Myanmar has been in chaos since the military coup in February this year and there is no end in sight to the bloody turmoil. Amid reports of thousands of troops massing up in the north of Myanmar. The United Nations has expressed fears of an even greater human rights catastrophe in the southeast Asian country.

No end in sight to the bloody turmoil in Myanmar

Fuel shortages have forced some aid groups to suspend food distribution in Ethiopia's war-hit Tigray region, where famine stalks hundreds of thousands of people, the UN said.

Some 14 fuel trucks are stranded in Afar region, home to the only viable land route into Tigray, despite having been granted permission to proceed, the UN's humanitarian coordination office said in a report released late Thursday.

"Due to the severe shortages of fuel, several humanitarian partners were forced to significantly reduce or suspend their activities," it in a weekly situation report for the year-long conflict in northern Ethiopia.

"Since 11 October, out of the seven main active food partners, for instance, at least three have already [been] forced to cease food distribution. The other four will also have to cease distribution outside of Mekele within one week if fuel is not received."

Tigray erupted in conflict last November after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed sent troops to topple the region's former ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF).

The 2019 Nobel Peace laureate said the move came in response to TPLF attacks on army camps and promised a swift victory.

But by late June the TPLF had regrouped and retaken most of the region including its capital Mekele.

Since then Tigray has been under what the UN describes as a de facto humanitarian blockade. 
Despite a communications blackout, AFP has documented starvation deaths in multiple parts of the region, citing internal documents from aid groups active there.

The UN said last week the number of young children hospitalised due to severe malnutrition between February and August was double the number recorded during the same period last year.

Some 2.5 percent of screened children were diagnosed with severe malnutrition during the past week, the UN said Thursday, up from 2.3 percent the week before.

Thursday's report also noted that during the week ending October 13, only 52,000 people in Tigray received food assistance, or one percent of the 5.2 million that aid groups are targeting.

"To reach 5.2 million people with food assistance within a six-week cycle, partners are expected to assist at least 870,000 people on average per week," the report said.

With the TPLF in control of most of Tigray, fighting has recently been concentrated to the south in Amhara region.

But this week Ethiopia's government launched at least four air strikes in Mekele, killing three children and injuring other civilians, according to the UN.

The government says the campaign is targeting rebel facilities.

Fuel shortages have forced some aid groups to suspend food distribution in Ethiopia's war-hit Tigray region, where famine stalks hundreds of thousands of people, the UN said.

Fuel shortages have forced some aid groups to suspend food distribution in Ethiopia's war-hit Tigray region, where famine stalks hundreds of thousands of people, the UN said. Some 14 fuel trucks are stranded in Afar region, home to the only viable land route into Tigray, despite having been granted permission to proceed, the UN's humanitarian coordination office said in a report released late Thursday. "Due to the severe shortages of fuel, several humanitarian partners were forced to significantly reduce or suspend their activities," it in a weekly situation report for the year-long conflict in northern Ethiopia. "Since 11 October, out of the seven main active food partners, for instance, at least three have already [been] forced to cease food distribution. The other four will also have to cease distribution outside of Mekele within one week if fuel is not received." Tigray erupted in conflict last November after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed sent troops to topple the region's former ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). The 2019 Nobel Peace laureate said the move came in response to TPLF attacks on army camps and promised a swift victory. But by late June the TPLF had regrouped and retaken most of the region including its capital Mekele. Since then Tigray has been under what the UN describes as a de facto humanitarian blockade. Despite a communications blackout, AFP has documented starvation deaths in multiple parts of the region, citing internal documents from aid groups active there. The UN said last week the number of young children hospitalised due to severe malnutrition between February and August was double the number recorded during the same period last year. Some 2.5 percent of screened children were diagnosed with severe malnutrition during the past week, the UN said Thursday, up from 2.3 percent the week before. Thursday's report also noted that during the week ending October 13, only 52,000 people in Tigray received food assistance, or one percent of the 5.2 million that aid groups are targeting. "To reach 5.2 million people with food assistance within a six-week cycle, partners are expected to assist at least 870,000 people on average per week," the report said. With the TPLF in control of most of Tigray, fighting has recently been concentrated to the south in Amhara region. But this week Ethiopia's government launched at least four air strikes in Mekele, killing three children and injuring other civilians, according to the UN. The government says the campaign is targeting rebel facilities.

Fuel shortages block food aid in famine-threatened Tigray: UN

Australia was the worst climate performer among comparable developed countries since nations pledged in the 2015 Paris agreement to take action to limit global warming, a think tank said Thursday ahead of a key climate conference in Scotland later this month.

The UN&nbsp;summit in Glasgow, known as COP26, will bring together thousands of diplomats, scientists and environmental campaigners to assess progress since nations agreed in the Paris accord to limit warming to less than 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit). The meeting in Glasgow is widely seen as the last chance to hold global warming to 1.5 C above pre-industrial levels.

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Prime Minister Scott Morrison plans to attend the conference starting October&nbsp;31, but lawmakers in his governing coalition are arguing over adoption of a tougher national carbon reduction target.

Morrison wants to commit Australia to reducing carbon emissions to net zero by 2050, but some lawmakers in the conservative government's junior coalition partner, the Nationals party, are resisting.

"Australia ranks dead last among comparable nations (in) addressing the climate challenge at its source -- by cutting emissions," the report from the Climate Council said. The council is an independently funded non-profit that replaced the Climate Commission, a publicly funded agency abolished in 2013 by the newly elected conservative government in which Morrison was a Cabinet minister.

The report ranked Australia last among 31 wealthy, developed countries on the criteria of emissions reduction performances and pledges.

Britain was first, followed by Switzerland and Sweden. The United States was 23rd.

Australia was tied for last with Canada in terms of fossil fuel extraction and use. Next from the bottom was Norway, then the United States. The Czech Republic came first with Sweden and Switzerland sharing second place.

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Major emitters including China, India and Russia were not included in the tables.

Morrison is unlikely to persuade his colleagues to agree to a more ambitious 2030 target before he goes to Glasgow.

Australia has not budged from its 2015 pledge in Paris to reduce emissions by 26 per cent&nbsp;to 28 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030, despite many countries adopting far more ambitious targets.

The Climate Council recommended Australia reduce emissions by 75 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2035.

Australian emissions from electricity have increased by a third since 1990, while transport emissions have grown by more than half, the report said.

If Australia achieves its current 2030 targets, the progress will mostly be reached through reduced land clearing and other land use changes, Climate Council Head of Research Simon Bradshaw told The Associated Press.

"Now that, of course, is important, but it's no substitute for actually stopping emissions at their source," Bradshaw said.

Reducing emissions is a politically fraught issue in Australia, which is one of the world's largest exporters of coal and liquified natural gas. The nation is also one of the world's worst greenhouse gas emitters per capita because of its heavy reliance on coal-fired power.

Australia was the worst climate performer among comparable developed countries since nations pledged in the 2015 Paris agreement to take action to limit global warming, a think tank said Thursday ahead of a key climate conference in Scotland later this month.

Australia was the worst climate performer among comparable developed countries since nations pledged in the 2015 Paris agreement to take action to limit global warming, a think tank said Thursday ahead of a key climate conference in Scotland later this month. The UN summit in Glasgow, known as COP26, will bring together thousands of diplomats, scientists and environmental campaigners to assess progress since nations agreed in the Paris accord to limit warming to less than 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit). The meeting in Glasgow is widely seen as the last chance to hold global warming to 1.5 C above pre-industrial levels. Also Read | Boris Johnson is playing another trick Prime Minister Scott Morrison plans to attend the conference starting October 31, but lawmakers in his governing coalition are arguing over adoption of a tougher national carbon reduction target. Morrison wants to commit Australia to reducing carbon emissions to net zero by 2050, but some lawmakers in the conservative government's junior coalition partner, the Nationals party, are resisting. "Australia ranks dead last among comparable nations (in) addressing the climate challenge at its source -- by cutting emissions," the report from the Climate Council said. The council is an independently funded non-profit that replaced the Climate Commission, a publicly funded agency abolished in 2013 by the newly elected conservative government in which Morrison was a Cabinet minister. The report ranked Australia last among 31 wealthy, developed countries on the criteria of emissions reduction performances and pledges. Britain was first, followed by Switzerland and Sweden. The United States was 23rd. Australia was tied for last with Canada in terms of fossil fuel extraction and use. Next from the bottom was Norway, then the United States. The Czech Republic came first with Sweden and Switzerland sharing second place. Also Read | COP26: Sponsors deem the climate summit as ‘mismanaged’ and 'very last minute' Major emitters including China, India and Russia were not included in the tables. Morrison is unlikely to persuade his colleagues to agree to a more ambitious 2030 target before he goes to Glasgow. Australia has not budged from its 2015 pledge in Paris to reduce emissions by 26 per cent to 28 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030, despite many countries adopting far more ambitious targets. The Climate Council recommended Australia reduce emissions by 75 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2035. Australian emissions from electricity have increased by a third since 1990, while transport emissions have grown by more than half, the report said. If Australia achieves its current 2030 targets, the progress will mostly be reached through reduced land clearing and other land use changes, Climate Council Head of Research Simon Bradshaw told The Associated Press. "Now that, of course, is important, but it's no substitute for actually stopping emissions at their source," Bradshaw said. Reducing emissions is a politically fraught issue in Australia, which is one of the world's largest exporters of coal and liquified natural gas. The nation is also one of the world's worst greenhouse gas emitters per capita because of its heavy reliance on coal-fired power.

Australia branded worst climate performer ahead of UN summit

Many countries are lobbying to change a crucial scientific report on how to tackle climate change, a massive leak of documents revealed.

According to the document, Saudi Arabia, Japan and Australia are among countries asking the UN to play down the need to move rapidly away from fossil fuels, reports the BBC.

The report also shows that some wealthy nations are questioning the report’s recommendation on paying more to poorer states to move to greener technologies.

The leak comes ahead of the crucial COP26 climate summit that is scheduled to take place in November in Glasgow, Scotland, to discuss about the countries commitment to slow down climate change and keep global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Watch

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The leaked documents consist of more than 32,000 submissions made by governments, companies and other interested parties to the team of scientists compiling a UN report designed to bring together the best scientific evidence on how to tackle climate change.

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The leak allegedly showed a number of countries and organisations arguing against the reduced use of fossil fuels as quickly as the current draft of the report recommends.

An adviser to the Saudi oil ministry demands phrases like ‘the need for urgent and accelerated mitigation actions at all scales… should be eliminated from the report’.

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One senior Australian government official rejects the conclusion that closing coal-fired power plants is necessary, even though ending the use of coal is one of the stated objectives of the COP26 conference, BBC’s report stated&nbsp;citing the documents.

&nbsp;The leaked documents also claim that a&nbsp;senior scientist from India's Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research, a government-funded autonomous research institute, had warned&nbsp;that coal is likely to remain the mainstay of energy production for decades because of what they describe as the “tremendous challenges” of providing affordable electricity. India is already the world's second-biggest consumer of coal.

Brazil and Argentina, two of the biggest producers of beef products and animal feed crops in the world, argue strongly against evidence in the draft report that reducing meat consumption is necessary to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

(With inputs from agencies)

Many countries are lobbying to change a crucial scientific report on how to tackle climate change, a massive leak of documents revealed. According to the document, Saudi Arabia, Japan and Australia are among countries asking the UN to play down the need to move rapidly away from fossil fuels, reports the BBC.

Many countries are lobbying to change a crucial scientific report on how to tackle climate change, a massive leak of documents revealed. According to the document, Saudi Arabia, Japan and Australia are among countries asking the UN to play down the need to move rapidly away from fossil fuels, reports the BBC. The report also shows that some wealthy nations are questioning the report’s recommendation on paying more to poorer states to move to greener technologies. The leak comes ahead of the crucial COP26 climate summit that is scheduled to take place in November in Glasgow, Scotland, to discuss about the countries commitment to slow down climate change and keep global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Watch The leaked documents consist of more than 32,000 submissions made by governments, companies and other interested parties to the team of scientists compiling a UN report designed to bring together the best scientific evidence on how to tackle climate change. Also read | COP26: Sponsors deem the climate summit as ‘mismanaged’ and 'very last minute' The leak allegedly showed a number of countries and organisations arguing against the reduced use of fossil fuels as quickly as the current draft of the report recommends. An adviser to the Saudi oil ministry demands phrases like ‘the need for urgent and accelerated mitigation actions at all scales… should be eliminated from the report’. Also read | COP26 must address 'unprecedented' climate crisis, Pope Francis warns One senior Australian government official rejects the conclusion that closing coal-fired power plants is necessary, even though ending the use of coal is one of the stated objectives of the COP26 conference, BBC’s report stated citing the documents. The leaked documents also claim that a senior scientist from India's Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research, a government-funded autonomous research institute, had warned that coal is likely to remain the mainstay of energy production for decades because of what they describe as the “tremendous challenges” of providing affordable electricity. India is already the world's second-biggest consumer of coal. Brazil and Argentina, two of the biggest producers of beef products and animal feed crops in the world, argue strongly against evidence in the draft report that reducing meat consumption is necessary to cut greenhouse gas emissions. (With inputs from agencies)

Countries lobbying to reduce climate change goals ahead of COP26, reveal leaked documents

India and the UK held discussions on key issues of mutual interest pertaining to UN reforms, counterterrorism, peacekeeping and climate action, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday.

The discussions under the second India-UK Multilateral Dialogue were held on Monday in London.

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The Indian delegation was led by Prakash Gupta, Joint Secretary (UN Political), Ministry of External Affairs, while the UK side was led by Harriet Mathews, Deputy Political Director for UN, UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

The UK side congratulated India on its successful presidency of the UN Security Council in August 2021, the MEA said.

Discussions covered issues of mutual interest pertaining to UN reforms, counterterrorism, peacekeeping and climate action, it said.

Both sides also exchanged views on the Commonwealth Strategic Plan and priorities.

The delegations agreed to continue to work closely to further deepen their cooperation on multilateral issues, the statement said.

India and the UK held discussions on key issues of mutual interest pertaining to UN reforms, counterterrorism, peacekeeping and climate action, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday.

India and the UK held discussions on key issues of mutual interest pertaining to UN reforms, counterterrorism, peacekeeping and climate action, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday. The discussions under the second India-UK Multilateral Dialogue were held on Monday in London. Also Read | India, Russia recognise common threats coming from Afghanistan: Indian envoy to Russia The Indian delegation was led by Prakash Gupta, Joint Secretary (UN Political), Ministry of External Affairs, while the UK side was led by Harriet Mathews, Deputy Political Director for UN, UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The UK side congratulated India on its successful presidency of the UN Security Council in August 2021, the MEA said. Discussions covered issues of mutual interest pertaining to UN reforms, counterterrorism, peacekeeping and climate action, it said. Both sides also exchanged views on the Commonwealth Strategic Plan and priorities. The delegations agreed to continue to work closely to further deepen their cooperation on multilateral issues, the statement said.

India, UK discuss UN reforms, counterterrorism, climate action

Bangladesh State Minister for Information Murad Hassan has stated that Bangladesh is a secular country that would revert to the 1972 constitution proposed by the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Bangladesh cannot be a haven for religious fundamentalists.

The state minister said, ‘We have the blood of freedom fighters in our body. At any cost, we have to go back to the constitution of '72. I will speak in Parliament to go back to the constitution that Bangabandhu went through. Even if no one speaks, Murad will speak in Parliament.' 
 
Watch | Gravitas | Bangladesh riots: Jamaat-E-Islami behind attacks on Hindus tag Sheikh Hasina, Bdesh govt

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The state minister made the remarks while speaking at the Engineers Institution, Bangladesh (IEB) auditorium on the occasion of the 57th birth anniversary of Sheikh Russell, the youngest son of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.&nbsp;

He stated, "I do not think that Islam is our state religion. We'll go back to the constitution of 1972. We'll get that bill enacted in parliament under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's leadership." 
 
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"We'll soon return to the 1972 secular constitution issued by Bangladesh's founding father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, following independence."

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"This is a non-communal Bangladesh. Bangladesh is a secular country. Everyone will practise their faith here."

He slammed former military rulers Hussain Muhammad Ershad and Ziaur Rahman for integrating Islam as the official religion into the constitution, and he slammed the BNP-Jamaat for inciting violence and dividing the country in the name of religion.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh State Minister for Information Murad Hassan has stated that Bangladesh is a secular country that would revert to the 1972 constitution proposed by the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Bangladesh State Minister for Information Murad Hassan has stated that Bangladesh is a secular country that would revert to the 1972 constitution proposed by the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Bangladesh cannot be a haven for religious fundamentalists. The state minister said, ‘We have the blood of freedom fighters in our body. At any cost, we have to go back to the constitution of '72. I will speak in Parliament to go back to the constitution that Bangabandhu went through. Even if no one speaks, Murad will speak in Parliament.' Watch | Gravitas | Bangladesh riots: Jamaat-E-Islami behind attacks on Hindus tag Sheikh Hasina, Bdesh govt The state minister made the remarks while speaking at the Engineers Institution, Bangladesh (IEB) auditorium on the occasion of the 57th birth anniversary of Sheikh Russell, the youngest son of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. He stated, "I do not think that Islam is our state religion. We'll go back to the constitution of 1972. We'll get that bill enacted in parliament under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's leadership." Also Read | Hours after PM's warning, ISKCON temple vandalised in Bangladesh "We'll soon return to the 1972 secular constitution issued by Bangladesh's founding father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, following independence." × "This is a non-communal Bangladesh. Bangladesh is a secular country. Everyone will practise their faith here." He slammed former military rulers Hussain Muhammad Ershad and Ziaur Rahman for integrating Islam as the official religion into the constitution, and he slammed the BNP-Jamaat for inciting violence and dividing the country in the name of religion. (With inputs from agencies)

Islam is not our state religion, will revert to 1972 constitution: Bangladesh Minister after attack on Hindus

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday encouraged a change in actions toward sustainable food systems on the occasion of World Food Day, which falls on October 16.

In a video message, Guterres said World Food Day is not only a reminder of the importance of food to every person on the planet but also a call to action to achieve food security around the world.

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Today, almost 40 per cent of humanity -- 3 billion people -- cannot afford a healthy diet, he said.

Hunger is on the rise, so too are undernourishment and obesity. The economic impacts of COVID-19 have made a bad situation even worse.

The pandemic has left an additional 140 million people unable to access the food they need, he noted.

"At the same time, the way we produce, consume and waste food is taking a heavy toll on our planet. It is putting historic pressure on our natural resources, climate and natural environment -- and costing us trillions of dollars a year," said Guterres. "As this year's theme makes clear, the power to change is in our hands. "The theme for this year's World Food Day is "Our actions are our future."

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Last month, the world gathered for the UN Food Systems Summit. Countries made bold commitments to transform food systems: to make healthy diets more affordable and accessible, and to make food systems more efficient, resilient and sustainable at every step, from production and processing to marketing, transportation and delivery, he said.

"We can all change how we consume food, and make healthier choices -- for ourselves, and our planet. In our food systems, there is hope. On this World Food Day, join us as we commit to take transformative action to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals through food systems that deliver better nutrition, a better environment and a better life for every person," he said.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday encouraged a change in actions toward sustainable food systems on the occasion of World Food Day, which falls on October 16.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday encouraged a change in actions toward sustainable food systems on the occasion of World Food Day, which falls on October 16. In a video message, Guterres said World Food Day is not only a reminder of the importance of food to every person on the planet but also a call to action to achieve food security around the world. Also Read | Biden says he's open to shortening length of new programmes Today, almost 40 per cent of humanity -- 3 billion people -- cannot afford a healthy diet, he said. Hunger is on the rise, so too are undernourishment and obesity. The economic impacts of COVID-19 have made a bad situation even worse. The pandemic has left an additional 140 million people unable to access the food they need, he noted. "At the same time, the way we produce, consume and waste food is taking a heavy toll on our planet. It is putting historic pressure on our natural resources, climate and natural environment -- and costing us trillions of dollars a year," said Guterres. "As this year's theme makes clear, the power to change is in our hands. "The theme for this year's World Food Day is "Our actions are our future." Also Read | India re-elected to UN Human Rights Council for the sixth time with overwhelming majority Last month, the world gathered for the UN Food Systems Summit. Countries made bold commitments to transform food systems: to make healthy diets more affordable and accessible, and to make food systems more efficient, resilient and sustainable at every step, from production and processing to marketing, transportation and delivery, he said. "We can all change how we consume food, and make healthier choices -- for ourselves, and our planet. In our food systems, there is hope. On this World Food Day, join us as we commit to take transformative action to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals through food systems that deliver better nutrition, a better environment and a better life for every person," he said.

UN chief encourages change in actions towards sustainable food systems

The Taliban is set to announce a framework that will allow girls to attend school in Afghanistan soon. This is according to a senior United Nations official.

Taliban to announce framework to allow girls to attend school in Afghanistan

Vice-President of ISKCON, Kolkata, Radharaman Das on Saturday condemned the attack on the ISKCON temple in Bangladesh and urged Prime Minister Modi to hold talks with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to end the cycle of violence.

While speaking to ANI, Radharaman Das, said, "We called PM residence and requested his secretary to inform PM that he should speak with Bangladesh PM to end this cycle of violence. Yesterday, around 500 mobs entered our temple premises and broke deities, brutally injured devotees. Two of them died.

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"We've written a letter to United Nations and appealed them to condemn this and send a delegation to Bangladesh," said Radharamn Das.

On Friday, a mob allegedly attacked an ISKCON temple in Bangladesh's Noakhali district and according to the community, one of its members was killed.

"It is with great grief that we share the news of an ISKCON member, Partha Das, who was brutally killed yesterday by a mob of over 200 people.

His body was found in a pond next to the temple. We call on the Govt of Bangladesh for immediate action in this regard," the official Twitter handle of the ISKCON community said.

Vice-President of ISKCON, Kolkata, Radharaman Das on Saturday condemned the attack on the ISKCON temple in Bangladesh and urged Prime Minister Modi to hold talks with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to end the cycle of violence.

Vice-President of ISKCON, Kolkata, Radharaman Das on Saturday condemned the attack on the ISKCON temple in Bangladesh and urged Prime Minister Modi to hold talks with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to end the cycle of violence. While speaking to ANI, Radharaman Das, said, "We called PM residence and requested his secretary to inform PM that he should speak with Bangladesh PM to end this cycle of violence. Yesterday, around 500 mobs entered our temple premises and broke deities, brutally injured devotees. Two of them died. Also Read | Hours after PM's warning, ISKCON temple vandalised in Bangladesh "We've written a letter to United Nations and appealed them to condemn this and send a delegation to Bangladesh," said Radharamn Das. On Friday, a mob allegedly attacked an ISKCON temple in Bangladesh's Noakhali district and according to the community, one of its members was killed. "It is with great grief that we share the news of an ISKCON member, Partha Das, who was brutally killed yesterday by a mob of over 200 people. His body was found in a pond next to the temple. We call on the Govt of Bangladesh for immediate action in this regard," the official Twitter handle of the ISKCON community said.

'Send Delegation To Bangladesh': ISKCON to UN over attack on devotees

According to the United Nations, more than 465,000 children under five are malnourished and it is the same story for over 93,000 pregnant and breastfeeding women. This is the second consecutive season in northern Kenya, a semi-arid part of the country in which there was not enough rainfall. Unlike the more fertile and greener south.

More than 465,000 children under five malnourished in North Kenya

The Taliban will announce a new framework that allows girls to attend school in Afghanistan "soon," a senior United Nations official said.

"The de facto minister of education told us that they are working on a framework, which they will announce soon, that will allow all girls to go to secondary school, and we are expecting that to happen very soon," UNICEF deputy executive director Omar Abdi said at the United Nations in New York on Friday.&nbsp;

It has been a few weeks now since the Taliban have been saying that they will allow girls to return to school as soon as possible.

The group permitted girls to attend primary school from the start, but have maintained that neither the girls nor their female teachers could return to secondary school yet. Taliban officials have said that can happen only once the girls' security and strict gender segregation can be ensured under the group's restrictive interpretation of sharia law.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/girls-in-afghanistan-to-return-to-school-as-soon-as-possible-say-taliban-414620">Also read |&nbsp;Girls in Afghanistan to return to school 'as soon as possible', say Taliban</a>

Abdi noted that, as he spoke, "millions of girls of secondary school age are missing out on education for the 27th consecutive day."He said that the UN has urged the Taliban authorities "not to wait" on educating girls.

He further mentioned that he had visited Afghanistan the week before and met with Taliban authorities. "In all my meetings, the education of girls was the first issue that I raised."

He said he had received "affirmations" of the Taliban's commitments to allow girls to attend primary school.

As for secondary school, he said they were allowed "only in five provinces." However, he ensured that the UN is pushing for the right to be implemented throughout the country.&nbsp;

Earlier in September, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said girls in Afghanistan will return to school "as soon as possible", however, he added that "a safe learning environment" needed to be created.

"Ministry of education is working hard to lay the groundwork for the education of high school girls," Mujahid announced while adding that a new "framework" is being worked upon.

The Taliban will announce a new framework that allows girls to attend school in Afghanistan "soon," a senior United Nations official said. "The de facto minister of education told us that they are working on a framework, which they will announce soon, that will allow all girls to go to secondary school, and we are expecting that to happen very soon," UNICEF deputy executive director Omar Abdi said at the United Nations in New York on Friday.

The Taliban will announce a new framework that allows girls to attend school in Afghanistan "soon," a senior United Nations official said. "The de facto minister of education told us that they are working on a framework, which they will announce soon, that will allow all girls to go to secondary school, and we are expecting that to happen very soon," UNICEF deputy executive director Omar Abdi said at the United Nations in New York on Friday. It has been a few weeks now since the Taliban have been saying that they will allow girls to return to school as soon as possible. The group permitted girls to attend primary school from the start, but have maintained that neither the girls nor their female teachers could return to secondary school yet. Taliban officials have said that can happen only once the girls' security and strict gender segregation can be ensured under the group's restrictive interpretation of sharia law. Also read | Girls in Afghanistan to return to school 'as soon as possible', say Taliban Abdi noted that, as he spoke, "millions of girls of secondary school age are missing out on education for the 27th consecutive day."He said that the UN has urged the Taliban authorities "not to wait" on educating girls. He further mentioned that he had visited Afghanistan the week before and met with Taliban authorities. "In all my meetings, the education of girls was the first issue that I raised." He said he had received "affirmations" of the Taliban's commitments to allow girls to attend primary school. As for secondary school, he said they were allowed "only in five provinces." However, he ensured that the UN is pushing for the right to be implemented throughout the country. Earlier in September, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said girls in Afghanistan will return to school "as soon as possible", however, he added that "a safe learning environment" needed to be created. "Ministry of education is working hard to lay the groundwork for the education of high school girls," Mujahid announced while adding that a new "framework" is being worked upon.

Taliban to announce plans for girls' education 'soon': UN

Deputy Representative for UN Women in Afghanistan Alison Davidian has called for gender equality for long-term development and lasting peace in the country.

In her recent article Davidian said that gender equality is crucial for future development, lasting peace, and for creating a vibrant economy in Afghanistan, reported Khaama Press.

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Davidian has criticized the Taliban's all-men caretaker cabinet, the abolishment of the ministry of women, and not allowing Afghan women to work and get out of homes without a male parent in some provinces.

She has promised that the UN women will remain committed to not only advocating the rights of women and said that they have to be heard directly, reported Khaama Press.

The deputy representative has also expressed concern about one per cent of the overseas development assistance being given to Afghan women.

She said that the women's civil societies and organizations must be supported and be given a bigger share from international assistance.

"Violence against women by their intimate partners increased around the world including Afghanistan after COVID-19.

UN Women will work with partners to ensure the services are given to Afghan women to prevent violence," said Davidian's article.

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She also expressed concern about the looming humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan as half of the population is in need of assistance and two-thirds of the people do not know where their next meal comes from.

She has suggested that the only way to overcome the ongoing situation in Afghanistan is through the full participation of women in all spheres of society.

The statements come as women are still not going to works except for teachers and doctors. Girls are also not allowed to attend secondary, high schools, and universities reported Khaama Press.

Deputy Representative for UN Women in Afghanistan Alison Davidian has called for gender equality for long-term development and lasting peace in the country. In her recent article Davidian said that gender equality is crucial for future development, lasting peace, and for creating a vibrant economy in Afghanistan, reported Khaama Press.

Deputy Representative for UN Women in Afghanistan Alison Davidian has called for gender equality for long-term development and lasting peace in the country. In her recent article Davidian said that gender equality is crucial for future development, lasting peace, and for creating a vibrant economy in Afghanistan, reported Khaama Press. Also Read | Iraq, Syria terrorists actively entering Afghanistan: Vladimir Putin Davidian has criticized the Taliban's all-men caretaker cabinet, the abolishment of the ministry of women, and not allowing Afghan women to work and get out of homes without a male parent in some provinces. She has promised that the UN women will remain committed to not only advocating the rights of women and said that they have to be heard directly, reported Khaama Press. The deputy representative has also expressed concern about one per cent of the overseas development assistance being given to Afghan women. She said that the women's civil societies and organizations must be supported and be given a bigger share from international assistance. "Violence against women by their intimate partners increased around the world including Afghanistan after COVID-19. UN Women will work with partners to ensure the services are given to Afghan women to prevent violence," said Davidian's article. Also Read | Ghani's ex-bodyguard ready to give proof of ex-president fleeing with bags of cash She also expressed concern about the looming humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan as half of the population is in need of assistance and two-thirds of the people do not know where their next meal comes from. She has suggested that the only way to overcome the ongoing situation in Afghanistan is through the full participation of women in all spheres of society. The statements come as women are still not going to works except for teachers and doctors. Girls are also not allowed to attend secondary, high schools, and universities reported Khaama Press.

UN calls for gender equality for long-term development of Afghanistan

India was re-elected to the UN Human Rights Council for the 2022-24 term on Thursday with an overwhelming majority in the General Assembly, with New Delhi's envoy here describing the election as a "robust endorsement" of the country's strong roots in democracy, pluralism and fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution.

The 76th UN General Assembly held elections on Thursday for 18 new members of the UN Human Rights Council who will serve for a period of three years, starting in January 2022.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="Locals come forward in support of minority communities to save Kashmiriyat">Locals come forward in support of minority communities to save Kashmiriyat</a>

India got 184 votes in the 193-member assembly, while the required majority was 97.

"I am truly delighted at this overwhelming support for India in elections to Human Rights Council. It's a robust endorsement of our strong roots in democracy, pluralism and fundamental rights enshrined in our Constitution. We thank all UN Member States for giving us a strong mandate," India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti told PTI.

India's Permanent Mission to the UN tweeted "India gets re-elected to the @UN_HRC (2022-24) for a 6th term with overwhelming majority. Heartfelt gratitude to the @UN membership for reposing its faith in India."

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India 🇮🇳 elected for the record 6th term of the Human Rights Council by an overwhelming endorsement of UN Member States. 
 
We stand committed to work together with fellow members of the Council towards the goal of global promotion and protection of human rights. 
(1/3) <a href="https://t.co/DtLocUCOxo">pic.twitter.com/DtLocUCOxo</a>
— India at UN, Geneva (@IndiaUNGeneva) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaUNGeneva/status/1448683963896184838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

India's current term was set to end on December 31 2021. For election for the term 2022-2024, there were five vacant seats in the Asia-Pacific States category - India, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Qatar and United Arab Emirates.

The 193-member General Assembly elected by secret ballot Argentina, Benin, Cameroon, Eritrea, Finland, Gambia, Honduras, India, Kazakhstan, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Montenegro, Paraguay, Qatar, Somalia, UAE and the USA for the 2022-2024 term on the Council.

India's mission congratulated other UN Member States for their election to the Human Rights Council, which consists of 47 Member States elected directly and individually by secret ballot by the majority of the members of the General Assembly.

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The members of the Council shall serve for a period of three years and shall not be eligible for immediate re-election after two consecutive terms.

The membership is based on equitable geographical distribution, and seats are distributed among regional groups Group of African States (13), Group of Asia-Pacific States (13), Group of Eastern European States (6), Group of Latin American and Caribbean States (8) and Group of Western European and other States (7).

As of January 2021, 119 of the 193 UN member States will have served as a member of the HRC. "This broad membership not only reflects the UN's diversity, but it gives the Council legitimacy when speaking out on human rights violations in all countries," the UN said.

In 2018, the US under the Donald Trump administration had withdrawn from the UN Human Rights Council. US Ambassador at UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said Washington's election to the Council has "fulfilled President Biden's campaign pledge to rejoin the Human Rights Council" and the US will "work to ensure this body lives up to these principles."

"Our initial efforts as full members in the Council will focus on what we can accomplish in situations of dire need, such as in Afghanistan, Burma, China, Ethiopia, Syria, and Yemen. More broadly, we will promote respect for fundamental freedoms and women's rights, and oppose religious intolerance, racial and ethnic injustices, and violence and discrimination against members of minority groups, including LGBTQI+ persons and persons with disabilities," Thomas-Greenfield said.

India was re-elected to the UN Human Rights Council for the 2022-24 term on Thursday with an overwhelming majority in the General Assembly, with New Delhi's envoy here describing the election as a "robust endorsement" of the country's strong roots in democracy, pluralism and fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution.

India was re-elected to the UN Human Rights Council for the 2022-24 term on Thursday with an overwhelming majority in the General Assembly, with New Delhi's envoy here describing the election as a "robust endorsement" of the country's strong roots in democracy, pluralism and fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution. The 76th UN General Assembly held elections on Thursday for 18 new members of the UN Human Rights Council who will serve for a period of three years, starting in January 2022. Also Read | Locals come forward in support of minority communities to save Kashmiriyat India got 184 votes in the 193-member assembly, while the required majority was 97. "I am truly delighted at this overwhelming support for India in elections to Human Rights Council. It's a robust endorsement of our strong roots in democracy, pluralism and fundamental rights enshrined in our Constitution. We thank all UN Member States for giving us a strong mandate," India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti told PTI. India's Permanent Mission to the UN tweeted "India gets re-elected to the @UN_HRC (2022-24) for a 6th term with overwhelming majority. Heartfelt gratitude to the @UN membership for reposing its faith in India." India 🇮🇳 elected for the record 6th term of the Human Rights Council by an overwhelming endorsement of UN Member States. We stand committed to work together with fellow members of the Council towards the goal of global promotion and protection of human rights. (1/3) pic.twitter.com/DtLocUCOxo — India at UN, Geneva (@IndiaUNGeneva) October 14, 2021 × India's current term was set to end on December 31 2021. For election for the term 2022-2024, there were five vacant seats in the Asia-Pacific States category - India, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Qatar and United Arab Emirates. The 193-member General Assembly elected by secret ballot Argentina, Benin, Cameroon, Eritrea, Finland, Gambia, Honduras, India, Kazakhstan, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Montenegro, Paraguay, Qatar, Somalia, UAE and the USA for the 2022-2024 term on the Council. India's mission congratulated other UN Member States for their election to the Human Rights Council, which consists of 47 Member States elected directly and individually by secret ballot by the majority of the members of the General Assembly. Also Read | Air India employees request cash and other benefits as Tata Group takes over The members of the Council shall serve for a period of three years and shall not be eligible for immediate re-election after two consecutive terms. The membership is based on equitable geographical distribution, and seats are distributed among regional groups Group of African States (13), Group of Asia-Pacific States (13), Group of Eastern European States (6), Group of Latin American and Caribbean States (8) and Group of Western European and other States (7). As of January 2021, 119 of the 193 UN member States will have served as a member of the HRC. "This broad membership not only reflects the UN's diversity, but it gives the Council legitimacy when speaking out on human rights violations in all countries," the UN said. In 2018, the US under the Donald Trump administration had withdrawn from the UN Human Rights Council. US Ambassador at UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said Washington's election to the Council has "fulfilled President Biden's campaign pledge to rejoin the Human Rights Council" and the US will "work to ensure this body lives up to these principles." "Our initial efforts as full members in the Council will focus on what we can accomplish in situations of dire need, such as in Afghanistan, Burma, China, Ethiopia, Syria, and Yemen. More broadly, we will promote respect for fundamental freedoms and women's rights, and oppose religious intolerance, racial and ethnic injustices, and violence and discrimination against members of minority groups, including LGBTQI+ persons and persons with disabilities," Thomas-Greenfield said.

India re-elected to UN Human Rights Council for the sixth time with overwhelming majority

Madagascar prays for rain as U.N. warns of 'climate change famine'

A UN&nbsp;panel said it could not immediately rule on a complaint by Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg and others that state inaction on climate change violates children's rights, adding that they should have taken the case to national courts first.

The complaint was filed with the UN&nbsp;Committee on the Rights of the Child in 2019&nbsp;and the 18-member panel has been conducting hearings and deliberating since.

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The 15 activists, aged between eight and 17 at the time, had argued that France, Turkey, Brazil, Germany and Argentina had known about the risk of climate change for decades but failed to curb their carbon emissions.

"I have no doubt this judgment will haunt the committee in the future," said US&nbsp;petitioner Alexandria Villasenor said of Monday's judgment. "When the climate disasters are even more severe than they are now, the committee will severely regret not doing the right thing when they had the chance."

There was no immediate comment from Thunberg.

The case is one of a growing number of climate litigation cases that invoke human rights and is seen as setting an important precedent.

The committee, made up of 18 independent human rights experts, concluded that a "sufficient causal link" had been established between the significant harm allegedly suffered by the children and the acts or omissions of the five states.

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However, it accepted the arguments of the five countries that the children should have tried to bring cases to their national courts first.

"You were successful on some aspects but not on others," the committee told the youth activists in a letter, in which it saluted their "courage and determination".

"We hope that you will be empowered by the positive aspects of this decision, and that you will continue to act in your own countries and regions and internationally to fight for justice on climate change," it said.

&nbsp;National Courts

Lawyers for the children said that they would go to national courts though they said this was likely to be time-consuming and fruitless.

"In effect, the Committee instructed the youth to squander years waiting for inevitable dismissal," a joint statement from lawyers Hausfeld and Earthjustice issued late on Monday said.

One important detail of the ruling was that the committee found that it can deal with cases even if the harmful effects of one country's emissions are felt by children in another country.

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Margaretha Wewerinke, an international lawyer focused on environmental justice,said the case had "broken new ground in climate litigation and will no doubt inform future efforts to protect rights against climate change".

The activists come from 12 countries: Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, India, Palau, Marshall Islands, Nigeria, South Africa, Sweden, Tunisia and the United States.

The committee monitors adherence of state parties to a 1989 convention which declared the unassailable civil, economic, political and cultural rights of children. The convention has 196 state parties. 
A smaller number of countries, 48, have agreed to a protocol allowing children to seek redress under the convention and these include the five countries that are respondents in the case.

A UN panel said it could not immediately rule on a complaint by Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg and others that state inaction on climate change violates children's rights, adding that they should have taken the case to national courts first.

A UN panel said it could not immediately rule on a complaint by Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg and others that state inaction on climate change violates children's rights, adding that they should have taken the case to national courts first. The complaint was filed with the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child in 2019 and the 18-member panel has been conducting hearings and deliberating since. Also Read | Climate change set to worsen resource degradation, conflict, report says The 15 activists, aged between eight and 17 at the time, had argued that France, Turkey, Brazil, Germany and Argentina had known about the risk of climate change for decades but failed to curb their carbon emissions. "I have no doubt this judgment will haunt the committee in the future," said US petitioner Alexandria Villasenor said of Monday's judgment. "When the climate disasters are even more severe than they are now, the committee will severely regret not doing the right thing when they had the chance." There was no immediate comment from Thunberg. The case is one of a growing number of climate litigation cases that invoke human rights and is seen as setting an important precedent. The committee, made up of 18 independent human rights experts, concluded that a "sufficient causal link" had been established between the significant harm allegedly suffered by the children and the acts or omissions of the five states. Also Read | Johnson cautious over fulfilling UN climate fund pledges However, it accepted the arguments of the five countries that the children should have tried to bring cases to their national courts first. "You were successful on some aspects but not on others," the committee told the youth activists in a letter, in which it saluted their "courage and determination". "We hope that you will be empowered by the positive aspects of this decision, and that you will continue to act in your own countries and regions and internationally to fight for justice on climate change," it said. National Courts Lawyers for the children said that they would go to national courts though they said this was likely to be time-consuming and fruitless. "In effect, the Committee instructed the youth to squander years waiting for inevitable dismissal," a joint statement from lawyers Hausfeld and Earthjustice issued late on Monday said. One important detail of the ruling was that the committee found that it can deal with cases even if the harmful effects of one country's emissions are felt by children in another country. Also Read | As Taliban prepares to meet EU representatives, UN chief slams Taliban over 'broken promises' Margaretha Wewerinke, an international lawyer focused on environmental justice,said the case had "broken new ground in climate litigation and will no doubt inform future efforts to protect rights against climate change". The activists come from 12 countries: Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, India, Palau, Marshall Islands, Nigeria, South Africa, Sweden, Tunisia and the United States. The committee monitors adherence of state parties to a 1989 convention which declared the unassailable civil, economic, political and cultural rights of children. The convention has 196 state parties. A smaller number of countries, 48, have agreed to a protocol allowing children to seek redress under the convention and these include the five countries that are respondents in the case.

UN panel says it can't rule on climate case brought by Thunberg

Thousands of Afghans have received humanitarian assistance within a week from September 27 to October 3 across the country, a UN agency has announced.

In the northeastern region, over 173,000 vulnerable people received food assistance in Baghlan, Badakhshan and Kunduz provinces, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Afghanistan said in a report.

"All health facilities are open in Kunduz and Baghlan provinces, but most are not fully functioning mainly due to shortage of medical supplies," Xinhua news agency quoted the report as saying.

In the north, a total of 54,796 vulnerable people received food for one month under a World Food Programme (WFP) seasonal livelihood support program in Jawzjan and Sari Pul provinces.

On September 30, 3,150 displaced people by conflict from Jawzjan, Samangan and Balkh provinces in July and August received food in Mazar-i-Sharif city, capital of Balkh.

A total of 232 vulnerable conflict-affected people in Kandahar, Helmand, Uruzgan, Nimroz and Zabul provinces were identified to receive food, relief items, water and hygiene supplies.

In the east, 3,548 people received emergency outpatient health services and 45 children were vaccinated for polio and measles.

In the central part of the country, some 2,030 people in the country's capital of Kabul received cash to return back to their places of origin.

Following the Taliban's takeover in August, the security situation remained generally calm across the country.

According to the OCHA, millions Afghans have been deeply affected by decades of conflict and displacement, chronic poverty, the Covid-19 pandemic, a severe drought, a failing health system and an economy on the brink of collapse.

Thousands of Afghans have received humanitarian assistance within a week from September 27 to October 3 across the country, a UN agency has announced. In the northeastern region, over 173,000 vulnerable people received food assistance in Baghlan, Badakhshan and Kunduz provinces, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Afghanistan said in a report.

Thousands of Afghans have received humanitarian assistance within a week from September 27 to October 3 across the country, a UN agency has announced. In the northeastern region, over 173,000 vulnerable people received food assistance in Baghlan, Badakhshan and Kunduz provinces, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Afghanistan said in a report. "All health facilities are open in Kunduz and Baghlan provinces, but most are not fully functioning mainly due to shortage of medical supplies," Xinhua news agency quoted the report as saying. In the north, a total of 54,796 vulnerable people received food for one month under a World Food Programme (WFP) seasonal livelihood support program in Jawzjan and Sari Pul provinces. On September 30, 3,150 displaced people by conflict from Jawzjan, Samangan and Balkh provinces in July and August received food in Mazar-i-Sharif city, capital of Balkh. A total of 232 vulnerable conflict-affected people in Kandahar, Helmand, Uruzgan, Nimroz and Zabul provinces were identified to receive food, relief items, water and hygiene supplies. In the east, 3,548 people received emergency outpatient health services and 45 children were vaccinated for polio and measles. In the central part of the country, some 2,030 people in the country's capital of Kabul received cash to return back to their places of origin. Following the Taliban's takeover in August, the security situation remained generally calm across the country. According to the OCHA, millions Afghans have been deeply affected by decades of conflict and displacement, chronic poverty, the Covid-19 pandemic, a severe drought, a failing health system and an economy on the brink of collapse.

Thousands of Afghans receive assistance: UN agency

The U.N. human rights office warns the deployment of troops and heavy weapons by the Myanmar military into China state, Central Sagaing, and Magway regions over the past few weeks may portend an imminent attack in these areas. Watch this report for more details.

1,200 people reportedly killed in Myanmar coup

Should clean environment be a human right? Well, a United Nations proposal says it should. But there are certain hurdles. Influential UN members are opposing this move. Watch this report to know more.

US, UK oppose UN proposal on making environment cleaner, says report

India has for several decades suffered immensely due to cross-border terrorism by terror groups using illicit weapons smuggled across the country's borders, New Delhi's envoy here has said, in a veiled reference to Pakistan, calling on the global community to unequivocally&nbsp;condemn state sponsorship to such militant outfits.

At the UN Security Council briefing on Small Arms and Light Weapons', India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti strongly underlined the need for the Council's focus on the transfer and trafficking of arms and weapons to terrorists and terrorist groups.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-army-vs-pakistan-army-how-two-military-forces-stack-up-against-each-other-417849">&nbsp;India Army vs Pakistan Army: How two military forces stack up against each other</a>

These weapons become more sinister and lethal in the hands of terrorists, who deliberately and indiscriminately use them to target innocent civilians, including women and children, he said.

For several decades, my country has suffered immensely due to cross-border terrorism and violence carried out by terrorist groups using these illicit weapons smuggled across our borders, including now through the use of drones,&nbsp;he said, in a veiled reference to Pakistan.

He said an increase in volume and the quality of the arsenal acquired by these terrorist organisations reminds us time and again that they cannot exist without the sponsorship or support of states. This aspect needs to be unequivocally condemned.

He also strongly urged the Council to have zero tolerance to terror actors, their possession and misuse of small arms and light weapons and their sponsors.

High Representative for Disarmament Affairs Izumi Nakamitsu told the Council that the misuse, illicit transfer and destabilising accumulation of small arms and light weapons, and their ammunition, remain a defining factor in undermining peace and security at the national, regional and global levels and have deeply aggravated situations for vulnerable populations already suffering from conflict.

"In contexts where United Nations peace operations have been mandated, illicit flows and easy availability of arms can exacerbate and sustain conflict dynamics; render arms embargoes ineffective; endanger peacekeepers, humanitarian workers and local populations; and complicate the implementation of peace agreements,&nbsp;she said.

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Nakamitsu added that small arms control measures, in particular, the development and implementation of border security and management strategies; efforts to detect and seize parts and components of weapons and ammunition; enhanced stockpile management; and the fight against the illicit manufacture of weapons are effective tools to disrupt the supply of illicit small arms and light weapons to terrorists.

Tirumurti stressed that the threat posed by the illicit transfer of small arms and light weapons is a matter of concern to the entire international community.

Noting that an arms embargo is an important tool at the disposal of the Council to curb the flow of such weapons to situations of armed conflict, he voiced concern that embargoes continue to be blatantly violated, as repeatedly reported by the various Panel of Experts supporting the subsidiary bodies of the Council.

It is important that all member states respect and strictly enforce existing arms embargoes and strengthen measures against the illicit transfer of arms, he said, as he underlined that it is a well-known fact that the flow of illicit arms and weapons to non-state actors and terrorists drives and sustains conflicts.

Tirumurti told the Council that the illicit possession and misuse of small arms and light weapons by non-state groups and terrorists is a violation of state sovereignty.

In post-conflict situations, we often witness that non-state actors continue to possess these weapons illegally, which hinders disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration efforts.

India called on the Security Council to ensure effective and timely action against such non-State actors to ensure that post-conflict peacebuilding efforts are not jeopardised while advancing security sector reforms, capacity building of law enforcement agencies, promotion of rule of law and good governance.

India attaches high importance to preventing, combating and eradicating the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons. We consider that the primary responsibility for addressing this problem lies with the Member States,&nbsp;he said.

India supports the redoubling of efforts at the national and global level to strengthen the implementation of the UN Program of Action and the International Tracing Instrument, including through national legislative measures and enforcement, export controls, information sharing and capacity building, he added.

Further, India said the safety of UN peacekeepers is directly affected by the steady and illicit supply of small arms and light weapons to the warring parties in armed conflict situations.

The Council is aware of numerous incidents in the past, where killings and attacks on peacekeepers have been perpetrated through the use of these weapons, Tirumurti said emphasising the need for the Council to address the danger posed by such illicit transfers to the safety and security of peacekeepers by giving due attention to this issue in the consideration of peacekeeping mandates.

UN Peacekeeping Missions could support host countries in addressing the issue of illicit transfer of small arms and light weapons through strengthening the capacities of the law enforcement and security agencies in safe handling, upkeep and stockpile management of arms and weapons, including those recovered from non-state actors,&nbsp;he said.

India welcomed Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's recommendation to establish a dedicated component or a unit within peacekeeping Missions to handle such assistance.

Recalling that India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, in his address to the Security Council earlier this year, had presented an eight-point action plan to counter-terrorism, Tirumurti said two points are directly relevant to the discussion &nbsp;the need to address the linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime and combating terrorist financing.

India has for several decades suffered immensely due to cross-border terrorism by terror groups using illicit weapons smuggled across the country's borders, New Delhi's envoy here has said, in a veiled reference to Pakistan, calling on the global community to unequivocally condemn state sponsorship to such militant outfits.

India has for several decades suffered immensely due to cross-border terrorism by terror groups using illicit weapons smuggled across the country's borders, New Delhi's envoy here has said, in a veiled reference to Pakistan, calling on the global community to unequivocally condemn state sponsorship to such militant outfits. At the UN Security Council briefing on Small Arms and Light Weapons', India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti strongly underlined the need for the Council's focus on the transfer and trafficking of arms and weapons to terrorists and terrorist groups. Also Read | India Army vs Pakistan Army: How two military forces stack up against each other These weapons become more sinister and lethal in the hands of terrorists, who deliberately and indiscriminately use them to target innocent civilians, including women and children, he said. For several decades, my country has suffered immensely due to cross-border terrorism and violence carried out by terrorist groups using these illicit weapons smuggled across our borders, including now through the use of drones, he said, in a veiled reference to Pakistan. He said an increase in volume and the quality of the arsenal acquired by these terrorist organisations reminds us time and again that they cannot exist without the sponsorship or support of states. This aspect needs to be unequivocally condemned. He also strongly urged the Council to have zero tolerance to terror actors, their possession and misuse of small arms and light weapons and their sponsors. High Representative for Disarmament Affairs Izumi Nakamitsu told the Council that the misuse, illicit transfer and destabilising accumulation of small arms and light weapons, and their ammunition, remain a defining factor in undermining peace and security at the national, regional and global levels and have deeply aggravated situations for vulnerable populations already suffering from conflict. "In contexts where United Nations peace operations have been mandated, illicit flows and easy availability of arms can exacerbate and sustain conflict dynamics; render arms embargoes ineffective; endanger peacekeepers, humanitarian workers and local populations; and complicate the implementation of peace agreements, she said. Also Read | Pakistan talks about peace while Imran Khan glorifies Osama Bin Laden as a martyr: India at UN Nakamitsu added that small arms control measures, in particular, the development and implementation of border security and management strategies; efforts to detect and seize parts and components of weapons and ammunition; enhanced stockpile management; and the fight against the illicit manufacture of weapons are effective tools to disrupt the supply of illicit small arms and light weapons to terrorists. Tirumurti stressed that the threat posed by the illicit transfer of small arms and light weapons is a matter of concern to the entire international community. Noting that an arms embargo is an important tool at the disposal of the Council to curb the flow of such weapons to situations of armed conflict, he voiced concern that embargoes continue to be blatantly violated, as repeatedly reported by the various Panel of Experts supporting the subsidiary bodies of the Council. It is important that all member states respect and strictly enforce existing arms embargoes and strengthen measures against the illicit transfer of arms, he said, as he underlined that it is a well-known fact that the flow of illicit arms and weapons to non-state actors and terrorists drives and sustains conflicts. Tirumurti told the Council that the illicit possession and misuse of small arms and light weapons by non-state groups and terrorists is a violation of state sovereignty. In post-conflict situations, we often witness that non-state actors continue to possess these weapons illegally, which hinders disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration efforts. India called on the Security Council to ensure effective and timely action against such non-State actors to ensure that post-conflict peacebuilding efforts are not jeopardised while advancing security sector reforms, capacity building of law enforcement agencies, promotion of rule of law and good governance. India attaches high importance to preventing, combating and eradicating the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons. We consider that the primary responsibility for addressing this problem lies with the Member States, he said. India supports the redoubling of efforts at the national and global level to strengthen the implementation of the UN Program of Action and the International Tracing Instrument, including through national legislative measures and enforcement, export controls, information sharing and capacity building, he added. Further, India said the safety of UN peacekeepers is directly affected by the steady and illicit supply of small arms and light weapons to the warring parties in armed conflict situations. The Council is aware of numerous incidents in the past, where killings and attacks on peacekeepers have been perpetrated through the use of these weapons, Tirumurti said emphasising the need for the Council to address the danger posed by such illicit transfers to the safety and security of peacekeepers by giving due attention to this issue in the consideration of peacekeeping mandates. UN Peacekeeping Missions could support host countries in addressing the issue of illicit transfer of small arms and light weapons through strengthening the capacities of the law enforcement and security agencies in safe handling, upkeep and stockpile management of arms and weapons, including those recovered from non-state actors, he said. India welcomed Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's recommendation to establish a dedicated component or a unit within peacekeeping Missions to handle such assistance. Recalling that India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, in his address to the Security Council earlier this year, had presented an eight-point action plan to counter-terrorism, Tirumurti said two points are directly relevant to the discussion the need to address the linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime and combating terrorist financing.

India highlights cross-border terror, weapons smuggling at United Nations

The United Nations and World Health Organisation have come together for a collective goal, vaccine equity. The WHO had set an ambitious goal which is to get 40% of every country's population vaccinated by the end of this year.

United Nations, World Health Organisation come together for a collective goal

The United Nations voiced alarm Friday at Myanmar's military junta deploying heavy weapons and troops to particular townships, fearing for the civilian population.

The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said the deployment of two high-ranking commanders represented a worrying escalation in the situation.

"Alarming reports indicate that there has been substantial deployment of heavy weapons and troops by the Myanmar military, the Tatmadaw, over the past few weeks," spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani told reporters in Geneva.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-economic-crisis-fuels-underground-currency-trading-417333">Myanmar's economic crisis fuels underground currency trading</a>

The deployments have been to Kanpetlet and Hakha townships in Chin State; Kani and Monywa townships in the central Sagaing region; and Gangaw township in Magway region, she said.

The internet has also been shut down, she added.

Myanmar has been mired in crisis since the army ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government in February, sparking mass protests and a bloody crackdown.

"We are gravely concerned by these developments, particularly given the intensifying attacks by the military that we have documented over the past month in these areas," said Shamdasani.

The attacks include "killings, raiding of villages and burning of houses, apparently to seek out armed resistance elements and as reprisals against villages perceived to be sympathetic to people's defence forces or ethnic armed groups".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-junta-powerless-as-currency-drops-60-in-four-weeks-economy-tanks-416755">Myanmar's junta powerless as currency drops 60% in four weeks, economy tanks</a>

"There have been reports of mass arrests, as well as torture and summary executions. Military 'clearance operations' have involved the use of artillery barrages and airstrikes against villages," said Shamdasani.

"The internet shutdowns have also meant that millions of people have lost the means to communicate and obtain information necessary for their survival, and cast an information blackout over potential abuses."

She called on states with influence over the junta to urge them to "de-escalate the situation, protect civilian lives and property, and ensure access to humanitarian aid for those who need it".

The United Nations voiced alarm Friday at Myanmar's military junta deploying heavy weapons and troops to particular townships, fearing for the civilian population.

The United Nations voiced alarm Friday at Myanmar's military junta deploying heavy weapons and troops to particular townships, fearing for the civilian population. The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said the deployment of two high-ranking commanders represented a worrying escalation in the situation. "Alarming reports indicate that there has been substantial deployment of heavy weapons and troops by the Myanmar military, the Tatmadaw, over the past few weeks," spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani told reporters in Geneva. Also Read | Myanmar's economic crisis fuels underground currency trading The deployments have been to Kanpetlet and Hakha townships in Chin State; Kani and Monywa townships in the central Sagaing region; and Gangaw township in Magway region, she said. The internet has also been shut down, she added. Myanmar has been mired in crisis since the army ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government in February, sparking mass protests and a bloody crackdown. "We are gravely concerned by these developments, particularly given the intensifying attacks by the military that we have documented over the past month in these areas," said Shamdasani. The attacks include "killings, raiding of villages and burning of houses, apparently to seek out armed resistance elements and as reprisals against villages perceived to be sympathetic to people's defence forces or ethnic armed groups". Also Read | Myanmar's junta powerless as currency drops 60% in four weeks, economy tanks "There have been reports of mass arrests, as well as torture and summary executions. Military 'clearance operations' have involved the use of artillery barrages and airstrikes against villages," said Shamdasani. "The internet shutdowns have also meant that millions of people have lost the means to communicate and obtain information necessary for their survival, and cast an information blackout over potential abuses." She called on states with influence over the junta to urge them to "de-escalate the situation, protect civilian lives and property, and ensure access to humanitarian aid for those who need it".

UN alarmed by Myanmar military moves

The United Nations human rights council has voted to appoint a special rapporteur on Afghanistan. This decision was taken to probe allegations of violations by the Taliban and other actors in power. The vote concluded with 28 in favour and five against. China, Pakistan and Russia voted against the probe into Taliban leaders.

United Nations human rights council votes to appoint special rapporteur on Afghanistan

UN humanitarian agencies and their partners on Wednesday urged countries to honour their pledges to Afghanistan, as they rush to scale-up delivery of lifesaving aid ahead of the coming winter season there.

Afghanistan was already among the world`s worst humanitarian situations prior to the Taliban assuming power in August, which has deepened existing needs and vulnerabilities.

A USD 606 million flash appeal launched in September to assist more than 10 million vulnerable Afghans is less than 40 per cent funded.

Humanitarians warned that donor pledges and commitments "must urgently be turned into reality" before it is too late.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/women-teachers-face-uncertain-future-after-taliban-bans-them-from-schools-417874">Women teachers face uncertain future after Taliban bans them from schools</a>

"Afghanistan is on borrowed time," said Mary-Ellen McGroarty, Representative of the World Food Progamme (WFP) in the country.

"I have never before seen a crisis unfold at this pace and scale.

" Afghanistan has suffered decades of conflict and displacement, as well as chronic poverty, severe drought, and now the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nearly half the population, more than 18 million people, require aid assistance to survive, while conflict and insecurity have displaced more than 3.5 million, with nearly 700,000 uprooted this year alone.

The country`s health system is failing and the economy is on the brink of collapse.

The rights of women and girls, and minorities, are also seriously under threat.

"We are witnessing a new depth of destitution as the drought and the economic crisis drives up food and fuel prices," said McGroarty, stressing that families desperately need support as the colder weather approaches.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-say-islamic-state-cell-destroyed-after-mosque-attack-418068">Taliban say Islamic State cell destroyed after mosque attack</a>

UN agencies and partner organizations are responding to the crisis despite financial shortfalls, logistical challenges and what they described as "an increasingly complex geo-political situation." Ramiz Alakbarov, the top UN humanitarian official in Afghanistan, said the country`s people "must not pay the price of collective failures", and deserve to live in peace and dignity.

"We will spare no effort to respond to the needs of all women, men, and children in Afghanistan," he said.

"We will continue to advocate for the rights of women and girls, and of minority groups, as well as the rights of all to employment, food, healthcare, education, and safety," he added.&nbsp;

UN humanitarian agencies and their partners on Wednesday urged countries to honour their pledges to Afghanistan, as they rush to scale-up delivery of lifesaving aid ahead of the coming winter season there.

UN humanitarian agencies and their partners on Wednesday urged countries to honour their pledges to Afghanistan, as they rush to scale-up delivery of lifesaving aid ahead of the coming winter season there. Afghanistan was already among the world`s worst humanitarian situations prior to the Taliban assuming power in August, which has deepened existing needs and vulnerabilities. A USD 606 million flash appeal launched in September to assist more than 10 million vulnerable Afghans is less than 40 per cent funded. Humanitarians warned that donor pledges and commitments "must urgently be turned into reality" before it is too late. Also Read | Women teachers face uncertain future after Taliban bans them from schools "Afghanistan is on borrowed time," said Mary-Ellen McGroarty, Representative of the World Food Progamme (WFP) in the country. "I have never before seen a crisis unfold at this pace and scale. " Afghanistan has suffered decades of conflict and displacement, as well as chronic poverty, severe drought, and now the COVID-19 pandemic. Nearly half the population, more than 18 million people, require aid assistance to survive, while conflict and insecurity have displaced more than 3.5 million, with nearly 700,000 uprooted this year alone. The country`s health system is failing and the economy is on the brink of collapse. The rights of women and girls, and minorities, are also seriously under threat. "We are witnessing a new depth of destitution as the drought and the economic crisis drives up food and fuel prices," said McGroarty, stressing that families desperately need support as the colder weather approaches. Also Read | Taliban say Islamic State cell destroyed after mosque attack UN agencies and partner organizations are responding to the crisis despite financial shortfalls, logistical challenges and what they described as "an increasingly complex geo-political situation." Ramiz Alakbarov, the top UN humanitarian official in Afghanistan, said the country`s people "must not pay the price of collective failures", and deserve to live in peace and dignity. "We will spare no effort to respond to the needs of all women, men, and children in Afghanistan," he said. "We will continue to advocate for the rights of women and girls, and of minority groups, as well as the rights of all to employment, food, healthcare, education, and safety," he added.

Afghanistan: UN humanitarian agencies call for greater support as winter approaches

Billions are at risk of water scarcity after lack of water resource management in Asia, Africa. Over 5 billion may face drinking water shortage by 2050.

Billions are at risk of water scarcity, says UN

The Taliban have been desperate to get international recognition as the official government of Afghanistan. America and the United Nations have allowed limited humanitarian assistance into the country. WION tells you more.

US and UN allow limited humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan

UN wants to declare access to a safe environment a human right, but US, UK are opposing the move. Joe Biden had made tall promises on climate, Boris Johnson wanted to help countries at the forefront of the climate crisis. What happened? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: UN proposes to make safe environment a human right

Britain and the United States are among a few countries withholding support for a proposal brought at the United Nations that would recognise access to a safe and healthy environment as a human right.

UN seeks to declare clean environment a human right

A United Nations (UN) agency report has warned that more than five billion people globally are expected to face a shortage of water by 2050.

UN: Over 5 billion may face drinking water shortage by 2050

More than five billion people globally are expected to face a shortage of water by 2050, a United Nations (UN) agency report has warned.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO), on Tuesday, said that climate change increases the global risk of water-related hazards like floods and droughts, and the number of people affected by water scarcity is also expected to soar.

"According to figures cited in the report, 3.6 billion people had inadequate access to water at least one month per year in 2018. By 2050, this is expected to rise to more than five billion," the report titled "The State of Climate Services 2021: Water" said.

It further highlighted the need for urgent action to improve cooperative water management, embrace integrated water and climate policies and scale up investment in this precious commodity which underpins all the international goals on sustainable development, climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction.

"Increasing temperatures are resulting in global and regional precipitation changes, leading to shifts in rainfall patterns and agricultural seasons, with a major impact on food security and human health and well-being," said World Meteorological Organization Secretary-General Prof. Petteri Taalas.

In the past 20 years, terrestrial water storage - the summation of all water on the land surface and in the subsurface, including soil moisture, snow and ice - has dropped at a rate of 1cm per year.

According to the report, the biggest losses are occurring in Antarctica and Greenland, but many highly populated lower latitude locations are experiencing significant water losses in areas that are traditionally providing water supply, with major ramifications for water security.

The situation is worsening by the fact that only 0.5 per cent of water on Earth is useable and available freshwater. Water-related hazards have increased in frequency over the past 20 years.

Since 2000, flood-related disasters have risen by 134 per cent compared with the two previous decades.

Most of the flood-related deaths and economic losses were recorded in Asia, where end-to-end warning systems for riverine floods require strengthening.

The number and duration of droughts also increased by 29 per cent over this same period. Most drought-related deaths occurred in Africa, indicating a need for stronger end-to-end warning systems for drought in that region, the report added.

More than five billion people globally are expected to face a shortage of water by 2050, a United Nations (UN) agency report has warned. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO), on Tuesday, said that climate change increases the global risk of water-related hazards like floods and droughts, and the number of people affected by water scarcity is also expected to soar.

More than five billion people globally are expected to face a shortage of water by 2050, a United Nations (UN) agency report has warned. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO), on Tuesday, said that climate change increases the global risk of water-related hazards like floods and droughts, and the number of people affected by water scarcity is also expected to soar. "According to figures cited in the report, 3.6 billion people had inadequate access to water at least one month per year in 2018. By 2050, this is expected to rise to more than five billion," the report titled "The State of Climate Services 2021: Water" said. It further highlighted the need for urgent action to improve cooperative water management, embrace integrated water and climate policies and scale up investment in this precious commodity which underpins all the international goals on sustainable development, climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction. "Increasing temperatures are resulting in global and regional precipitation changes, leading to shifts in rainfall patterns and agricultural seasons, with a major impact on food security and human health and well-being," said World Meteorological Organization Secretary-General Prof. Petteri Taalas. In the past 20 years, terrestrial water storage - the summation of all water on the land surface and in the subsurface, including soil moisture, snow and ice - has dropped at a rate of 1cm per year. According to the report, the biggest losses are occurring in Antarctica and Greenland, but many highly populated lower latitude locations are experiencing significant water losses in areas that are traditionally providing water supply, with major ramifications for water security. The situation is worsening by the fact that only 0.5 per cent of water on Earth is useable and available freshwater. Water-related hazards have increased in frequency over the past 20 years. Since 2000, flood-related disasters have risen by 134 per cent compared with the two previous decades. Most of the flood-related deaths and economic losses were recorded in Asia, where end-to-end warning systems for riverine floods require strengthening. The number and duration of droughts also increased by 29 per cent over this same period. Most drought-related deaths occurred in Africa, indicating a need for stronger end-to-end warning systems for drought in that region, the report added.

5 billion people could face difficulty accessing water in 2050: UN

More than five billion people could struggle to access water by 2050. This is a stark warning by the UN's World Meteorological Organization as it urges leaders to take up the initiative at the COP26 summit.

Five billion could struggle to access water in 2050: UN

An Egyptian peacekeeper was killed and four colleagues were seriously injured in improvised explosive attacks on their convoy in Mali's volatile north on Saturday, the United Nations said.

Confirming the toll, a spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General said Antonio Guterres strongly condemned the attacks, which happened near Tessalit, close to the Algerian border.

Guterres said attacks could constitute war crimes, and called on Malian authorities "to spare no effort" in finding those responsible.

"This incident is a sad reminder of the permanent danger hanging over our peacekeepers and of the sacrifices made for peace in Mali," El-Ghassim Wane, who heads the UN mission in Mali (MINUSMA), said in an earlier statement.

Already battling a jihadist insurgency, Mali slid into political turmoil when a military coup in August 2020 installed an interim civilian government only for it to be overthrown in a second putsch less than a year later. &nbsp;

Deployed in Mali since 2013, MINUSMA is currently the deadliest United Nations peace mission in the world, with 145 killed in hostile acts recorded as of August 31, according to UN statistics.

The current force includes more than 12,000 soldiers.

In April, four Chadian peacekeepers from MINUSMA were killed in a jihadist attack on their camp in Aguelhok, also in northeastern Mali.&nbsp;

The latest violence comes amid uncertainty over the future of foreign military forces in the country.

Controversy over Russian firm

Mali's new military-dominated government took delivery Saturday of four Russian military helicopters as it considered hiring mercenaries from a Russian private security firm.

The Wagner group is considered close to Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Western countries accuse it of acting on behalf of Moscow.

European countries warned Bamako against becoming involved with the group on the sidelines of last week's UN General Assembly.

The new regime is reportedly in the process of hiring 1,000 paramilitaries from Wagner, a move viewed with grave concern particularly by former colonial power France, which currently maintains a 5,000-strong counterterrorism mission in Mali.

It was French military intervention in 2013 that helped defeat a jihadist insurgency there.

But Paris is due to reduce the number of its troops in the Sahel to 2,500 or 3,000 by 2023.&nbsp;

It wants to reorganise its presence around a tighter unit centred on targeted strikes against jihadist leaders and on supporting local armies.

At the UN last month, Mali's Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga reacted to the decision by accusing France of abandoning his country. Bamako was justified in its desire to "seek other partners" to boost security, he added.

French President Emmanuel Macron denounced the comments as "inadmissible" in the same week another soldier died in Mali, the 52nd service member lost there since 2013.

An Egyptian peacekeeper was killed and four colleagues were seriously injured in improvised explosive attacks on their convoy in Mali's volatile north on Saturday, the United Nations said.

An Egyptian peacekeeper was killed and four colleagues were seriously injured in improvised explosive attacks on their convoy in Mali's volatile north on Saturday, the United Nations said. Confirming the toll, a spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General said Antonio Guterres strongly condemned the attacks, which happened near Tessalit, close to the Algerian border. Guterres said attacks could constitute war crimes, and called on Malian authorities "to spare no effort" in finding those responsible. "This incident is a sad reminder of the permanent danger hanging over our peacekeepers and of the sacrifices made for peace in Mali," El-Ghassim Wane, who heads the UN mission in Mali (MINUSMA), said in an earlier statement. Already battling a jihadist insurgency, Mali slid into political turmoil when a military coup in August 2020 installed an interim civilian government only for it to be overthrown in a second putsch less than a year later. Deployed in Mali since 2013, MINUSMA is currently the deadliest United Nations peace mission in the world, with 145 killed in hostile acts recorded as of August 31, according to UN statistics. The current force includes more than 12,000 soldiers. In April, four Chadian peacekeepers from MINUSMA were killed in a jihadist attack on their camp in Aguelhok, also in northeastern Mali. The latest violence comes amid uncertainty over the future of foreign military forces in the country. Controversy over Russian firm Mali's new military-dominated government took delivery Saturday of four Russian military helicopters as it considered hiring mercenaries from a Russian private security firm. The Wagner group is considered close to Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Western countries accuse it of acting on behalf of Moscow. European countries warned Bamako against becoming involved with the group on the sidelines of last week's UN General Assembly. The new regime is reportedly in the process of hiring 1,000 paramilitaries from Wagner, a move viewed with grave concern particularly by former colonial power France, which currently maintains a 5,000-strong counterterrorism mission in Mali. It was French military intervention in 2013 that helped defeat a jihadist insurgency there. But Paris is due to reduce the number of its troops in the Sahel to 2,500 or 3,000 by 2023. It wants to reorganise its presence around a tighter unit centred on targeted strikes against jihadist leaders and on supporting local armies. At the UN last month, Mali's Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga reacted to the decision by accusing France of abandoning his country. Bamako was justified in its desire to "seek other partners" to boost security, he added. French President Emmanuel Macron denounced the comments as "inadmissible" in the same week another soldier died in Mali, the 52nd service member lost there since 2013.

UN peacekeeper killed in north Mali IED attack

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