Pakistan hundreds of Baloch protesters marched towards Islamabad against the alleged Baloch genocide and enforced disappearances they were stopped by the authorities in the city. As many as about 20 Balcoh activists were also arrested.

Pakistan: Balochistan protest march triggered by Balach Mola Bakhsh's death

X owner Elon Musk said the accounts of users who post terms like “decolonisation”, “from the river to the sea” and other “similar euphemisms” which “necessarily imply genocide” will get suspended from the social media platform. 
 
“Clear calls for extreme violence are against our terms of service and will result in suspension,” wrote the billionaire.

“Anyone calling for a genocide of any people will be suspended,” he said, while replying to a user who said, “So many influential accounts here support Hamas’ massacre. Will you suspend them?”

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As I said earlier this week, “decolonization”, “from the river to the sea” and similar euphemisms necessarily imply genocide. 
 
Clear calls for extreme violence are against our terms of service and will result in suspension. <a href="https://t.co/1fCFo5Lezb">https://t.co/1fCFo5Lezb</a>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1725645884409401435?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In his post shared on Friday (Nov 17), Musk re-shared a post which was uploaded two days ago and stated, “Yes, ‘decolonisation’ necessarily implies a Jewish genocide, thus it is unacceptable to any reasonable person.”

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Yes, “decolonization” necessarily implies a Jewish genocide, thus it is unacceptable to any reasonable person
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1724936047489167852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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This post was shared in response to a user who stated that “‘decolonisation’ is the woke version of jihad, and it should be viewed and treated that way.”

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At risk of stating the obvious, anyone advocating the genocide of *any* group will be suspended from this platform
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1725656810449772662?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The posts were shared two days after Musk was slammed for endorsement of an antisemitic post on X in which Jewish people were accused of spreading hatred against white people.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-condemns-elon-musk-for-abhorrent-promotion-of-anti-semitism-659879">White House condemns Elon Musk for 'abhorrent promotion' of antisemitism</a>

“You have said the actual truth,” stated Musk, while posting from his personal account on X.

<h2>Musk argues over the 'actual truth'</h2>

The comment was made by Musk when a user shared a video which was part of a campaign against antisemitism, in which a father was seen reprimanding his son for his antisemitic remarks on the internet. 
 
“Jewish communities [sic] have been pushing the exact kind of dialectical hatred against whites that they claim to want people to stop using against them,” said another user, while responding to the post. 
 
“I’m deeply disinterested in giving the tiniest shit now about western Jewish populations coming to the disturbing realisation that those hordes of minorities that support flooding their country don’t exactly like them too much,” the user added.

Watch:&nbsp;Elon Musk faces backlash for endorsing antisemitic conspiracy

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Responding to the whole conversation, Musk said that it was “the actual truth”. 
 
In the follow-up posts, the owner of X wrote that he doesn’t believe that “all Jewish communities” hate white people, however, added that the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) “unjustly attacks the majority of the West, despite the majority of the West supporting the Jewish people and Israel. This is because they cannot, by their own tenets, criticize the minority groups who are their primary threat.” 
 
“I am deeply offended by ADL’s messaging and any other groups who push de facto anti-white racism or anti-Asian racism or racism of any kind. I’m sick of it. Stop now,” he stated.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

X owner Elon Musk said the accounts of users who post terms like “decolonisation”, “from the river to the sea” and other “similar euphemisms” which “necessarily imply genocide” will get suspended from the social media platform.

X owner Elon Musk said the accounts of users who post terms like “decolonisation”, “from the river to the sea” and other “similar euphemisms” which “necessarily imply genocide” will get suspended from the social media platform. “Clear calls for extreme violence are against our terms of service and will result in suspension,” wrote the billionaire. “Anyone calling for a genocide of any people will be suspended,” he said, while replying to a user who said, “So many influential accounts here support Hamas’ massacre. Will you suspend them?” As I said earlier this week, “decolonization”, “from the river to the sea” and similar euphemisms necessarily imply genocide. Clear calls for extreme violence are against our terms of service and will result in suspension. https://t.co/1fCFo5Lezb — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 17, 2023 × In his post shared on Friday (Nov 17), Musk re-shared a post which was uploaded two days ago and stated, “Yes, ‘decolonisation’ necessarily implies a Jewish genocide, thus it is unacceptable to any reasonable person.” Yes, “decolonization” necessarily implies a Jewish genocide, thus it is unacceptable to any reasonable person — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 15, 2023 × This post was shared in response to a user who stated that “‘decolonisation’ is the woke version of jihad, and it should be viewed and treated that way.” At risk of stating the obvious, anyone advocating the genocide of *any* group will be suspended from this platform — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 17, 2023 × The posts were shared two days after Musk was slammed for endorsement of an antisemitic post on X in which Jewish people were accused of spreading hatred against white people. Also read: White House condemns Elon Musk for 'abhorrent promotion' of antisemitism “You have said the actual truth,” stated Musk, while posting from his personal account on X. Musk argues over the 'actual truth' The comment was made by Musk when a user shared a video which was part of a campaign against antisemitism, in which a father was seen reprimanding his son for his antisemitic remarks on the internet. “Jewish communities [sic] have been pushing the exact kind of dialectical hatred against whites that they claim to want people to stop using against them,” said another user, while responding to the post. “I’m deeply disinterested in giving the tiniest shit now about western Jewish populations coming to the disturbing realisation that those hordes of minorities that support flooding their country don’t exactly like them too much,” the user added. Watch: Elon Musk faces backlash for endorsing antisemitic conspiracy Responding to the whole conversation, Musk said that it was “the actual truth”. In the follow-up posts, the owner of X wrote that he doesn’t believe that “all Jewish communities” hate white people, however, added that the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) “unjustly attacks the majority of the West, despite the majority of the West supporting the Jewish people and Israel. This is because they cannot, by their own tenets, criticize the minority groups who are their primary threat.” “I am deeply offended by ADL’s messaging and any other groups who push de facto anti-white racism or anti-Asian racism or racism of any kind. I’m sick of it. Stop now,” he stated. (With inputs from agencies)

X users making genocide calls, even through euphemisms, will be suspended, warns Musk

War has become the new normal in the 21st century and so is the reporting and writing of articles about it. Last year, the Russia-Ukraine war started and, this year in October, the Israel-Hamas war broke out which led to thousands of deaths, including children, on both sides.&nbsp;

Palestinians, a section of media, and some prominent figures, have claimed that Israel is carrying out genocide in the Gaza Strip in their act of retaliation to the October 7 assault by Hamas, which according to Israeli authorities killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians.&nbsp;

A Palestinian ambassador told UN member states on Thursday (Nov 16) that the world must "wake up" to the massive violations that Israel is committing in Gaza.

He insisted it was a "genocide".

Palestinian ambassador Ibrahim Khraishi told a gathering of UN member states in Geneva: "You should wake up in this room. This is a massacre, this is genocide, and we're seeing it on TV. It cannot continue."&nbsp;

Not just Israel-Hamas, in any war, it's the civilians who get caught in the crossfire, and the death of common people becomes the basis of all definitions, whether it's war crime, crimes against humanity or genocide.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-white-phosphorus-bombs-that-israel-reportedly-launched-in-gaza-it-is-legal-to-use-645106">What are white phosphorus bombs that Israel reportedly used in Gaza? Is it illegal?</a>

<h2>But what exactly is genocide?&nbsp;</h2>

In simple terms, the intentional killing of a large number of people from a particular nation or ethnic group with the aim of destroying that nation or group is regarded as genocide.&nbsp;

The United Nations Genocide Convention in 1948 defined genocide as any of five "acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group".&nbsp;

A document by the UN mentioned that Polish lawyer Raphäel Lemkin first coined the word "genocide" in 1944 in his book Axis Rule in Occupied Europe. The word consists of the Greek prefix genos, which means race or tribe, and the Latin suffix cide, which means killing.&nbsp;

Lemkin used the term genocide in response to the "systematic" murder of Jews during the Holocaust, not just this, but also in reference to past instances in history of targeted actions against specific groups of people.&nbsp;

He then launched a campaign to have genocide recognised as an international crime and was successful as the term was codified as an independent crime in the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (the Genocide Convention). UN said that a total of 153 States (as of April 2022) have ratified the Convention.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-social-media-is-the-biggest-devil-how-to-tackle-fake-news-656036">Israel-Hamas war: Social media is the biggest devil. How to tackle fake news?</a>&nbsp;

<h2>What does ICJ say?&nbsp;</h2>

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has stated often that the Convention includes principles of general customary international law, which means that a nation is obligated by the premise that genocide is a crime under international law whether or not it has ratified the Genocide Convention.&nbsp;

"The ICJ has also stated that the prohibition of genocide is a peremptory norm of international law (or ius cogens) and consequently, no derogation from it is allowed," the UN document noted.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Differences in the 'axis of resistance'?

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&nbsp;

<h2>Definition of the crime of genocide&nbsp;</h2>

The UN document said that in the present Convention, genocide means acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group.&nbsp;

The acts include, (a) Killing members of the group; (b) Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group; (c) Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part; (d) Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group; (e) Forcibly transferring children of the group to another group.&nbsp;

It is easier to understand&nbsp;the theoretical aspect, but it is a massive challenge to prove the intention of genocide. For example, to put forward a case, one needs to prove that the perpetrator not only committed the actions, but they had the specific intent of destroying the group.&nbsp;

For example in the ongoing Israel war, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel's action was a reaction to what Hamas militants did on October 7. He called it retaliation with an aim to destroy Hamas, which according to Israel is a terrorist group, and free the hostages. There must be a proven intent to physically destroy a national, ethnic, racial or religious group.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-core-israel-palestine-issues-whats-the-future-of-peace-attempts-646716">What are core Israel-Palestine issues? What's the future of peace attempts?</a>&nbsp;

However, some scholars have argued that there's intent as many Israelis referred to all Palestinians as "an enemy population" and they used words like "destroy", and "crush", for the militants.&nbsp;

A UN document read: "Cultural destruction does not suffice, nor does an intention to simply disperse a group. It is this special intent, or dolus specialis, that makes the crime of genocide so unique."&nbsp;

"In addition, case law has associated intent with the existence of a State or organizational plan or policy, even if the definition of genocide in international law does not include that element," it added.&nbsp;

It is now established that the victims of genocide are deliberately targeted, not randomly because of their actual or perceived association with groups protected under the Convention.&nbsp;

Genocide can also be committed against only a part of the group, as long as that part is identifiable and "substantial", says the UN as it further notes that the target of destruction must be the group and not its members as individuals.&nbsp;

War has become the new normal in the 21st century and so is the reporting and writing of articles about it. Last year, the Russia-Ukraine war started and, this year in October, the Israel-Hamas war broke out which led to thousands of deaths, including children, on both sides.

War has become the new normal in the 21st century and so is the reporting and writing of articles about it. Last year, the Russia-Ukraine war started and, this year in October, the Israel-Hamas war broke out which led to thousands of deaths, including children, on both sides. Palestinians, a section of media, and some prominent figures, have claimed that Israel is carrying out genocide in the Gaza Strip in their act of retaliation to the October 7 assault by Hamas, which according to Israeli authorities killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians. A Palestinian ambassador told UN member states on Thursday (Nov 16) that the world must "wake up" to the massive violations that Israel is committing in Gaza. He insisted it was a "genocide". Palestinian ambassador Ibrahim Khraishi told a gathering of UN member states in Geneva: "You should wake up in this room. This is a massacre, this is genocide, and we're seeing it on TV. It cannot continue." Not just Israel-Hamas, in any war, it's the civilians who get caught in the crossfire, and the death of common people becomes the basis of all definitions, whether it's war crime, crimes against humanity or genocide. Also read: What are white phosphorus bombs that Israel reportedly used in Gaza? Is it illegal? But what exactly is genocide? In simple terms, the intentional killing of a large number of people from a particular nation or ethnic group with the aim of destroying that nation or group is regarded as genocide. The United Nations Genocide Convention in 1948 defined genocide as any of five "acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group". A document by the UN mentioned that Polish lawyer Raphäel Lemkin first coined the word "genocide" in 1944 in his book Axis Rule in Occupied Europe. The word consists of the Greek prefix genos, which means race or tribe, and the Latin suffix cide, which means killing. Lemkin used the term genocide in response to the "systematic" murder of Jews during the Holocaust, not just this, but also in reference to past instances in history of targeted actions against specific groups of people. He then launched a campaign to have genocide recognised as an international crime and was successful as the term was codified as an independent crime in the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (the Genocide Convention). UN said that a total of 153 States (as of April 2022) have ratified the Convention. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Social media is the biggest devil. How to tackle fake news? What does ICJ say? The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has stated often that the Convention includes principles of general customary international law, which means that a nation is obligated by the premise that genocide is a crime under international law whether or not it has ratified the Genocide Convention. "The ICJ has also stated that the prohibition of genocide is a peremptory norm of international law (or ius cogens) and consequently, no derogation from it is allowed," the UN document noted. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Differences in the 'axis of resistance'? × Definition of the crime of genocide The UN document said that in the present Convention, genocide means acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group. The acts include, (a) Killing members of the group; (b) Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group; (c) Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part; (d) Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group; (e) Forcibly transferring children of the group to another group. It is easier to understand the theoretical aspect, but it is a massive challenge to prove the intention of genocide. For example, to put forward a case, one needs to prove that the perpetrator not only committed the actions, but they had the specific intent of destroying the group. For example in the ongoing Israel war, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel's action was a reaction to what Hamas militants did on October 7. He called it retaliation with an aim to destroy Hamas, which according to Israel is a terrorist group, and free the hostages. There must be a proven intent to physically destroy a national, ethnic, racial or religious group. Also read: What are core Israel-Palestine issues? What's the future of peace attempts? However, some scholars have argued that there's intent as many Israelis referred to all Palestinians as "an enemy population" and they used words like "destroy", and "crush", for the militants. A UN document read: "Cultural destruction does not suffice, nor does an intention to simply disperse a group. It is this special intent, or dolus specialis, that makes the crime of genocide so unique." "In addition, case law has associated intent with the existence of a State or organizational plan or policy, even if the definition of genocide in international law does not include that element," it added. It is now established that the victims of genocide are deliberately targeted, not randomly because of their actual or perceived association with groups protected under the Convention. Genocide can also be committed against only a part of the group, as long as that part is identifiable and "substantial", says the UN as it further notes that the target of destruction must be the group and not its members as individuals.

Explained: What is genocide? Is Israel committing genocide against Palestinians?

US Representative Rashida Tlaib on Friday (Nov 3) accused President Joe Biden of supporting a "genocide" against Palestinians in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and warned of repercussions in next year's election.

US Representative Rashida Tlaib on Friday (Nov 3) accused President Joe Biden of supporting a "genocide" against Palestinians in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and warned of repercussions in next year's election. Tlaib, the first Palestinian-American woman to serve in Congress, said in a video on X, "Joe Biden supported the genocide of the Palestinian people. The American people will not forget. Biden, support ceasefire now or don't count on us in 2024." "I am a reminder to colleagues that Palestinians do indeed exist, that we are human, that we are allowed to dream. We are mothers, daughters, granddaughters. We are justice seekers and are unapologetically about our fight against oppression of all forms. And colleagues, Palestinians aren't going anywhere, no matter how much money you send to Israel's apartheid government," she added. Also read | Muslim Americans to Biden: No votes for you if no ceasefire in Gaza According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the White House did not directly comment on Tlaib's remarks and instead reiterated its position on a temporary pause in fighting. .@POTUS, the majority of the American people are not with you on this one. #CeasefireNow pic.twitter.com/rV97zrMkad — Rashida Tlaib (@RashidaTlaib) November 3, 2023 × "As you’ve heard us say, we support humanitarian pauses in the fighting in order to get life-saving humanitarian aid in and distributed to those in need in Gaza, and to get hostages out," a White House National Security Council spokesperson said. Muslim Americans warn Biden on his re-election Tlaib's remarks come days after Muslim Americans said that they would mobilise millions of Muslim voters to withhold votes toward the re-election of Joe Biden next year unless he took steps to implement a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The National Muslim Democratic Council, which includes Democratic Party leaders, called on President Biden to use his influence with Israel to broker a ceasefire. In a letter titled "2023 Ceasefire Ultimatum," the council pledged to mobilise Muslim voters to "withhold endorsement, support, or votes for any candidate who endorses the Israeli offensive against the Palestinian people." "Your administration's unconditional support, encompassing funding and armaments, has played a significant role in perpetuating the violence that is causing civilian casualties and has eroded trust in voters who previously put their faith in you," the letter said. In Jordan, Blinken reaffirms US support for humanitarian pauses in war US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Saturday reaffirmed Washington's support for humanitarian pauses in the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza to ensure desperate civilians get help. Addressing a press conference in Amman, Blinken said, "The United States believes that all of these efforts will be facilitated by humanitarian pauses." Blinken said that Israel must take every possible measure to protect civilians, adding that Israel must also prevent civilian casualties. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: US Representative accuses Biden of supporting genocide against Palestinians

United Nations-mandated human rights experts said on Thursday (November 2) that "time is running out to prevent genocide and humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza". The experts include the special rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories.

"We remain convinced that the Palestinian people are at grave risk of genocide," the experts said in a joint statement.

"The time for action is now. Israel's allies also bear responsibility and must act now to prevent its disastrous course of action."

UN special rapporteurs are independent, unpaid figures who have mandate from the Human Rights Council. Although they don't speak for the United Nations, they report their findings to the agency.

"The situation in Gaza has reached a catastrophic tipping point," the experts said, warning of the "dire need" for food, water, medicine, fuel and essential supplies and the risk of looming health hazards.

The statement was signed by Francesca Albanese, special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967.

Among other signatories were the special rapporteurs on safe drinking water,&nbsp;mental health,&nbsp;food, physical health, internally displaced persons,&nbsp;freedom of expression,&nbsp;and contemporary racism.

Israel has been relentlessly bombing Gaza since Hamas fighters crossed the border to stage attacks inside Israel on October 7 killing 1,400 people and abducting more than 200 people

Hamas-run Gaza health ministry has said that more than 9000 people have been killed since the outbreak of the war.

The experts from the UN called for the immediate release of all civilians held captive.

"All parties must comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law," they said.

"We demand a humanitarian ceasefire to ensure that aid reaches those who need it the most. A ceasefire also means channels of communication can be opened to ensure the release of hostages," the experts said.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations-mandated human rights experts said on Thursday (November 2) that "time is running out to prevent genocide and humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza". The experts include the special rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories.

United Nations-mandated human rights experts said on Thursday (November 2) that "time is running out to prevent genocide and humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza". The experts include the special rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories. "We remain convinced that the Palestinian people are at grave risk of genocide," the experts said in a joint statement. "The time for action is now. Israel's allies also bear responsibility and must act now to prevent its disastrous course of action." UN special rapporteurs are independent, unpaid figures who have mandate from the Human Rights Council. Although they don't speak for the United Nations, they report their findings to the agency. "The situation in Gaza has reached a catastrophic tipping point," the experts said, warning of the "dire need" for food, water, medicine, fuel and essential supplies and the risk of looming health hazards. The statement was signed by Francesca Albanese, special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967. Among other signatories were the special rapporteurs on safe drinking water, mental health, food, physical health, internally displaced persons, freedom of expression, and contemporary racism. Israel has been relentlessly bombing Gaza since Hamas fighters crossed the border to stage attacks inside Israel on October 7 killing 1,400 people and abducting more than 200 people Hamas-run Gaza health ministry has said that more than 9000 people have been killed since the outbreak of the war. The experts from the UN called for the immediate release of all civilians held captive. "All parties must comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law," they said. "We demand a humanitarian ceasefire to ensure that aid reaches those who need it the most. A ceasefire also means channels of communication can be opened to ensure the release of hostages," the experts said. (With inputs from agencies)

Time running out to prevent Gaza 'genocide': UN-mandated experts

Craig Mokhiber, director of the New York office of the UN High Commissioner for human rights, has stepped down from his position after protesting what he has called a "text book case of genocide" in the Gaza Strip. As reported by multiple media outlets, Mokhiber has said this in his resignation letter in addition to other serious assertions.

Saying that this will be his last communication to UN High Commissioner in Geneva Volker Turk, Mokhiber has said that the United Nations was "failing" to do its duty as Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip continues.

He alleged that the US, the UK and large number of countries in Europe were "wholly complicit in the horrific assault". Mokhiber wrote to the UN high commissioner on October 28.

“Once again we are seeing a genocide unfolding before our eyes and the organization we serve appears powerless to stop it,” he said as reported by The Guardian.

In his letter, Mokhiber also said the there have been number of occasions in past when the United Nations has failed to stop a genocide mentioning the Rwandan genocide, Muslims in Bosnia, Yazidis in Iraqi Kurdistan and Rohingya in Myanmar.

Watch | Humanitarian crisis worsen, how much water and power does Gaza have?

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“The current wholesale slaughter of the Palestinian people, rooted in an ethno-nationalist colonial settler ideology, in continuation of decades of their systematic persecution and purging, based entirely upon their status as Arabs … leaves no room for doubt.”

Mokhiber stated that not only the West was "refusing to meet their treaty obligation" under Geneva Conventions but were also arming Israel in addition to providing political and diplomatic cover.

“We must support the establishment of a single, democratic secular state in all of historic Palestine, with equal rights for Christians, Muslims, and Jews,” he wrote, adding: “and, therefore, the dismantling of the deeply racist, settler-colonial project and an end to apartheid across the land.”

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/15-anti-israel-protesters-jailed-over-anti-israel-riot-at-russian-airport-653986">15 anti-Israel protesters jailed over riots at Russian airport</a>

Mokhiber has been part of the UN since 1992. He served in a number of prominent roles. He has served as a senior human rights adviser in Palestine, Afghanistan and Sudan..

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-chief-ismail-haniyeh-says-massacre-by-israel-is-to-hide-its-setback-654021">Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh says 'massacre' by Israel is to hide its setback</a>

The resignation letter has expectedly stirred conversation on social media. Several journalists and academics have begun posting the resignation letter on social media platforms like X.&nbsp;

The Guardian has quoted a UN spokesperson who said that these were Mokhiber's "personal views".

“I can confirm that he is retiring today. He informed the UN in March 2023 of his upcoming retirement, which takes effect tomorrow. The views in his letter made public today are his personal views,” said the spokesperson.

Craig Mokhiber, director of the New York office of the UN High Commissioner for human rights, has stepped down from his position after protesting what he has called a "text book case of genocide" in the Gaza Strip.

Craig Mokhiber, director of the New York office of the UN High Commissioner for human rights, has stepped down from his position after protesting what he has called a "text book case of genocide" in the Gaza Strip. As reported by multiple media outlets, Mokhiber has said this in his resignation letter in addition to other serious assertions. Saying that this will be his last communication to UN High Commissioner in Geneva Volker Turk, Mokhiber has said that the United Nations was "failing" to do its duty as Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip continues. He alleged that the US, the UK and large number of countries in Europe were "wholly complicit in the horrific assault". Mokhiber wrote to the UN high commissioner on October 28. “Once again we are seeing a genocide unfolding before our eyes and the organization we serve appears powerless to stop it,” he said as reported by The Guardian. In his letter, Mokhiber also said the there have been number of occasions in past when the United Nations has failed to stop a genocide mentioning the Rwandan genocide, Muslims in Bosnia, Yazidis in Iraqi Kurdistan and Rohingya in Myanmar. Watch | Humanitarian crisis worsen, how much water and power does Gaza have? × “The current wholesale slaughter of the Palestinian people, rooted in an ethno-nationalist colonial settler ideology, in continuation of decades of their systematic persecution and purging, based entirely upon their status as Arabs … leaves no room for doubt.” Mokhiber stated that not only the West was "refusing to meet their treaty obligation" under Geneva Conventions but were also arming Israel in addition to providing political and diplomatic cover. “We must support the establishment of a single, democratic secular state in all of historic Palestine, with equal rights for Christians, Muslims, and Jews,” he wrote, adding: “and, therefore, the dismantling of the deeply racist, settler-colonial project and an end to apartheid across the land.” Also Read | 15 anti-Israel protesters jailed over riots at Russian airport Mokhiber has been part of the UN since 1992. He served in a number of prominent roles. He has served as a senior human rights adviser in Palestine, Afghanistan and Sudan.. Also Read | Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh says 'massacre' by Israel is to hide its setback The resignation letter has expectedly stirred conversation on social media. Several journalists and academics have begun posting the resignation letter on social media platforms like X. The Guardian has quoted a UN spokesperson who said that these were Mokhiber's "personal views". “I can confirm that he is retiring today. He informed the UN in March 2023 of his upcoming retirement, which takes effect tomorrow. The views in his letter made public today are his personal views,” said the spokesperson.

Top UN official resigns citing 'genocide' in Gaza Strip

A month after the Canadian Parliament applauded and gave an astounding honour to a Ukrainian immigrant Yaroslav Hunka who fought for a Nazi unit during World War II, Russia slapped genocide charges against the 98-year-old, media reports said. Russian investigators announced this measure against Hunka&nbsp;on Friday (Oct 20), AFP news agency reported.

Russia's Investigative Committee said it charged Hunka in absentia. The charges leveled are of "genocide of civilians on the territory of the Ukrainian SSR during the Great Patriotic War".

In the unfortunate turn of events last month, the controversial figure was bestowed with thunders of claps in the Canadian Parliament, a move which was quick to receive worldwide condemnation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-canadian-fm-dilly-dallies-over-direct-question-on-evidence-in-nijjar-killing-649252">WATCH | Canadian minister dodges direct question on Nijjar killing evidence</a>

Following this came the apology from Canada over the incident which happened on September 22. The controversy transpired during Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Ottawa last month.&nbsp;

<h2>Yaroslav Hunka</h2>

The 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka, who fought for the First Ukrainian Division, was welcomed with cheers by parliamentarians. Even Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made this surprising gesture towards the Nazi veteran in the House of Commons.&nbsp;

The First Ukrainian Division was also known as the Waffen-SS Galicia Division or the SS 14th Waffen Division. It was a voluntary unit that was under the command of the Nazis. “I am very proud to say that he is from North Bay and from my riding of Nipissing--Timiskaming,” said Speaker Anthony Rota while introducing Hunka.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/james-webb-telescope-observes-jet-stream-as-fast-as-category-5-storms-on-jupiter-649197">James Webb Telescope observes jet stream as fast as 'category 5' storms on Jupiter</a>

He added, “He is a Ukrainian hero, a Canadian hero, and we thank him for all his service.”

In the wake of the controversy, Canada's parliamentary speaker Anthony Rota resigned on September 26.

Rota made a confession to the legislators saying that it was his mistake that he invited ex-soldier Hunka&nbsp;to attend a session in the House.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italys-pm-georgia-meloni-announces-separation-from-husband-649266">Italy's PM Georgia Meloni announces separation from husband</a>

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"That public recognition has caused pain to individuals and communities, including the Jewish community in Canada and around the world ... I accept full responsibility for my actions," Rota told at the time.

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A month after the Canadian Parliament applauded and gave an astounding honour to a Ukrainian immigrant Yaroslav Hunka who fought for a Nazi unit during World War II, Russia slapped genocide charges against the 98-year-old, media reports said.

A month after the Canadian Parliament applauded and gave an astounding honour to a Ukrainian immigrant Yaroslav Hunka who fought for a Nazi unit during World War II, Russia slapped genocide charges against the 98-year-old, media reports said. Russian investigators announced this measure against Hunka on Friday (Oct 20), AFP news agency reported. Russia's Investigative Committee said it charged Hunka in absentia. The charges leveled are of "genocide of civilians on the territory of the Ukrainian SSR during the Great Patriotic War". In the unfortunate turn of events last month, the controversial figure was bestowed with thunders of claps in the Canadian Parliament, a move which was quick to receive worldwide condemnation. WATCH | Canadian minister dodges direct question on Nijjar killing evidence Following this came the apology from Canada over the incident which happened on September 22. The controversy transpired during Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Ottawa last month. Yaroslav Hunka The 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka, who fought for the First Ukrainian Division, was welcomed with cheers by parliamentarians. Even Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made this surprising gesture towards the Nazi veteran in the House of Commons. The First Ukrainian Division was also known as the Waffen-SS Galicia Division or the SS 14th Waffen Division. It was a voluntary unit that was under the command of the Nazis. “I am very proud to say that he is from North Bay and from my riding of Nipissing--Timiskaming,” said Speaker Anthony Rota while introducing Hunka. Also Read | James Webb Telescope observes jet stream as fast as 'category 5' storms on Jupiter He added, “He is a Ukrainian hero, a Canadian hero, and we thank him for all his service.” In the wake of the controversy, Canada's parliamentary speaker Anthony Rota resigned on September 26. Rota made a confession to the legislators saying that it was his mistake that he invited ex-soldier Hunka to attend a session in the House. Watch | Italy's PM Georgia Meloni announces separation from husband × "That public recognition has caused pain to individuals and communities, including the Jewish community in Canada and around the world ... I accept full responsibility for my actions," Rota told at the time. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Russia slaps genocide charges on Nazi veteran applauded in Canadian Parliament

Russia and Ukraine are set to face off in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in a case that revolves around Moscow's assertion that its invasion of Ukraine was a necessary measure to prevent genocide allegedly carried out by Kyiv, Reuters reported.&nbsp;Russia has thus far ignored the orders by ICJ to cease its military actions in Ukraine. It is worth noting that the court lacks any power to enforce its decisions. However, while quoting experts, Reuters said that the future ruling in favour of Ukraine could hold significance for potential reparations claims.

This legal battle was started by Ukraine shortly after the Russian invasion on February 24 last year.&nbsp;The core argument put forth by Kyiv is that Russia is manipulating international law by justifying its invasion as a means to prevent an alleged genocide in eastern Ukraine.

<h2>Conflicting claims</h2>

While Russia continues to accuse Ukraine of committing genocide, the Ukrainian government seeks to establish that Russia's invasion was unwarranted. Russia not only opposes the case but also challenges the jurisdiction of the ICJ. The upcoming hearings, scheduled from September 18 until September 27, will primarily focus on legal arguments regarding jurisdiction.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-wagner-fighters-struggle-to-find-jobs-in-russia-despite-official-pardon-636824">Ex-Wagner fighters struggle to find jobs in Russia despite official pardon</a>

Ukraine achieved an initial victory when the ICJ ruled in its favour in a preliminary decision in March last year. Based on this ruling, the court ordered Russia to immediately cease its military actions in Ukraine.

During these hearings, the court will also hear from 32 other states. All of these states support Ukraine's position that the ICJ has the jurisdiction to proceed with the case.

Reuters, quoting Juliette McIntyre, a law lecturer at the University of South Australia, said, "It is looking fairly positive for the court to find it has jurisdiction."&nbsp; 
 
"If the court finds there was no lawful justification under the Genocide Convention for Russia's acts, the decision can set up a future claim for compensation," McIntyre added.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-willing-to-join-south-koreas-kf-21-fighter-jet-programme-replacing-indonesia-636817">UAE willing to join South Korea’s KF-21 fighter jet programme, replacing Indonesia</a>

Watch | Cosmic journey: Space balloons &amp; space station visit part of the tour

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The 1948 UN Genocide Convention was the first human rights treaty adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations on 9 December 1948 and signified the international community’s commitment to ‘never again’ after the atrocities committed during the Second World War. The definition contained in Article II of the Convention describes genocide as a crime committed with the intent to destroy a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group.

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Russia and Ukraine are set to face off in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in a case that revolves around Moscow's assertion that its invasion of Ukraine was a necessary measure to prevent genocide allegedly carried out by Kyiv, Reuters reported.

Russia and Ukraine are set to face off in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in a case that revolves around Moscow's assertion that its invasion of Ukraine was a necessary measure to prevent genocide allegedly carried out by Kyiv, Reuters reported. Russia has thus far ignored the orders by ICJ to cease its military actions in Ukraine. It is worth noting that the court lacks any power to enforce its decisions. However, while quoting experts, Reuters said that the future ruling in favour of Ukraine could hold significance for potential reparations claims. This legal battle was started by Ukraine shortly after the Russian invasion on February 24 last year. The core argument put forth by Kyiv is that Russia is manipulating international law by justifying its invasion as a means to prevent an alleged genocide in eastern Ukraine. Conflicting claims While Russia continues to accuse Ukraine of committing genocide, the Ukrainian government seeks to establish that Russia's invasion was unwarranted. Russia not only opposes the case but also challenges the jurisdiction of the ICJ. The upcoming hearings, scheduled from September 18 until September 27, will primarily focus on legal arguments regarding jurisdiction. Also Read | Ex-Wagner fighters struggle to find jobs in Russia despite official pardon Ukraine achieved an initial victory when the ICJ ruled in its favour in a preliminary decision in March last year. Based on this ruling, the court ordered Russia to immediately cease its military actions in Ukraine. During these hearings, the court will also hear from 32 other states. All of these states support Ukraine's position that the ICJ has the jurisdiction to proceed with the case. Reuters, quoting Juliette McIntyre, a law lecturer at the University of South Australia, said, "It is looking fairly positive for the court to find it has jurisdiction." "If the court finds there was no lawful justification under the Genocide Convention for Russia's acts, the decision can set up a future claim for compensation," McIntyre added. Also Read | UAE willing to join South Korea’s KF-21 fighter jet programme, replacing Indonesia Watch | Cosmic journey: Space balloons & space station visit part of the tour × The 1948 UN Genocide Convention was the first human rights treaty adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations on 9 December 1948 and signified the international community’s commitment to ‘never again’ after the atrocities committed during the Second World War. The definition contained in Article II of the Convention describes genocide as a crime committed with the intent to destroy a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Russia, Ukraine to face off at International Court of Justice over genocide claims

A Paris court on Wednesday found a former Rwandan military policeman guilty of genocide and crimes against humanity during the 1994 slaughter in his home country and sentenced him to life in prison.

The court said it had found Philippe Hategekimana, 66, guilty of nearly all the charges against him.

He fled to France after the genocide, obtaining refugee status and then French nationality under the name Philippe Manier.

The trial of Hategekimana, which began last month, was the fifth such trial in France of an alleged participant in the massacres.

More than 800,000 people were killed between April and July 1994 according to UN figures, most of them from the Tutsi minority. 
Plaintiffs accused Hategekimana of "using the powers and military force conferred to him through his rank in order to... take part in the genocide."

He denied the charges.

France, one of the top destinations for fugitives from the massacres, has tried and convicted a former spy chief, two ex-mayors, a former hotel chauffeur and an ex-top official in similar trials since 2014.

But it has generally refused requests to extradite suspects to Rwanda, prompting President Paul Kagame to accuse Paris of denying Rwanda jurisdiction.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE :&nbsp;

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A Paris court on Wednesday found a former Rwandan military policeman guilty of genocide and crimes against humanity during the 1994 slaughter in his home country and sentenced him to life in prison.

A Paris court on Wednesday found a former Rwandan military policeman guilty of genocide and crimes against humanity during the 1994 slaughter in his home country and sentenced him to life in prison. The court said it had found Philippe Hategekimana, 66, guilty of nearly all the charges against him. He fled to France after the genocide, obtaining refugee status and then French nationality under the name Philippe Manier. The trial of Hategekimana, which began last month, was the fifth such trial in France of an alleged participant in the massacres. More than 800,000 people were killed between April and July 1994 according to UN figures, most of them from the Tutsi minority. Plaintiffs accused Hategekimana of "using the powers and military force conferred to him through his rank in order to... take part in the genocide." He denied the charges. France, one of the top destinations for fugitives from the massacres, has tried and convicted a former spy chief, two ex-mayors, a former hotel chauffeur and an ex-top official in similar trials since 2014. But it has generally refused requests to extradite suspects to Rwanda, prompting President Paul Kagame to accuse Paris of denying Rwanda jurisdiction. WATCH WION LIVE HERE :

Rwandan ex-policeman gets life over genocide: Paris court

Paul Rusesabagina, an outspoken Rwandan government critic, has reached the United States after being released from the prison. His efforts to save people during the 1994 genocide inspired the Hollywood movie 'Hotel Rwanda.

Paul Rusesabagina, an outspoken Rwandan government critic, has reached the United States after being released from the prison. His efforts to save people during the 1994 genocide inspired the Hollywood movie 'Hotel Rwanda.' The US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan welcomed Paul Rusesabagina back to the United States. He tweeted, "We're glad to have him back on US soil & reunited with his family & friends who've long waited for this day to come." The Rwandan administration released him on March 25 after 900 days in jail. The Kigali government reduced his 25-year sentence on terrorism charges. In 2021, Rwandan authorities charged Paul Rusesabagina with 'backing an armed rebel group.' However, his supporters denounced his trial as a sham. His arrest highlighted Rwanda's record of suppressing political dissent and free speech under President Paul Kagame. Here's everything you need to know about Paul Rusesabagina, the hero of Hotel Rwanda. Paul Rusesabagina: Hero of Hotel Rwanda Paul Rusesabagina was a hotel manager for Hotel des Mille Collines in Kigali. During the Rwandan genocide, the hotel housed 1,268 Hutu and Tutsi refugees fleeing the Interahamwe militia. Paul Rusesabagina's efforts saved these refugees from getting hurt or killed during the attacks. Hotel Rwanda (2004) depicts his actions during the genocide. Don Cheadle portrayed the role of Paul Rusesabagina. The movie received critical acclaim worldwide. On November 9, 2005, Rusesabagina received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honour in the United States, from President George W Bush for "remarkable courage and compassion in the face of genocidal terror." Currently, he has Belgian citizenship with US permanent residency. Paul Rusesabagina: Family Paul Rusesabagina's adopted daughter Carine Kanimba has protested against his arrest and called it politically motivated. His family is a part of the 'Bring Our Families Home' campaign. Moreover, they are suing GainJet airlines for not disclosing the accurate destination of the flight to Rusesabagina and aiding his kidnapping in 1996. Carine also tweeted about his father's return from her official handle. She said, "PAUL RUSESABAGINA IS FREE. Dad just arrived in San Antonio, Texas. Thank you to EVERYONE who worked soooo hard to bring him home. Our family is finally reunited today." His family said he was tortured during his 939 days in prison. PAUL RUSESABAGINA IS FREE 🤩🤩🥳🥳❤️❤️🛬🛬🛬 Dad has just arrived in San Antonio, Texas🛬🛬🛬 Thank you to EVERYONE who worked soooo hard to bring him home. 🙏❤️🙏 Our Family is finally reunited today. 💞💞#FreeRusesabagina @freethehero #TheHeroIsFree #FreedHero #HotelRwanda pic.twitter.com/BXxQsPWxnx — Carine Kanimba (@ckanimba) March 30, 2023 × Paul Rusesabagina: Books & Awards In April 2006, Zach Bell published Paul Rusesabagina's autobiography, An Ordinary Man. US President Joe Biden also welcomed him on his arrival. Here's the list of Awards won by Paul Rusesabagina. 2000 Immortal Chaplains Prize for Humanity 2005 Wallenberg Medal of the University of Michigan 2005 National Civil Rights Museum Freedom Award 2005 Presidential Medal of Freedom 2005 Conrad N. Hilton Foundation Humanitarian Award 2007 Honorary Doctorate of Law from the University of Guelph 2008 Honorary Degree from Gustavus Adolphus College 2009 Honorary Degree from Loyola University Chicago 2011 Tom Lantos Human Rights Prize from the Lantos Foundation for Human Rights and Justice WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Who is Paul Rusesabagina? Rwandan human rights activist who arrived in the US after prison stay

Today, the world is observing International Holocaust Remembrance Day. It’s the day for the commemoration of victims of the Jewish genocide that took place during World War 2. Nazi Germany slaughtered more than 6 million Jews, as well as other minority groups, under Adolf Hitler’s “final solution” campaign. The Holocaust saw more than two-thirds of Europe’s Jewish population wiped out. International Holocaust Remembrance Day is observed every year not only to honour the victims of the Holocaust but also to reaffirm the global commitment to human rights and religious tolerance. The day is observed through memorial services, ceremonies, and educational activities in addition to individual acts of remembrance like lighting candles or placing flowers at Holocaust memorials.

<h2>International Holocaust Remembrance Day history</h2>

The United Nations General Assembly on 1 November 2005 adopted the 60/7 resolution to mark 27 January as the International Holocaust Remembrance Day every year. The day was chosen because the Auschwitz concentration camp, Germany’s biggest concentration camp, was liberated by Soviet forces in 1945 on this day. The UN resolution called on every member state to develop educational programmes and organise awareness activities to prevent future acts of genocide and condemn religious violence anywhere on the planet.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: The story of the Holocaust

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<h2>Holocaust Remembrance Day Theme&nbsp;</h2>

Every year, a specific theme is used to commemorate the day. ‘Home and Belonging’ is the focus of International Holocaust Remembrance Day 2023. The stories of Holocaust victims who were displaced from their homes and deprived of their sense of identity are brought to light. The topic aims to spread awareness of the duty each person has to care for victims of crimes, the necessity of stopping hate speech, and the need to stop future genocides.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-holocaust-unseen-ghastly-images-of-nazis-kristallnacht-pogrom-532891">In Pics | Holocaust: Unseen ghastly images&nbsp;</a>

<h2>What’s the significance of Holocaust Remembrance Day</h2>

Understanding the risks of bigotry and intolerance as well as the causes of the Holocaust is essential for preventing future instances of similar tragedies. Many Holocaust survivors have committed their lives to spread awareness of the event, and their testimonies serve as a potent reminder of the capacity of humans for both good and evil. In order to ensure that future generations are aware of the history and lessons of the Holocaust, numerous nations and organisations have created Holocaust education initiatives.

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Today, the world is observing International Holocaust Remembrance Day. It’s the day for the commemoration of victims of the Jewish genocide that took place during World War 2.

Today, the world is observing International Holocaust Remembrance Day. It’s the day for the commemoration of victims of the Jewish genocide that took place during World War 2. Nazi Germany slaughtered more than 6 million Jews, as well as other minority groups, under Adolf Hitler’s “final solution” campaign. The Holocaust saw more than two-thirds of Europe’s Jewish population wiped out. International Holocaust Remembrance Day is observed every year not only to honour the victims of the Holocaust but also to reaffirm the global commitment to human rights and religious tolerance. The day is observed through memorial services, ceremonies, and educational activities in addition to individual acts of remembrance like lighting candles or placing flowers at Holocaust memorials. International Holocaust Remembrance Day history The United Nations General Assembly on 1 November 2005 adopted the 60/7 resolution to mark 27 January as the International Holocaust Remembrance Day every year. The day was chosen because the Auschwitz concentration camp, Germany’s biggest concentration camp, was liberated by Soviet forces in 1945 on this day. The UN resolution called on every member state to develop educational programmes and organise awareness activities to prevent future acts of genocide and condemn religious violence anywhere on the planet. Watch: Gravitas: The story of the Holocaust × Holocaust Remembrance Day Theme Every year, a specific theme is used to commemorate the day. ‘Home and Belonging’ is the focus of International Holocaust Remembrance Day 2023. The stories of Holocaust victims who were displaced from their homes and deprived of their sense of identity are brought to light. The topic aims to spread awareness of the duty each person has to care for victims of crimes, the necessity of stopping hate speech, and the need to stop future genocides. In Pics | Holocaust: Unseen ghastly images What’s the significance of Holocaust Remembrance Day Understanding the risks of bigotry and intolerance as well as the causes of the Holocaust is essential for preventing future instances of similar tragedies. Many Holocaust survivors have committed their lives to spread awareness of the event, and their testimonies serve as a potent reminder of the capacity of humans for both good and evil. In order to ensure that future generations are aware of the history and lessons of the Holocaust, numerous nations and organisations have created Holocaust education initiatives. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

International Holocaust Remembrance Day: History, theme, significance, everything you need to know

A human rights group and 16 individuals from Myanmar have filed a criminal complaint against Myanmar’s military in Germany, accusing them of war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity. The lawsuit against Myanmar military generals and others was filed last week, said the advocacy group, Fortify Rights, in a statement, on Tuesday (January 24). The crimes in question were allegedly perpetrated by the country’s military after they overthrew the elected government, in 2021, following a coup&nbsp;amid a crackdown on people from the Rohingya community.&nbsp;

The 16 individual complaints from six women and ten men who are residing in different parts of the world belong to various ethnic groups in Myanmar including Rohingya, the dominant Burman, Chin, Karen, Karenni, and Arakanese communities. The complainants are also students, farmers, businesspeople, former village heads and homemakers who have either witnessed or survived crimes in Myanmar and have since fled the country.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-court-jails-suu-kyi-for-3-years-524811">Myanmar court jails Suu Kyi for 3 years</a>

“An ethnically diverse and united front of survivors from throughout Myanmar are bringing this case to seek justice and accountability,” said Matthew Smith, CEO and co-founder at Fortify Rights, in a statement.

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BREAKING: <a href="https://twitter.com/FortifyRights?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FortifyRights</a> and 16 complainants from Myanmar filed a criminal complaint in Germany under the principle of universal jurisdiction against senior Myanmar military generals and others for atrocity crimes. Read more here: <a href="https://t.co/JHLIO0syDT">https://t.co/JHLIO0syDT</a> <a href="https://t.co/yf4QD9U7Ta">pic.twitter.com/yf4QD9U7Ta</a>
— Fortify Rights (@FortifyRights) <a href="https://twitter.com/FortifyRights/status/1617749698932264962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The 215-page criminal complaint and more than 1,000 pages of annexes were filed with the Federal Public Prosecutor General of Germany, last week, under the principle of universal jurisdiction, said the rights group which is also leading the legal case.&nbsp;

Notably, the legal principle enables a state to prosecute individuals responsible for mass atrocities regardless of where the crimes occurred or the nationality of their perpetrators and victims. Furthermore, the lawsuit is based on more than 1,000 interviews which were conducted by various rights groups since 2013 as well as leaked documents from the Myanmar army.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/military-ruled-myanmar-marks-75-years-of-independence-549477">Military-ruled Myanmar marks 75 years of Independence</a>

The complaint alleges that the “Myanmar military systematically killed, raped, tortured, imprisoned, disappeared, persecuted, and committed other acts that amount to genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes in violation of the German Code of Crimes Against International Law,” said the Fortify Rights.&nbsp;

“We trust in Germany to open an investigation and seek justice for genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes committed by the military and its leaders in Myanmar,” said Nickey Diamond, a member rights group who also experienced and witnessed crimes allegedly committed by the Myanmar military in 2021.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/general-behind-myanmar-coup-is-aung-san-suu-kyis-longtime-rival-434563">General behind Myanmar Coup is Aung San Suu Kyi's longtime rival</a>

Notably, the Myanmar generals are already facing an investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and a genocide case before the International Court of Justice. The Fortify Rights-led lawsuit was also filed days before Myanmar would mark two years since Senior General Min Aung Hlaing seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1. &nbsp;

“Despite international attention and several ongoing accountability initiatives, the Myanmar military still enjoys complete impunity, and that must end. These crimes cannot go unpunished,” said Smith. The complaint also requested German authorities to launch a “structural investigation” of the situation in Myanmar which Fortify Rights believes would uncover numerous other crimes.

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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A human rights group and 16 individuals from Myanmar have filed a criminal complaint against Myanmar’s military in Germany, accusing them of war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity.

A human rights group and 16 individuals from Myanmar have filed a criminal complaint against Myanmar’s military in Germany, accusing them of war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity. The lawsuit against Myanmar military generals and others was filed last week, said the advocacy group, Fortify Rights, in a statement, on Tuesday (January 24). The crimes in question were allegedly perpetrated by the country’s military after they overthrew the elected government, in 2021, following a coup amid a crackdown on people from the Rohingya community. The 16 individual complaints from six women and ten men who are residing in different parts of the world belong to various ethnic groups in Myanmar including Rohingya, the dominant Burman, Chin, Karen, Karenni, and Arakanese communities. The complainants are also students, farmers, businesspeople, former village heads and homemakers who have either witnessed or survived crimes in Myanmar and have since fled the country. ALSO WATCH | Myanmar court jails Suu Kyi for 3 years “An ethnically diverse and united front of survivors from throughout Myanmar are bringing this case to seek justice and accountability,” said Matthew Smith, CEO and co-founder at Fortify Rights, in a statement. BREAKING: @FortifyRights and 16 complainants from Myanmar filed a criminal complaint in Germany under the principle of universal jurisdiction against senior Myanmar military generals and others for atrocity crimes. Read more here: https://t.co/JHLIO0syDT pic.twitter.com/yf4QD9U7Ta — Fortify Rights (@FortifyRights) January 24, 2023 × The 215-page criminal complaint and more than 1,000 pages of annexes were filed with the Federal Public Prosecutor General of Germany, last week, under the principle of universal jurisdiction, said the rights group which is also leading the legal case. Notably, the legal principle enables a state to prosecute individuals responsible for mass atrocities regardless of where the crimes occurred or the nationality of their perpetrators and victims. Furthermore, the lawsuit is based on more than 1,000 interviews which were conducted by various rights groups since 2013 as well as leaked documents from the Myanmar army. ALSO WATCH | Military-ruled Myanmar marks 75 years of Independence The complaint alleges that the “Myanmar military systematically killed, raped, tortured, imprisoned, disappeared, persecuted, and committed other acts that amount to genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes in violation of the German Code of Crimes Against International Law,” said the Fortify Rights. “We trust in Germany to open an investigation and seek justice for genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes committed by the military and its leaders in Myanmar,” said Nickey Diamond, a member rights group who also experienced and witnessed crimes allegedly committed by the Myanmar military in 2021. ALSO READ | General behind Myanmar Coup is Aung San Suu Kyi's longtime rival Notably, the Myanmar generals are already facing an investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and a genocide case before the International Court of Justice. The Fortify Rights-led lawsuit was also filed days before Myanmar would mark two years since Senior General Min Aung Hlaing seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi on February 1. “Despite international attention and several ongoing accountability initiatives, the Myanmar military still enjoys complete impunity, and that must end. These crimes cannot go unpunished,” said Smith. The complaint also requested German authorities to launch a “structural investigation” of the situation in Myanmar which Fortify Rights believes would uncover numerous other crimes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rights group files criminal complaint in Germany against Myanmar military for alleged war crimes, genocide

The European Parliament has decided to recognise the 1930s starvation of millions of people in Ukraine under Soviet leader Joseph Stalin a “genocide”. The decision was taken after the members voted on the resolution and it was accepted by unanimous support.&nbsp;The legislature "recognises the Holodomor, the artificial famine of 1932-1933 in Ukraine caused by a deliberate policy of the Soviet regime, as a genocide against the Ukrainian people".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-installs-intercontinental-missile-ahead-of-strategic-forces-day-watch-543292">WATCH: Russia installs intercontinental missile before 'Strategic Forces Day'</a>

The Ukrainian government has been requesting the international community to recognise the famine&nbsp;as “genocide” and the demand&nbsp;has&nbsp;grown since the start of the Ukraine-Russia war.

In the aftermath of the vote, the European Union legislators urged "all the countries and international organisations which have not yet recognised the Holodomor as a genocide to do so".

The legislators also said that this was just a first step in making sure that "the current Russian regime's manipulation of historical memory for the purpose of regime survival".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-corruption-scandal-police-shares-pictures-of-bags-of-cash-recovered-in-raids-543197">EU corruption scandal: Police shares pictures of bags of cash found in raids</a>

"Holodomor" -- Ukrainian for "death by starvation" – has been a major point of contention between Russia and Ukraine with historians condemning it as a Russian act of genocide. However, Russia has denied it completely and President Vladimir Putin is likely to not take the legislation kindly.

The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has seen the European Union taking the side of the Volodymyr Zelensky-led government. This move was also seen as a show of support from the western countries who have already imposed sanctions on Moscow and have severed most ties.

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The European Parliament has decided to recognise the 1930s starvation of millions of people in Ukraine under Soviet leader Joseph Stalin a “genocide”. The decision was taken after the members voted on the resolution and it was accepted by unanimous support.

The European Parliament has decided to recognise the 1930s starvation of millions of people in Ukraine under Soviet leader Joseph Stalin a “genocide”. The decision was taken after the members voted on the resolution and it was accepted by unanimous support. The legislature "recognises the Holodomor, the artificial famine of 1932-1933 in Ukraine caused by a deliberate policy of the Soviet regime, as a genocide against the Ukrainian people". Also read | WATCH: Russia installs intercontinental missile before 'Strategic Forces Day' The Ukrainian government has been requesting the international community to recognise the famine as “genocide” and the demand has grown since the start of the Ukraine-Russia war. In the aftermath of the vote, the European Union legislators urged "all the countries and international organisations which have not yet recognised the Holodomor as a genocide to do so". The legislators also said that this was just a first step in making sure that "the current Russian regime's manipulation of historical memory for the purpose of regime survival". Also read | EU corruption scandal: Police shares pictures of bags of cash found in raids "Holodomor" -- Ukrainian for "death by starvation" – has been a major point of contention between Russia and Ukraine with historians condemning it as a Russian act of genocide. However, Russia has denied it completely and President Vladimir Putin is likely to not take the legislation kindly. The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has seen the European Union taking the side of the Volodymyr Zelensky-led government. This move was also seen as a show of support from the western countries who have already imposed sanctions on Moscow and have severed most ties.

EU parliament recognises Ukraine's soviet-era famine as 'genocide'

A Russian state TV anchor was suspended for inciting genocide by saying that Ukraine children should be burnt alive and drowned.

Anton Krasovsky, the 47-year-old presenter at the state-funded Russia Today (RT), triggered a massive outrage after he said, “They should have been drowned in the Tysyna [river].”

“Just drown those children, drown them," he said last week during a live broadcast which hosted a fiction writer.

He further said that they could be shoved into huts and burned, apart from jokingly suggesting that Russian soldiers should be raping Ukrainian grandmothers.

Apparently, Krasovsky’s comments came in response to a guest talking about meeting Ukrainian children in the 1980s who said they saw Russia as an occupier in Soviet times.

His comments drew wide condemnation from the Ukraine officials as well as the Russian authorities, who have launched a probe into the matter.

According to reports, Russia's Investigative Committee, which handles serious crimes, is probing Krasovsky's comments.

Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba shared a clip of the show calling for an immediate ban on the RT channel.

"This is what you side with if you allow RT to operate in your countries. Aggressive genocide incitement (we will put this person on trial for it), which has nothing to do with freedom of speech,” he tweeted.

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Governments which still have not banned RT must watch this excerpt. This is what you side with if you allow RT to operate in your countries. Aggressive genocide incitement (we will put this person on trial for it), which has nothing to do with freedom of speech. Ban RT worldwide! <a href="https://t.co/xJC371rqyg">https://t.co/xJC371rqyg</a>
— Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) <a href="https://twitter.com/DmytroKuleba/status/1584161496086417409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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After facing backlash, Krasovsky, who joined RT in 2020, apologised for his remarks on Monday, saying that he was “truly embarrassed that I somehow didn’t see the boundary. About children. But it happens like this: you’re in the middle of a broadcast, and you get carried away. And you can’t stop … I hope you’ll forgive me.”

RT’s editor-in-chief, Margarita&nbsp;Simonyan, in a post said that the incident has embarrassed the channel and sought to distance itself from Krasovsky’s remarks.

“For the moment, I am halting our cooperation [with Krasovsky], because neither I nor the rest of the RT team can allow even the thought to flash that one of us is capable of supporting such savagery."

(With inputs from agencies)

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A Russian state TV anchor was suspended for inciting genocide by saying that Ukraine children should be burnt alive and drowned. Anton Krasovsky, the 47-year-old presenter at the state-funded Russia Today (RT), triggered a massive outrage after he said, “They should have been drowned in the Tysyna [river].

A Russian state TV anchor was suspended for inciting genocide by saying that Ukraine children should be burnt alive and drowned. Anton Krasovsky, the 47-year-old presenter at the state-funded Russia Today (RT), triggered a massive outrage after he said, “They should have been drowned in the Tysyna [river].” “Just drown those children, drown them," he said last week during a live broadcast which hosted a fiction writer. He further said that they could be shoved into huts and burned, apart from jokingly suggesting that Russian soldiers should be raping Ukrainian grandmothers. Apparently, Krasovsky’s comments came in response to a guest talking about meeting Ukrainian children in the 1980s who said they saw Russia as an occupier in Soviet times. His comments drew wide condemnation from the Ukraine officials as well as the Russian authorities, who have launched a probe into the matter. According to reports, Russia's Investigative Committee, which handles serious crimes, is probing Krasovsky's comments. Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba shared a clip of the show calling for an immediate ban on the RT channel. "This is what you side with if you allow RT to operate in your countries. Aggressive genocide incitement (we will put this person on trial for it), which has nothing to do with freedom of speech,” he tweeted. Governments which still have not banned RT must watch this excerpt. This is what you side with if you allow RT to operate in your countries. Aggressive genocide incitement (we will put this person on trial for it), which has nothing to do with freedom of speech. Ban RT worldwide! https://t.co/xJC371rqyg — Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) October 23, 2022 × After facing backlash, Krasovsky, who joined RT in 2020, apologised for his remarks on Monday, saying that he was “truly embarrassed that I somehow didn’t see the boundary. About children. But it happens like this: you’re in the middle of a broadcast, and you get carried away. And you can’t stop … I hope you’ll forgive me.” RT’s editor-in-chief, Margarita Simonyan, in a post said that the incident has embarrassed the channel and sought to distance itself from Krasovsky’s remarks. “For the moment, I am halting our cooperation [with Krasovsky], because neither I nor the rest of the RT team can allow even the thought to flash that one of us is capable of supporting such savagery." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian TV presenter calls for Ukrainian kids to be burned, drowned on air, suspended

Two American congressmen have introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives urging the Biden administration to recognise the Pakistan Army’s atrocities against ethnic minorities during the 1971 Liberation War of Bangladesh.

The legislation was brought by Congressmen Ro Khanna and Steve Chabot on October 14, calling on the Pakistan government, among other things, to apologise to the people of Bangladesh for its role in the genocide of ethnic Bengalis and Hindus during the war.

The resolution "condemns the atrocities committed by the Armed Forces of Pakistan against the people of Bangladesh from March 1971 to December 1971; recognises that such atrocities against ethnic Bengalis and Hindus constitute crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide; calls on the President of the United States to recognise the atrocities committed against ethnic Bengalis and Hindus by the Armed Forces of Pakistan during 1971 as crimes against humanity war crimes, and genocide."&nbsp;

In a tweet, Chabot, a Republican Party member, confirmed of bringing in such a resolution jointly with another Congressman Khanna, a Democrat and the US Representative from California's 17th congressional district, to commemorate the 1971 Bengali Genocide.

“We must not let the years erase the memory of the millions who were massacred. Recognising the genocide strengthens the historical record, educates our fellow Americans, and lets would-be perpetrators know such crimes will not be tolerated or forgotten,” he tweeted.

“The Bangladesh Genocide of 1971 must not be forgotten. With help from my Hindu constituents in Ohio’s First District, Ro Khanna and I introduced legislation to recognise that the mass atrocities committed against Bengalis and Hindus, in particular, were indeed a genocide,” he said.

The Bangladeshi community welcomed the congressmen’s move, expressing satisfaction at the resolution getting bipartisan support from the Republicans and the Democrats.

Saleem Reza Noor, whose family members were brutally murdered by armed Islamists in 1971, told PTI, “Our genocide is finally getting recognition in the US Congress”.

Priya Saha, executive director of the Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM), said: "On this 51st anniversary of Bangladesh’s independence, we hope that millions of people in Bangladesh who were systematically exterminated by the Pakistan army and their collaborators in 1971 will be formally memorialised."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Two American congressmen have introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives urging the Biden administration to recognise the Pakistan Army’s atrocities against ethnic minorities during the 1971 Liberation War of Bangladesh.

Two American congressmen have introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives urging the Biden administration to recognise the Pakistan Army’s atrocities against ethnic minorities during the 1971 Liberation War of Bangladesh. The legislation was brought by Congressmen Ro Khanna and Steve Chabot on October 14, calling on the Pakistan government, among other things, to apologise to the people of Bangladesh for its role in the genocide of ethnic Bengalis and Hindus during the war. The resolution "condemns the atrocities committed by the Armed Forces of Pakistan against the people of Bangladesh from March 1971 to December 1971; recognises that such atrocities against ethnic Bengalis and Hindus constitute crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide; calls on the President of the United States to recognise the atrocities committed against ethnic Bengalis and Hindus by the Armed Forces of Pakistan during 1971 as crimes against humanity war crimes, and genocide." In a tweet, Chabot, a Republican Party member, confirmed of bringing in such a resolution jointly with another Congressman Khanna, a Democrat and the US Representative from California's 17th congressional district, to commemorate the 1971 Bengali Genocide. “We must not let the years erase the memory of the millions who were massacred. Recognising the genocide strengthens the historical record, educates our fellow Americans, and lets would-be perpetrators know such crimes will not be tolerated or forgotten,” he tweeted. “The Bangladesh Genocide of 1971 must not be forgotten. With help from my Hindu constituents in Ohio’s First District, Ro Khanna and I introduced legislation to recognise that the mass atrocities committed against Bengalis and Hindus, in particular, were indeed a genocide,” he said. The Bangladeshi community welcomed the congressmen’s move, expressing satisfaction at the resolution getting bipartisan support from the Republicans and the Democrats. Saleem Reza Noor, whose family members were brutally murdered by armed Islamists in 1971, told PTI, “Our genocide is finally getting recognition in the US Congress”. Priya Saha, executive director of the Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM), said: "On this 51st anniversary of Bangladesh’s independence, we hope that millions of people in Bangladesh who were systematically exterminated by the Pakistan army and their collaborators in 1971 will be formally memorialised." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US Congressmen introduce resolution urging Biden to recognise Pak 'genocide' in 1971 war

Following a suicide bombing that left several dead, largely young Hazara women, in Kabul on Friday, dozens of women from the minority ethnic group protested in the Afghan capital on Saturday.&nbsp;

In the Dasht-e-Barchi neighbourhood of Kabul, a bomber detonated himself on Friday during a test-taking session for students preparing for university entrance examinations.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the United Nations increased the death toll to 35 on Saturday.

"The latest casualty figures from the attack number at least 35 fatalities, with an additional 82 wounded," the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a statement.

The minority Hazara population lives in the western neighbourhood, a largely Shiite Muslim enclave, and is a historically persecuted group that has recently been the subject of some of Afghanistan's most violent atrocities.

About 50 women marched past&nbsp;a hospital in Dasht-e-Barchi on Saturday while chanting, "Stop Hazara genocide, it's not a crime to be a Shiite." Several assault victims were being treated there.&nbsp;

An AFP journalist stated that angry protesters carrying "Stop killing Hazaras" placards were dressed in black hijabs and headscarves.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/musk-previews-humanoid-robot-optimus-at-ai-day-event-at-tesla-office-521383">Musk previews humanoid robot 'Optimus' at AI day event at Tesla office</a>

According to eyewitnesses, the suicide attacker triggered the blast in the women's area of the gender-segregated auditorium.

Later, a crowd of protesters assembled in front of the hospital and screamed slogans under the watchful eye of dozens of Taliban who were highly armed and some of them had rocket-propelled grenade launchers.

Women's protests have become dangerous since the hardline Taliban seized control again in August of last year, with many protesters being jailed and gatherings being dispersed by Taliban soldiers firing rounds in the air.&nbsp;

The incident at the Kaaj Higher Educational Centre on Friday has not yet been linked to any particular organisation.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Following a suicide bombing that left several dead, largely young Hazara women, in Kabul on Friday, dozens of women from the minority ethnic group protested in the Afghan capital on Saturday.

Following a suicide bombing that left several dead, largely young Hazara women, in Kabul on Friday, dozens of women from the minority ethnic group protested in the Afghan capital on Saturday. In the Dasht-e-Barchi neighbourhood of Kabul, a bomber detonated himself on Friday during a test-taking session for students preparing for university entrance examinations. Meanwhile, the United Nations increased the death toll to 35 on Saturday. "The latest casualty figures from the attack number at least 35 fatalities, with an additional 82 wounded," the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a statement. The minority Hazara population lives in the western neighbourhood, a largely Shiite Muslim enclave, and is a historically persecuted group that has recently been the subject of some of Afghanistan's most violent atrocities. About 50 women marched past a hospital in Dasht-e-Barchi on Saturday while chanting, "Stop Hazara genocide, it's not a crime to be a Shiite." Several assault victims were being treated there. An AFP journalist stated that angry protesters carrying "Stop killing Hazaras" placards were dressed in black hijabs and headscarves. Also Read: Musk previews humanoid robot 'Optimus' at AI day event at Tesla office According to eyewitnesses, the suicide attacker triggered the blast in the women's area of the gender-segregated auditorium. Later, a crowd of protesters assembled in front of the hospital and screamed slogans under the watchful eye of dozens of Taliban who were highly armed and some of them had rocket-propelled grenade launchers. Women's protests have become dangerous since the hardline Taliban seized control again in August of last year, with many protesters being jailed and gatherings being dispersed by Taliban soldiers firing rounds in the air. The incident at the Kaaj Higher Educational Centre on Friday has not yet been linked to any particular organisation. (With inputs from agencies)

Hazara women protest against 'genocide' after Kabul suicide bombing toll rises to 35

The United Nations released a major report into serious human rights abuses in China's Xinjiang, saying torture allegations were credible and citing possible crimes against humanity but stopping short of calling it genocide. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

WION Fineprint | Xinjiang: United Nations slams China, Beijing retaliates

Pope Francis said that he needs to cut down his pace of travel and may even quit as he returned from a six-day trip, calling the decades-long abuse of Indigenous youngsters in Canada "genocide." The 85-year-old pope extended a historic apology to the First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people for what he called the "evil" carried out at Catholic-run residential schools during his "penitential pilgrimage" across Canada this week.

The leader of the 1.3 billion Catholics in the world described the treatment of children who were uprooted from their homes and cultures in order to attend state schools as "genocide" in a statement to the media upon his return home. As he explained to reporters the word "I did describe the genocide. And I asked for forgiveness for this process which was genocide&nbsp;".

He stated, "Taking away children, changing the culture, changing the mentality, changing the traditions, changing a race, let's put it that way, a whole culture." Although most Canadians, from western Alberta to Quebec and the far north, applauded Francis's historic apology, many survivors argued that much more needed to be done to promote peace.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/how-wickedest-city-on-earth-was-submerged-by-natures-wrath-502021">How ‘wickedest city on earth’ was submerged by nature's wrath</a>

The pope visited Canada for the 37th time since his election in 2013, although he acknowledged he would have to slow down because of knee issues that required him to spend a large portion of the trip in a wheelchair. Francis has already stated that, if necessary, he could follow his predecessor Benedict XVI, who made history in 2013 by stepping down because of his deteriorating health.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Pope Francis said that he needs to cut down his pace of travel and may even quit as he returned from a six-day trip, calling the decades-long abuse of Indigenous youngsters in Canada "genocide.

Pope Francis said that he needs to cut down his pace of travel and may even quit as he returned from a six-day trip, calling the decades-long abuse of Indigenous youngsters in Canada "genocide." The 85-year-old pope extended a historic apology to the First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people for what he called the "evil" carried out at Catholic-run residential schools during his "penitential pilgrimage" across Canada this week. The leader of the 1.3 billion Catholics in the world described the treatment of children who were uprooted from their homes and cultures in order to attend state schools as "genocide" in a statement to the media upon his return home. As he explained to reporters the word "I did describe the genocide. And I asked for forgiveness for this process which was genocide ". He stated, "Taking away children, changing the culture, changing the mentality, changing the traditions, changing a race, let's put it that way, a whole culture." Although most Canadians, from western Alberta to Quebec and the far north, applauded Francis's historic apology, many survivors argued that much more needed to be done to promote peace. Also Read: How ‘wickedest city on earth’ was submerged by nature's wrath The pope visited Canada for the 37th time since his election in 2013, although he acknowledged he would have to slow down because of knee issues that required him to spend a large portion of the trip in a wheelchair. Francis has already stated that, if necessary, he could follow his predecessor Benedict XVI, who made history in 2013 by stepping down because of his deteriorating health. (with inputs from agencies)

Pope refers to abuse of indigenous people in Canada as 'genocide'

The International Court of Justice (ICJ), United Nations' highest court ruled on Friday (July 22) that Rohingya genocide case against military-ruled Myanmar can go ahead. ICJ in The Hague has rejected all objections from Myanmar to a case filed by west African nation of Gambia. The case was filed in 2019. The decision means that full hearings can take place at the court over Myanmar's violent crackdown on the Rohingya.

ICJ president Joan Donoghue said the tribunal "finds that it has jurisdiction... to entertain the application filed by the republic of the Gambia, and that the said application is admissible".

Five years ago, Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims fled Myanmar to escape the crackdown. There were reports of murder, arson and rape.

Around 850,000 Rohingya are languishing in camps in neighbouring Bangladesh while another 600,000 Rohingya remain in Myanmar's southwestern Rakhine state.

At ICJ initially, Myanmar was represented by Nobel laureate and former leader Aung San Suu Kyi. However, her regime was toppled last year by Myanmar military.

Mainly-Muslim Gambia filed the case in November 2019 alleging that Myanmar's treatment of the Rohingya breached the 1948 UN Genocide Convention.

Myanmar had argued that the court had no jurisdiction in this matter. It had demanded that the case be dismissed in preliminary stages. However, Myanmar assertion that Gambia was acting as "proxy" of Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) was rejected unanimously by the judges.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-soldiers-tortured-civilians-report-499675">Myanmar soldiers tortured civilians: Report</a>

Only states, and not organisations, are allowed to file cases at the ICJ, which has ruled on disputes between countries since just after World War II.

Judges also unanimously dismissed Myanmar's contention that Gambia was not direct party to the alleged genocide and hence could not file the case.

Finally, they threw out by 15-1 Myanmar's claim that there was no formal dispute at the time Gambia filed the case, and that the court therefore had no jurisdiction.

It could however take years for full hearings and a final judgment in the case.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The International Court of Justice (ICJ), United Nations' highest court ruled on Friday (July 22) that Rohingya genocide case against military-ruled Myanmar can go ahead.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ), United Nations' highest court ruled on Friday (July 22) that Rohingya genocide case against military-ruled Myanmar can go ahead. ICJ in The Hague has rejected all objections from Myanmar to a case filed by west African nation of Gambia. The case was filed in 2019. The decision means that full hearings can take place at the court over Myanmar's violent crackdown on the Rohingya. ICJ president Joan Donoghue said the tribunal "finds that it has jurisdiction... to entertain the application filed by the republic of the Gambia, and that the said application is admissible". Five years ago, Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims fled Myanmar to escape the crackdown. There were reports of murder, arson and rape. Around 850,000 Rohingya are languishing in camps in neighbouring Bangladesh while another 600,000 Rohingya remain in Myanmar's southwestern Rakhine state. At ICJ initially, Myanmar was represented by Nobel laureate and former leader Aung San Suu Kyi. However, her regime was toppled last year by Myanmar military. Mainly-Muslim Gambia filed the case in November 2019 alleging that Myanmar's treatment of the Rohingya breached the 1948 UN Genocide Convention. Myanmar had argued that the court had no jurisdiction in this matter. It had demanded that the case be dismissed in preliminary stages. However, Myanmar assertion that Gambia was acting as "proxy" of Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) was rejected unanimously by the judges. Also Read | Myanmar soldiers tortured civilians: Report Only states, and not organisations, are allowed to file cases at the ICJ, which has ruled on disputes between countries since just after World War II. Judges also unanimously dismissed Myanmar's contention that Gambia was not direct party to the alleged genocide and hence could not file the case. Finally, they threw out by 15-1 Myanmar's claim that there was no formal dispute at the time Gambia filed the case, and that the court therefore had no jurisdiction. It could however take years for full hearings and a final judgment in the case. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN top court says Myanmar genocide case can proceed

As of yesterday, imports from China's Xinjiang region were prohibited in the United States under new laws. Firms will have to certify that goods from the region are not made using forced labour under the laws. Members of the region's minority Uyghur group, who are primarily Muslim, have been arrested and forced to work, according to US authorities. China has often denied allegations that it holds Uyghurs in Xinjiang internment camps.

Several products from the resource-rich region have previously been prohibited in the United States, including cotton and tomatoes. The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA), which is set to take effect today, will extend the restrictions to all imports.

According to the US Congress, since April 2017, China has jailed over a million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in Xinjiang. 
 
Watch | New leaked reports on Uighurs Muslims in China shocks the world

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It claims that tens of thousands of inmates have worked in Xinjiang and other regions "under the cover of poverty alleviation and industrial aid programmes" for "a fraction of the minimum wage or without any remuneration."

According to the report, China also "interferes with audits and traditional due diligence efforts in Xinjiang to vet commodities and supply chains, including by intimidating possible witnesses and concealing crucial information."

China has denied using forced labour, claiming that the Xinjiang camps are "re-education" centres designed to combat terrorism. 
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As of yesterday, imports from China's Xinjiang region were prohibited in the United States under new laws. Firms will have to certify that goods from the region are not made using forced labour under the laws.

As of yesterday, imports from China's Xinjiang region were prohibited in the United States under new laws. Firms will have to certify that goods from the region are not made using forced labour under the laws. Members of the region's minority Uyghur group, who are primarily Muslim, have been arrested and forced to work, according to US authorities. China has often denied allegations that it holds Uyghurs in Xinjiang internment camps. Several products from the resource-rich region have previously been prohibited in the United States, including cotton and tomatoes. The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA), which is set to take effect today, will extend the restrictions to all imports. According to the US Congress, since April 2017, China has jailed over a million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in Xinjiang. Watch | New leaked reports on Uighurs Muslims in China shocks the world It claims that tens of thousands of inmates have worked in Xinjiang and other regions "under the cover of poverty alleviation and industrial aid programmes" for "a fraction of the minimum wage or without any remuneration." According to the report, China also "interferes with audits and traditional due diligence efforts in Xinjiang to vet commodities and supply chains, including by intimidating possible witnesses and concealing crucial information." China has denied using forced labour, claiming that the Xinjiang camps are "re-education" centres designed to combat terrorism. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Uyghur genocide: US prohibits imports from China's Xinjiang region

A group of Baloch activists held a protest here asking the United Nations' Human Rights Council to intervene and stop the 'genocide' in Balochistan.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sindh-baloch-and-pashtuns-protest-against-pakistan-army-atrocities-outside-unhrc-282766">Sindh, Baloch and Pashtuns protest against Pakistan Army atrocities outside UNHRC</a>

The demonstration held during the ongoing 43rd session of the UN Human Rights Council was organised by the Baloch Voice Association. The activists were seen holding banners with slogans--'Balochistan is bleeding', 'Free Balochistan' and 'Stop enforced disappearances'.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/Pakistan-news-update-breaking-Pakistan-army-threatened-to-kill-my-son-says-activist-Gul-Bukhari">Pakistan army threatened to kill my son, says activist Gul Bukhari</a>

Neela Quadri Baloch, President of the World Baloch Women's Forum said, "It`s almost 70 years United Nations is here, and it`s almost 70 years that Pakistan has occupied Balochistan and they are responsible for our genocide.

"A large number of political activists, students and intellectuals have gone missing in Balochistan, allegedly abducted up by the security forces. Activists say many of those abducted were killed and their mutilated bodies were found in isolated places."They are using rape as a tool of oppression. They are taking our women, they are torturing them.

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This is the time the UN should understand and feel a responsibility to come to Balochistan and intervene," Neela Quadri Baloch said."UN should monitor what`s going on in Balochistan. You can`t walk in Balochistan ten meters without a check post.

So, we are living in occupied land, we are living in a hell that is made by the state of Pakistan. There should be an intervention by the UN in Balochistan and there should be fact-finding missions because there are mass graves, more than 40,000 people are missing. Our whole nation is in Great Depression", said the woman activist.

Munir Mengal, the president of the Baloch Voice Association said, "The people in Balochistan are being eliminated. We are receiving reports, we are receiving data which shows that the Pakistani state is eliminating Baloch people, approximately 8-10 people become victims of enforced disappearances every week. Some 3-4 people are being killed by Pakistani state forces, who were kidnapped".The Baloch have been fighting against the forceful occupation of their land by Pakistan.

Mengal further said, "Since 1948, we have a political conflict with the state of Pakistan. We are against the annexation of our land by Pakistan on the basis of religion. So, the Baloch have stood for that and they are fighting over that".He laid stress on urgent intervention by the international human rights body to save the lives of Baloch people.

The Baloch Voice Association also held a discussion on the prevailing situation in Balochistan in which Baloch activists and human rights activists from Europe participated.

A group of Baloch activists held a protest here asking the United Nations' Human Rights Council to intervene and stop the 'genocide' in Balochistan. Also read: Sindh, Baloch and Pashtuns protest against Pakistan Army atrocities outside UNHRC The demonstration held during the ongoing 43rd session of the UN Human Rights Council was organised by the Baloch Voice Association.

A group of Baloch activists held a protest here asking the United Nations' Human Rights Council to intervene and stop the 'genocide' in Balochistan. Also read: Sindh, Baloch and Pashtuns protest against Pakistan Army atrocities outside UNHRC The demonstration held during the ongoing 43rd session of the UN Human Rights Council was organised by the Baloch Voice Association. The activists were seen holding banners with slogans--'Balochistan is bleeding', 'Free Balochistan' and 'Stop enforced disappearances'. Also read: Pakistan army threatened to kill my son, says activist Gul Bukhari Neela Quadri Baloch, President of the World Baloch Women's Forum said, "It`s almost 70 years United Nations is here, and it`s almost 70 years that Pakistan has occupied Balochistan and they are responsible for our genocide. "A large number of political activists, students and intellectuals have gone missing in Balochistan, allegedly abducted up by the security forces. Activists say many of those abducted were killed and their mutilated bodies were found in isolated places."They are using rape as a tool of oppression. They are taking our women, they are torturing them. This is the time the UN should understand and feel a responsibility to come to Balochistan and intervene," Neela Quadri Baloch said."UN should monitor what`s going on in Balochistan. You can`t walk in Balochistan ten meters without a check post. So, we are living in occupied land, we are living in a hell that is made by the state of Pakistan. There should be an intervention by the UN in Balochistan and there should be fact-finding missions because there are mass graves, more than 40,000 people are missing. Our whole nation is in Great Depression", said the woman activist. Munir Mengal, the president of the Baloch Voice Association said, "The people in Balochistan are being eliminated. We are receiving reports, we are receiving data which shows that the Pakistani state is eliminating Baloch people, approximately 8-10 people become victims of enforced disappearances every week. Some 3-4 people are being killed by Pakistani state forces, who were kidnapped".The Baloch have been fighting against the forceful occupation of their land by Pakistan. Mengal further said, "Since 1948, we have a political conflict with the state of Pakistan. We are against the annexation of our land by Pakistan on the basis of religion. So, the Baloch have stood for that and they are fighting over that".He laid stress on urgent intervention by the international human rights body to save the lives of Baloch people. The Baloch Voice Association also held a discussion on the prevailing situation in Balochistan in which Baloch activists and human rights activists from Europe participated.

Geneva: Activists protest, seek UN intervention to prevent Pak-inflicted genocide in Balochistan

Tearing apart Pakistan for raising the Jammu and Kashmir issue in the UN Security Council, India said that its neighbouring country is a live example of how a nation continues to evade accountability for serious crimes of genocide and ethnic cleansing in&nbsp;Bangladesh.

Dr Kajal Bhat, Counsellor and Legal Adviser in India’s Permanent Mission to the UN, was retorting to comments made by the representative of at the UN Security Council open debate on “Strengthening accountability and justice for serious violations of international law”.

The debate was chaired by Council President Albania.

Bhat said that she was constrained to respond to some of the falsehoods and malicious propaganda spread by the representative of Pakistan as they are accustomed to doing like a “broken record”.

“The irony is perhaps lost on the representative of Pakistan, given their shameful history of committing genocide in what was then East Pakistan, and what is now Bangladesh, over 50 years back for which there has not even been an acknowledgement, much less apology or accountability,” Bhat said.

To ask them to reflect on this is perhaps asking too much, but the least they could do is not sully the dignity of this Council, Bhat said and noted that innocent women, children, academics and intellectuals were treated as weapons of war during ‘Operation Searchlight’.

She further said that the reign of terror unleashed by Pakistan on the population of the then East Pakistan resulted in thousands killed brutally and several thousands of women raped.

Speaking a day earlier in the council, Minister for State for External Affairs Dr Rajkumar Ranjan Singh had said that accountability and justice cannot be linked to political expediencies.

“The representative of Pakistan presents a live example to the Security Council of how a state continues to evade accountability for serious crimes of genocide and ethnic cleansing. To ask them to reflect on this is perhaps asking too much, but the least they could do is not sully the dignity of this Council,” she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tearing apart Pakistan for raising the Jammu and Kashmir issue in the UN Security Council, India said that its neighbouring country is a live example of how a nation continues to evade accountability for serious crimes of genocide and ethnic cleansing in Bangladesh.

Tearing apart Pakistan for raising the Jammu and Kashmir issue in the UN Security Council, India said that its neighbouring country is a live example of how a nation continues to evade accountability for serious crimes of genocide and ethnic cleansing in Bangladesh. Dr Kajal Bhat, Counsellor and Legal Adviser in India’s Permanent Mission to the UN, was retorting to comments made by the representative of at the UN Security Council open debate on “Strengthening accountability and justice for serious violations of international law”. The debate was chaired by Council President Albania. Bhat said that she was constrained to respond to some of the falsehoods and malicious propaganda spread by the representative of Pakistan as they are accustomed to doing like a “broken record”. “The irony is perhaps lost on the representative of Pakistan, given their shameful history of committing genocide in what was then East Pakistan, and what is now Bangladesh, over 50 years back for which there has not even been an acknowledgement, much less apology or accountability,” Bhat said. To ask them to reflect on this is perhaps asking too much, but the least they could do is not sully the dignity of this Council, Bhat said and noted that innocent women, children, academics and intellectuals were treated as weapons of war during ‘Operation Searchlight’. She further said that the reign of terror unleashed by Pakistan on the population of the then East Pakistan resulted in thousands killed brutally and several thousands of women raped. Speaking a day earlier in the council, Minister for State for External Affairs Dr Rajkumar Ranjan Singh had said that accountability and justice cannot be linked to political expediencies. “The representative of Pakistan presents a live example to the Security Council of how a state continues to evade accountability for serious crimes of genocide and ethnic cleansing. To ask them to reflect on this is perhaps asking too much, but the least they could do is not sully the dignity of this Council,” she said. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Pak live example of how to evade accountability for genocide, ethnic cleansing: India at UN

World at War: Ukraine accuses Russia of genocide in Donbas Why the United States will not tighten its gun laws even after the deadly mass shooting in Texas? Why are the French troops leaving Mali? & an indepth look into the Xinjiang Police Files on the oppression of Uighurs in China. Mohammed Saleh decodes the world's biggest conflict zones of the week in World At War

World at War: Ukraine accuses Russia of genocide in Donbas

As United Nations' Human Rights chief Michelle Bachelet visits China, Uyghurs have urged her to avoid falling victim to a public relations stunt and ask hard questions in Xinjiang.

Bachelet's six-day trip has entered a delicate new phase with visits to the cities of Urumqi and Kashgar in the remote region of Xinjiang on Tuesday (May 24) and Wednesday (May 25).

The outskirts of both the cities are dotted with what are believed to be detention camps, part of a large network of freshly constructed facilities that stretches across the remote province.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Xi Jinping ordered the Genocide against Uighurs

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Urumqi, the regional capital with a population of 4 million, has a sizable Uyghur population. It also houses key government agencies accused of orchestrating China's province-wide crackdown.

Meanwhile, Kashgar, an Uyghur heartland city with a population of 700,000, is an ancient Silk Road hub that has also been heavily targeted by Beijing's campaign.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leaked-database-shows-thousands-of-uyghurs-held-in-detention-by-china-479843">Leaked database shows thousands of Uyghurs held in detention by China</a>

China's ruling communist party has long been accused of detaining over one million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities as part of a years-long security crackdown. The United States has labelled this a "genocide".

However, China has vehemently denied the allegations and called the allegations "the lie of the century".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-rights-chief-to-visit-china-from-monday-including-xinjiang-480734">UN rights chief to visit China from Monday, including Xinjiang</a>

Campaigners fear that Chinese authorities would prevent Bachelet from conducting a comprehensive investigation into alleged human rights violations, instead giving her a stage-managed tour with limited access.

The US has expressed deep concern that she had not secured guarantees on what she will witness, saying she is unlikely to get an "unbiased" assessment of China's human rights situation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As United Nations' Human Rights chief Michelle Bachelet visits China, Uyghurs have urged her to avoid falling victim to a public relations stunt and ask hard questions in Xinjiang.

As United Nations' Human Rights chief Michelle Bachelet visits China, Uyghurs have urged her to avoid falling victim to a public relations stunt and ask hard questions in Xinjiang. Bachelet's six-day trip has entered a delicate new phase with visits to the cities of Urumqi and Kashgar in the remote region of Xinjiang on Tuesday (May 24) and Wednesday (May 25). The outskirts of both the cities are dotted with what are believed to be detention camps, part of a large network of freshly constructed facilities that stretches across the remote province. Watch | Gravitas: Xi Jinping ordered the Genocide against Uighurs Urumqi, the regional capital with a population of 4 million, has a sizable Uyghur population. It also houses key government agencies accused of orchestrating China's province-wide crackdown. Meanwhile, Kashgar, an Uyghur heartland city with a population of 700,000, is an ancient Silk Road hub that has also been heavily targeted by Beijing's campaign. Also read | Leaked database shows thousands of Uyghurs held in detention by China China's ruling communist party has long been accused of detaining over one million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities as part of a years-long security crackdown. The United States has labelled this a "genocide". However, China has vehemently denied the allegations and called the allegations "the lie of the century". Also read | UN rights chief to visit China from Monday, including Xinjiang Campaigners fear that Chinese authorities would prevent Bachelet from conducting a comprehensive investigation into alleged human rights violations, instead giving her a stage-managed tour with limited access. The US has expressed deep concern that she had not secured guarantees on what she will witness, saying she is unlikely to get an "unbiased" assessment of China's human rights situation. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Uyghurs urge UN rights chief to ask hard questions in Xinjiang and not be misled by 'PR stunts'

In 1972, a Hutu insurrection broke out against the Tutsis in Burundi. Tutsis living in the south of the country were attacked and killed. Between 100,000 to 300,000 Tutsis were killed. What led to the genocide of Tutsis?

Burundi: What led to the genocide of Tutsis?

Canadian lawmakers on Wednesday unanimously voted to call Russian attacks in Ukraine a "genocide". Members of the parliament said that there was "ample evidence of systemic and massive war crimes against humanity" being committed by Moscow.

The motion in Canada's House of Commons' said war crimes by Russia include mass atrocities, systematic instances of willful killing of Ukrainian civilians, the desecration of corpses, forcible transfer of Ukrainian children, torture, physical harm, mental harm, and rape.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said earlier this month that it was "absolutely right" for more and more people to describe Russia`s actions in Ukraine as genocide. His words came just a day after US President Joe Biden made the same accusation.&nbsp;

Gravitas: Russia stops exporting gas to Poland &amp; Bulgaria

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Biden had said earlier in April that the Ukraine invasion amounted to genocide but had added that lawyers internationally would have to decide whether or not the invasion met the criteria for genocide.

Russia has been denying accusations of genocide. It terms its actions in Ukraine a "special military operation". Russia has claimed that the special military operation was necessary as the US was using Ukraine to threaten Russia. Russia makes a counter-claim that Ukraine has carried out genocide of Russian-speaking people. Ukraine dismisses this charge.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-calls-russian-move-to-cut-gas-a-blackmail-474482">EU calls Russian move to cut gas a 'blackmail'</a>

Canada is among a number of countries to have imposed sanctions on Russia after it invaded Ukraine on February&nbsp;24. On Wednesday, it imposed further sanctions on 203 individuals whom it says are complicit in Russia`s attempted annexation of certain areas of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine.

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Late on Wednesday, Canada also updated its travel advice for Moldova, citing the risk of armed conflict in Transnistria, a breakaway Russian-occupied part of Moldova in the west.

(With inputs from agencies)

Canadian lawmakers on Wednesday unanimously voted to call Russian attacks in Ukraine a "genocide". Members of the parliament said that there was "ample evidence of systemic and massive war crimes against humanity" being committed by Moscow.

Canadian lawmakers on Wednesday unanimously voted to call Russian attacks in Ukraine a "genocide". Members of the parliament said that there was "ample evidence of systemic and massive war crimes against humanity" being committed by Moscow. The motion in Canada's House of Commons' said war crimes by Russia include mass atrocities, systematic instances of willful killing of Ukrainian civilians, the desecration of corpses, forcible transfer of Ukrainian children, torture, physical harm, mental harm, and rape. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said earlier this month that it was "absolutely right" for more and more people to describe Russia`s actions in Ukraine as genocide. His words came just a day after US President Joe Biden made the same accusation. Gravitas: Russia stops exporting gas to Poland & Bulgaria × Biden had said earlier in April that the Ukraine invasion amounted to genocide but had added that lawyers internationally would have to decide whether or not the invasion met the criteria for genocide. Russia has been denying accusations of genocide. It terms its actions in Ukraine a "special military operation". Russia has claimed that the special military operation was necessary as the US was using Ukraine to threaten Russia. Russia makes a counter-claim that Ukraine has carried out genocide of Russian-speaking people. Ukraine dismisses this charge. Also Read | EU calls Russian move to cut gas a 'blackmail' Canada is among a number of countries to have imposed sanctions on Russia after it invaded Ukraine on February 24. On Wednesday, it imposed further sanctions on 203 individuals whom it says are complicit in Russia`s attempted annexation of certain areas of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × Late on Wednesday, Canada also updated its travel advice for Moldova, citing the risk of armed conflict in Transnistria, a breakaway Russian-occupied part of Moldova in the west. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine Conflict: Canadian House of Commons unanimously declares Russian acts 'genocide'

Russia has been accused of genocide in Ukraine, the ultimate war crime. However, genocide has a specific legal definition and to date has only been proven in court a few times.

Let's find out more.

What exactly is genocide?

According to the 1948 Genocide Convention, it is defined as crimes done with the goal to eliminate, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group.

Killing members of a group, causing substantial bodily or mental injury to them, establishing conditions meant to destroy them, preventing births, or forcibly transferring children to other groups are all examples of genocide.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-armenia-to-myanmar-accusations-of-genocide-in-the-past-464634">From Armenia to Myanmar: Accusations of genocide in the past</a>

What criteria are used to determine genocide?

Prosecutors must first show that the victims were members of a distinct national, ethnic, racial, or religious group in order to prove genocide. This rule does not apply to organisations targeted based on their political ideas.

"Genocide is a difficult crime to prove. Parties have to bring a lot to the table," explained Melanie O'Brien, head of the International Association of Genocide Scholars, citing the combined need of demonstrating intent, targeting a protected group, and crimes such as murder or forcible removal of minors.

Who made the allegation against Russia?

Multiple people. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, US President Joe Biden and even UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson have accused Russian forces of genocide, citing evidence of rape, torture, and executions in districts near Kyiv regained by Ukrainian troops earlier this month.

Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine war: Russian acts in Ukraine amounts to 'genocide', says Joe Biden

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"Yes, I called it genocide because it has become clearer and clearer that (Russian President Vladimir) Putin is just trying to wipe out the idea of being able to be Ukrainian and the evidence is mounting," said Biden.

The scope of the horrors "doesn't look far short of genocide," British Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned last week.

What is Russia's response to these accusations?

Moscow claims the West fabricated evidence to defame its troops, calling the war on its smaller neighbour "a special operation" to stop genocide against Russian speakers in Ukraine.

Will the&nbsp;allegations against Russia&nbsp;be investigated?

In February, the International Criminal Court launched a probe into possible war crimes and crimes against humanity in Ukraine. It has authority over genocide as well.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-icj-ukraine-and-russia-to-fight-again-but-over-genocide-claim-459711">At ICJ, Ukraine and Russia to fight again but over ‘genocide claim’</a>

Are there any old cases of genocide?

Yes, the international courts have had three cases meet their threshold:

-The Cambodian Khmer Rouge slaughter of&nbsp;minority Cham and Vietnamese people in the 1970s. An estimated&nbsp;1.7 million people were murdered in this genocide.

-&nbsp;Rwanda's mass massacre of Tutsis in 1994, which resulted in the deaths of 800,000 people.

-The 1995 Srebrenica massacre in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which claimed the lives of 8,000 Muslim men and boys.

Since the 1990s, the US administration has declared genocide in seven situations: Bosnia, Rwanda, Iraq, Sudan's Darfur area, Islamic State's massacres, particularly against the Yezidi, Myanmar's crackdown on Rohingya Muslims, and China's treatment of Uyghur Muslims. Only time will tell if the Russian violence against Ukraine will be categorized as a 'genocide'.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia has been accused of genocide in Ukraine, the ultimate war crime. However, genocide has a specific legal definition and to date has only been proven in court a few times.

Russia has been accused of genocide in Ukraine, the ultimate war crime. However, genocide has a specific legal definition and to date has only been proven in court a few times. Let's find out more. What exactly is genocide? According to the 1948 Genocide Convention, it is defined as crimes done with the goal to eliminate, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group. Killing members of a group, causing substantial bodily or mental injury to them, establishing conditions meant to destroy them, preventing births, or forcibly transferring children to other groups are all examples of genocide. Also read | From Armenia to Myanmar: Accusations of genocide in the past What criteria are used to determine genocide? Prosecutors must first show that the victims were members of a distinct national, ethnic, racial, or religious group in order to prove genocide. This rule does not apply to organisations targeted based on their political ideas. "Genocide is a difficult crime to prove. Parties have to bring a lot to the table," explained Melanie O'Brien, head of the International Association of Genocide Scholars, citing the combined need of demonstrating intent, targeting a protected group, and crimes such as murder or forcible removal of minors. Who made the allegation against Russia? Multiple people. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, US President Joe Biden and even UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson have accused Russian forces of genocide, citing evidence of rape, torture, and executions in districts near Kyiv regained by Ukrainian troops earlier this month. Watch | Ukraine war: Russian acts in Ukraine amounts to 'genocide', says Joe Biden "Yes, I called it genocide because it has become clearer and clearer that (Russian President Vladimir) Putin is just trying to wipe out the idea of being able to be Ukrainian and the evidence is mounting," said Biden. The scope of the horrors "doesn't look far short of genocide," British Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned last week. What is Russia's response to these accusations? Moscow claims the West fabricated evidence to defame its troops, calling the war on its smaller neighbour "a special operation" to stop genocide against Russian speakers in Ukraine. Will the allegations against Russia be investigated? In February, the International Criminal Court launched a probe into possible war crimes and crimes against humanity in Ukraine. It has authority over genocide as well. Also read | At ICJ, Ukraine and Russia to fight again but over ‘genocide claim’ Are there any old cases of genocide? Yes, the international courts have had three cases meet their threshold: -The Cambodian Khmer Rouge slaughter of minority Cham and Vietnamese people in the 1970s. An estimated 1.7 million people were murdered in this genocide. - Rwanda's mass massacre of Tutsis in 1994, which resulted in the deaths of 800,000 people. -The 1995 Srebrenica massacre in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which claimed the lives of 8,000 Muslim men and boys. Since the 1990s, the US administration has declared genocide in seven situations: Bosnia, Rwanda, Iraq, Sudan's Darfur area, Islamic State's massacres, particularly against the Yezidi, Myanmar's crackdown on Rohingya Muslims, and China's treatment of Uyghur Muslims. Only time will tell if the Russian violence against Ukraine will be categorized as a 'genocide'. (With inputs from agencies)

WION explains: The ultimate, yet hard to prove war crime called 'genocide'

Members of Joe Biden's team have defended 'genocide' remarks made by US President Biden. However, the US state department has declined to comment on Biden.

Ukraine war: Russian acts in Ukraine amounts to 'genocide', says Joe Biden

Differing from ally US President Joe Biden, French President Emanuel Macron has refused to term the Russian actions in Ukraine as "genocide" during an interview with public broadcaster France 2.

According to CNN, when asked if would use the term "genocide" for describing the killings of Ukrainians, Macron said, “I would be careful with such terms today because these two peoples [Russians and Ukrainians] are brothers.”

The comments are likely to cause consternation in the US administration, as most of the western allies have been acting in tandem to decry the Russian attack on Ukraine.

The French president, who is running for re-election, wondered if such an escalation of “rhetoric” could help in ending the war.

“I want to continue to try, as much as I can, to stop this war and rebuild peace. I am not sure that an escalation of rhetoric serves that cause,” he said.

“What we can say for sure is that the situation is unacceptable and that these are war crimes. We are living through war crimes that are unprecedented on our soil — our European soil,” he added.

The comments come days after Biden, while reacting to the Bucha killings and other civilian killings, said that atrocities being uncovered in Ukraine qualify as genocide, saying "It’s become clearer and clearer that Putin is just trying to wipe out even the idea of being Ukrainian."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-president-biden-accuses-russian-forces-of-committing-genocide-470632">Ukraine war: President Biden accuses Russian forces of committing 'genocide'</a>

Even though such actions don’t entail any legal or economic ramifications, the wording chosen by the Biden was to rally its allies in isolating and punishing Kremlin.

Moscow had severely criticised Biden for accusing Russia of committing genocide in Ukraine, dubbing it "unacceptable".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-russia-destroys-worlds-largest-commercial-airplane-in-ukraine-mriya-468458">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Antonov AN-225, world's largest plane, in tatters</a>

"We categorically disagree and consider unacceptable any attempt to distort the situation in this way, especially since it is hardly acceptable for the president of the United States," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine accuses Russia of genocide in Bucha

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-accuses-russia-of-genocide-in-bucha-468404/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Differing from ally US President Joe Biden, French President Emanuel Macron has refused to term the Russian actions in Ukraine as "genocide" during an interview with public broadcaster France 2.

Differing from ally US President Joe Biden, French President Emanuel Macron has refused to term the Russian actions in Ukraine as "genocide" during an interview with public broadcaster France 2. According to CNN, when asked if would use the term "genocide" for describing the killings of Ukrainians, Macron said, “I would be careful with such terms today because these two peoples [Russians and Ukrainians] are brothers.” The comments are likely to cause consternation in the US administration, as most of the western allies have been acting in tandem to decry the Russian attack on Ukraine. The French president, who is running for re-election, wondered if such an escalation of “rhetoric” could help in ending the war. “I want to continue to try, as much as I can, to stop this war and rebuild peace. I am not sure that an escalation of rhetoric serves that cause,” he said. “What we can say for sure is that the situation is unacceptable and that these are war crimes. We are living through war crimes that are unprecedented on our soil — our European soil,” he added. The comments come days after Biden, while reacting to the Bucha killings and other civilian killings, said that atrocities being uncovered in Ukraine qualify as genocide, saying "It’s become clearer and clearer that Putin is just trying to wipe out even the idea of being Ukrainian." Also read | Ukraine war: President Biden accuses Russian forces of committing 'genocide' Even though such actions don’t entail any legal or economic ramifications, the wording chosen by the Biden was to rally its allies in isolating and punishing Kremlin. Moscow had severely criticised Biden for accusing Russia of committing genocide in Ukraine, dubbing it "unacceptable". Also Read in Pics: Antonov AN-225, world's largest plane, in tatters "We categorically disagree and consider unacceptable any attempt to distort the situation in this way, especially since it is hardly acceptable for the president of the United States," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Watch | Gravitas: Ukraine accuses Russia of genocide in Bucha (With inputs from agencies)

Russia-Ukraine war: French President Macron refuses to describe civilian killings as ‘genocide’

Saying she saw with her own eyes her two daughters killed by the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;military, Rahima Khatun is hopeful the US designation of the 2017 onslaught against the&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;as "genocide" will bring some justice.

The girls, thrown into a burning house as their village was razed to the ground, were among thousands of victims of a brutal crackdown against&nbsp;Myanmar's long-marginalised Muslim minority.

Myanmar's junta denies the allegations and the case is currently being heard at the United Nations' highest court at The Hague, but the US declaration has provided hope for justice among many&nbsp;Rohingya.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-military-junta-categorically-rejects-us-allegation-of-rohingya-genocide-464692">Myanmar military junta 'categorically rejects' US allegation of Rohingya genocide</a>

"The&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;military slaughtered and raped women. One day they came and threw our children alive into the fire. My two daughters were among them," said Khatun, 52, tears rolling down her cheeks at a refugee camp in&nbsp;Bangladesh.

The crackdown prompted an exodus of about 740,000 people into&nbsp;Bangladesh, joining more than 100,000 others who had fled earlier waves of violence.

They live in a vast network of squalid camps made up of bamboo shacks, refusing to return home until&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;ensures the rights of the&nbsp;Rohingya.

Washington said this week there was clear evidence of an attempt at the "destruction" of the minority group.

Community leaders in the camps, activists and victims told AFP that the US move would bring&nbsp;Myanmar's military to account and -- perhaps -- allow them to go back and rebuild their villages and lives across the border.

"We have been waiting for a long time for this day. The US is the world's most powerful nation. Their&nbsp;decision&nbsp;will reverberate across the world. Maybe we'll get justice soon," local leader Sayed Ullah told AFP.

Ullah, 33, who heads a&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;rights group in the camps, also lost several relatives and dozens of fellow villagers during the 2017 offensive.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-armenia-to-myanmar-accusations-of-genocide-in-the-past-464634">From Armenia to Myanmar: Accusations of genocide in the past</a>

Young&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;activist Sawyeddollah, 23, said news of the US&nbsp;decision&nbsp;spread like wildfire through the settlements, with people sharing video of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's speech&nbsp;on&nbsp;cellphones.

"I hope the Biden administration will create a quick tribunal to go for action to implement their&nbsp;decision," Sawyeddollah said.

"America didn't say anything all these years. But yesterday's&nbsp;decision&nbsp;made all of us very happy," said Robi Ullah, 45, another refugee.

Siraj Ullah, 65, said he offered prayers to God to express gratitude to the United States.&nbsp;

"I hope they (the US) can ensure our repatriation as early as possible. If we get all of our rights back we are agreed to go back to our homeland instantly," Ullah told AFP.

No genocidal intent

Myanmar's junta&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday said it "categorically rejects" the US declaration.

"Myanmar&nbsp;has never engaged in any genocidal actions and does not have any genocidal intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, racial or religious group or any other group," it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-determines-myanmar-army-committed-genocide-against-rohingya-464174">United States determines Myanmar army committed genocide against Rohingya</a>

Bangladesh, which has borne the brunt of sheltering the refugees, called the US&nbsp;decision&nbsp;overdue but still "good news", and said it would strengthen the case against&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;at the International Court of Justice.

"I believe, hopefully after the statement of the US Secretary of State, they (Washington) will also put more pressure&nbsp;on&nbsp;the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;government so that they take back their people as they have already promised,"&nbsp;Bangladesh&nbsp;Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen said.

He added however that&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;was continuing to stall repatriation efforts, most recently by issuing a list of 700&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;who could return which he said was "defective" and likely to be rejected by the&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;community.

"The way the list is prepared, it feels like it lacks goodwill and smacks of ulterior motives," he said.

Mohammad Zafar, another&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;community leader in Kutupalong, the biggest of the refugee camps -- and the largest in the world -- played down the prospect of returning home any time soon.

"I highly doubt whether it will bring any change to our fate. We are literally stranded in a foreign land for years, barely surviving," he said.

"The damage has been done to us. Nothing can compensate unless there are visible actions," Zafar told AFP.

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-committed-genocide-against-rohingya-says-us-but-what-is-genocide-464662/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Saying she saw with her own eyes her two daughters killed by the Myanmar military, Rahima Khatun is hopeful the US designation of the 2017 onslaught against the Rohingya as "genocide" will bring some justice.

Saying she saw with her own eyes her two daughters killed by the Myanmar military, Rahima Khatun is hopeful the US designation of the 2017 onslaught against the Rohingya as "genocide" will bring some justice. The girls, thrown into a burning house as their village was razed to the ground, were among thousands of victims of a brutal crackdown against Myanmar's long-marginalised Muslim minority. Myanmar's junta denies the allegations and the case is currently being heard at the United Nations' highest court at The Hague, but the US declaration has provided hope for justice among many Rohingya. Also read | Myanmar military junta 'categorically rejects' US allegation of Rohingya genocide "The Myanmar military slaughtered and raped women. One day they came and threw our children alive into the fire. My two daughters were among them," said Khatun, 52, tears rolling down her cheeks at a refugee camp in Bangladesh. The crackdown prompted an exodus of about 740,000 people into Bangladesh, joining more than 100,000 others who had fled earlier waves of violence. They live in a vast network of squalid camps made up of bamboo shacks, refusing to return home until Myanmar ensures the rights of the Rohingya. Washington said this week there was clear evidence of an attempt at the "destruction" of the minority group. Community leaders in the camps, activists and victims told AFP that the US move would bring Myanmar's military to account and -- perhaps -- allow them to go back and rebuild their villages and lives across the border. "We have been waiting for a long time for this day. The US is the world's most powerful nation. Their decision will reverberate across the world. Maybe we'll get justice soon," local leader Sayed Ullah told AFP. Ullah, 33, who heads a Rohingya rights group in the camps, also lost several relatives and dozens of fellow villagers during the 2017 offensive. Also read | From Armenia to Myanmar: Accusations of genocide in the past Young Rohingya activist Sawyeddollah, 23, said news of the US decision spread like wildfire through the settlements, with people sharing video of Secretary of State Antony Blinken's speech on cellphones. "I hope the Biden administration will create a quick tribunal to go for action to implement their decision," Sawyeddollah said. "America didn't say anything all these years. But yesterday's decision made all of us very happy," said Robi Ullah, 45, another refugee. Siraj Ullah, 65, said he offered prayers to God to express gratitude to the United States. "I hope they (the US) can ensure our repatriation as early as possible. If we get all of our rights back we are agreed to go back to our homeland instantly," Ullah told AFP. No genocidal intent Myanmar's junta on Tuesday said it "categorically rejects" the US declaration. "Myanmar has never engaged in any genocidal actions and does not have any genocidal intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, racial or religious group or any other group," it said. Also read | United States determines Myanmar army committed genocide against Rohingya Bangladesh, which has borne the brunt of sheltering the refugees, called the US decision overdue but still "good news", and said it would strengthen the case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice. "I believe, hopefully after the statement of the US Secretary of State, they (Washington) will also put more pressure on the Myanmar government so that they take back their people as they have already promised," Bangladesh Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen said. He added however that Myanmar was continuing to stall repatriation efforts, most recently by issuing a list of 700 Rohingya who could return which he said was "defective" and likely to be rejected by the Rohingya community. "The way the list is prepared, it feels like it lacks goodwill and smacks of ulterior motives," he said. Mohammad Zafar, another Rohingya community leader in Kutupalong, the biggest of the refugee camps -- and the largest in the world -- played down the prospect of returning home any time soon. "I highly doubt whether it will bring any change to our fate. We are literally stranded in a foreign land for years, barely surviving," he said. "The damage has been done to us. Nothing can compensate unless there are visible actions," Zafar told AFP. Watch | Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

Rohingya in Bangladesh cheer US decision on Myanmar 'genocide'

Myanmar military junta on Tuesday said that it "categorically rejects" the US allegation that its armed forces committed genocide against Rohingya Muslims five years ago.&nbsp;

Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya fled Buddhist-majority Myanmar following the 2017 crackdown, which is now the subject of a genocide case at the United Nations' highest court in The Hague.

On Monday, the US declared officially that violence against Rohingya community amounted to genocide. The US said that there was clear evidence of an attempt to "destroy" the group.

Myanmar's junta-appointed foreign ministry slammed the declaration as "far from reality" in a statement on Tuesday.

"Myanmar has never engaged in any genocidal actions and does not have any genocidal intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, racial or religious group or any other group," it said, as quoted by AFP

Around 850,000 Rohingya are languishing in camps in neighbouring Bangladesh, recounting mass killings and rape during the crackdown.

Another 600,000 members of the community remain in Myanmar's Rakhine state where they report widespread oppression. 
Since ousting Aung San Suu Kyi's government last year, the junta has doubled down on widespread perceptions that the Rohingya are interlopers from Bangladesh and continues to deny them citizenship, rights and access to services.

Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing -- who was head of the armed forces during the 2017 crackdown -- has dismissed the word Rohingya as "an imaginary term".

(With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar military junta on Tuesday said that it "categorically rejects" the US allegation that its armed forces committed genocide against Rohingya Muslims five years ago.

Myanmar military junta on Tuesday said that it "categorically rejects" the US allegation that its armed forces committed genocide against Rohingya Muslims five years ago. Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya fled Buddhist-majority Myanmar following the 2017 crackdown, which is now the subject of a genocide case at the United Nations' highest court in The Hague. On Monday, the US declared officially that violence against Rohingya community amounted to genocide. The US said that there was clear evidence of an attempt to "destroy" the group. Myanmar's junta-appointed foreign ministry slammed the declaration as "far from reality" in a statement on Tuesday. "Myanmar has never engaged in any genocidal actions and does not have any genocidal intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, racial or religious group or any other group," it said, as quoted by AFP Around 850,000 Rohingya are languishing in camps in neighbouring Bangladesh, recounting mass killings and rape during the crackdown. Another 600,000 members of the community remain in Myanmar's Rakhine state where they report widespread oppression. Since ousting Aung San Suu Kyi's government last year, the junta has doubled down on widespread perceptions that the Rohingya are interlopers from Bangladesh and continues to deny them citizenship, rights and access to services. Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing -- who was head of the armed forces during the 2017 crackdown -- has dismissed the word Rohingya as "an imaginary term". (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar military junta 'categorically rejects' US allegation of Rohingya genocide

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