience movement calling for the reversal of the February 1 coup and release of elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-protesters-defy-militarys-lethal-warning-to-take-to-streets-again-365417">Myanmar: Protesters defy military's lethal warning to take to streets again</a>

There were protests in cities and towns across the country on Monday, from the northern hills on the border with China to the central plains, the Irrawaddy river delta and the southern tip of the panhandle, images on social media showed.&nbsp;

In the capital, Naypyitaw, where the military is headquartered, a police water cannon truck and numerous other vehicles closed in to break up a procession of chanting protesters who scattered when police on foot chased them, wrestling several to the ground.&nbsp;

"They're chasing and arresting us. We’re just protesting peacefully," one woman said in video clip posted on Facebook.&nbsp;

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday urged Myanmar's military, which seized power three weeks ago, to halt repression and release hundreds detained since the coup.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday urged Myanmar's military, which seized power three weeks ago, to halt repression and release hundreds detained since the coup. Guterres, speaking to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, said, "We see the undermining of democracy, the use of brutal force, arbitrary arrests, repression in all its manifestations. Restrictions of civic space. Attacks on civil society. Serious violations against minorities with no accountability, including what has rightly been called ethnic cleansing of the Rohingya population. The list goes on." "Today, I call on the Myanmar military to stop the repression immediately. Release the prisoners. End the violence. Respect human rights, and the will of the people expressed in recent elections." × Meanwhile, Myanmar police began to disperse pro-democracy protesters on Monday as businesses around the country shut in a general strike called to oppose the military coup despite a threat from authorities that confrontation could cost lives. Three weeks after seizing power, the junta has failed to stop daily protests and a civil disobedience movement calling for the reversal of the February 1 coup and release of elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Also Read | Myanmar: Protesters defy military's lethal warning to take to streets again There were protests in cities and towns across the country on Monday, from the northern hills on the border with China to the central plains, the Irrawaddy river delta and the southern tip of the panhandle, images on social media showed. In the capital, Naypyitaw, where the military is headquartered, a police water cannon truck and numerous other vehicles closed in to break up a procession of chanting protesters who scattered when police on foot chased them, wrestling several to the ground. "They're chasing and arresting us. We’re just protesting peacefully," one woman said in video clip posted on Facebook.

UN chief Antonio Guterres tells Myanmar military to stop the repression

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday condemned the recent events in Myanmar that saw security forces opening fire at protesters and killing two people. The secretary-general said that that "use of lethal force" against peaceful demonstrators was "unacceptable". The shooting took place on Saturday in Mandalay, second largest city of Myanmar.

"I condemn the use of deadly violence in Myanmar. The use of lethal force, intimidation &amp; harassment against peaceful demonstrators is unacceptable. Everyone has a right to peaceful assembly. I call on all parties to respect election results and return to civilian rule," Guterres tweeted.

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I condemn the use of deadly violence in Myanmar. 
 
The use of lethal force, intimidation &amp; harassment against peaceful demonstrators is unacceptable. 
 
Everyone has a right to peaceful assembly. I call on all parties to respect election results and return to civilian rule.
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres/status/1363280311233167361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-people-killed-in-myanmar-anti-coup-protest-shooting-365074">Two people were shot and killed</a> and 20 were wounded, said Ko Aung, a leader of the Parahita Darhi volunteer emergency service.

The more than two weeks of protests had been largely peaceful, unlike previous episodes of opposition during nearly half a century of direct military rule, which ended in 2011.

A woman protester, Mya&nbsp;Thwate Thwate Khaing, succumbed to her injuries on Friday after being shot in head last week. The rounds were fired as police tried to disperse crowd in capital&nbsp;Naypyitaw. This was the first death among anti-coup demonstrators.

The army says one policeman has died of injuries sustained in a protest.

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US&nbsp;State Department spokesman Ned Price said the United States was "deeply concerned" by reports that security forces had fired on protesters and continued to detain and harass demonstrators and others.

"We stand with the people of Burma," Price wrote on Twitter. Myanmar is also known as Burma.

Britain has warned of further action against those who committed acts of violence against the protesters. French foreign ministry has called the violence "unacceptable"

"The shooting of peaceful protesters in Myanmar is beyond the pale," British foreign minister Dominic Raab said on Twitter. "We will consider further action, with our international partners, against those crushing democracy &amp; choking dissent."

The United States, Britain, Canada and New Zealand have announced limited sanctions since the coup, with a focus on military leaders.

(With agency inputs)

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday condemned the recent events in Myanmar that saw security forces opening fire at protesters and killing two people.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday condemned the recent events in Myanmar that saw security forces opening fire at protesters and killing two people. The secretary-general said that that "use of lethal force" against peaceful demonstrators was "unacceptable". The shooting took place on Saturday in Mandalay, second largest city of Myanmar. "I condemn the use of deadly violence in Myanmar. The use of lethal force, intimidation & harassment against peaceful demonstrators is unacceptable. Everyone has a right to peaceful assembly. I call on all parties to respect election results and return to civilian rule," Guterres tweeted. I condemn the use of deadly violence in Myanmar. The use of lethal force, intimidation & harassment against peaceful demonstrators is unacceptable. Everyone has a right to peaceful assembly. I call on all parties to respect election results and return to civilian rule. — António Guterres (@antonioguterres) February 21, 2021 × Two people were shot and killed and 20 were wounded, said Ko Aung, a leader of the Parahita Darhi volunteer emergency service. The more than two weeks of protests had been largely peaceful, unlike previous episodes of opposition during nearly half a century of direct military rule, which ended in 2011. A woman protester, Mya Thwate Thwate Khaing, succumbed to her injuries on Friday after being shot in head last week. The rounds were fired as police tried to disperse crowd in capital Naypyitaw. This was the first death among anti-coup demonstrators. The army says one policeman has died of injuries sustained in a protest. × US State Department spokesman Ned Price said the United States was "deeply concerned" by reports that security forces had fired on protesters and continued to detain and harass demonstrators and others. "We stand with the people of Burma," Price wrote on Twitter. Myanmar is also known as Burma. Britain has warned of further action against those who committed acts of violence against the protesters. French foreign ministry has called the violence "unacceptable" "The shooting of peaceful protesters in Myanmar is beyond the pale," British foreign minister Dominic Raab said on Twitter. "We will consider further action, with our international partners, against those crushing democracy & choking dissent." The United States, Britain, Canada and New Zealand have announced limited sanctions since the coup, with a focus on military leaders. (With agency inputs)

UN condemns use of 'lethal force' in Myanmar

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Wednesday (local time) slammed the 'wildly uneven and unfair' distribution of coronavirus vaccines and said that only 10 countries have administered 75 per cent of all vaccinations and demanding a global effort to get all people in every nation inoculated as soon as possible.&nbsp;

According to a report by Al Jazeera, Guterres, while addressing a high-level meeting of the UN Security Council, said 130 countries have not received a single dose of vaccine.&nbsp;

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"At this critical moment, vaccine equity is the biggest moral test before the global community," he said. The UN chief called for an urgent 'Global Vaccination Plan' to bring together those with the power to ensure fair vaccine distribution - scientists, vaccine producers and those who can fund the effort - to ensure all people in every nation get inoculated as soon as possible, Al Jazeera reported.&nbsp;He urged the leading economic members of G20 to establish an emergency task force to bring together "the pharmaceutical companies and key industry and logistics actors". &nbsp;

Earlier on Wednesday, US State Department Secretary Antony Blinken at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) emphasised the need to expand access to safe and effective Covid-19 vaccines. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-in-two-south-africans-infected-with-coronavirus-study-says-364570">One in two South Africans infected with coronavirus, study says</a>

He also urged the countries to not allow 'usage of the vaccine as an excuse to violate human rights or fundamental freedoms'. &nbsp;

"To better understand this pandemic and prepare for the next one, all countries must make available all data from the earliest days of any outbreak. And going forward, all countries should participate in a transparent and robust process for preventing and responding to health emergencies, so the world learns as much as possible and as soon as possible. Transparency, information sharing, access for international experts - these must be the hallmarks of our common approach to what is truly a global challenge," he added. &nbsp;

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Wednesday (local time) slammed the 'wildly uneven and unfair' distribution of coronavirus vaccines and said that only 10 countries have administered 75 per cent of all vaccinations and demanding a global effort to get all people in every nation inoculated as soon as possible.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres on Wednesday (local time) slammed the 'wildly uneven and unfair' distribution of coronavirus vaccines and said that only 10 countries have administered 75 per cent of all vaccinations and demanding a global effort to get all people in every nation inoculated as soon as possible. According to a report by Al Jazeera, Guterres, while addressing a high-level meeting of the UN Security Council, said 130 countries have not received a single dose of vaccine. × "At this critical moment, vaccine equity is the biggest moral test before the global community," he said. The UN chief called for an urgent 'Global Vaccination Plan' to bring together those with the power to ensure fair vaccine distribution - scientists, vaccine producers and those who can fund the effort - to ensure all people in every nation get inoculated as soon as possible, Al Jazeera reported. He urged the leading economic members of G20 to establish an emergency task force to bring together "the pharmaceutical companies and key industry and logistics actors". Earlier on Wednesday, US State Department Secretary Antony Blinken at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) emphasised the need to expand access to safe and effective Covid-19 vaccines. Also Read: One in two South Africans infected with coronavirus, study says He also urged the countries to not allow 'usage of the vaccine as an excuse to violate human rights or fundamental freedoms'. "To better understand this pandemic and prepare for the next one, all countries must make available all data from the earliest days of any outbreak. And going forward, all countries should participate in a transparent and robust process for preventing and responding to health emergencies, so the world learns as much as possible and as soon as possible. Transparency, information sharing, access for international experts - these must be the hallmarks of our common approach to what is truly a global challenge," he added.

UN: 10 countries administered 75% jab, 130 haven't received single dose

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