A UN report has accused Switzerland of racial discrimination. It blames the country for 'systemic racism', especially towards people of African descent. How have Swiss authorities responded?

Gravitas: UN report accuses Switzerland of racial discrimination

With Pakistan's situation deteriorating every day in the wake of devastating floods, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has refused to inaugurate the dashboard built by the IT ministry for flood relief assistance because he wasn't satisfied with its performance.

Sharif called this dashboard a "joke" and said that this is not what they imagined. In order to provide necessary&nbsp;flood relief digital assistance to people and have necessary features and information,&nbsp;PM Sharif had earlier given the go-ahead for this dashboard.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-drops-contempt-of-court-case-against-ex-pm-khan-522043">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan court drops contempt of court case against ex-PM Khan</a>

But later, Shehbaz said, "If real-time information doesn't arrive in this, then it's of no use. Then we are wasting each other's time. I`m not going to inaugurate this today." Additionally, he mentioned that data from Pakistan's meteorological department has not been added to the dashboard, Dawn reported.&nbsp;

In order to improve the flood relief, PM Sharif gave proper instructions to the authorities to update the board with all the necessary information and features that are required for proper communication to the world and develop this dashboard as a "world-class" platform.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hospitals-overwhelmed-as-water-borne-illnesses-spread-522037">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan: Hospitals overwhelmed as water-borne illnesses spread</a>

The South Asian country is facing its worst floods yet. Over 2 million homes in Pakistan have been submerged or severely damaged, and nearly 7.9 million people have been displaced as of now, with over 590,000 living in relief camps.

The United Nations has revised its humanitarian assistance for the country from $160 million to $810 million. Other foreign countries are also providing the country with assistance.

Ismail Miftah, the former finance minister, had resigned following economic and climate turmoil in the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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With Pakistan's situation deteriorating every day in the wake of devastating floods, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has refused to inaugurate the dashboard built by the IT ministry for flood relief assistance because he wasn't satisfied with its performance.

With Pakistan's situation deteriorating every day in the wake of devastating floods, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has refused to inaugurate the dashboard built by the IT ministry for flood relief assistance because he wasn't satisfied with its performance. Sharif called this dashboard a "joke" and said that this is not what they imagined. In order to provide necessary flood relief digital assistance to people and have necessary features and information, PM Sharif had earlier given the go-ahead for this dashboard. Also read | Pakistan court drops contempt of court case against ex-PM Khan But later, Shehbaz said, "If real-time information doesn't arrive in this, then it's of no use. Then we are wasting each other's time. I`m not going to inaugurate this today." Additionally, he mentioned that data from Pakistan's meteorological department has not been added to the dashboard, Dawn reported. In order to improve the flood relief, PM Sharif gave proper instructions to the authorities to update the board with all the necessary information and features that are required for proper communication to the world and develop this dashboard as a "world-class" platform. Also read | Pakistan: Hospitals overwhelmed as water-borne illnesses spread The South Asian country is facing its worst floods yet. Over 2 million homes in Pakistan have been submerged or severely damaged, and nearly 7.9 million people have been displaced as of now, with over 590,000 living in relief camps. The United Nations has revised its humanitarian assistance for the country from $160 million to $810 million. Other foreign countries are also providing the country with assistance. Ismail Miftah, the former finance minister, had resigned following economic and climate turmoil in the country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif refuses to inaugurate flood relief dashboard, calls it a 'joke'

A six-month truce in Yemen's war has expired without being extended, the United Nations' special envoy said on Sunday, urging calm and adding that negotiations are continuing.

Hans Grundberg said efforts to extend and expand the ceasefire for a further six months had not been successful.

"The <a href="Female students protest against the deadly Kabul attack as toll jumps to 43">UN</a> special envoy regrets that an agreement has not been reached today, as an extended and expanded truce would provide additional critical benefits to the population," a statement said.

"I urge (the warring parties) to fulfil their obligation to the Yemeni people to pursue every avenue for peace," the Swedish diplomat was quoted as saying.

The ceasefire, enacted for two months in April and renewed twice, has brought a sharp drop in fighting in the war between Iran-backed Huthi rebels and a Saudi-led pro-government coalition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-putin-set-to-officially-annex-occupied-ukrainian-regions-at-official-event-today-521193">As it happened: Germany's Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht visits Ukraine</a>

The war, which has been raging since 2014, has killed hundreds of thousands directly or indirectly and has created the world's worst humanitarian crisis, according to the UN.

Grundberg's proposal included paying civil servants' salaries, opening routes into the rebel-blockaded city of Taez, expanding commercial flights from the capital Sanaa and allowing more fuel ships into the Huthi-controlled port of Hodeida.

It also contained commitments to release detainees, resume an "inclusive" political process and tackle economic issues including public services.

Some 23.4 million Yemenis rely on humanitarian aid.

"I am grateful for the constructive engagement at the leadership level from both sides over the past weeks. And I appreciate the position of the government of Yemen on engaging positively with my proposal," Grundberg said.

"I will continue to work with both sides to try and find solutions."

'Dead end'

Grundberg has shuttled between Huthi-controlled Sanaa and Oman, which has acted as a mediator, in a bid to secure an extension.

On Sunday, he met the head of Yemen's presidential council, Rashad al-Alimi, in Riyadh, the Yemeni news agency SabaNet reported.

Rebel leader Mehdi Mashat told a political meeting in Sanaa that the UN proposals did "not meet the aspirations of the Yemeni people", the rebels' Al-Massira TV reported.

Sporadic clashes were reported on Sunday in southwest Yemen, as coalition military sources told AFP the Huthis had sent reinforcements to the region.

The Huthis said in a statement on Saturday that the ceasefire was at "a dead end".

"Over the past six months, we haven't seen any serious willingness to address humanitarian issues as a top priority," the statement said, accusing the coalition of failing to agree measures to "alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people".

The lull has led to a 60 percent reduction in casualties while fuel imports into the Huthi-held port of Hodeida have quadrupled, humanitarian groups said on Thursday.

Sanaa residents say their daily lives have dramatically improved. Prices have come down as more essential goods entered the city even though key roads remain shut.

While the truce has largely held, the Huthis and the coalition blame each other for reported violations.

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A six-month truce in Yemen's war has expired without being extended, the United Nations' special envoy said on Sunday, urging calm and adding that negotiations are continuing.

A six-month truce in Yemen's war has expired without being extended, the United Nations' special envoy said on Sunday, urging calm and adding that negotiations are continuing. Hans Grundberg said efforts to extend and expand the ceasefire for a further six months had not been successful. "The UN special envoy regrets that an agreement has not been reached today, as an extended and expanded truce would provide additional critical benefits to the population," a statement said. "I urge (the warring parties) to fulfil their obligation to the Yemeni people to pursue every avenue for peace," the Swedish diplomat was quoted as saying. The ceasefire, enacted for two months in April and renewed twice, has brought a sharp drop in fighting in the war between Iran-backed Huthi rebels and a Saudi-led pro-government coalition. Also read | As it happened: Germany's Defence Minister Christine Lambrecht visits Ukraine The war, which has been raging since 2014, has killed hundreds of thousands directly or indirectly and has created the world's worst humanitarian crisis, according to the UN. Grundberg's proposal included paying civil servants' salaries, opening routes into the rebel-blockaded city of Taez, expanding commercial flights from the capital Sanaa and allowing more fuel ships into the Huthi-controlled port of Hodeida. It also contained commitments to release detainees, resume an "inclusive" political process and tackle economic issues including public services. Some 23.4 million Yemenis rely on humanitarian aid. "I am grateful for the constructive engagement at the leadership level from both sides over the past weeks. And I appreciate the position of the government of Yemen on engaging positively with my proposal," Grundberg said. "I will continue to work with both sides to try and find solutions." 'Dead end' Grundberg has shuttled between Huthi-controlled Sanaa and Oman, which has acted as a mediator, in a bid to secure an extension. On Sunday, he met the head of Yemen's presidential council, Rashad al-Alimi, in Riyadh, the Yemeni news agency SabaNet reported. Rebel leader Mehdi Mashat told a political meeting in Sanaa that the UN proposals did "not meet the aspirations of the Yemeni people", the rebels' Al-Massira TV reported. Sporadic clashes were reported on Sunday in southwest Yemen, as coalition military sources told AFP the Huthis had sent reinforcements to the region. The Huthis said in a statement on Saturday that the ceasefire was at "a dead end". "Over the past six months, we haven't seen any serious willingness to address humanitarian issues as a top priority," the statement said, accusing the coalition of failing to agree measures to "alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people". The lull has led to a 60 percent reduction in casualties while fuel imports into the Huthi-held port of Hodeida have quadrupled, humanitarian groups said on Thursday. Sanaa residents say their daily lives have dramatically improved. Prices have come down as more essential goods entered the city even though key roads remain shut. While the truce has largely held, the Huthis and the coalition blame each other for reported violations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Yemen ceasefire ends without extension as UN envoy urges calm

The latest violence to strike the conflict-torn region occurred in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, according to UN and Congolese officials on Saturday.

The attack was allegedly carried out on Friday night in the Minembwe region of South Kivu province by suspected Twirwaneho militia members, according to the UN peacekeeping operation in the DRC known as MONUSCO.

"A peacekeeper was killed by armed men who approached the base after having contacted MONUSCO for a surrender," MONUSCO said.&nbsp;

"Attacks against peacekeepers may constitute a war crime," it added, calling on Congolese authorities to hold the perpetrators responsible.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-putin-set-to-officially-annex-occupied-ukrainian-regions-at-official-event-today-521193">LIVE | Ukrainian soldiers wave flag at entrance of Russian bastion town of Lyman</a>

Over 120 armed groups, including the Twirwaneho militia, are present in the unstable eastern DRC. It asserts to speak for the Banyamulenge Tutsi group in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The Twirwaneho militiamen killed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-first-mahatma-gandhi-makes-a-special-appearance-at-the-un-521476">UN</a> peacekeeper under the "ruse" of handing themselves in, according to Lieutenant Jeremie Meya, a Congolese army spokesman in the Minembwe region.

MONUSCO, however, was unable to instantly confirm the nationality of the deceased peacekeeper.

Following deadly anti-UN protests that shook eastern DRC in July, the attack occurred. According to a Congolese death toll, 32 protesters and four UN soldiers perished during the week-long turmoil, and UN bases were looted.

The alleged inefficiency of MONUSCO in the face of ongoing bloodshed has angered many Congolese.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The latest violence to strike the conflict-torn region occurred in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, according to UN and Congolese officials on Saturday.

The latest violence to strike the conflict-torn region occurred in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, according to UN and Congolese officials on Saturday. The attack was allegedly carried out on Friday night in the Minembwe region of South Kivu province by suspected Twirwaneho militia members, according to the UN peacekeeping operation in the DRC known as MONUSCO. "A peacekeeper was killed by armed men who approached the base after having contacted MONUSCO for a surrender," MONUSCO said. "Attacks against peacekeepers may constitute a war crime," it added, calling on Congolese authorities to hold the perpetrators responsible. Also read | LIVE | Ukrainian soldiers wave flag at entrance of Russian bastion town of Lyman Over 120 armed groups, including the Twirwaneho militia, are present in the unstable eastern DRC. It asserts to speak for the Banyamulenge Tutsi group in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Twirwaneho militiamen killed the UN peacekeeper under the "ruse" of handing themselves in, according to Lieutenant Jeremie Meya, a Congolese army spokesman in the Minembwe region. MONUSCO, however, was unable to instantly confirm the nationality of the deceased peacekeeper. Following deadly anti-UN protests that shook eastern DRC in July, the attack occurred. According to a Congolese death toll, 32 protesters and four UN soldiers perished during the week-long turmoil, and UN bases were looted. The alleged inefficiency of MONUSCO in the face of ongoing bloodshed has angered many Congolese. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UN peacekeeper killed in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo by rebels

Somalia is facing a "very alarming" situation after more than four years of drought have devastated livestock many people depend upon, a top UN official said. The United Nations has warned that the Horn of Africa nation is on the brink of famine for the second time in just over a decade.

WION Climate Tracker | UN: Somalia facing 'very alarming' situation

After the global aviation sector gave the green light for net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050, countries will have to stake out their positions at a United Nations meeting this week.

WION Climate Tracker: Nations to weigh aviation CO2 target at UN meet

India's&nbsp;external affairs minister (EAM) Dr S&nbsp;Jaishankar on Saturday addressed the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and batted for reforms, especially at the high table of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).&nbsp;

"The call for reformed multilateralism – with reforms of the Security Council at its core enjoys considerable support among UN members," said Jaishankar.

The Indian external affairs minister did not mince words and stated that the current setup of the UN was&nbsp;anachronistic and ineffective&nbsp;and hence needed urgent reforms. 
 
"It does so because of the widespread recognition that the current architecture is anachronistic and ineffective. It is also perceived as deeply unfair, denying entire continents and regions a voice in a forum that deliberates their future," Jaishankar said in his address.&nbsp;

The EAM also reminded the assembly of New Delhi's capabilities by stating, "India would be completing its tenure as a member of the Security Council this year. In our term, we have acted as a bridge on some serious but divisive issues confronting the Council."

It is not the first time that India has raised the issue. However, according to Jaishankar, something has shifted this time around.&nbsp;

"In respect of UN reform, every General Assembly (session) you revisit that issue, but this time something has shifted. You can see that, you can sense that. I think everybody sensed a shift and it's something which others actually brought up with me," the minister told reporters.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Jaishankar hosted a meeting of the G4 countries, a grouping that includes Japan, Germany and Brazil seeking a permanent seat at the Security Council.&nbsp;

After the meeting, Jaishakar took to Twitter and set the agenda which he reiterated at the UNGA address on Saturday.&nbsp;

“Reiterated our joint commitment to work towards text based negotiations that lead to reformed multilateralism. Will continue our cooperation towards the goal,” he tweeted.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Another regular feature of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA</a> High level week. 
 
Happy to host the G-4 meeting of Foreign Ministers today. Thank Ministers Carlos França, Yoshimasa Hayashi and <a href="https://twitter.com/ABaerbock?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABaerbock</a> for attending. <a href="https://t.co/4mWVay39qa">pic.twitter.com/4mWVay39qa</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1573099939764264960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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One of the biggest roadblocks to India's accession to a permanent seat in the UNSC is China. The neighbouring country of India has shown rhetorical commitment toward reforms at the UN but behind the scenes, Beijing has actively worked to ensure that the status quo is maintained.&nbsp;

Thus, New Delhi has its task cut out. However, India's stint in the Security Council in the&nbsp;last year-and-a-half ought to bring some much-needed change.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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&nbsp;

India's external affairs minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar on Saturday addressed the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and batted for reforms, especially at the high table of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

India's external affairs minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar on Saturday addressed the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and batted for reforms, especially at the high table of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). "The call for reformed multilateralism – with reforms of the Security Council at its core enjoys considerable support among UN members," said Jaishankar. The Indian external affairs minister did not mince words and stated that the current setup of the UN was anachronistic and ineffective and hence needed urgent reforms. "It does so because of the widespread recognition that the current architecture is anachronistic and ineffective. It is also perceived as deeply unfair, denying entire continents and regions a voice in a forum that deliberates their future," Jaishankar said in his address. The EAM also reminded the assembly of New Delhi's capabilities by stating, "India would be completing its tenure as a member of the Security Council this year. In our term, we have acted as a bridge on some serious but divisive issues confronting the Council." It is not the first time that India has raised the issue. However, according to Jaishankar, something has shifted this time around. "In respect of UN reform, every General Assembly (session) you revisit that issue, but this time something has shifted. You can see that, you can sense that. I think everybody sensed a shift and it's something which others actually brought up with me," the minister told reporters. Earlier this week, Jaishankar hosted a meeting of the G4 countries, a grouping that includes Japan, Germany and Brazil seeking a permanent seat at the Security Council. After the meeting, Jaishakar took to Twitter and set the agenda which he reiterated at the UNGA address on Saturday. “Reiterated our joint commitment to work towards text based negotiations that lead to reformed multilateralism. Will continue our cooperation towards the goal,” he tweeted. Another regular feature of the #UNGA High level week. Happy to host the G-4 meeting of Foreign Ministers today. Thank Ministers Carlos França, Yoshimasa Hayashi and @ABaerbock for attending. pic.twitter.com/4mWVay39qa — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 23, 2022 × One of the biggest roadblocks to India's accession to a permanent seat in the UNSC is China. The neighbouring country of India has shown rhetorical commitment toward reforms at the UN but behind the scenes, Beijing has actively worked to ensure that the status quo is maintained. Thus, New Delhi has its task cut out. However, India's stint in the Security Council in the last year-and-a-half ought to bring some much-needed change. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Current UN structure is ineffective', says Indian foreign minister at UNGA

In a letter to the UN on Friday, the European Union demanded publication of a study on the harm done to Ukraine's communications infrastructure since Russia's invasion seven months prior.

Members of the International Telecommunications Union of the UN passed a resolution in April pledging support for the war-devastated Ukraine's telecom sector reconstruction.

Another decision made in the text was to "take out an assessment on the impact of the situation in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italys-silvio-berlusconi-says-putin-pushed-into-ukraine-war-519112">Ukraine</a> to ITU plans and activities in the region, and deliver a report thereon."

A few months later, in July, the ITU updated its website with the announcement that its "assessment report" was "coming soon." However, despite signs that the report was prepared, the EU bemoaned Friday that it had "not been made public."

Additionally, "worsening mobile broadband access loss is recorded in at least 1,297 localities of Ukraine," the statement said.

Additionally, 20 television stations were said to have been partially or completely destroyed, and more than 50 communities were without access to terrestrial television and radio due to damage and a lack of energy.

796 cyberattacks against Ukraine were documented in the first four months of the war alone, it claimed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australias-second-largest-telco-firm-reports-major-data-breach-518985">Australia's second-largest telecom company reports major data breach in cyberattack</a>

The EU emphasised the importance of publishing the study in a letter to the ITU.&nbsp;The EU said that the resolution calling for a comprehensive report on the situation had been co-sponsored by 46 countries from all regions.

The European Union sent a letter to the United Nations on Friday demanding it publish a report on damage to telecommunication infrastructure in Ukraine since Russia's invasion seven months ago.

Back in April, members of the UN's International Telecommunications Union passed a resolution agreeing to support war-ravaged Ukraine in the rebuilding of its telecom sector.

The text also decided to "carry out an assessment on the impact of the war in Ukraine to ITU programmes and activities in the region, and provide a report thereon."

A few months later, in July, ITU posted an update on its website, saying that its "assessment report was "coming soon", but despite indications that the report was ready, the EU lamented Friday that it had "not been made available yet."

In that July update, the ITU said that "at least 3.7 thousand base stations of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/apple-admits-to-multiple-technical-faults-in-latest-iphones-ios-1601-not-enough-to-fix-all-bugs-518981">mobile</a> operators on the temporarily occupied and occupied territories do not work."

At the same time, it warned, "worsening mobile broadband access loss is observed in at least in 1,297 settlements of Ukraine."

And 20 television centres were reported or confirmed to have been destroyed to some degree, while more than 50 settlements had no terrestrial television and radio service due to destruction and lack of energy supply.

Meanwhile, just in the first four months of the war, 796 cyber-attacks against Ukraine were reported, it said.&nbsp;

In a letter to the ITU, seen by AFP, the EU pointed out that the resolution calling for a full report on the situation had been co-sponsored by 46 countries from all regions, stressing the urgency of publishing it.

The letter, signed by the EU's ambassador in Geneva Lotte Knudsen and Vaclav Balek, ambassador of the Czech Republic, which holds the bloc's rotating presidency, was addressed to ITU Secretary-General Houlin Zhao of China.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a letter to the UN on Friday, the European Union demanded publication of a study on the harm done to Ukraine's communications infrastructure since Russia's invasion seven months prior.

In a letter to the UN on Friday, the European Union demanded publication of a study on the harm done to Ukraine's communications infrastructure since Russia's invasion seven months prior. Members of the International Telecommunications Union of the UN passed a resolution in April pledging support for the war-devastated Ukraine's telecom sector reconstruction. Another decision made in the text was to "take out an assessment on the impact of the situation in Ukraine to ITU plans and activities in the region, and deliver a report thereon." A few months later, in July, the ITU updated its website with the announcement that its "assessment report" was "coming soon." However, despite signs that the report was prepared, the EU bemoaned Friday that it had "not been made public." Additionally, "worsening mobile broadband access loss is recorded in at least 1,297 localities of Ukraine," the statement said. Additionally, 20 television stations were said to have been partially or completely destroyed, and more than 50 communities were without access to terrestrial television and radio due to damage and a lack of energy. 796 cyberattacks against Ukraine were documented in the first four months of the war alone, it claimed. Also read | Australia's second-largest telecom company reports major data breach in cyberattack The EU emphasised the importance of publishing the study in a letter to the ITU. The EU said that the resolution calling for a comprehensive report on the situation had been co-sponsored by 46 countries from all regions. The European Union sent a letter to the United Nations on Friday demanding it publish a report on damage to telecommunication infrastructure in Ukraine since Russia's invasion seven months ago. Back in April, members of the UN's International Telecommunications Union passed a resolution agreeing to support war-ravaged Ukraine in the rebuilding of its telecom sector. The text also decided to "carry out an assessment on the impact of the war in Ukraine to ITU programmes and activities in the region, and provide a report thereon." A few months later, in July, ITU posted an update on its website, saying that its "assessment report was "coming soon", but despite indications that the report was ready, the EU lamented Friday that it had "not been made available yet." In that July update, the ITU said that "at least 3.7 thousand base stations of mobile operators on the temporarily occupied and occupied territories do not work." At the same time, it warned, "worsening mobile broadband access loss is observed in at least in 1,297 settlements of Ukraine." And 20 television centres were reported or confirmed to have been destroyed to some degree, while more than 50 settlements had no terrestrial television and radio service due to destruction and lack of energy supply. Meanwhile, just in the first four months of the war, 796 cyber-attacks against Ukraine were reported, it said. In a letter to the ITU, seen by AFP, the EU pointed out that the resolution calling for a full report on the situation had been co-sponsored by 46 countries from all regions, stressing the urgency of publishing it. The letter, signed by the EU's ambassador in Geneva Lotte Knudsen and Vaclav Balek, ambassador of the Czech Republic, which holds the bloc's rotating presidency, was addressed to ITU Secretary-General Houlin Zhao of China. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EU urges UN to release report on infrastructure damage in Ukraine

"Any annexation in a state's territory by any other state by use of force is violation of UN charter and international law," said UN Chief Antonio Guterres. He also said that any type of nuclear threat is unacceptable.

UN Chief Antonio Guterres warns Russia against referendum

Russia is accused of committing war crimes in Ukraine, including bombing residential areas, carrying out countless executions, torturing prisoners, and engaging in horrifying sexual assault, according to the United Nations.&nbsp;

The UN has prioritised the investigation of human rights abuses throughout the conflict, and in May, its top human rights body gave a team of specialists the go-ahead to start their work there.&nbsp;

Since then, UN investigators have put their lives in danger to gather proof of crimes against civilians, including in regions where enemy forces are still present or where explosives have been planted.

After beginning initial investigations focusing on the regions of Kyiv, Chernihiv, Kharkiv, and Sumy, the team of three independent experts on human rights gave the UN human rights council their first oral briefing on Friday. They also stated that they will be expanding their investigations.&nbsp;

Erik Mose, the leader of the investigative team, informed the council a day before the seven-month mark since Russia invaded its neighbour that the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine's evidence "has concluded that war crimes have been committed in Ukraine."&nbsp;

The investigative team spoke with more than 150 victims and witnesses and visited 27 towns and settlements, graveyards, and detention and torture facilities. They also talked with advocacy organisations and government representatives.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/microsoft-survey-suggests-bosses-think-workers-do-less-from-home-but-workers-disagree-519040">Microsoft survey suggests bosses think workers do less from home, but employees disagree</a>

The crew was "struck by a&nbsp;large number of executions in the areas we visited," according to Mose, as well as the numerous "visible signs of executions on victims, such as hands tied behind backs, gunshot wounds to the head, and slit throats."&nbsp;

Numerous unlawful weapons, notably the deployment of extremely destructive unguided bombs in inhabited areas that destroyed at least eight civilian houses, have been blamed for the deaths of hundreds of civilians in the Ukrainian city of Kyiv since the beginning of Moscow's invasion.&nbsp;

Evidence suggests that cluster munitions were dropped in places devoid of military facilities and personnel.&nbsp;

The commission's work may eventually help international criminal court prosecutors who may file charges for war crimes committed in Ukraine, though it is still unclear whether Russia or other suspected offenders would ever be brought to justice.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Russia is accused of committing war crimes in Ukraine, including bombing residential areas, carrying out countless executions, torturing prisoners, and engaging in horrifying sexual assault, according to the United Nations.

Russia is accused of committing war crimes in Ukraine, including bombing residential areas, carrying out countless executions, torturing prisoners, and engaging in horrifying sexual assault, according to the United Nations. The UN has prioritised the investigation of human rights abuses throughout the conflict, and in May, its top human rights body gave a team of specialists the go-ahead to start their work there. Since then, UN investigators have put their lives in danger to gather proof of crimes against civilians, including in regions where enemy forces are still present or where explosives have been planted. After beginning initial investigations focusing on the regions of Kyiv, Chernihiv, Kharkiv, and Sumy, the team of three independent experts on human rights gave the UN human rights council their first oral briefing on Friday. They also stated that they will be expanding their investigations. Erik Mose, the leader of the investigative team, informed the council a day before the seven-month mark since Russia invaded its neighbour that the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine's evidence "has concluded that war crimes have been committed in Ukraine." The investigative team spoke with more than 150 victims and witnesses and visited 27 towns and settlements, graveyards, and detention and torture facilities. They also talked with advocacy organisations and government representatives. Also Read: Microsoft survey suggests bosses think workers do less from home, but employees disagree The crew was "struck by a large number of executions in the areas we visited," according to Mose, as well as the numerous "visible signs of executions on victims, such as hands tied behind backs, gunshot wounds to the head, and slit throats." Numerous unlawful weapons, notably the deployment of extremely destructive unguided bombs in inhabited areas that destroyed at least eight civilian houses, have been blamed for the deaths of hundreds of civilians in the Ukrainian city of Kyiv since the beginning of Moscow's invasion. Evidence suggests that cluster munitions were dropped in places devoid of military facilities and personnel. The commission's work may eventually help international criminal court prosecutors who may file charges for war crimes committed in Ukraine, though it is still unclear whether Russia or other suspected offenders would ever be brought to justice. (with inputs from agencies)

UN investigators say Russia committed 'war crimes' in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the 77th session of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) while urging the world leaders to 'unite' against Russia's war in Ukraine and strip Moscow of its veto power.

Zelensky calls for Russia to be stripped of UN veto power while addressing UNGA

The United Nation decried Mahsa Amini's death in custody after she was arrested by Iran's morality police and the violent crackdown on protests over her death, demanding an independent investigation.

UN condemns Iran over Mahsa Amini's death, calls for inquiry

In July, the UN Health agency designated monkeypox as a global emergency and appealed to the world to support African countries, so that the catastrophic vaccine inequity that plagued the outbreak of covid-19 wouldn't get repeated. But the global spike in monkepox infection has had little impact on Africa. No rich countries have shared vaccines or treatments with Africa, and some experts fear interest may soon evaporate But why is this the case when it comes to the continent, or rather this often forsaken part of the world?

World of Africa | Africa's 'vaccine inequity'

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi demanded US "guarantees" that it will not withdraw again from a nuclear deal if it is revived ahead of his debut visit to the United Nations.

Iranian President Raisi demands US 'guarantees' on nuclear deal

The United Nations urged the Taliban to reopen high schools for girls across Afghanistan, condemning the ban that began exactly a year ago as "tragic and shameful".

UN condemns a year-long Taliban ban on Afghan girls' education

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres opened the 77th session of UN General Assembly on Monday by highlighting the needs to promote and execute the Sustainable Development Goals outlined by the UN in 2015.

UN Chief Antonio Guterres opens UNGA with focus on development goals

Let us take a look at stories generating interest across WION's social media channels.

Trending on WION | UN urges Taliban to open high school for girls; Royal family conspiracy theories

The United Nations International Children`s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) on Saturday expressed concern over 3.4 million children in need of "immediate, lifesaving support" in Pakistan post devastating floods. "Super floods" in Pakistan have left 3.4 million children in need of "immediate, lifesaving support," according to UNICEF.

The floods -- caused by record monsoon rains and dubbed by one minister as "the worst humanitarian disaster in a decade" -- have impacted 16 million children in total, UNICEF`s Pakistan Representative Abdullah Fadil said following his visit this week to the country`s southern Sindh Province, reported CNN.That estimate came as the country`s National Disaster Management Authority updated the death toll from the floods since mid-June to 1,545 people, 552 of them children.

Meanwhile, officials in the country warn that the toll is likely to rise as deaths are being underreported and diseases like dengue fever are on the rise, reported CNN.

Azra Pechuho, health minister for the southern Sindh Province -- one of the hardest hit areas where many schools and other facilities remain shut, said there was now a "state of emergency" caused by the vast amount of standing water, which provides the perfect breeding conditions for Aedes mosquitoes to spread the dengue virus.

UNICEF`s Fadil said the situation on the ground in Sindh was "beyond bleak" with many malnourished children battling diseases like diarrhoea, malaria and dengue fever, as well as painful skin conditions.

"Girls and boys in Pakistan are paying the price for a climate disaster not of their making," Fadil said."Young children are living out in the open with their families with no drinking water, no food and no livelihood -- exposed to a wide range of new flood-related risks and hazards," Fadil said.&nbsp;

Mothers, many exhausted, anaemic and malnourished, were also unable to breastfeed their babies.

"Vital infrastructure ... has been destroyed and damaged, including thousands of schools, water systems and health facilities," he added.

This comes as the Monsoon rains have submerged a third of Pakistan, claiming more than a thousand lives since June and unleashing powerful floods that have washed away swathes of vital crops and damaged or destroyed more than a million homes.Officials have blamed climate change, which is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather around the world.

The flash floods have badly impacted 80 districts of Pakistan and the death toll from floods in the country has reached nearly 1,200. The death toll from floods in Sindh surged to 621.The water level in Manchar Lake, the nation`s largest freshwater lake, is continuously rising. Rising floodwaters have washed away the first defence line of the city of over one million people, forcing the administration, backed by army troops, to strengthen the remaining embankments.

Thousands of people have been lodged in tents or are waiting for shelter under open skies along the main highway that leads to Hyderabad. Either side of the highway could be seen inundated by floodwater for miles.

Hundreds of citizens were seen leaving the city on mini-trucks, vans and rickshaws. Many others along with their livestock were also spotted trudging along the road under the baking sun, reported Geo News.

Record monsoons and heavy floods in Pakistan have given rise to hunger and various illnesses which have affected 33 million people and are estimated to have caused USD 30 billion of damage.The experts believe that the situation would aggravate in the coming days as the flood affectees are forced to live under the sky depriving the required resources.

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The United Nations International Children`s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) on Saturday expressed concern over 3.4 million children in need of "immediate, lifesaving support" in Pakistan post devastating floods.

The United Nations International Children`s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) on Saturday expressed concern over 3.4 million children in need of "immediate, lifesaving support" in Pakistan post devastating floods. "Super floods" in Pakistan have left 3.4 million children in need of "immediate, lifesaving support," according to UNICEF. The floods -- caused by record monsoon rains and dubbed by one minister as "the worst humanitarian disaster in a decade" -- have impacted 16 million children in total, UNICEF`s Pakistan Representative Abdullah Fadil said following his visit this week to the country`s southern Sindh Province, reported CNN.That estimate came as the country`s National Disaster Management Authority updated the death toll from the floods since mid-June to 1,545 people, 552 of them children. Meanwhile, officials in the country warn that the toll is likely to rise as deaths are being underreported and diseases like dengue fever are on the rise, reported CNN. Azra Pechuho, health minister for the southern Sindh Province -- one of the hardest hit areas where many schools and other facilities remain shut, said there was now a "state of emergency" caused by the vast amount of standing water, which provides the perfect breeding conditions for Aedes mosquitoes to spread the dengue virus. UNICEF`s Fadil said the situation on the ground in Sindh was "beyond bleak" with many malnourished children battling diseases like diarrhoea, malaria and dengue fever, as well as painful skin conditions. "Girls and boys in Pakistan are paying the price for a climate disaster not of their making," Fadil said."Young children are living out in the open with their families with no drinking water, no food and no livelihood -- exposed to a wide range of new flood-related risks and hazards," Fadil said. Mothers, many exhausted, anaemic and malnourished, were also unable to breastfeed their babies. "Vital infrastructure ... has been destroyed and damaged, including thousands of schools, water systems and health facilities," he added. This comes as the Monsoon rains have submerged a third of Pakistan, claiming more than a thousand lives since June and unleashing powerful floods that have washed away swathes of vital crops and damaged or destroyed more than a million homes.Officials have blamed climate change, which is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather around the world. The flash floods have badly impacted 80 districts of Pakistan and the death toll from floods in the country has reached nearly 1,200. The death toll from floods in Sindh surged to 621.The water level in Manchar Lake, the nation`s largest freshwater lake, is continuously rising. Rising floodwaters have washed away the first defence line of the city of over one million people, forcing the administration, backed by army troops, to strengthen the remaining embankments. Thousands of people have been lodged in tents or are waiting for shelter under open skies along the main highway that leads to Hyderabad. Either side of the highway could be seen inundated by floodwater for miles. Hundreds of citizens were seen leaving the city on mini-trucks, vans and rickshaws. Many others along with their livestock were also spotted trudging along the road under the baking sun, reported Geo News. Record monsoons and heavy floods in Pakistan have given rise to hunger and various illnesses which have affected 33 million people and are estimated to have caused USD 30 billion of damage.The experts believe that the situation would aggravate in the coming days as the flood affectees are forced to live under the sky depriving the required resources. 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 ×

Pakistan floods: UN expresses concern over 3.4 million children in need of lifesaving support

The United Nations food chief has warned 345 million people marching towards starvation and 70 million forced towards starvation due to war in Ukraine.

UN warns 345 million people face starvation | World on a brink of another humanitarian crisis

From Pakistan to Ukraine to Venezuela to vast stretches of sub-Saharan Africa, rising crises and climate disasters are taking an added toll on the most vulnerable -- children deprived of&nbsp;school.

"It is horrendous, and it's hard to imagine," said Yasmine Sherif, head of Education Cannot Wait, a&nbsp;UN&nbsp;fund that focuses on education in&nbsp;crisis&nbsp;zones.

"They've lost everything, and on top of it, they have lost their access to a quality education," she said in a recent interview.

Sherif spoke to AFP ahead of a&nbsp;UN&nbsp;summit on the education&nbsp;crisis&nbsp;to take place Monday, a day before the annual General Assembly.

The&nbsp;UN&nbsp;fund estimates that 222 million children around the world have seen their education disrupted by conflict or climate-related disasters, including nearly 80 million who never set foot in&nbsp;school.

Since 2016, Education Cannot Wait has raised more than $1 billion to build&nbsp;schools&nbsp;and buy educational materials as well as provide daily meals and offer psychological services. The aid helps nearly seven million children in 32 countries.&nbsp;

But Sherif said that the urgency of the situation required much bigger efforts.

"If we are going to meet the needs, we have to think in completely different terms today," she said. "We are speaking billions and billions here, not&nbsp;millions" of dollars.

Following the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;summit, Sherif is organizing a conference in Geneva in February where the fund will seek a further $1.5 billion with a goal of reaching an additional 20 million children.

Some Western nations spend $10,000 per year on educating a child. If children in conflict&nbsp;zones&nbsp;receive $150 each, "you can see the extreme divide," said Sherif, who is Swedish.

In some conflict&nbsp;zones,&nbsp;schools&nbsp;have been destroyed, in what Sherif denounced as war crimes, while others, in violation of international law, have been turned into weapons depots.

Elsewhere, physical danger or the gradual unraveling of infrastructure and public services have shut down education, which Sherif said should be a lifeline for the world's young.

"What we offer is a tool, a hope, an empowerment, to resist those forces in a conflict and, through their own means, be able to rise out of those ashes," she said.

The lack of education has real and immediate consequences. Children sometimes end up on the streets, facing threats of violence, human trafficking, recruitment by armed groups or, for girls, forced marriage.

"They've seen their villages burned down, they've seen their parents be executed, they have been subjected to violence. The only thing left for them is, 'If I can get an education, I can rise up out of this and make a difference in my life,'" Sherif said.

"We're taking away that very last piece of hope, unless we provide them with an education."

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From Pakistan to Ukraine to Venezuela to vast stretches of sub-Saharan Africa, rising crises and climate disasters are taking an added toll on the most vulnerable -- children deprived of school.

From Pakistan to Ukraine to Venezuela to vast stretches of sub-Saharan Africa, rising crises and climate disasters are taking an added toll on the most vulnerable -- children deprived of school. "It is horrendous, and it's hard to imagine," said Yasmine Sherif, head of Education Cannot Wait, a UN fund that focuses on education in crisis zones. "They've lost everything, and on top of it, they have lost their access to a quality education," she said in a recent interview. Sherif spoke to AFP ahead of a UN summit on the education crisis to take place Monday, a day before the annual General Assembly. The UN fund estimates that 222 million children around the world have seen their education disrupted by conflict or climate-related disasters, including nearly 80 million who never set foot in school. Since 2016, Education Cannot Wait has raised more than $1 billion to build schools and buy educational materials as well as provide daily meals and offer psychological services. The aid helps nearly seven million children in 32 countries. But Sherif said that the urgency of the situation required much bigger efforts. "If we are going to meet the needs, we have to think in completely different terms today," she said. "We are speaking billions and billions here, not millions" of dollars. Following the UN summit, Sherif is organizing a conference in Geneva in February where the fund will seek a further $1.5 billion with a goal of reaching an additional 20 million children. Some Western nations spend $10,000 per year on educating a child. If children in conflict zones receive $150 each, "you can see the extreme divide," said Sherif, who is Swedish. In some conflict zones, schools have been destroyed, in what Sherif denounced as war crimes, while others, in violation of international law, have been turned into weapons depots. Elsewhere, physical danger or the gradual unraveling of infrastructure and public services have shut down education, which Sherif said should be a lifeline for the world's young. "What we offer is a tool, a hope, an empowerment, to resist those forces in a conflict and, through their own means, be able to rise out of those ashes," she said. The lack of education has real and immediate consequences. Children sometimes end up on the streets, facing threats of violence, human trafficking, recruitment by armed groups or, for girls, forced marriage. "They've seen their villages burned down, they've seen their parents be executed, they have been subjected to violence. The only thing left for them is, 'If I can get an education, I can rise up out of this and make a difference in my life,'" Sherif said. "We're taking away that very last piece of hope, unless we provide them with an education." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

In crisis zones, an urgent UN push to put millions in school

This year's gathering of leaders at the U.N. General Assembly is taking place in the shadow of Queen Elizabeth II's funeral and as the war in Ukraine heads into a possibly decisive period. VOA United Nations correspondent Margaret Besheer has more.

WION-VOA Co-Production: UNGA 77 high-level week begins

In a media briefing, Pakistan has raised the issue of presence of UN-designated terrorist in Afghanistan with Taliban government.

Pakistan raises issue of Masood Azhar's presence in Afghanistan with Taliban

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his pessimism about situation in Ukraine. After a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Guterres said that prospects of peace were 'minimal' at present. The secretary-general said that he and Putin discusses efforts to overcome "obstacles" related Russia's food and fertiliser exports. He warned that it would be "naive" to believe there has been sufficient progress towards ending Ukraine war

"I have the feeling we are still far away from peace. I would be lying if I would say it could happen soon," Guterres told a press conference.&nbsp;

"I have no illusion; at the present moment the chances of a peace deal are minimal," he added, noting that even a ceasefire is "not in sight."&nbsp;

Guterres said that he was maintaining contact with both sides and hoped that "one day it will be possible to go to a higher level of discussion."

In the meantime, talks continue on Russian exports.&nbsp;

Guterres said he spoke with Putin earlier Wednesday and that they discussed the exports initiative "and its extension and its possible expansion." &nbsp;

A two-part agreement -- allowing both the flow of Ukraine's grain exports blocked by the war and Russia's food and fertilizer exports -- was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July and is scheduled to last 120 days.&nbsp;

While some three million tons of grain have been allowed to leave Ukraine, Russia says exports of its own foodstuffs and fertilizer continue to suffer under Western sanctions, which have targeted Moscow for its military assault.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his pessimism about situation in Ukraine. After a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Guterres said that prospects of peace were 'minimal' at present.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his pessimism about situation in Ukraine. After a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Guterres said that prospects of peace were 'minimal' at present. The secretary-general said that he and Putin discusses efforts to overcome "obstacles" related Russia's food and fertiliser exports. He warned that it would be "naive" to believe there has been sufficient progress towards ending Ukraine war "I have the feeling we are still far away from peace. I would be lying if I would say it could happen soon," Guterres told a press conference. "I have no illusion; at the present moment the chances of a peace deal are minimal," he added, noting that even a ceasefire is "not in sight." Guterres said that he was maintaining contact with both sides and hoped that "one day it will be possible to go to a higher level of discussion." In the meantime, talks continue on Russian exports. Guterres said he spoke with Putin earlier Wednesday and that they discussed the exports initiative "and its extension and its possible expansion."  A two-part agreement -- allowing both the flow of Ukraine's grain exports blocked by the war and Russia's food and fertilizer exports -- was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July and is scheduled to last 120 days. While some three million tons of grain have been allowed to leave Ukraine, Russia says exports of its own foodstuffs and fertilizer continue to suffer under Western sanctions, which have targeted Moscow for its military assault. (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 chief says chances for peace 'minimal' after call with Putin

On Tuesday, Taliban authorities reacted angrily to UN claims that they are denying Afghan women the right to work, despite the fact that thousands of them are engaged in the government.&nbsp;

However, because offices were not set up for effective sex segregation, Sharafuddin Sharaf, head of staff at the ministry of labour and social affairs, told AFP that many women were getting paid despite not showing up for work.&nbsp;

"Working together in one office is not possible in our Islamic system," he stated, a day after a United Nations rights expert claimed that since the Taliban's return to power in August of last year, there has been a "staggering regression" in women's rights.

Although Sharaf was unable to provide a number, she asserted that "not a single female employee has been fired" from the civil service.&nbsp;

However, there have been a number of demonstrations by women seeking the right to work and protesting the loss of their jobs, some of which the Taliban violently put an end to.&nbsp;

According to Sharaf, some women "once a week to their relevant offices to sign their attendance, and their salaries are paid at their homes."&nbsp;

He noted that this occurs in workplaces where "gender-based segregation is yet to be done" and that women were employed in the interior, health, and education ministries, all of which have a need for them.

However, the majority of girls' secondary schools nationwide have been ordered to close, so this generation of female university students may be the last.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/juxtapose-dramatic-expansion-of-bahrain-by-building-land-on-sea-1987-vs-2022-515720">Before and after images show dramatic expansion of Bahrain by building land on sea: 1987 vs 2022</a>

Many Taliban leaders claim the restriction is merely temporary, but they have also rolled out a vast list of justifications for the closures, ranging from a lack of resources to the time required to redesign the curriculum in accordance with Islamic principles.&nbsp;

Local media reported on Monday that the education minister claimed it was a cultural issue because many rural residents did not want their daughters to go to school.

To conform to their conservative interpretation of Islam since gaining power, the Taliban have placed severe restrictions on girls and women, virtually excluding them from public life.&nbsp;

The ministry of women's affairs was promptly abolished, and it was quickly replaced by the ministry for the encouragement of virtue and the suppression of vice.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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On Tuesday, Taliban authorities reacted angrily to UN claims that they are denying Afghan women the right to work, despite the fact that thousands of them are engaged in the government.

On Tuesday, Taliban authorities reacted angrily to UN claims that they are denying Afghan women the right to work, despite the fact that thousands of them are engaged in the government. However, because offices were not set up for effective sex segregation, Sharafuddin Sharaf, head of staff at the ministry of labour and social affairs, told AFP that many women were getting paid despite not showing up for work. "Working together in one office is not possible in our Islamic system," he stated, a day after a United Nations rights expert claimed that since the Taliban's return to power in August of last year, there has been a "staggering regression" in women's rights. Although Sharaf was unable to provide a number, she asserted that "not a single female employee has been fired" from the civil service. However, there have been a number of demonstrations by women seeking the right to work and protesting the loss of their jobs, some of which the Taliban violently put an end to. According to Sharaf, some women "once a week to their relevant offices to sign their attendance, and their salaries are paid at their homes." He noted that this occurs in workplaces where "gender-based segregation is yet to be done" and that women were employed in the interior, health, and education ministries, all of which have a need for them. However, the majority of girls' secondary schools nationwide have been ordered to close, so this generation of female university students may be the last. Also Read: Before and after images show dramatic expansion of Bahrain by building land on sea: 1987 vs 2022 Many Taliban leaders claim the restriction is merely temporary, but they have also rolled out a vast list of justifications for the closures, ranging from a lack of resources to the time required to redesign the curriculum in accordance with Islamic principles. Local media reported on Monday that the education minister claimed it was a cultural issue because many rural residents did not want their daughters to go to school. To conform to their conservative interpretation of Islam since gaining power, the Taliban have placed severe restrictions on girls and women, virtually excluding them from public life. The ministry of women's affairs was promptly abolished, and it was quickly replaced by the ministry for the encouragement of virtue and the suppression of vice. (with inputs from agencies)

Taliban say right to work for women not violated, condemn UN accusations

UN expert on human rights has now called out the staggering repression of rights of women in Afghanistan, describing it as a move towards authoritarianism. The statement was made by UN special rapporteur on human rights, Richard Bennett while addressing a human rights council meeting in Geneva on Monday.

UN Rights Expert: Afghanistan tipping towards 'authoritarianism'

The United Nations mission in Afghanistan has made an accusation saying that the Taliban were harassing and intimidating its female staff in the country. The UN said that the regime detained three women for questioning on Monday (Spetember 12). Taliban have imposed strict restrictions on women since they came to power last year.&nbsp;

"There has been an emerging pattern of harassment of Afghan UN female staff by the de facto authorities," the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a statement.&nbsp;

Citing an example, UNAMA said three Afghan women working for the organisation were "singled out and temporarily detained for questioning" by armed security agents of the authorities on Monday.&nbsp;

Further details about the incident were not given.

"The UN calls for an immediate end to all such acts of intimidation and harassment targeting its Afghan female staff," UNAMA said, insisting the authorities provide guarantees for the security of all UN personnel in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The Taliban have rejected UN's assertion.

"The information released by UNAMA is not true... nobody had been detained," said Bilal Karimi, spokeperson of the government.

"There was a gathering of women in Kandahar, and when the women were asked for an explanation, it was found that they were UN employees, after which they were released."&nbsp;

Karimi did not say what the gathering was about or how many women attended it.&nbsp;

United Nations' accusation was made just hours after a top UN expert said that the state of human rights in the country had deteriorated.

Women and girls, in particular, have seen a "staggering regression" in their civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights since the Taliban came to power, Richard Bennett, the special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, said in Geneva.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/even-as-it-struggles-for-recognition-taliban-claims-nations-behave-with-us-like-an-official-government-513910">Even as it struggles for recognition, Taliban claims nations 'behave with us like an official government'</a>

"There's no country in the world where women and girls have so rapidly been deprived of their fundamental human rights purely because of gender."&nbsp;

The Taliban have almost driven people out of public life in Afghanistan. Sticking to their ultra-orthodox interpretation of Islam, the regime has shut girls' secondary schools in most provinces. They have also barred women from many government jobs.

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The United Nations mission in Afghanistan has made an accusation saying that the Taliban were harassing and intimidating its female staff in the country. The UN said that the regime detained three women for questioning on Monday (Spetember 12).

The United Nations mission in Afghanistan has made an accusation saying that the Taliban were harassing and intimidating its female staff in the country. The UN said that the regime detained three women for questioning on Monday (Spetember 12). Taliban have imposed strict restrictions on women since they came to power last year. "There has been an emerging pattern of harassment of Afghan UN female staff by the de facto authorities," the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a statement. Citing an example, UNAMA said three Afghan women working for the organisation were "singled out and temporarily detained for questioning" by armed security agents of the authorities on Monday. Further details about the incident were not given. "The UN calls for an immediate end to all such acts of intimidation and harassment targeting its Afghan female staff," UNAMA said, insisting the authorities provide guarantees for the security of all UN personnel in Afghanistan. The Taliban have rejected UN's assertion. "The information released by UNAMA is not true... nobody had been detained," said Bilal Karimi, spokeperson of the government. "There was a gathering of women in Kandahar, and when the women were asked for an explanation, it was found that they were UN employees, after which they were released." Karimi did not say what the gathering was about or how many women attended it. United Nations' accusation was made just hours after a top UN expert said that the state of human rights in the country had deteriorated. Women and girls, in particular, have seen a "staggering regression" in their civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights since the Taliban came to power, Richard Bennett, the special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, said in Geneva. Also Read | Even as it struggles for recognition, Taliban claims nations 'behave with us like an official government' "There's no country in the world where women and girls have so rapidly been deprived of their fundamental human rights purely because of gender." The Taliban have almost driven people out of public life in Afghanistan. Sticking to their ultra-orthodox interpretation of Islam, the regime has shut girls' secondary schools in most provinces. They have also barred women from many government jobs. 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 says Taliban harassed its female staff in Afghanistan

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres is on a 2-day visit to Pakistan after flash floods ravaged and submerged one-third of the country. The visit that began on Friday is expected to boost global support for the millions of victims affected by the floods.

WION Climate Tracker: UN Chief Guterres urges international community to help Pakistan

Karambir Kang, the general manager of the Taj Hotel in Mumbai when the 26/11 attack occurred, urged all international communities to take action against terrorism and seek justice for the victims.

Kang, during his speech at the first UN Global Congress of Terrorism Victims, shared his bitter memories, including losing his family. He further said that the entire world witnessed the horrific incident that continued for over three days and nights and over 34 lives were lost. Adding to this, he further mentioned how bravely his staff members, armed with courage, stood strong without any weapons against the attackers. While many lives were lost, the colleagues managed to save thousands of lives that night.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/2611-mumbai-terror-attack-mastermind-once-declared-dead-jailed-for-15-years-in-pakistan-491539">Also read |&nbsp;26/11 Mumbai terror attack mastermind, once declared dead, jailed for 15 years in Pakistan</a>

In great sorrow, Kang mentioned his family. He said, "My wife and two young sons could not escape and perished during the attack, I lost everything," ANI reported.&nbsp;

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Karambir Kang was the General Manager of the Taj Hotel in Mumbai when the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks occurred. 
 
His remarks at the "Call to Action" yesterday at the opening of the 1st Global Congress of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VictimsofTerrorism?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VictimsofTerrorism</a> at the UN, New York. <a href="https://t.co/rd9lsJgYYQ">pic.twitter.com/rd9lsJgYYQ</a>
— Ruchira Kamboj (@ruchirakamboj) <a href="https://twitter.com/ruchirakamboj/status/1568309853457907715?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Kang continued that the firm and staff gathered global honours and spent nearly 14 long years seeking justice.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-joint-statement-quad-condemns-terrorist-attacks-including-2611-mumbai-and-pathankot-attacks-481810">Also read |&nbsp;In joint statement, Quad condemns terrorist attacks, including 26/11 Mumbai and Pathankot attacks</a>

In his closing remarks, Kang&nbsp;said, "Today I call upon the international community to work together to seek justice nationally and across borders, as our own act of defiance to the terrorism, we opened the hotel which was totally destroyed in 21 days." Further adding, "Member states must join us and defiance and ensure that there are no safe harbours for terrorists so that these heinous crimes are not given space to take root," ANI reported.

The UN Global Congress of Victims of Terrorism was convened under the patronage of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the New York headquarters on September 8 and 9, 2022 to pay tribute to all the victims of terror, including the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Karambir Kang, the general manager of the Taj Hotel in Mumbai when the 26/11 attack occurred, urged all international communities to take action against terrorism and seek justice for the victims.

Karambir Kang, the general manager of the Taj Hotel in Mumbai when the 26/11 attack occurred, urged all international communities to take action against terrorism and seek justice for the victims. Kang, during his speech at the first UN Global Congress of Terrorism Victims, shared his bitter memories, including losing his family. He further said that the entire world witnessed the horrific incident that continued for over three days and nights and over 34 lives were lost. Adding to this, he further mentioned how bravely his staff members, armed with courage, stood strong without any weapons against the attackers. While many lives were lost, the colleagues managed to save thousands of lives that night. Also read | 26/11 Mumbai terror attack mastermind, once declared dead, jailed for 15 years in Pakistan In great sorrow, Kang mentioned his family. He said, "My wife and two young sons could not escape and perished during the attack, I lost everything," ANI reported. Karambir Kang was the General Manager of the Taj Hotel in Mumbai when the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks occurred. His remarks at the "Call to Action" yesterday at the opening of the 1st Global Congress of #VictimsofTerrorism at the UN, New York. pic.twitter.com/rd9lsJgYYQ — Ruchira Kamboj (@ruchirakamboj) September 9, 2022 × Kang continued that the firm and staff gathered global honours and spent nearly 14 long years seeking justice. Also read | In joint statement, Quad condemns terrorist attacks, including 26/11 Mumbai and Pathankot attacks In his closing remarks, Kang said, "Today I call upon the international community to work together to seek justice nationally and across borders, as our own act of defiance to the terrorism, we opened the hotel which was totally destroyed in 21 days." Further adding, "Member states must join us and defiance and ensure that there are no safe harbours for terrorists so that these heinous crimes are not given space to take root," ANI reported. The UN Global Congress of Victims of Terrorism was convened under the patronage of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the New York headquarters on September 8 and 9, 2022 to pay tribute to all the victims of terror, including the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'I lost everything': Recounting bitter memories of 26/11, Karambir Kang urges for action to combat terrorism

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