Russia, Ukraine and Turkiye are all set to sign a deal today (July 22) proposed by the United Nations to free up grain exports from Ukraine’s besieged Black Sea ports.

Grain export deal between Russia, Ukraine to be signed in Turkiye today

The action against global warming is clearly not matching with the pace that climate change is affecting our planet. UN has said that it hopes that this will be a wake up call for many governments.

WION Climate Tracker | UN hopes Europe heat wave will affect 'voting behaviour'

According to a Chinese letter seen by Reuters and corroborated by diplomats from three different nations who received it, China is requesting that the UN human rights chief bury a highly anticipated report on human rights crimes in Xinjiang. After receiving harsh criticism from the general public for being too lenient toward China during a visit in May, UN High Commissioner Michelle Bachelet announced she will not run for re-election for personal reasons.

However, as reported by Reuters, she has promised to write a report on the western Chinese region of Xinjiang before she departs at the end of August. Rights organisations charge Beijing with mistreatment of the Uyghur people living in Xinjiang, including the widespread use of forced labour in internment camps. China has vehemently refuted the claims. According to four sources—three diplomats and a rights expert who all spoke on the condition of anonymity—the letter written by China expressed "grave concern" about the Xinjiang report and seeks to prevent its distribution. They claimed that in late June, China circulated it among diplomatic missions in Geneva and requested other nations sign it to demonstrate their support.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lankan-crisis-economy-lessons-india-can-learn-498205">Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn</a>

The "joint letter," which Liu used to refer to China and the other signatories, and public statements made at the most recent UN Human Rights Council session, which ended on July 8, both expressed this support, according to Liu. Bachelet would have seen a "real Xinjiang with a safe and stable society" when she visited the area during her May trip to China, a representative for the Chinese foreign ministry told Reuters. The spokesperson predicted that efforts by other nations to "smear China's image" through the Xinjiang problem would fail.

(with inputs from agencies)

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According to a Chinese letter seen by Reuters and corroborated by diplomats from three different nations who received it, China is requesting that the UN human rights chief bury a highly anticipated report on human rights crimes in Xinjiang.

According to a Chinese letter seen by Reuters and corroborated by diplomats from three different nations who received it, China is requesting that the UN human rights chief bury a highly anticipated report on human rights crimes in Xinjiang. After receiving harsh criticism from the general public for being too lenient toward China during a visit in May, UN High Commissioner Michelle Bachelet announced she will not run for re-election for personal reasons. However, as reported by Reuters, she has promised to write a report on the western Chinese region of Xinjiang before she departs at the end of August. Rights organisations charge Beijing with mistreatment of the Uyghur people living in Xinjiang, including the widespread use of forced labour in internment camps. China has vehemently refuted the claims. According to four sources—three diplomats and a rights expert who all spoke on the condition of anonymity—the letter written by China expressed "grave concern" about the Xinjiang report and seeks to prevent its distribution. They claimed that in late June, China circulated it among diplomatic missions in Geneva and requested other nations sign it to demonstrate their support. Also Read: Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn The "joint letter," which Liu used to refer to China and the other signatories, and public statements made at the most recent UN Human Rights Council session, which ended on July 8, both expressed this support, according to Liu. Bachelet would have seen a "real Xinjiang with a safe and stable society" when she visited the area during her May trip to China, a representative for the Chinese foreign ministry told Reuters. The spokesperson predicted that efforts by other nations to "smear China's image" through the Xinjiang problem would fail. (with inputs from agencies)

China tries to prevent the UN rights chief from releasing report on human rights violations in Xinjiang

30 green sea turtles were stabbed in Japan. Nearly half a million animals were killed during lab tests in Belgium. UN report says 1 million species could become extinct because. Palki Sharma tells you why you must act now.

Gravitas: UN Report: 1 Million species on track to extinction

China's President Xi Jinping visited Xinjiang for the first time in eight years. Xinjiang is home to the ethnic Uighur minority and China has been accused of human rights violation in the region.

China: Xi Jinping visits Xinjiang after 8 years

Brutal gang violence, fuel shortages and soaring food commodity prices have brought the capital city of Port-au-Prince in Haiti to a halt. According to United Nations estimates, approximately 234 people have lost their lives or got hurt in the violence, with new reports of sexual violence also coming to light.&nbsp;

According to deputy mayor Jean Hislain Frederick, the violence erupted in the Cite Soleil neighbourhood of the city last week (Thursday) when two rival gangs engaged in a bloody battle amongst themselves. Soon, the violence spread around and the entire city was in flames in no time.&nbsp;

According to the humanitarian organisation named Medecins Sans Frontieres, more colloquially known as Doctors Without Borders, thousands of people are trapped without drinking water, food or medical care. The aid organisation has been pleading with the armed groups to spare civilians. The aid outfit is also requesting the gangs&nbsp;to let them reach the isolated neighbourhood of Brooklyn that has been completely disconnected from the mainstream.&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Jeremy Laurence, spokesperson for&nbsp;UN Human Rights Office was quoted as saying, “Most of the victims were not directly involved in gangs and were directly targeted by gang elements. We have also received new reports of sexual violence,”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/numerous-inmates-starve-to-death-in-haiti-prison-due-to-overcrowding-491471">Numerous inmates starve to death in Haiti prison due to overcrowding</a>

Jimmy Cherizier, nicknamed Barbecue, a former police officer is one of the main perpetrators and the leader of a gang named G-9. Last month, Cherizier was seen posting videos on various social media platforms to brainwash and recruit impressionable youngsters into joining his gang, whilst spreading his propaganda. &nbsp;

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Guerre des kulunas à Port-au-Prince, en Haïti—Les « G-Pèp » &amp; les « G-9 », 2 coalitions de gangs lourdement armés, se livrent des combats dans la capitale. Jimmy Chérizier alias Barbecue (à dr.) a même saisi des bulldozers pour raser des maisons.<a href="https://t.co/xvpI1oPh5s">https://t.co/xvpI1oPh5s</a> <a href="https://t.co/CdJ436a8nU">pic.twitter.com/CdJ436a8nU</a>
— alexengwete (@alexengwete) <a href="https://twitter.com/alexengwete/status/1548217221247160323?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The inaction of the law enforcement agencies has only bolstered the confidence of the gangs.&nbsp;United Nations’ World Food Programme (WFP) has already issued a warning that the hunger situation was set to worsen in the city as well as the country. Large-scale migration is expected to take place as ordinary Haitians flee for neighbouring Dominican Republic&nbsp;or leave the Carribean for United States.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Read More:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lawyers-fed-up-with-paralyzed-judicial-system-in-haiti-469577">&nbsp;Lawyers fed up with paralysed judicial system in Haiti</a>

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Brutal gang violence, fuel shortages and soaring food commodity prices have brought the capital city of Port-au-Prince in Haiti to a halt. According to United Nations estimates, approximately 234 people have lost their lives or got hurt in the violence, with new reports of sexual violence also coming to light.

Brutal gang violence, fuel shortages and soaring food commodity prices have brought the capital city of Port-au-Prince in Haiti to a halt. According to United Nations estimates, approximately 234 people have lost their lives or got hurt in the violence, with new reports of sexual violence also coming to light. According to deputy mayor Jean Hislain Frederick, the violence erupted in the Cite Soleil neighbourhood of the city last week (Thursday) when two rival gangs engaged in a bloody battle amongst themselves. Soon, the violence spread around and the entire city was in flames in no time. According to the humanitarian organisation named Medecins Sans Frontieres, more colloquially known as Doctors Without Borders, thousands of people are trapped without drinking water, food or medical care. The aid organisation has been pleading with the armed groups to spare civilians. The aid outfit is also requesting the gangs to let them reach the isolated neighbourhood of Brooklyn that has been completely disconnected from the mainstream. Meanwhile, Jeremy Laurence, spokesperson for UN Human Rights Office was quoted as saying, “Most of the victims were not directly involved in gangs and were directly targeted by gang elements. We have also received new reports of sexual violence,” Read More: Numerous inmates starve to death in Haiti prison due to overcrowding Jimmy Cherizier, nicknamed Barbecue, a former police officer is one of the main perpetrators and the leader of a gang named G-9. Last month, Cherizier was seen posting videos on various social media platforms to brainwash and recruit impressionable youngsters into joining his gang, whilst spreading his propaganda. Guerre des kulunas à Port-au-Prince, en Haïti—Les « G-Pèp » & les « G-9 », 2 coalitions de gangs lourdement armés, se livrent des combats dans la capitale. Jimmy Chérizier alias Barbecue (à dr.) a même saisi des bulldozers pour raser des maisons.https://t.co/xvpI1oPh5s pic.twitter.com/CdJ436a8nU — alexengwete (@alexengwete) July 16, 2022 × The inaction of the law enforcement agencies has only bolstered the confidence of the gangs. United Nations’ World Food Programme (WFP) has already issued a warning that the hunger situation was set to worsen in the city as well as the country. Large-scale migration is expected to take place as ordinary Haitians flee for neighbouring Dominican Republic or leave the Carribean for United States. Read More: Lawyers fed up with paralysed judicial system in Haiti (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

234 dead, thousands trapped without food, water or fuel; Haiti descends into chaos and anarchy

Somalia is being devastated by a major drought and nearly a quarter of a million people are facing starvation. UN said 7.1 million Somalis are facing acute levels of food insecurity.

WION Climate Tracker: Drought devastates Somalia, millions in need of humanitarian aid

Turkiye said that it has managed to broker a deal with Ukraine, Russia and the UN to resume exports of Ukrainian grains after it was blocked by Russia in the wake of invasion. The move is expected to bring major relief to world economies whose grain imports were largely dependent on Kyiv.

On Wednesday, Turkiye’s defence minister Hulusi Akar said that all the parties would meet again next week to work out the modalities like joint controls for checking grains in ports and Ankara ensuring the safety of Black Sea export routes for Ukrainian grain, The Guardian reported.

He added that Turkey would also set up a coordination centre with Ukraine, Russia and the UN for grain exports.

Much of Ukrainian grains are exported through the country’s Black Sea ports. But they have been blockaded by Russia, including the crucial hub of Odesa, following the invasion.

Confirming the development, Volodymyr Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, on Twitter said, “Its task will be to carry out general monitoring and coordination of safe navigation in the Black Sea.”

In his daily address, Ukraine’s president Zelensky was quoted as saying, “We are indeed making significant efforts to restore the supply of food to the world market. And I am grateful to the United Nations and Turkey for their respective efforts.”

Lauding the three countries for their coordination for their efforts toward restoring grain supplies, UN Secretary-General&nbsp;António Guterres said that a “critical step forward” had been taken to allow the “safe and secure export” of millions of tonnes of grain via the Black Sea.

He, however, emphasised that no formal agreement has yet been signed between Russia and Ukraine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-casualty-of-russia-ukraine-war-esa-roscosmoss-mars-life-finding-mission-497185" hreflang="en">Another casualty of Russia-Ukraine war: ESA-ROSCOSMOS's Mars life-hunting mission</a>

“In a world darkened by global crises, today, at last, we have a ray of hope,” said Guterres, briefing correspondents at UN Headquarters in New York.

“A ray of hope to ease human suffering and alleviate hunger around the world. A ray of hope to support developing countries and the most vulnerable people.&nbsp;A ray of hope to bring a measure of much-needed stability to the global food system.”

For several weeks, the Türkiye government has been working with the UN to arrive at a deal for weeks, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, which triggered the price rise of several major commodities like grains, cooking oils, fuel and fertilizer.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkiye said that it has managed to broker a deal with Ukraine, Russia and the UN to resume exports of Ukrainian grains after it was blocked by Russia in the wake of invasion.

Turkiye said that it has managed to broker a deal with Ukraine, Russia and the UN to resume exports of Ukrainian grains after it was blocked by Russia in the wake of invasion. The move is expected to bring major relief to world economies whose grain imports were largely dependent on Kyiv. On Wednesday, Turkiye’s defence minister Hulusi Akar said that all the parties would meet again next week to work out the modalities like joint controls for checking grains in ports and Ankara ensuring the safety of Black Sea export routes for Ukrainian grain, The Guardian reported. He added that Turkey would also set up a coordination centre with Ukraine, Russia and the UN for grain exports. Much of Ukrainian grains are exported through the country’s Black Sea ports. But they have been blockaded by Russia, including the crucial hub of Odesa, following the invasion. Confirming the development, Volodymyr Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, on Twitter said, “Its task will be to carry out general monitoring and coordination of safe navigation in the Black Sea.” In his daily address, Ukraine’s president Zelensky was quoted as saying, “We are indeed making significant efforts to restore the supply of food to the world market. And I am grateful to the United Nations and Turkey for their respective efforts.” Lauding the three countries for their coordination for their efforts toward restoring grain supplies, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that a “critical step forward” had been taken to allow the “safe and secure export” of millions of tonnes of grain via the Black Sea. He, however, emphasised that no formal agreement has yet been signed between Russia and Ukraine. Also read | Another casualty of Russia-Ukraine war: ESA-ROSCOSMOS's Mars life-hunting mission “In a world darkened by global crises, today, at last, we have a ray of hope,” said Guterres, briefing correspondents at UN Headquarters in New York. “A ray of hope to ease human suffering and alleviate hunger around the world. A ray of hope to support developing countries and the most vulnerable people. A ray of hope to bring a measure of much-needed stability to the global food system.” For several weeks, the Türkiye government has been working with the UN to arrive at a deal for weeks, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, which triggered the price rise of several major commodities like grains, cooking oils, fuel and fertilizer. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Turkiye brokers deal with Ukraine, Russia and UN to resume grain exports

As the war in Ukraine rages on, Russia has 'weaponised' food supplies. 22 million tons of grains are trapped inside Ukraine. On Wednesday, talks were held in Istanbul to break the impasse. Did they yield any breakthrough? Palki Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Russia-Ukraine discuss grain export crisis

For the first time in months, Russia and Ukraine have came face to face, shared the same negotiation table and held direct talks in Istanbul. It was a four-way meeting between the military delegation of Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and the United Nations to discuss the resumption of stalled grain deliveries across the Black Sea.

Moscow & Kyiv delegates meet in Istanbul | Talks focus on resuming grain exports

Turkiye is all set to host four-way Russian and Ukrainian delegations together with UN diplomats on Wednesday to discuss the resumption of stalled grain deliveries across the Black Sea.

Turkiye to host four-way Russia, Ukraine and UN grain talks amid growing global food crisis

As diplomats battled to reach an agreement with Russia, which had traded jabs with the US over the renewal of the aid operation, a UN Security Council (UNSC) mandate for relief aid to nearly 4 million people in Syria through Turkey expired on Sunday (July 9). In&nbsp;conversation with Canada’s CBC television, Martin Griffiths, UN aid chief, said that "people will die" if this operation cannot be continued. The 15-member council had to pass a fresh resolution in January to extend it for another six months, but Russia on Friday (July 7) vetoed a one year extension and then failed in its own attempt to secure a six-month renewal, reported by Reuters.

However, as per the US, France and Britain, a six-month extension is insufficient for aid groups to make a plan and carry it further.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-first-country-other-than-russia-to-recognise-ukraine-separatist-republics-of-donetsk-and-lugansk-493080">Syria first country other than Russia to recognise Ukraine separatist republics of Donetsk and Lugansk</a>

Russia, on the other hand, claims that the UN aid mission breaches Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. There are concerns amongst the opposition that more help should be distributed domestically and that this will lead to being under the government’s control.

Watch |&nbsp;Iran seeks to resolve Syria-Turkiye tension

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Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US ambassador to the United Nations, spoke to the groups who informed her that without the UN’s effort, nearly 70 per cent of the world’s food needs would not be met. Linda tweeted, saying attempts are being made to reach a deal with the UNSC.

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Today, I spoke with humanitarian NGOs working to deliver cross-border aid inside Idlib. They told me about the millions of Syrians who will not eat if the <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> cross-border mechanism is not renewed. The UNSC decision will be a choice between life and death. All eyes are on NY.
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In response to Linda’s tweet, Russia’s Deputy UN ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy tweeted saying that Russia only wants to improve the UN operation’s effectiveness and transparency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-behind-turkeys-syria-incursion-threats-485142">What is behind Turkey’s Syria incursion threats?</a>

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There’s no need to fight and you know it perfectly well! Both drafts foresaw 6+6 extension of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CBM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CBM</a>.Implying that Russia tried to kill CBM is going against the truth:we just insist on making humanitarian assistance to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Syria?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Syria</a> more efficient and transparent. Are you with us on that? <a href="https://t.co/2FklqXoLoX">https://t.co/2FklqXoLoX</a>
— Dmitry Polyanskiy (@Dpol_un) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dpol_un/status/1546221009119895554?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The council’s decision on the aid operation authorisation has always been divisive, but this year’s vote coincides with the intensified hostilities between due to Russian invasion.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As diplomats battled to reach an agreement with Russia, which had traded jabs with the US over the renewal of the aid operation, a UN Security Council (UNSC) mandate for relief aid to nearly 4 million people in Syria through Turkey expired on Sunday (July 9).

As diplomats battled to reach an agreement with Russia, which had traded jabs with the US over the renewal of the aid operation, a UN Security Council (UNSC) mandate for relief aid to nearly 4 million people in Syria through Turkey expired on Sunday (July 9). In conversation with Canada’s CBC television, Martin Griffiths, UN aid chief, said that "people will die" if this operation cannot be continued. The 15-member council had to pass a fresh resolution in January to extend it for another six months, but Russia on Friday (July 7) vetoed a one year extension and then failed in its own attempt to secure a six-month renewal, reported by Reuters. However, as per the US, France and Britain, a six-month extension is insufficient for aid groups to make a plan and carry it further. Also read | Syria first country other than Russia to recognise Ukraine separatist republics of Donetsk and Lugansk Russia, on the other hand, claims that the UN aid mission breaches Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. There are concerns amongst the opposition that more help should be distributed domestically and that this will lead to being under the government’s control. Watch | Iran seeks to resolve Syria-Turkiye tension Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US ambassador to the United Nations, spoke to the groups who informed her that without the UN’s effort, nearly 70 per cent of the world’s food needs would not be met. Linda tweeted, saying attempts are being made to reach a deal with the UNSC. Today, I spoke with humanitarian NGOs working to deliver cross-border aid inside Idlib. They told me about the millions of Syrians who will not eat if the @UN cross-border mechanism is not renewed. The UNSC decision will be a choice between life and death. All eyes are on NY. — Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield (@USAmbUN) July 10, 2022 × In response to Linda’s tweet, Russia’s Deputy UN ambassador Dmitry Polyanskiy tweeted saying that Russia only wants to improve the UN operation’s effectiveness and transparency. Also read | What is behind Turkey’s Syria incursion threats? There’s no need to fight and you know it perfectly well! Both drafts foresaw 6+6 extension of #CBM.Implying that Russia tried to kill CBM is going against the truth:we just insist on making humanitarian assistance to #Syria more efficient and transparent. Are you with us on that? https://t.co/2FklqXoLoX — Dmitry Polyanskiy (@Dpol_un) July 10, 2022 × The council’s decision on the aid operation authorisation has always been divisive, but this year’s vote coincides with the intensified hostilities between due to Russian invasion. (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.

UNSC fails to reach aid deal for nearly 4 million people in Syria as mandate expires

A United Nations report published on Monday projected India to surpass China as the most populous nation in the world by next year. The report - The World Population Prospects 2022 by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division – also said that the world population will be reaching eight million by November 2022.

The growth is expected to remain constant as the projections show that world population will reach 8.5 billion in 2030 and 9.7 billion in 2050. The report went on to say that the population of the world will most probably hit its peak in the 2080s at around 10.4 billion before plateauing and staying at the same level till the end of 2100.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/34-airstrikes-in-the-past-24-hours-zelensky-says-there-is-no-pause-in-russian-attacks-496227">'34 airstrikes in 24 hours', Zelensky says no 'pause' in Russian attacks</a>

“This year's World Population Day (July 11) falls during a milestone year, when we anticipate the birth of the Earth's eight billionth inhabitant. This is an occasion to celebrate our diversity, recognise our common humanity and marvel at advancements in health that have extended lifespan and dramatically reduced maternal and child mortality rates,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said according to PTI.

"India is projected to surpass China as the world's most populous country during 2023,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emmanuel-macron-faces-criticism-from-french-opposition-over-secret-deal-with-uber-496241" hreflang="en">Emmanuel Macron faces criticism from French opposition over 'secret deal' with Uber</a>

China and India remain the two most populous countries in the world while most than half of the total population growth will be concentrated in just eight countries - Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines and Tanzania.

While China is ahead of India when it comes to total population at this point, projections showed that by 2050, the situation can be completely reversed.

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A United Nations report published on Monday projected India to surpass China as the most populous nation in the world by next year. The report - The World Population Prospects 2022 by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division – also said that the world population will be reaching eight million by November 2022.

A United Nations report published on Monday projected India to surpass China as the most populous nation in the world by next year. The report - The World Population Prospects 2022 by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division – also said that the world population will be reaching eight million by November 2022. The growth is expected to remain constant as the projections show that world population will reach 8.5 billion in 2030 and 9.7 billion in 2050. The report went on to say that the population of the world will most probably hit its peak in the 2080s at around 10.4 billion before plateauing and staying at the same level till the end of 2100. Also read | '34 airstrikes in 24 hours', Zelensky says no 'pause' in Russian attacks “This year's World Population Day (July 11) falls during a milestone year, when we anticipate the birth of the Earth's eight billionth inhabitant. This is an occasion to celebrate our diversity, recognise our common humanity and marvel at advancements in health that have extended lifespan and dramatically reduced maternal and child mortality rates,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said according to PTI. "India is projected to surpass China as the world's most populous country during 2023,” he added. Also read | Emmanuel Macron faces criticism from French opposition over 'secret deal' with Uber China and India remain the two most populous countries in the world while most than half of the total population growth will be concentrated in just eight countries - Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines and Tanzania. While China is ahead of India when it comes to total population at this point, projections showed that by 2050, the situation can be completely reversed. 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.

India projected to surpass China as world's most populous country in 2023, says UN report

According to a United Nations report, the number of people affected by hunger globally rose to as many as 828 million in 2021, an increase of about 46 million since 2020 and 150 million since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

UN: Global hunger climbs to 828 million in 2021

Lieutenant General Mohan Subramanian has been appointed as commander of the UN peacekeeping force in South Sudan. What does this appointment mean for India's UN legacy? What is India's peacekeeping record so far? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Indian to lead UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan

The United Nations met requests for funds on Tuesday (July 6), to help the Central African Republic deal with a growing food crisis. The organisation’s World Food Programme (WFP) said that a nation of 5.5 million people, 2.2 million amongst them are stated to be acutely food insecure and the situations are expected to get worse over the next few months. The spokesman for the WFP, Tomson Phiri, told the reporters, “The Central African Republic is facing unprecedented humanitarian needs and a deteriorating food security situation,” reported by AFP.

Prior to the rainy season, which impedes access to much of the country’s food stock and lasts from July to September, WFP said it’s been difficult to pre-position the food inventories in shortage areas. Phiri said that the WFP was urgently appealing for $68.4 million. He further added that getting food into the CAR was taking longer than usual and getting petrol was a challenge. Millions of people will continue to experience food and nutrition without rapid funding, he said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/africa-is-actually-a-hostage-zelensky-blames-food-crisis-on-russia-490049">Also read |&nbsp;'Africa is actually a hostage': Zelensky blames food crisis on Russia</a>

The representative said, the WFP may have to reallocate food from people who are already hungry ‘to the one who are hungrier.’ He said, “Given the current levels of food insecurity and operational constraints, we expect the humanitarian needs to further deteriorate.”

Watch |&nbsp;WION Wideangle | Food: A weapon of war?

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He further added, “Our teams are telling us that humanitarian assistance will be required well beyond 2022 and into 2023."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-north-korea-grapples-with-food-crisis-flour-now-a-luxury-item-report-492992">As North Korea grapples with food crisis, flour now a luxury item: Report</a>

Acute food insecurity affects one of the greatest per cent in CAR, along with countries like Afghanistan, Yemen and South Sudan.&nbsp;

CAR is one of the poorest nations in the world, it has spent much of the previous 9 years ripped apart by the civil wars, however, the intensity had decreased since the year 2018.&nbsp;

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The United Nations met requests for funds on Tuesday (July 6), to help the Central African Republic deal with a growing food crisis. The organisation’s World Food Programme (WFP) said that a nation of 5.

The United Nations met requests for funds on Tuesday (July 6), to help the Central African Republic deal with a growing food crisis. The organisation’s World Food Programme (WFP) said that a nation of 5.5 million people, 2.2 million amongst them are stated to be acutely food insecure and the situations are expected to get worse over the next few months. The spokesman for the WFP, Tomson Phiri, told the reporters, “The Central African Republic is facing unprecedented humanitarian needs and a deteriorating food security situation,” reported by AFP. Prior to the rainy season, which impedes access to much of the country’s food stock and lasts from July to September, WFP said it’s been difficult to pre-position the food inventories in shortage areas. Phiri said that the WFP was urgently appealing for $68.4 million. He further added that getting food into the CAR was taking longer than usual and getting petrol was a challenge. Millions of people will continue to experience food and nutrition without rapid funding, he said. Also read | 'Africa is actually a hostage': Zelensky blames food crisis on Russia The representative said, the WFP may have to reallocate food from people who are already hungry ‘to the one who are hungrier.’ He said, “Given the current levels of food insecurity and operational constraints, we expect the humanitarian needs to further deteriorate.” Watch | WION Wideangle | Food: A weapon of war? He further added, “Our teams are telling us that humanitarian assistance will be required well beyond 2022 and into 2023." Also read | As North Korea grapples with food crisis, flour now a luxury item: Report Acute food insecurity affects one of the greatest per cent in CAR, along with countries like Afghanistan, Yemen and South Sudan. CAR is one of the poorest nations in the world, it has spent much of the previous 9 years ripped apart by the civil wars, however, the intensity had decreased since the year 2018. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

UN requests for urgent funds to help Central African Republic with food crisis

Humans have left small plastic fragments all over the planet, from oceans to mountains. Every year millions of tonnes of plastic are created using fossil fuels and then the plastic enters the environment and break into tiny particles which choke marine life and the food chain. We have taken these microplastics into our bodies without even knowing the consequences. Plastic pollution places have become so common these days. One such instance of this can be the enormous “Great Pacific Garbage Patch.” As per a shocking analysis released in the same year by the environmental charity WWF, on an average people consume and breathe in up to 5 grammes of plastic per week, reported by AFP.

Scientists recently discovered that plastics exist in the body, it is quite possible that humans have been ingesting plastic though food, drinking and breathing for many years. In 2019, there were 460 million tonnes of plastic consumed, which is twice as much as 20 years earlier and only 10 per cent of it was recycled.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenyan-start-up-remoulds-plastic-into-useful-and-trendy-furniture-493700">Kenyan start-up remoulds plastic into useful and trendy furniture</a>

The United Nations has started a process to create a legally binding agreement to address the global plastic crisis and warned that the world is facing pollution crisis and along with biodiversity and climate crisis.&nbsp;

Jean-Francois Ghiglione, a researcher at the Laboratory of Microbial Oceanography in France in conversation with AFP said, “We did not imagine 10 years ago that there could be so many small microplastics, invisible to the naked eye, and that they were everywhere around us.” He also told that the scientists are currently finding microplastics in several human organs such as lungs, Speen, kidneys and even the placenta.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;India to implement single-use plastic ban from July 1

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"Small microplastics invisible to the naked eye have deleterious effects on all the animals that we have studied in the marine environment, or on land," said Ghiglione.

Laura Sadofsky from the Hull York Medical School in the UK in conversation with AFP said that her team found polypropylene and PET (polythene terephthalate) in lung tissues and it was shocking to that how deep it was in the lungs and the size of the particles.&nbsp; 
Bart Koelmans, professor in Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality at Wageningen University said, " People cannot stop breathing, so even if you change your eating habits you will still inhale them. They're everywhere."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ahead-of-un-ocean-conference-mermaids-call-for-ocean-protection-in-portugal-climate-protest-492230">Ahead of UN Ocean conference, mermaids call for ocean protection in Portugal climate protest</a>

One hypothesis that these microplastics could be responsible for human health and certain syndromes. While the health effects of plastic are not known, scientists are aware of the effects of the indoor and outdoor air pollution, which according to the Lancet Commission on pollution experts, resulted in deaths of nearly 6.7 million people in early 2019.

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Humans have left small plastic fragments all over the planet, from oceans to mountains. Every year millions of tonnes of plastic are created using fossil fuels and then the plastic enters the environment and break into tiny particles which choke marine life and the food chain.

Humans have left small plastic fragments all over the planet, from oceans to mountains. Every year millions of tonnes of plastic are created using fossil fuels and then the plastic enters the environment and break into tiny particles which choke marine life and the food chain. We have taken these microplastics into our bodies without even knowing the consequences. Plastic pollution places have become so common these days. One such instance of this can be the enormous “Great Pacific Garbage Patch.” As per a shocking analysis released in the same year by the environmental charity WWF, on an average people consume and breathe in up to 5 grammes of plastic per week, reported by AFP. Scientists recently discovered that plastics exist in the body, it is quite possible that humans have been ingesting plastic though food, drinking and breathing for many years. In 2019, there were 460 million tonnes of plastic consumed, which is twice as much as 20 years earlier and only 10 per cent of it was recycled. Also read | Kenyan start-up remoulds plastic into useful and trendy furniture The United Nations has started a process to create a legally binding agreement to address the global plastic crisis and warned that the world is facing pollution crisis and along with biodiversity and climate crisis. Jean-Francois Ghiglione, a researcher at the Laboratory of Microbial Oceanography in France in conversation with AFP said, “We did not imagine 10 years ago that there could be so many small microplastics, invisible to the naked eye, and that they were everywhere around us.” He also told that the scientists are currently finding microplastics in several human organs such as lungs, Speen, kidneys and even the placenta. Watch | India to implement single-use plastic ban from July 1 "Small microplastics invisible to the naked eye have deleterious effects on all the animals that we have studied in the marine environment, or on land," said Ghiglione. Laura Sadofsky from the Hull York Medical School in the UK in conversation with AFP said that her team found polypropylene and PET (polythene terephthalate) in lung tissues and it was shocking to that how deep it was in the lungs and the size of the particles. Bart Koelmans, professor in Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality at Wageningen University said, " People cannot stop breathing, so even if you change your eating habits you will still inhale them. They're everywhere." Also read | Ahead of UN Ocean conference, mermaids call for ocean protection in Portugal climate protest One hypothesis that these microplastics could be responsible for human health and certain syndromes. While the health effects of plastic are not known, scientists are aware of the effects of the indoor and outdoor air pollution, which according to the Lancet Commission on pollution experts, resulted in deaths of nearly 6.7 million people in early 2019. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

Eating, drinking and breathing for years: Scientists find microplastics everywhere

According to the United Nations, the death toll of children in last week's devastating earthquake in southeastern Afghanistan has risen to at least 155. The earthquake has claimed at least 1000 lives, injuring more than three thousands.

UN: Death toll of children rises to 155 in Afghanistan earthquake

The number of fatalities from the earthquake that struck Afghanistan on Wednesday has increased to 1,150 and more than 3,000 dwellings have been completely demolished, as reported by Associated Press. The death toll increased on Friday (June 24) from earlier estimates of 1,000 deaths caused by a 6.1 magnitude earthquake, the Bhaktar News Agency said. However, as per the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the death toll is different. It estimated 770 deaths while the UNICEF’s representative in Afghanistan predicted the toll to be 1036 and still counting. According to Hindustan Times, significant variations in death counts and destruction statistics are expected.

Mohammad Nassim Haqqani, a spokesperson of the ministry for disaster, while in conversation with Reuters, said that 2,000 individuals were injured and nearly 10,000 homes destroyed. This is one of the deadliest earthquakes the country has seen&nbsp;in 20 years. As per reports, the eastern district of Paktika is the worst-hit area.&nbsp;This doesn’t end here; the communication has also been impacted due to the destruction of phone towers and power lines.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-resisting-humanitarian-funding-un-491166">Taliban resisting humanitarian funding: UN</a>

According to Save the Children, the disaster has nearly impacted more than 118,000 children. It further said, “Many are now most likely without clean drinking water, food and a safe place to sleep."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 5.9 Magnitude earthquake kills 1,000 in Afghanistan

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Several countries like Germany, Norway and others will help the south Asian country through United Nations and not directly to the Taliban. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also provided the country with essentials.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mass-graves-being-prepared-for-earthquake-victims-in-afghanistan-491083">Mass graves being prepared for earthquake victims in Afghanistan</a>

The Taliban takeover has isolated the country from the world, and this disaster has put the nation in tremendous difficulty. In addition to this, the prime reason for delayed global help is again the Taliban as the majority of international organisations left Afghanistan after the Taliban seized the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The number of fatalities from the earthquake that struck Afghanistan on Wednesday has increased to 1,150 and more than 3,000 dwellings have been completely demolished, as reported by Associated Press.

The number of fatalities from the earthquake that struck Afghanistan on Wednesday has increased to 1,150 and more than 3,000 dwellings have been completely demolished, as reported by Associated Press. The death toll increased on Friday (June 24) from earlier estimates of 1,000 deaths caused by a 6.1 magnitude earthquake, the Bhaktar News Agency said. However, as per the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the death toll is different. It estimated 770 deaths while the UNICEF’s representative in Afghanistan predicted the toll to be 1036 and still counting. According to Hindustan Times, significant variations in death counts and destruction statistics are expected. Mohammad Nassim Haqqani, a spokesperson of the ministry for disaster, while in conversation with Reuters, said that 2,000 individuals were injured and nearly 10,000 homes destroyed. This is one of the deadliest earthquakes the country has seen in 20 years. As per reports, the eastern district of Paktika is the worst-hit area. This doesn’t end here; the communication has also been impacted due to the destruction of phone towers and power lines. Also read | Taliban resisting humanitarian funding: UN According to Save the Children, the disaster has nearly impacted more than 118,000 children. It further said, “Many are now most likely without clean drinking water, food and a safe place to sleep." Watch | Gravitas: 5.9 Magnitude earthquake kills 1,000 in Afghanistan Several countries like Germany, Norway and others will help the south Asian country through United Nations and not directly to the Taliban. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also provided the country with essentials. Also read | Mass graves being prepared for earthquake victims in Afghanistan The Taliban takeover has isolated the country from the world, and this disaster has put the nation in tremendous difficulty. In addition to this, the prime reason for delayed global help is again the Taliban as the majority of international organisations left Afghanistan after the Taliban seized the country. (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. (with inputs from agencies)

Death toll for Afghanistan earthquake reaches 1,150 with nearly 3,000 homes destroyed

UN&nbsp;experts have confirmed the full or partial destruction of 152&nbsp;cultural&nbsp;and historic heritage sites in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;since&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;invaded the country, its&nbsp;cultural&nbsp;agency said Thursday.

They include museums and monuments, churches and other religious buildings, and libraries and other exceptional buildings, UNESCO said in&nbsp;an update of its efforts to assist&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;authorities in documenting the damage.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-a-tough-bite-to-chew-and-so-would-be-finland-says-armed-forces-chief-on-russian-invasion-490781">Ukraine a tough bite to chew and so would be Finland, says armed forces chief on Russian invasion</a>

"These repeated attacks on Ukrainian&nbsp;cultural&nbsp;sites must stop.&nbsp;Cultural&nbsp;heritage, in all its forms, should not be targeted under any circumstances," UNESCO'S director-general Audrey Azoulay said in a statement.

Her agency has been helping&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;authorities to mark&nbsp;landmarks&nbsp;with the distinctive "blue shield," meaning they are protected under the 1954 Hague convention on culture in armed conflicts, of which both&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;are signatories.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russia pounds Kharkiv &amp; Eastern Donbas, Ukrainian soldiers fight back

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Yet dozens of sites have been damaged since the start of the Russian invasion on February 24, with three-quarters in the eastern regions of Kharkiv and Donetsk as well as near the capital Kyiv, UNESCO said in its update.

But for now, the seven World Heritage Sites in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;have not been affected, such as the Saint Sophia Cathedral and monastic buildings of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra in the capital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-tensions-with-russia-over-kaliningrad-lithuania-says-ready-to-face-power-grid-disconnection-490772">Amid tensions with Russia over Kaliningrad, Lithuania says ready to face power grid disconnection</a>

Ukraine&nbsp;has demanded that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;be expelled from UNESCO, and the agency has indefinitely postponed a meeting to discuss the status of World Heritage Sites that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;was to host this month in the city of Kazan.

UNESCO has warned that Russian troops or officials found guilty of knowingly destroying&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;heritage sites could be prosecuted under international law.

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UN experts have confirmed the full or partial destruction of 152 cultural and historic heritage sites in Ukraine since Russia invaded the country, its cultural agency said Thursday.

UN experts have confirmed the full or partial destruction of 152 cultural and historic heritage sites in Ukraine since Russia invaded the country, its cultural agency said Thursday. They include museums and monuments, churches and other religious buildings, and libraries and other exceptional buildings, UNESCO said in an update of its efforts to assist Ukraine authorities in documenting the damage. Also read | Ukraine a tough bite to chew and so would be Finland, says armed forces chief on Russian invasion "These repeated attacks on Ukrainian cultural sites must stop. Cultural heritage, in all its forms, should not be targeted under any circumstances," UNESCO'S director-general Audrey Azoulay said in a statement. Her agency has been helping Ukraine authorities to mark landmarks with the distinctive "blue shield," meaning they are protected under the 1954 Hague convention on culture in armed conflicts, of which both Russia and Ukraine are signatories. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia pounds Kharkiv & Eastern Donbas, Ukrainian soldiers fight back Yet dozens of sites have been damaged since the start of the Russian invasion on February 24, with three-quarters in the eastern regions of Kharkiv and Donetsk as well as near the capital Kyiv, UNESCO said in its update. But for now, the seven World Heritage Sites in Ukraine have not been affected, such as the Saint Sophia Cathedral and monastic buildings of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra in the capital. Also read | Amid tensions with Russia over Kaliningrad, Lithuania says ready to face power grid disconnection Ukraine has demanded that Russia be expelled from UNESCO, and the agency has indefinitely postponed a meeting to discuss the status of World Heritage Sites that Russia was to host this month in the city of Kazan. UNESCO has warned that Russian troops or officials found guilty of knowingly destroying Ukraine heritage sites could be prosecuted under international law. 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.

Over 150 Ukraine cultural landmarks destroyed by Russia's war: UN

Basra, a southern city in Iraq is witnessing blistering heat just a few days into summer. The temperature has already soared to around 45 degrees Celsius. UN ranked Iraq as one of the top five countries most vulnerable to climate change.

‘Summer of hell’: Iraq city’s scorching heat amid vulnerable climate change

Two Taliban members of the current regime in Kabul have not been given any waiver from sanctions by the Taliban sanctions committee of the United Nations Security Council.&nbsp; No waiver means they won't be able to travel outside of Afghanistan. The waiver hasn't been given to two&nbsp;key persons involved in education policy--acting deputy education minister Ahmad Shaidkhel &amp; Minister of Higher Education Abdul Baqi Haqqani--over failure on women rights, especially on allowing school education to girls.&nbsp;

Usually, 15 members of the Taliban are given exemptions, or waivers from the United Nations sanctions for a specific time frame. This time, only 13 are given, and for the first time 2 Taliban members are not given a waiver. Those given waivers are given for a time frame of 90 days, but after 60 days, if anyone has objection things can change.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-takeover-deal-remains-deadlocked-over-fake-user-concerns-says-elon-musk-490298">Twitter takeover deal remains deadlocked over fake users, says Elon Musk</a>

India's ambassador to the United Nations, T.S. Tirumurti is the chair of Taliban sanction committee, also known as the 1988 sanctions committee. The Committee comprises all 15 members of the Security Council and makes its decision by consensus. The committee has 2 Vice-Chairs for 2022 -- Russia and the United Arab Emirates. The committee is mandated to oversee the implementation of the sanctions measures, designate individuals and entities who meet the listing criteria among others.

While Taliban has got tacit support, especially by some permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, this time the committee did not provide the waiver to send a message across that the grouping has to walk the talk on women's rights. There are no women in the Taliban governance structure and since the collapse&nbsp;of the Afghan Republic last August, things haven't been on a positive trajectory of women in the country.&nbsp;Recently, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said that the country is witnessing "institutionalized systematic oppression of women".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-says-he-is-proud-of-russian-troops-in-ukraine-490300" hreflang="en">Putin 'proud' of Russian troops; says SARMAT would be commissioned this year</a>

Meanwhile, former Afghan President Hamid Karzai and former members of the republic have proposed to the Taliban to hold a Loya Jirga.&nbsp;Loya Jirga, an Afghan way of governance, is a grand assembly of leadership across the country to take a decision based on consensus. It represents the panchayat form of governance, but at a national scale. It was 2002 Loya Jirga, after the Bonn conference that appointed Hamid Kazai as the President of the Afghan Transitional Administration. The first known Loya Jirga is said to have taken place in 1747, that appointed Ahmad Shah Durrani as the King of Afghanistan who later established the modern state of Afghanistan. So far, the Taliban has not shown any interest in holding such a meeting.

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Two Taliban members of the current regime in Kabul have not been given any waiver from sanctions by the Taliban sanctions committee of the United Nations Security Council.

Two Taliban members of the current regime in Kabul have not been given any waiver from sanctions by the Taliban sanctions committee of the United Nations Security Council. No waiver means they won't be able to travel outside of Afghanistan. The waiver hasn't been given to two key persons involved in education policy--acting deputy education minister Ahmad Shaidkhel & Minister of Higher Education Abdul Baqi Haqqani--over failure on women rights, especially on allowing school education to girls. Usually, 15 members of the Taliban are given exemptions, or waivers from the United Nations sanctions for a specific time frame. This time, only 13 are given, and for the first time 2 Taliban members are not given a waiver. Those given waivers are given for a time frame of 90 days, but after 60 days, if anyone has objection things can change. Also read | Twitter takeover deal remains deadlocked over fake users, says Elon Musk India's ambassador to the United Nations, T.S. Tirumurti is the chair of Taliban sanction committee, also known as the 1988 sanctions committee. The Committee comprises all 15 members of the Security Council and makes its decision by consensus. The committee has 2 Vice-Chairs for 2022 -- Russia and the United Arab Emirates. The committee is mandated to oversee the implementation of the sanctions measures, designate individuals and entities who meet the listing criteria among others. While Taliban has got tacit support, especially by some permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, this time the committee did not provide the waiver to send a message across that the grouping has to walk the talk on women's rights. There are no women in the Taliban governance structure and since the collapse of the Afghan Republic last August, things haven't been on a positive trajectory of women in the country. Recently, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said that the country is witnessing "institutionalized systematic oppression of women". Also read | Putin 'proud' of Russian troops; says SARMAT would be commissioned this year Meanwhile, former Afghan President Hamid Karzai and former members of the republic have proposed to the Taliban to hold a Loya Jirga. Loya Jirga, an Afghan way of governance, is a grand assembly of leadership across the country to take a decision based on consensus. It represents the panchayat form of governance, but at a national scale. It was 2002 Loya Jirga, after the Bonn conference that appointed Hamid Kazai as the President of the Afghan Transitional Administration. The first known Loya Jirga is said to have taken place in 1747, that appointed Ahmad Shah Durrani as the King of Afghanistan who later established the modern state of Afghanistan. So far, the Taliban has not shown any interest in holding such a meeting. 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.

India-led UN sanctions panel puts travel ban on Taliban members over failure on women rights

June 21 is observed as International Yoga Day (IDY) around the world, following its establishments at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014, when the global organisation acknowledged multiple advantages of yoga.&nbsp; Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed June 21 as the date for Yoga Day at the United Nations, noting that it is the longest day of the year.

What's the topic of this year's Yoga Day?

The topic for this year’s Yoga Day is ‘Yoga for Humanity,’ which focuses on how yoga helps people in achieving holistic health. The theme also depicts how yoga has helped humanity during the peak of the Covid pandemic by easing suffering. The Indian prime minister talked about this subject in his ‘Mann ki Baat.’

What is meaning of Yoga?

Yoga is an ancient Indian physical, mental and spiritual discipline that dates back thousands of years. The word ‘Yoga’ is a Sanskrit word that means “to connect” or “to merge,” and represents integration of body and consciousness. Yoga is now performed globally in various forms all around the world and is still growing in its popularity.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-swami-sivananda-a-125-year-old-yoga-guru-receives-padma-shri-pm-modis-reaction-is-unmissable-464517">Watch: Swami Sivananda, a 125-year-old yoga guru receives Padma Shri; PM Modi's reaction is unmissable</a>

India proposed the draftt resolution of creating International Yoga Day, which was endorsed by175 UN member states. The Indian Prime Minister mentioned this during the 69th session of the general Assembly, saying, “Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition. Yoga embodies unity of mind and body, thought and action ... a holistic approach [that] is valuable to our health and our well-being. Yoga is not just about exercise; it is a way to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and the nature.”

Watch |&nbsp;WION Exclusive: Meet the woman, Nouf Marwaai, who brought yoga to Saudi Arabia

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The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has been a human disaster unlike any other. Other than its immediate impact on the physical health, the pandemic intensified psychological distress and mental health problems like anxiety, sadness in many countries. This underlined the importance of addressing both mental and physical health components of the pandemic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-indian-soldiers-perform-yoga-at-15000-feet-in-snow-capped-himalayas-475014">Watch | Indian soldiers perform yoga at 15,000 feet in snow-capped Himalayas</a>

During the pandemic, people around the world turned to yoga to stay fit and revitalised as well as combat social isolation and sadness. It helps in calming with concerns and anxiety.&nbsp;

Not just this, Yoga is also helping Covid patients in quarantine and isolation psychological treatment and rehabilitation.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

June 21 is observed as International Yoga Day (IDY) around the world, following its establishments at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014, when the global organisation acknowledged multiple advantages of yoga.

June 21 is observed as International Yoga Day (IDY) around the world, following its establishments at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014, when the global organisation acknowledged multiple advantages of yoga. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed June 21 as the date for Yoga Day at the United Nations, noting that it is the longest day of the year. What's the topic of this year's Yoga Day? The topic for this year’s Yoga Day is ‘Yoga for Humanity,’ which focuses on how yoga helps people in achieving holistic health. The theme also depicts how yoga has helped humanity during the peak of the Covid pandemic by easing suffering. The Indian prime minister talked about this subject in his ‘Mann ki Baat.’ What is meaning of Yoga? Yoga is an ancient Indian physical, mental and spiritual discipline that dates back thousands of years. The word ‘Yoga’ is a Sanskrit word that means “to connect” or “to merge,” and represents integration of body and consciousness. Yoga is now performed globally in various forms all around the world and is still growing in its popularity. Also read | Watch: Swami Sivananda, a 125-year-old yoga guru receives Padma Shri; PM Modi's reaction is unmissable India proposed the draftt resolution of creating International Yoga Day, which was endorsed by175 UN member states. The Indian Prime Minister mentioned this during the 69th session of the general Assembly, saying, “Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition. Yoga embodies unity of mind and body, thought and action ... a holistic approach [that] is valuable to our health and our well-being. Yoga is not just about exercise; it is a way to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and the nature.” Watch | WION Exclusive: Meet the woman, Nouf Marwaai, who brought yoga to Saudi Arabia The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has been a human disaster unlike any other. Other than its immediate impact on the physical health, the pandemic intensified psychological distress and mental health problems like anxiety, sadness in many countries. This underlined the importance of addressing both mental and physical health components of the pandemic. Also read | Watch | Indian soldiers perform yoga at 15,000 feet in snow-capped Himalayas During the pandemic, people around the world turned to yoga to stay fit and revitalised as well as combat social isolation and sadness. It helps in calming with concerns and anxiety. Not just this, Yoga is also helping Covid patients in quarantine and isolation psychological treatment and rehabilitation. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

International Yoga Day 2022: ‘Yoga for Humanity’ a mission to achieve holistic health

Hollywood actor Ben Stiller has partnered up with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in order to extend support to those fleeing Ukraine while Russia`s military operation in the country continues.

According to Deadline, in a dual post with the UN Refugees Instagram page, a picture was shared showing Stiller talking with UNHCR staff in Poland. In his caption, the actor mentioned how he`s learning, sharing stories, and offering support to those in need.

He said, "I`m here to learn, to share stories that illustrate the human impact of war and to amplify calls for solidarity. I hope you`ll follow along and share your own messages of support, for people who have fled their homes in Ukraine and for people who have been forced to flee all over the world. Everyone has the right to seek safety. Whoever, wherever, whenever."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/its-a-wrap-for-priyanka-chopra-starrer-series-citadel-co-starring-richard-madden-489717" hreflang="en">It's a wrap for Priyanka Chopra starrer series 'Citadel' co-starring Richard Madden</a>

As per Deadline, Stiller is now part of the list of celebs including Sean Penn, Angelina Jolie, and Mila Kunis, who have extended their help to support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.

Hollywood actor Ben Stiller has partnered up with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in order to extend support to those fleeing Ukraine while Russia`s military operation in the country continues.

Hollywood actor Ben Stiller has partnered up with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in order to extend support to those fleeing Ukraine while Russia`s military operation in the country continues. According to Deadline, in a dual post with the UN Refugees Instagram page, a picture was shared showing Stiller talking with UNHCR staff in Poland. In his caption, the actor mentioned how he`s learning, sharing stories, and offering support to those in need. He said, "I`m here to learn, to share stories that illustrate the human impact of war and to amplify calls for solidarity. I hope you`ll follow along and share your own messages of support, for people who have fled their homes in Ukraine and for people who have been forced to flee all over the world. Everyone has the right to seek safety. Whoever, wherever, whenever." Also read: It's a wrap for Priyanka Chopra starrer series 'Citadel' co-starring Richard Madden As per Deadline, Stiller is now part of the list of celebs including Sean Penn, Angelina Jolie, and Mila Kunis, who have extended their help to support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.

Ben Stiller partners with UN to extend support for those fleeing Ukraine

Taliban on Thursday failed to explain the closure of girls` schools in Afghanistan to the UN after the Taliban earlier backtracked within a few hours of announcing the reopening of girls` schools.

The UN Rapporteur for Afghanistan Human Rights, Richard Bennett said that "specific reasons were not given" for the closure of girls` schools in Afghanistan.

"The reason... they said there technical reasons. Specific reasons were not given and I was not told that they would remain closed. I was told and I repeat this that a committee will be... is working on it and will be reporting. I pressed them for when that report would be made and when.. schools will reopened," Bennet told Tolo News in an interview.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-assure-india-to-act-on-pakistan-based-terror-groups-in-afghanistan-report-486820">Taliban assure India to act on Pakistan-based terror groups in Afghanistan: Report</a>

Many gatherings of the Islamic scholars and human rights watchdogs called on the Taliban to reopen schools for female students above grade six.

Recently a gathering in the western province of Badghis called for the reopening of schools for female students in grade 6-12, reported Tolo News.

Following a request from religious scholars in Badghis to reopen girls` schools above sixth grade, former president Hamid Karzai on Twitter called on the Taliban to respect the voice of the Afghan people and religious scholars and to reopen girls` schools.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Indian diplomats meet senior Taliban leadership

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The girls` schools beyond grade six have been closed for more than 270 days, reported Tolo News.

"We are concerned that our rights have been taken from us. This basic right is ensured in religion and in government," said Sehat, a female student.

Afghan women are staring at a bleak future due to a number of restrictions imposed by the Taliban governing aspects of their lives within ten months of Afghanistan`s takeover.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-regime-accountable-for-rise-in-illegal-trafficking-of-children-in-afghanistan-486101">Taliban regime accountable for rise in illegal trafficking of children in Afghanistan</a>

Women are no longer allowed to travel unless accompanied by men related to them. Random checks are being conducted on public transport to see if women are indeed accompanied by related men and taxis and buses are often refusing to take women passengers in the first place to avoid the ire of the Taliban`s moral police.

The UN Rapporteur earlier concluded an 11-day visit to Afghanistan. Bennet told Tolo News that Afghan women must play a full role in society based on the international human rights standard.

"It is a tragedy that girls are missing almost one year of school at the secondary level. This is an important generation. A generation that needs to be... so they can be the future of Afghanistan and women must play a full role in Afghan society, according to international human rights standards," he said.

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Taliban on Thursday failed to explain the closure of girls` schools in Afghanistan to the UN after the Taliban earlier backtracked within a few hours of announcing the reopening of girls` schools.

Taliban on Thursday failed to explain the closure of girls` schools in Afghanistan to the UN after the Taliban earlier backtracked within a few hours of announcing the reopening of girls` schools. The UN Rapporteur for Afghanistan Human Rights, Richard Bennett said that "specific reasons were not given" for the closure of girls` schools in Afghanistan. "The reason... they said there technical reasons. Specific reasons were not given and I was not told that they would remain closed. I was told and I repeat this that a committee will be... is working on it and will be reporting. I pressed them for when that report would be made and when.. schools will reopened," Bennet told Tolo News in an interview. Also read | Taliban assure India to act on Pakistan-based terror groups in Afghanistan: Report Many gatherings of the Islamic scholars and human rights watchdogs called on the Taliban to reopen schools for female students above grade six. Recently a gathering in the western province of Badghis called for the reopening of schools for female students in grade 6-12, reported Tolo News. Following a request from religious scholars in Badghis to reopen girls` schools above sixth grade, former president Hamid Karzai on Twitter called on the Taliban to respect the voice of the Afghan people and religious scholars and to reopen girls` schools. Watch | Gravitas: Indian diplomats meet senior Taliban leadership The girls` schools beyond grade six have been closed for more than 270 days, reported Tolo News. "We are concerned that our rights have been taken from us. This basic right is ensured in religion and in government," said Sehat, a female student. Afghan women are staring at a bleak future due to a number of restrictions imposed by the Taliban governing aspects of their lives within ten months of Afghanistan`s takeover. Also read | Taliban regime accountable for rise in illegal trafficking of children in Afghanistan Women are no longer allowed to travel unless accompanied by men related to them. Random checks are being conducted on public transport to see if women are indeed accompanied by related men and taxis and buses are often refusing to take women passengers in the first place to avoid the ire of the Taliban`s moral police. The UN Rapporteur earlier concluded an 11-day visit to Afghanistan. Bennet told Tolo News that Afghan women must play a full role in society based on the international human rights standard. "It is a tragedy that girls are missing almost one year of school at the secondary level. This is an important generation. A generation that needs to be... so they can be the future of Afghanistan and women must play a full role in Afghan society, according to international human rights standards," he said. 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.

Taliban fail to explain closure of girls' schools in Afghanistan to UN

Nearly five million people in India were internally displaced due to climate change and disasters in 2021, the United Nations has said in a report.

The annual Global Trends Report by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) highlighted that globally 100 million people were forced to flee their homes last year due to violence, human rights abuses, food insecurity, the climate crisis, war in Ukraine and other emergencies from Africa to Afghanistan.

According to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC), in 2021, there were 23.7 million new internal displacements globally due to disasters (these are in addition to those internally displaced due to conflict and violence). This represented a decrease of seven million, or 23 per cent, compared to the previous year, the report said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/report-fires-heat-waves-cause-climate-anxiety-in-youth-488683">Report: Fires, heat waves cause 'climate anxiety' in youth</a>

"The largest displacements in the context of disasters in 2021 occurred in China (6.0 million), the Philippines (5.7 million) and India (4.9 million). Most disaster displacements during the year were temporary," it said.

The majority of the internally displaced persons returned to their home areas, but 5.9 million people worldwide remained displaced at the end of the year due to disasters, the report added.

The UN agency said that the number of people forced to flee their homes has increased every year over the past decade and stands at the highest level since records began, a trend that can be only reversed by a new, concerted push towards peacemaking.

By the end of 2021, those displaced by war, violence, persecution, and human rights abuses stood at 89.3 million, up eight per cent on a year earlier and well over double the figure of 10 years ago, the report said.

While the latest global trends report reflects the period of January 2021 to December 2021, the UN agency said it is impossible to ignore the developments that have happened in early 2022, including the Russian war against Ukraine.

"Since then, the Russian invasion of Ukraine&nbsp;'causing the fastest and one of the largest forced displacement crises since World War II'&nbsp;and other emergencies, from Africa to Afghanistan and beyond, pushed the figure over the dramatic milestone of 100 million," the report said.

Watch | Gravitas: India asks rich countries to pay for climate damage

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The report said that at the end of 2021, 89.3 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide, including 27.1 million refugees, 21.3 million refugees under UNHCR's mandate, 5.8 million Palestine refugees under United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East's (UNRWA) mandate, 53.2 million internally displaced people, 4.6 million asylum seekers and 4.4 million Venezuelans displaced abroad.

Asylum seekers submitted 1.4 million new claims. The United States of America was the world's largest recipient of new individual applications (188,900), followed by Germany (148,200), Mexico (132,700), Costa Rica (108,500) and France (90,200).

By May 2022, more than 100 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide by persecution, conflict, violence, human rights violations or events seriously disturbing public order.

"Every year of the last decade, the numbers have climbed," said United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi.

"Either the international community comes together to take action to address this human tragedy, resolve conflicts and find lasting solutions, or this terrible trend will continue."

Last year was notable for the number of conflicts that escalated and new ones that flared; 23 countries, with a combined population of 850 million, faced medium- or high-intensity conflicts, according to the World Bank.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-biggest-methane-gas-leak-occurred-at-russian-coalmine">Climate change: Biggest methane gas leak occurred at Russian coalmine, say reports</a>

The UN agency said that food scarcity, inflation and the climate crisis are adding to people's hardship. The number of refugees rose in 2021 to 27.1 million. Arrivals climbed in Uganda, Chad and Sudan among others, it added.

"Most refugees were, once again, hosted by neighbouring countries with few resources. The number of asylum seekers reached 4.6 million, up 11 per cent," the report said.

Last year also saw the 15th straight annual rise in people displaced within their countries by conflict, to 53.2 million. The increase was driven by mounting violence or conflict in some places, for example Myanmar.

The conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray and other regions has spurred the flight of millions within the country. Insurgencies in the Sahel drove fresh internal displacement, particularly in Burkina Faso and Chad.

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Nearly five million people in India were internally displaced due to climate change and disasters in 2021, the United Nations has said in a report. The annual Global Trends Report by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) highlighted that globally 100 million people were forced to flee their homes last year due to violence, human rights abuses, food insecurity, the climate crisis, war in Ukraine and other emergencies from Africa to Afghanistan.

Nearly five million people in India were internally displaced due to climate change and disasters in 2021, the United Nations has said in a report. The annual Global Trends Report by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) highlighted that globally 100 million people were forced to flee their homes last year due to violence, human rights abuses, food insecurity, the climate crisis, war in Ukraine and other emergencies from Africa to Afghanistan. According to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC), in 2021, there were 23.7 million new internal displacements globally due to disasters (these are in addition to those internally displaced due to conflict and violence). This represented a decrease of seven million, or 23 per cent, compared to the previous year, the report said. Also read | Report: Fires, heat waves cause 'climate anxiety' in youth "The largest displacements in the context of disasters in 2021 occurred in China (6.0 million), the Philippines (5.7 million) and India (4.9 million). Most disaster displacements during the year were temporary," it said. The majority of the internally displaced persons returned to their home areas, but 5.9 million people worldwide remained displaced at the end of the year due to disasters, the report added. The UN agency said that the number of people forced to flee their homes has increased every year over the past decade and stands at the highest level since records began, a trend that can be only reversed by a new, concerted push towards peacemaking. By the end of 2021, those displaced by war, violence, persecution, and human rights abuses stood at 89.3 million, up eight per cent on a year earlier and well over double the figure of 10 years ago, the report said. While the latest global trends report reflects the period of January 2021 to December 2021, the UN agency said it is impossible to ignore the developments that have happened in early 2022, including the Russian war against Ukraine. "Since then, the Russian invasion of Ukraine 'causing the fastest and one of the largest forced displacement crises since World War II' and other emergencies, from Africa to Afghanistan and beyond, pushed the figure over the dramatic milestone of 100 million," the report said. Watch | Gravitas: India asks rich countries to pay for climate damage The report said that at the end of 2021, 89.3 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide, including 27.1 million refugees, 21.3 million refugees under UNHCR's mandate, 5.8 million Palestine refugees under United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East's (UNRWA) mandate, 53.2 million internally displaced people, 4.6 million asylum seekers and 4.4 million Venezuelans displaced abroad. Asylum seekers submitted 1.4 million new claims. The United States of America was the world's largest recipient of new individual applications (188,900), followed by Germany (148,200), Mexico (132,700), Costa Rica (108,500) and France (90,200). By May 2022, more than 100 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide by persecution, conflict, violence, human rights violations or events seriously disturbing public order. "Every year of the last decade, the numbers have climbed," said United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi. "Either the international community comes together to take action to address this human tragedy, resolve conflicts and find lasting solutions, or this terrible trend will continue." Last year was notable for the number of conflicts that escalated and new ones that flared; 23 countries, with a combined population of 850 million, faced medium- or high-intensity conflicts, according to the World Bank. Also read | Climate change: Biggest methane gas leak occurred at Russian coalmine, say reports The UN agency said that food scarcity, inflation and the climate crisis are adding to people's hardship. The number of refugees rose in 2021 to 27.1 million. Arrivals climbed in Uganda, Chad and Sudan among others, it added. "Most refugees were, once again, hosted by neighbouring countries with few resources. The number of asylum seekers reached 4.6 million, up 11 per cent," the report said. Last year also saw the 15th straight annual rise in people displaced within their countries by conflict, to 53.2 million. The increase was driven by mounting violence or conflict in some places, for example Myanmar. The conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray and other regions has spurred the flight of millions within the country. Insurgencies in the Sahel drove fresh internal displacement, particularly in Burkina Faso and Chad. 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.

Nearly 5 million people in India internally displaced due to climate change, disasters in 2021: UN

Climate change is going to impact the entire world but some are at greater risk as compared to others. The 56th session of the United nations framework convention on climate change concluded in Germany on Thursday.

Vulnerable nations alone in coping with climate crisis?

The United Nations rights chief said on Thursday that the extent of death and destruction in Ukraine's port city of Mariupol suggests serious international law violations, warning that the horrors would mark future generations.&nbsp;Speaking before the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Michelle Bachelet painted a grim picture of one of the bloodiest chapters so far in Russia's war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

"Between February and the end of April, Mariupol was likely the deadliest place in Ukraine," she said, in an update on the situation in the strategic port city, now held by Moscow.

"The intensity and extent of hostilities, destruction and death and injury strongly suggest that serious violations of international humanitarian law and gross violations of international human rights law have occurred," she said.&nbsp;Russia declared victory in May in its months-long operation to capture Mariupol, after Ukraine ordered the last of its troops holed up in the city's steelworks to lay down their arms. The three months of battles sent hundreds of thousands of people running for their lives and caused untold suffering and death.

Bachelet said that her staff had verified 1,348 civilian deaths in the city, including 70 children. "These deaths were caused by air strikes, tank and artillery shelling and small arms and light weapons during street fighting," she added.

But she acknowledged that "the actual death toll of hostilities on civilians is likely thousands higher."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-ukraine-bids-farewell-to-its-war-heroes-488400">In pics: Ukraine bids farewell to its war heroes</a>

The rights office assessed that up to 90 per cent of residential buildings in Mariupol had been damaged or destroyed and an estimated 350,000 people were forced to leave the city. Moscow's offensive on Mariupol has drawn multiple accusations of war crimes, including attacks on a maternity ward and a theatre, where hundreds of mainly women and children were sheltering.

Bachelet said the theatre attack "stands out among the very deadliest and most emblematic examples of the harm caused to civilians." While the shelling has now faded, Bachelet warned that residents left behind are "struggling daily with limited access to basic utilities and social services, such as medical care."

The UN rights chief warned that "the horrors inflicted on the civilian population will leave their indelible mark, including on generations to come. On the parents who had to bury their own children, on people who witnessed their friends commit suicide, on families ripped apart, on all those who had to leave a much-loved city with uncertain prospects of ever seeing it again."

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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The United Nations rights chief said on Thursday that the extent of death and destruction in Ukraine's port city of Mariupol suggests serious international law violations, warning that the horrors would mark future generations.

The United Nations rights chief said on Thursday that the extent of death and destruction in Ukraine's port city of Mariupol suggests serious international law violations, warning that the horrors would mark future generations. Speaking before the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Michelle Bachelet painted a grim picture of one of the bloodiest chapters so far in Russia's war in Ukraine. "Between February and the end of April, Mariupol was likely the deadliest place in Ukraine," she said, in an update on the situation in the strategic port city, now held by Moscow. "The intensity and extent of hostilities, destruction and death and injury strongly suggest that serious violations of international humanitarian law and gross violations of international human rights law have occurred," she said. Russia declared victory in May in its months-long operation to capture Mariupol, after Ukraine ordered the last of its troops holed up in the city's steelworks to lay down their arms. The three months of battles sent hundreds of thousands of people running for their lives and caused untold suffering and death. Bachelet said that her staff had verified 1,348 civilian deaths in the city, including 70 children. "These deaths were caused by air strikes, tank and artillery shelling and small arms and light weapons during street fighting," she added. But she acknowledged that "the actual death toll of hostilities on civilians is likely thousands higher." Also Read: In pics: Ukraine bids farewell to its war heroes The rights office assessed that up to 90 per cent of residential buildings in Mariupol had been damaged or destroyed and an estimated 350,000 people were forced to leave the city. Moscow's offensive on Mariupol has drawn multiple accusations of war crimes, including attacks on a maternity ward and a theatre, where hundreds of mainly women and children were sheltering. Bachelet said the theatre attack "stands out among the very deadliest and most emblematic examples of the harm caused to civilians." While the shelling has now faded, Bachelet warned that residents left behind are "struggling daily with limited access to basic utilities and social services, such as medical care." The UN rights chief warned that "the horrors inflicted on the civilian population will leave their indelible mark, including on generations to come. On the parents who had to bury their own children, on people who witnessed their friends commit suicide, on families ripped apart, on all those who had to leave a much-loved city with uncertain prospects of ever seeing it again." (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.

Mariupol: Horrors inflicted on civilian population will leave ‘indelible mark’, says UN rights chief

Australia's new centre-left government submitted&nbsp;more&nbsp;ambitious&nbsp;emissions&nbsp;targets to the United Nations Thursday, seeking to end a decade of footdragging on climate change.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese raised the country's&nbsp;2030&nbsp;emissions&nbsp;reduction&nbsp;target&nbsp;to 43 percent, up from a&nbsp;more&nbsp;modest previous&nbsp;target&nbsp;of 26-28 percent.

The new goal "sets&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;up for a prosperous future, a future powered by cleaner, cheaper energy," Albanese said.

Despite being ravaged by floods, fires and droughts,&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;has long been seen as a laggard on climate action.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-for-first-time-discover-radio-emission-covering-giant-galaxy-with-black-hole-485041">Scientists for first time discover radio emission covering giant galaxy with black hole</a>

The vast continent-country is replete with fossil fuel deposits and is one of the world's top exporters of coal and gas.

Coal still plays a key role in domestic electricity production.&nbsp;

In 2022, MIT ranked&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;52nd of 76 nations on its Green Future Index, which rates how much countries are shifting towards an environmentally sustainable economy.&nbsp;

The 'climate wars'

But Albanese made&nbsp;emissions&nbsp;cuts a centrepiece of his recent election campaign and pledged to "end the climate wars" that led to decades of policy stasis.

Albanese sought to frame the decision as an economic boon: "What business has been crying out for is investment certainty," he said.

The Business Council of&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;welcomed the raised targets, saying they "should be a line in the sand."

"Australia&nbsp;can't afford to stall progress again because failure will see Australians miss out on new opportunities, new industries and better jobs," the council's chief executive Jennifer Westacott said.

Watch |&nbsp;QUAD Summit 2022: Australia aims to attain net-zero emissions by 2050, says PM Anthony Albanese

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'Seize the opportunity'&nbsp;

Albanese said Thursday that world leaders had "all welcomed&nbsp;Australia's changed position" on climate action during his conversations with them since taking power last month.

The issue of&nbsp;emissions&nbsp;reduction and fossil fuel exports was a key point of tension between&nbsp;Australia's previous government and Pacific leaders, who have labelled climate change the greatest threat to their region.

Albanese tried to sidestep criticism that higher targets could harm Australian jobs saying he wanted to "seize the opportunity that is there from acting on climate change".

The new targets would give business the certainty it needed to "invest over a longer time frame than the political cycle of three years," he said.

But he has so far refused to set a deadline for phasing out coal, in line with other rich countries.

Even before the announcement,&nbsp;Australia's fossil fuel industry was in flux with many major companies seeking to decarbonise their operations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/wildfires-broke-emissions-records-this-year-in-these-countries-435158">Wildfires broke emissions records this year in these countries</a>

On Wednesday, global miner BHP announced it had been unable to find a buyer for its coal mines in the Australian state of New South Wales and would instead close the project by&nbsp;2030.

The news came just a day after fossil fuel giant BP announced it would take out a 40.5 per cent stake in a renewables project in&nbsp;Australia, billed as the largest power station on earth.

Anja-Isabel Dotzenrath, BP's executive vice president of gas and low carbon energy, said the company believed that "Australia&nbsp;has the potential to be a powerhouse in the global energy transition".

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Australia's new centre-left government submitted more ambitious emissions targets to the United Nations Thursday, seeking to end a decade of footdragging on climate change.

Australia's new centre-left government submitted more ambitious emissions targets to the United Nations Thursday, seeking to end a decade of footdragging on climate change. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese raised the country's 2030 emissions reduction target to 43 percent, up from a more modest previous target of 26-28 percent. The new goal "sets Australia up for a prosperous future, a future powered by cleaner, cheaper energy," Albanese said. Despite being ravaged by floods, fires and droughts, Australia has long been seen as a laggard on climate action. Also read | Scientists for first time discover radio emission covering giant galaxy with black hole The vast continent-country is replete with fossil fuel deposits and is one of the world's top exporters of coal and gas. Coal still plays a key role in domestic electricity production. In 2022, MIT ranked Australia 52nd of 76 nations on its Green Future Index, which rates how much countries are shifting towards an environmentally sustainable economy. The 'climate wars' But Albanese made emissions cuts a centrepiece of his recent election campaign and pledged to "end the climate wars" that led to decades of policy stasis. Albanese sought to frame the decision as an economic boon: "What business has been crying out for is investment certainty," he said. The Business Council of Australia welcomed the raised targets, saying they "should be a line in the sand." "Australia can't afford to stall progress again because failure will see Australians miss out on new opportunities, new industries and better jobs," the council's chief executive Jennifer Westacott said. Watch | QUAD Summit 2022: Australia aims to attain net-zero emissions by 2050, says PM Anthony Albanese 'Seize the opportunity' Albanese said Thursday that world leaders had "all welcomed Australia's changed position" on climate action during his conversations with them since taking power last month. The issue of emissions reduction and fossil fuel exports was a key point of tension between Australia's previous government and Pacific leaders, who have labelled climate change the greatest threat to their region. Albanese tried to sidestep criticism that higher targets could harm Australian jobs saying he wanted to "seize the opportunity that is there from acting on climate change". The new targets would give business the certainty it needed to "invest over a longer time frame than the political cycle of three years," he said. But he has so far refused to set a deadline for phasing out coal, in line with other rich countries. Even before the announcement, Australia's fossil fuel industry was in flux with many major companies seeking to decarbonise their operations. Also read | Wildfires broke emissions records this year in these countries On Wednesday, global miner BHP announced it had been unable to find a buyer for its coal mines in the Australian state of New South Wales and would instead close the project by 2030. The news came just a day after fossil fuel giant BP announced it would take out a 40.5 per cent stake in a renewables project in Australia, billed as the largest power station on earth. Anja-Isabel Dotzenrath, BP's executive vice president of gas and low carbon energy, said the company believed that "Australia has the potential to be a powerhouse in the global energy transition". 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.

Australia submits more ambitious 2030 emissions target to United Nations

47 countries have voiced their concern at alleged abuses in China's Xinjiang region and demanded that UN rights chief publish a long detailed report on the situation there.

47 countries call out China over 'Xinjiang Abuses'

As tensions continue to simmer between Beijing and Washington the US national security adviser Jake Sullivan and the Chinese top diplomat Yang Jiechi held a candid meeting on Monday to discuss an area of issues concerning both the nations the talks mainly focused on Beijing's veto move.

Top US, Chinese diplomats hold meet: Focus on North Korea, China's veto at the UN

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