The Pakistan government on Friday defended the ordinance promulgated to enable Indian national Kulbhushan Jadhav to file a review petition against his death sentence as a move to stop India from going to the UN against Islamabad.

Pak defends Kulbhushan Jadhav's review petition, says decision taken to prevent India approach UN

The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan terror group's leader Noor Wali Mehsud has been designated as a global terrorist by the UN for participating in the financing, planning and perpetrating acts on behalf of and in support of entities associated with al-Qaeda.

The UN Security Council's 1267 ISIL and Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee added Mehsud, 42, to the ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida Sanctions List on Thursday, subjecting the Pakistani national to an assets freeze, travel ban and arms embargo.

The Sanctions Committee said that Mehsud was listed for "participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, or perpetrating of acts or activities by, in conjunction with, under the name of, on behalf of, or in support of" entities associated with al-Qaeda.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/27-taliban-terrorists-killed-16-injured-in-afghanistan-313991">Also read:&nbsp;27 Taliban terrorists killed, 16 injured in Afghanistan</a>

In June 2018, Mehsud was named the leader of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), following the death of former TTP leader Maulana Fazlullah.

The TTP was blacklisted by the UN on July 29, 2011 for its association with al-Qaeda.

"Under Noor Wali's leadership, TTP has claimed responsibility for numerous deadly terrorist attacks across Pakistan, including an attack targeting Pakistani security forces in North Waziristan in July 2019 and a bomb attack against Pakistani soldiers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in August 2019," the Sanctions Committee said.

The group had claimed responsibility for an attempted bombing in Times Square on May 1, 2010, and in April 2010 it had launched a multi-pronged assault against the United States Consulate in Peshawar, killing at least six Pakistanis and wounding 20 others, the Committee added.

Pakistan on Friday welcomed the designation of Mehsud as a global terrorist.

"The sanctions are being implemented by Pakistan in compliance with the relevant UNSC resolutions and we hope that other countries will also follow suit," the Foreign Office said in a statement.

Pakistan will continue to pursue its policy of fighting against those involved in participating, financing, planning, facilitating and perpetrating terrorism, it said.

The US State Department's Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA) said in a tweet that it welcomes the addition of Mehsud by the UN to the ISIL and Al Qaida sanctions list.

"TTP is responsible for many deadly terrorist attacks in Pakistan. The United States domestically designated Noor Wali as a terrorist in September 2019," it said in the tweet.

Blacklisting by the Security Council entails that all states are required to freeze without delay the funds and other financial assets or economic resources of designated individuals and entities.

They are also required to prevent the entry into or transit through their territories by the designated individuals and prevent the direct or indirect supply, sale and transfer from their territories or by their nationals outside their territories, or using their flag vessels or aircraft, of arms and related materiel of all types, spare parts, and technical advice, assistance, or training related to military activities, to designated individuals and entities.

The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan terror group's leader Noor Wali Mehsud has been designated as a global terrorist by the UN for participating in the financing, planning and perpetrating acts on behalf of and in support of entities associated with al-Qaeda.

The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan terror group's leader Noor Wali Mehsud has been designated as a global terrorist by the UN for participating in the financing, planning and perpetrating acts on behalf of and in support of entities associated with al-Qaeda. The UN Security Council's 1267 ISIL and Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee added Mehsud, 42, to the ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida Sanctions List on Thursday, subjecting the Pakistani national to an assets freeze, travel ban and arms embargo. The Sanctions Committee said that Mehsud was listed for "participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, or perpetrating of acts or activities by, in conjunction with, under the name of, on behalf of, or in support of" entities associated with al-Qaeda. Also read: 27 Taliban terrorists killed, 16 injured in Afghanistan In June 2018, Mehsud was named the leader of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), following the death of former TTP leader Maulana Fazlullah. The TTP was blacklisted by the UN on July 29, 2011 for its association with al-Qaeda. "Under Noor Wali's leadership, TTP has claimed responsibility for numerous deadly terrorist attacks across Pakistan, including an attack targeting Pakistani security forces in North Waziristan in July 2019 and a bomb attack against Pakistani soldiers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in August 2019," the Sanctions Committee said. The group had claimed responsibility for an attempted bombing in Times Square on May 1, 2010, and in April 2010 it had launched a multi-pronged assault against the United States Consulate in Peshawar, killing at least six Pakistanis and wounding 20 others, the Committee added. Pakistan on Friday welcomed the designation of Mehsud as a global terrorist. "The sanctions are being implemented by Pakistan in compliance with the relevant UNSC resolutions and we hope that other countries will also follow suit," the Foreign Office said in a statement. Pakistan will continue to pursue its policy of fighting against those involved in participating, financing, planning, facilitating and perpetrating terrorism, it said. The US State Department's Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA) said in a tweet that it welcomes the addition of Mehsud by the UN to the ISIL and Al Qaida sanctions list. "TTP is responsible for many deadly terrorist attacks in Pakistan. The United States domestically designated Noor Wali as a terrorist in September 2019," it said in the tweet. Blacklisting by the Security Council entails that all states are required to freeze without delay the funds and other financial assets or economic resources of designated individuals and entities. They are also required to prevent the entry into or transit through their territories by the designated individuals and prevent the direct or indirect supply, sale and transfer from their territories or by their nationals outside their territories, or using their flag vessels or aircraft, of arms and related materiel of all types, spare parts, and technical advice, assistance, or training related to military activities, to designated individuals and entities.

UN blacklists Pakistan Taliban terror group's leader

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a virtual keynote address at the valedictory session along with the PM of Norway Erna Solberg and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

PM Modi's keynote address at the UN ECOSOC segment

A UN report has highlighted that coronavirus pandemic has increased hunger and malnourishment around the world with more people being pushed into poverty

UN: COVID-19 to set world back by decades

Every death, in all cases, as a principle, needs to be fully investigated, said Stephane Dujarric, Spokesperson for United Nations Secretary-General, on Thoothukudi custodial death case in Tamil Nadu.

"I think every death, all these cases, as a principle, need to be fully investigated," Dujarric said during a weekly briefing on Saturday when asked to comment on the killing of a father and son in the Indian State of Tamil Nadu in police custody.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tuticorin-custodial-deaths-cbi-takes-over-probe-from-cb-cid-312542">Also read|&nbsp;Tuticorin custodial deaths: CBI takes over probe from CB-CID</a>

On June 19, Jayaraj (59) and his son J Benicks (31), were arrested and lodged in Kovilpatti sub-jail for keeping their shop open in Sathankulam main bazaar area during the lockdown. They were allegedly tortured by policemen, admitted to hospital and later succumbed to injuries.

Initially, the matter was being probed by the CB-CID but later taken over by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

On July 4, five police personnel accused in the case were transferred from Tuticorin jail to Madurai Central Jail.

The CBI has released the documents and confessions of the CB-CID inquiry into the case which has been presented to ADSP Shukla.

Every death, in all cases, as a principle, needs to be fully investigated, said Stephane Dujarric, Spokesperson for United Nations Secretary-General, on Thoothukudi custodial death case in Tamil Nadu.

Every death, in all cases, as a principle, needs to be fully investigated, said Stephane Dujarric, Spokesperson for United Nations Secretary-General, on Thoothukudi custodial death case in Tamil Nadu. "I think every death, all these cases, as a principle, need to be fully investigated," Dujarric said during a weekly briefing on Saturday when asked to comment on the killing of a father and son in the Indian State of Tamil Nadu in police custody. Also read| Tuticorin custodial deaths: CBI takes over probe from CB-CID On June 19, Jayaraj (59) and his son J Benicks (31), were arrested and lodged in Kovilpatti sub-jail for keeping their shop open in Sathankulam main bazaar area during the lockdown. They were allegedly tortured by policemen, admitted to hospital and later succumbed to injuries. Initially, the matter was being probed by the CB-CID but later taken over by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). On July 4, five police personnel accused in the case were transferred from Tuticorin jail to Madurai Central Jail. The CBI has released the documents and confessions of the CB-CID inquiry into the case which has been presented to ADSP Shukla.

Every death needs to be fully investigated: UN on Thoothukudi custodial death case

The UN Security Council on Saturday passed a resolution to restart cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria, but only after caving to Russian pressure to close one of two access points into the war-torn country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-court-sentences-prison-terms-for-ex-spies-for-sharing-intelligence-with-china-312806" hreflang="en">French court sentences prison terms for ex-spies for 'sharing intelligence' with China</a>

Following a week of division and seven ballots, the Council passed a proposal submitted by Germany and Belgium allowing the use of the Bab al-Hawa crossing point for one year.

The measure was approved by 12 of 15 members, with Russia, China and the Dominican Republic abstaining, diplomats said.

Authorization for the continued transport of aid to Syria, a system in place since 2014, expired Friday night after Moscow and Beijing used their veto power and the Council then rejected a counterproposal from Russia.

With the approval of the German-Belgian proposal on Saturday, the Bab al-Hawa crossing point on Syria's northwestern border with Turkey will be maintained for a year, until July 10, 2021.

This will allow badly needed humanitarian aid to continue flowing to several million Syrians living in the insurgent region of Idlib, which the Syrian regime does not control.

For weeks, Russia, Syria's most important ally, has been demanding an end to the use of the Bab al-Salam border crossing, which leads to the Aleppo region in northern Syria.&nbsp;

European countries and the US had wanted to maintain both crossing points.

"Russia controls this process," said Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group think tank.&nbsp;

"The drama and vetoes of the last week were a distraction as ultimately Russia was always going to force a settlement on roughly the terms we see today," he told AFP.

The outcome of Saturday's vote is a notable failure for the United States, whose ambassador had called the maintenance of two border crossings a "red line."

UN authorization allows the international body to distribute aid to displaced Syrians without Damascus's permission.

But Russia and China argue that the authorization violates Syria's sovereignty, and that aid can increasingly be channeled through Syrian authorities.

Western member states reject Russia's arguments, saying there is no credible alternative to the cross-border system and that Syrian bureaucracy and politics prevent an effective flow of aid in areas not controlled by the Syrian regime.

Susannah Sirkin, of Physicians for Human Rights, called the UN system "the most viable channel to deliver aid to millions of Syrians in need."

"Without it, civilians who rely on lifesaving assistance will be at the mercy of the Syrian government," which could block aid deliveries to areas under opposition control, she said.

The closure of the Bab al-Salam crossing was also a setback for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called in June for a one-year extension of the aid to include the two access points.

In January, Moscow succeeded in having the crossing points reduced from four to two and in limiting the authorization to six months instead of a year.

This week Russia and China exercised their veto rights as permanent members twice -- on Tuesday and Friday -- even as NGOs and Western countries accused them of politicizing a humanitarian issue.

Friday's vetoes by Moscow and Beijing marked the 16th for Russia and 10th for China on texts linked to Syria since the war began in 2011.

Dominican Ambassador Jose Singer said, "We are disappointed that once again, the Security Council has been unable to collectively and constructively address one of the greatest humanitarian tragedies of our time."

But the German ambassador, Heiko Maas, said it was "good news for millions of Syrian men, women and children that the Security Council was ultimately able to agree on our compromise proposal."

The UN Security Council on Saturday passed a resolution to restart cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria, but only after caving to Russian pressure to close one of two access points into the war-torn country.

The UN Security Council on Saturday passed a resolution to restart cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria, but only after caving to Russian pressure to close one of two access points into the war-torn country. Also read: French court sentences prison terms for ex-spies for 'sharing intelligence' with China Following a week of division and seven ballots, the Council passed a proposal submitted by Germany and Belgium allowing the use of the Bab al-Hawa crossing point for one year. The measure was approved by 12 of 15 members, with Russia, China and the Dominican Republic abstaining, diplomats said. Authorization for the continued transport of aid to Syria, a system in place since 2014, expired Friday night after Moscow and Beijing used their veto power and the Council then rejected a counterproposal from Russia. With the approval of the German-Belgian proposal on Saturday, the Bab al-Hawa crossing point on Syria's northwestern border with Turkey will be maintained for a year, until July 10, 2021. This will allow badly needed humanitarian aid to continue flowing to several million Syrians living in the insurgent region of Idlib, which the Syrian regime does not control. For weeks, Russia, Syria's most important ally, has been demanding an end to the use of the Bab al-Salam border crossing, which leads to the Aleppo region in northern Syria. European countries and the US had wanted to maintain both crossing points. "Russia controls this process," said Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group think tank. "The drama and vetoes of the last week were a distraction as ultimately Russia was always going to force a settlement on roughly the terms we see today," he told AFP. The outcome of Saturday's vote is a notable failure for the United States, whose ambassador had called the maintenance of two border crossings a "red line." UN authorization allows the international body to distribute aid to displaced Syrians without Damascus's permission. But Russia and China argue that the authorization violates Syria's sovereignty, and that aid can increasingly be channeled through Syrian authorities. Western member states reject Russia's arguments, saying there is no credible alternative to the cross-border system and that Syrian bureaucracy and politics prevent an effective flow of aid in areas not controlled by the Syrian regime. Susannah Sirkin, of Physicians for Human Rights, called the UN system "the most viable channel to deliver aid to millions of Syrians in need." "Without it, civilians who rely on lifesaving assistance will be at the mercy of the Syrian government," which could block aid deliveries to areas under opposition control, she said. The closure of the Bab al-Salam crossing was also a setback for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called in June for a one-year extension of the aid to include the two access points. In January, Moscow succeeded in having the crossing points reduced from four to two and in limiting the authorization to six months instead of a year. This week Russia and China exercised their veto rights as permanent members twice -- on Tuesday and Friday -- even as NGOs and Western countries accused them of politicizing a humanitarian issue. Friday's vetoes by Moscow and Beijing marked the 16th for Russia and 10th for China on texts linked to Syria since the war began in 2011. Dominican Ambassador Jose Singer said, "We are disappointed that once again, the Security Council has been unable to collectively and constructively address one of the greatest humanitarian tragedies of our time." But the German ambassador, Heiko Maas, said it was "good news for millions of Syrian men, women and children that the Security Council was ultimately able to agree on our compromise proposal."

UN restarts cross-border aid to Syria but shuts access point

The UN Security Council on Saturday passed a resolution to restart cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria, but only after caving to Russian pressure to close one of two access points into the war-torn country.

Following a week of division and seven ballots, the Council passed a proposal submitted by Germany and Belgium allowing the use of the Bab al-Hawa crossing point for one year.

The measure was approved by 12 of 15 members, with Russia, China and the Dominican Republic abstaining, diplomats said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-veto-syria-aid-via-turkey-for-second-time-this-week-312460">Also read:&nbsp;Russia, China veto Syria aid via Turkey for second time this week</a>

Authorization for the continued transport of aid to Syria, a system in place since 2014, expired Friday night after Moscow and Beijing used their veto power and the Council then rejected a counterproposal from Russia.

With the approval of the German-Belgian proposal on Saturday, the Bab al-Hawa crossing point on Syria's northwestern border with Turkey will be maintained for a year, until July 10, 2021.

This will allow badly needed humanitarian aid to continue flowing to several million Syrians living in the insurgent region of Idlib, which the Syrian regime does not control.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-veto-un-extension-of-aid-deliveries-to-syria-from-turkey-311484">Also read: Russia, China veto UN extension of aid deliveries to Syria from Turkey</a>

For weeks, Russia, Syria's most important ally, has been demanding an end to the use of the Bab al-Salam border crossing, which leads to the Aleppo region in northern Syria.&nbsp;

European countries and the US had wanted to maintain both crossing points.

"Russia controls this process," said Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group think tank.&nbsp;

"The drama and vetoes of the last week were a distraction as ultimately Russia was always going to force a settlement on roughly the terms we see today," he told AFP.

The outcome of Saturday's vote is a notable failure for the United States, whose ambassador had called the maintenance of two border crossings a "red line."

UN authorization allows the international body to distribute aid to displaced Syrians without Damascus's permission.

But Russia and China argue that the authorization violates Syria's sovereignty, and that aid can increasingly be channeled through Syrian authorities.

Lifesaving assistance 
Western member states reject Russia's arguments, saying there is no credible alternative to the cross-border system and that Syrian bureaucracy and politics prevent an effective flow of aid in areas not controlled by the Syrian regime.

Susannah Sirkin, of Physicians for Human Rights, called the UN system "the most viable channel to deliver aid to millions of Syrians in need."

"Without it, civilians who rely on lifesaving assistance will be at the mercy of the Syrian government," which could block aid deliveries to areas under opposition control, she said.

The closure of the Bab al-Salam crossing was also a setback for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called in June for a one-year extension of the aid to include the two access points.

In January, Moscow succeeded in having the crossing points reduced from four to two and in limiting the authorization to six months instead of a year.

This week Russia and China exercised their veto rights as permanent members twice -- on Tuesday and Friday -- even as NGOs and Western countries accused them of politicizing a humanitarian issue.

Friday's vetoes by Moscow and Beijing marked the 16th for Russia and 10th for China on texts linked to Syria since the war began in 2011.

The UN Security Council on Saturday passed a resolution to restart cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria, but only after caving to Russian pressure to close one of two access points into the war-torn country. Following a week of division and seven ballots, the Council passed a proposal submitted by Germany and Belgium allowing the use of the Bab al-Hawa crossing point for one year. The measure was approved by 12 of 15 members, with Russia, China and the Dominican Republic abstaining, diplomats said. Also read: Russia, China veto Syria aid via Turkey for second time this week Authorization for the continued transport of aid to Syria, a system in place since 2014, expired Friday night after Moscow and Beijing used their veto power and the Council then rejected a counterproposal from Russia. With the approval of the German-Belgian proposal on Saturday, the Bab al-Hawa crossing point on Syria's northwestern border with Turkey will be maintained for a year, until July 10, 2021. This will allow badly needed humanitarian aid to continue flowing to several million Syrians living in the insurgent region of Idlib, which the Syrian regime does not control. Also read: Russia, China veto UN extension of aid deliveries to Syria from Turkey For weeks, Russia, Syria's most important ally, has been demanding an end to the use of the Bab al-Salam border crossing, which leads to the Aleppo region in northern Syria. European countries and the US had wanted to maintain both crossing points. "Russia controls this process," said Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group think tank. "The drama and vetoes of the last week were a distraction as ultimately Russia was always going to force a settlement on roughly the terms we see today," he told AFP. The outcome of Saturday's vote is a notable failure for the United States, whose ambassador had called the maintenance of two border crossings a "red line." UN authorization allows the international body to distribute aid to displaced Syrians without Damascus's permission. But Russia and China argue that the authorization violates Syria's sovereignty, and that aid can increasingly be channeled through Syrian authorities. Lifesaving assistance Western member states reject Russia's arguments, saying there is no credible alternative to the cross-border system and that Syrian bureaucracy and politics prevent an effective flow of aid in areas not controlled by the Syrian regime. Susannah Sirkin, of Physicians for Human Rights, called the UN system "the most viable channel to deliver aid to millions of Syrians in need." "Without it, civilians who rely on lifesaving assistance will be at the mercy of the Syrian government," which could block aid deliveries to areas under opposition control, she said. The closure of the Bab al-Salam crossing was also a setback for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called in June for a one-year extension of the aid to include the two access points. In January, Moscow succeeded in having the crossing points reduced from four to two and in limiting the authorization to six months instead of a year. This week Russia and China exercised their veto rights as permanent members twice -- on Tuesday and Friday -- even as NGOs and Western countries accused them of politicizing a humanitarian issue. Friday's vetoes by Moscow and Beijing marked the 16th for Russia and 10th for China on texts linked to Syria since the war began in 2011.

An abandoned oil tanker lying off Yemen's coast with 1.1 million barrels of crude on board is deteriorating badly and could rupture at any time, with disastrous results for Red Sea marine life, UN and other experts warn.

The 45-year-old FSO Safer is anchored off the port of Hodeida under the control of the Iran-backed Huthi rebels, who have blocked United Nations efforts to send a team of experts to assess its condition.

Effectively a floating storage platform, it has had virtually no maintenance for five years since war broke out in the country where the Huthis have seized much of the north from the internationally recognised government.

The UN Security Council will hold a special meeting on July 15 to discuss the crisis, after water entered the vessel's engine room "which could have led to disaster", UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said on Friday.

He said prospects for a mission to the site have been revived, and that if an inspection team is allowed on board it will conduct light repairs and determine the next steps.

"We hope logistical arrangements will be quickly completed so this work can begin," he said.

The Yemen government, which appealed for the UN to take up the issue, has warned the Safer could explode and cause "the largest environmental disaster regionally and globally."

Top Huthi leader Mohamed Ali al-Huthi said on Twitter last month that the rebels want guarantees the vessel will be repaired and that the value of the oil on board is used to pay salaries of their employees.

The market value of the oil is now estimated at $40 million, half what it was before crude prices crashed, although experts say poor quality could push it even lower.

Like other economic and aid issues in Yemen, the plight of the tanker has become a bargaining chip, with the Huthis accused of using the threat of disaster to secure control of the value of the cargo.

Yemeni Prime Minister Maeen Abdulmalik Saeed on Thursday called on the international community to punish the Huthis for preventing a UN inspection, and said the value of the oil should be spent on health and humanitarian projects.

TICKING TIME BOMB

Apart from corrosion to the ageing vessel, essential work on reducing explosive gases in the storage tanks has been neglected for years. Experts said the latest problem emerged in May with a leak in a cooling pipe.

"The pipe burst, sending water into the engine room and creating a really dangerous situation," said Ian Ralby, CEO of IR Consilium, a global maritime consultancy which follows the vessel closely.

A team from Yemen's Safer Exploration and Production Operations, a public oil company partly controlled by the Huthis, sent divers in to fix the leak, narrowly avoiding the ship sinking, Ralby said.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned last week that if the tanker ruptures "it will devastate the Red Sea ecosystem" and disrupt key shipping lanes.

"The Huthis must grant access before this ticking time bomb explodes," he said.

Hodeida port is a lifeline for northern Yemen with 90 percent of all supplies coming through it. Any disruption would inflict further hardship on a country which is again on the brink of famine after long years of conflict.

If the vessel ruptures "you're going to have two catastrophes", said Lise Grande, the UN's humanitarian coordinator for Yemen.

"There's going to be an environmental catastrophe that's bigger than almost any other similar kind... and it's going to be a humanitarian catastrophe because that oil will make the port of Hodeida unusable," she told AFP.

Independent Yemen-based environmental group Holm Akhdar -- Arabic for "Green Dream" -- warned an oil spill could stretch out from the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and into the Arabian Sea.

The region's ecology would need over 30 years to recover from an oil spillage of that size, it said in a recent report, adding that about 115 of Yemen's Red Sea islands would lose their biodiversity and natural habitats.

In a country where the majority of people already relied on aid to survive, an estimated 126,000 fishermen, including 68,000 in Hodeida, would lose their only source of income.

IR Consilium said any salvage operation after an oil spill would be greatly hampered by the coronavirus crisis.

"In the midst of a global pandemic and on the edge of a conflict zone, the chances of an early and adequate response are vanishingly small," it said in a report.

Doug Weir, research and policy director at the UK-based Conflict and Environment Observatory, said that without an independent assessment "it is impossible to determine when an incident might occur, or its form and severity".

"However the risks are clear, and the longer the dispute continues the greater they become, and the more complex and expensive any salvage operation will be."

An abandoned oil tanker lying off Yemen's coast with 1.1 million barrels of crude on board is deteriorating badly and could rupture at any time, with disastrous results for Red Sea marine life, UN and other experts warn.

An abandoned oil tanker lying off Yemen's coast with 1.1 million barrels of crude on board is deteriorating badly and could rupture at any time, with disastrous results for Red Sea marine life, UN and other experts warn. The 45-year-old FSO Safer is anchored off the port of Hodeida under the control of the Iran-backed Huthi rebels, who have blocked United Nations efforts to send a team of experts to assess its condition. Effectively a floating storage platform, it has had virtually no maintenance for five years since war broke out in the country where the Huthis have seized much of the north from the internationally recognised government. The UN Security Council will hold a special meeting on July 15 to discuss the crisis, after water entered the vessel's engine room "which could have led to disaster", UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said on Friday. He said prospects for a mission to the site have been revived, and that if an inspection team is allowed on board it will conduct light repairs and determine the next steps. "We hope logistical arrangements will be quickly completed so this work can begin," he said. The Yemen government, which appealed for the UN to take up the issue, has warned the Safer could explode and cause "the largest environmental disaster regionally and globally." Top Huthi leader Mohamed Ali al-Huthi said on Twitter last month that the rebels want guarantees the vessel will be repaired and that the value of the oil on board is used to pay salaries of their employees. The market value of the oil is now estimated at $40 million, half what it was before crude prices crashed, although experts say poor quality could push it even lower. Like other economic and aid issues in Yemen, the plight of the tanker has become a bargaining chip, with the Huthis accused of using the threat of disaster to secure control of the value of the cargo. Yemeni Prime Minister Maeen Abdulmalik Saeed on Thursday called on the international community to punish the Huthis for preventing a UN inspection, and said the value of the oil should be spent on health and humanitarian projects. TICKING TIME BOMB Apart from corrosion to the ageing vessel, essential work on reducing explosive gases in the storage tanks has been neglected for years. Experts said the latest problem emerged in May with a leak in a cooling pipe. "The pipe burst, sending water into the engine room and creating a really dangerous situation," said Ian Ralby, CEO of IR Consilium, a global maritime consultancy which follows the vessel closely. A team from Yemen's Safer Exploration and Production Operations, a public oil company partly controlled by the Huthis, sent divers in to fix the leak, narrowly avoiding the ship sinking, Ralby said. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned last week that if the tanker ruptures "it will devastate the Red Sea ecosystem" and disrupt key shipping lanes. "The Huthis must grant access before this ticking time bomb explodes," he said. Hodeida port is a lifeline for northern Yemen with 90 percent of all supplies coming through it. Any disruption would inflict further hardship on a country which is again on the brink of famine after long years of conflict. If the vessel ruptures "you're going to have two catastrophes", said Lise Grande, the UN's humanitarian coordinator for Yemen. "There's going to be an environmental catastrophe that's bigger than almost any other similar kind... and it's going to be a humanitarian catastrophe because that oil will make the port of Hodeida unusable," she told AFP. Independent Yemen-based environmental group Holm Akhdar -- Arabic for "Green Dream" -- warned an oil spill could stretch out from the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and into the Arabian Sea. The region's ecology would need over 30 years to recover from an oil spillage of that size, it said in a recent report, adding that about 115 of Yemen's Red Sea islands would lose their biodiversity and natural habitats. In a country where the majority of people already relied on aid to survive, an estimated 126,000 fishermen, including 68,000 in Hodeida, would lose their only source of income. IR Consilium said any salvage operation after an oil spill would be greatly hampered by the coronavirus crisis. "In the midst of a global pandemic and on the edge of a conflict zone, the chances of an early and adequate response are vanishingly small," it said in a report. Doug Weir, research and policy director at the UK-based Conflict and Environment Observatory, said that without an independent assessment "it is impossible to determine when an incident might occur, or its form and severity". "However the risks are clear, and the longer the dispute continues the greater they become, and the more complex and expensive any salvage operation will be."

UN to hold crisis talks as decaying Yemen tanker risks disaster

India will be highlighting how it has been localising SDGs or Sustainable development goals at the upcoming Voluntary National Review (VNRs) at the United Nations. NITI Aayog's Vice Chairman Dr Rajiv Kumar will be representing India via virtual means on July 13&nbsp;around 8.45 pm (IST).

Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) are presented at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), held under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) every year in July.

During the address, India will showcase the shift to a “whole-of-society” approach by engaging sub-national and local governments, civil society organisations, local communities, people in vulnerable situations and the private sector. &nbsp;

The main message to be read out is, "Based on the evidence from the SDG India Index, which measures progress at the subnational level, the country has developed a robust SDG localization model centered on adoption, implementation and monitoring at the State and district levels."

It will also highlight India’s "commitment" to the SDGs which is "reflected in its convergence with the national development agenda as reflected in the motto of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikaas (Collective Efforts for Inclusive Growth)."

Five key areas which India will be focusing on at the world body will be Sashakt Bharat - Sabal Bharat (Empowered and Resilient India), Swachh Bharat - Swasth Bharat (Clean and Healthy India), Samagra Bharat - Saksham Bharat (Inclusive and Entrepreneurial India), Satat Bharat – Sanatan Bharat (Sustainable India) and Sampanna Bharat- Samriddh Bharat (Prosperous and Vibrant India).

The is the second VNR of India — the last being 2017 — and is part of follow-up and review to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with the Member States of UN conducting regular reviews of progress made towards its achievement. A total of 47 countries, including India, are presenting their VNR.

Sustainable Development Goals 2030 is a group of 17 goals set by United Nations General Assembly in 2015. The aim is to achieve them by 2030 and include goals such as achieving no poverty, zero hunger, quality education, and so on.

In the spirit of South-South Cooperation, for realizing the 2030 Agenda, India supports developing countries through the USD 150 million India-UN Development Partnership Fund.

India will be highlighting how it has been localising SDGs or Sustainable development goals at the upcoming Voluntary National Review (VNRs) at the United Nations.

India will be highlighting how it has been localising SDGs or Sustainable development goals at the upcoming Voluntary National Review (VNRs) at the United Nations. NITI Aayog's Vice Chairman Dr Rajiv Kumar will be representing India via virtual means on July 13 around 8.45 pm (IST). Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) are presented at the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), held under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) every year in July. During the address, India will showcase the shift to a “whole-of-society” approach by engaging sub-national and local governments, civil society organisations, local communities, people in vulnerable situations and the private sector. The main message to be read out is, "Based on the evidence from the SDG India Index, which measures progress at the subnational level, the country has developed a robust SDG localization model centered on adoption, implementation and monitoring at the State and district levels." It will also highlight India’s "commitment" to the SDGs which is "reflected in its convergence with the national development agenda as reflected in the motto of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikaas (Collective Efforts for Inclusive Growth)." Five key areas which India will be focusing on at the world body will be Sashakt Bharat - Sabal Bharat (Empowered and Resilient India), Swachh Bharat - Swasth Bharat (Clean and Healthy India), Samagra Bharat - Saksham Bharat (Inclusive and Entrepreneurial India), Satat Bharat – Sanatan Bharat (Sustainable India) and Sampanna Bharat- Samriddh Bharat (Prosperous and Vibrant India). The is the second VNR of India — the last being 2017 — and is part of follow-up and review to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with the Member States of UN conducting regular reviews of progress made towards its achievement. A total of 47 countries, including India, are presenting their VNR. Sustainable Development Goals 2030 is a group of 17 goals set by United Nations General Assembly in 2015. The aim is to achieve them by 2030 and include goals such as achieving no poverty, zero hunger, quality education, and so on. In the spirit of South-South Cooperation, for realizing the 2030 Agenda, India supports developing countries through the USD 150 million India-UN Development Partnership Fund.

At UN, India to highlight localisation of SDGs

Highlighting how Pakistan continues to support terror amid the COVID-19 pandemic, India has said that Pakistan must introspect upon why it is universally acknowledged the international epicenter of terrorism and the best safe haven for terrorists.

WION Dispatch: India lists out Pakistani role in terror attacks | Slams Pak at UN

According to a UN Report, India accounts for 45.8 million missing females. They are “women missing from the population due to the cumulative effect of sex selection” and this number has doubled in the last 50 years.

45.8 million ‘missing females’ in India: UNFPA Report

A UN-led report released on Thursday found that the world dumped a record 53.6 million tonnes of e-waste last year. Just 17.4% was recycled.

The Global E-waste Monitor 2020 report found that China, with 10.1 million tonnes, was the biggest contributor to e-waste, and the United States was second with 6.9 million tonnes. India, with 3.2 million tonnes, was third. Together these three countries accounted for nearly 38% of the world's e-waste last year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/harsh-facts-on-world-environment-day-climate-change-pollution-and-disasters-303703#:~:text=All%20of%20the%20human%20beings,of%20pollution%20and%20climate%20change.&amp;text=Experts%20say%20the%20rapid%20loss,is%20well%20with%20the%20environment.">Harsh facts on World Environment Day: Climate change, pollution and disasters</a>

"Continent wise, it is quite simple, if you go by the total wage and rated per continent, it is definitely Asia, simply because there is also the biggest world population." Ruediger Kuehr, Director of the United Nations University Uni-Vie Scycle and Co-author of the report of e-waste told Reuters.

While the overall damage done to the environment from all the un-recycled waste may be incalculable, the message from the report was conclusive: "The way in which we produce, consume, and dispose of e-waste is unsustainable."

Global warming is just one issue cited by the report as it noted 98 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents were released into the atmosphere as a result of inadequate recycling of "undocumented" refrigerators and air conditioners.

This year's coronavirus lockdowns have exacerbated the e-waste problem.

"This is not yet reflected in the global e-waste…but we can likely expect also an increase due to the COVID crisis because all of us are doing now home work or home schooling." Kuehr said.

What is happening in India and China is symptomatic of a wider problem in developing countries, where demand for goods like washing machines, refrigerators and air conditioners is rising rapidly.

"We found out that in 2019, we produced roughly 54 million tons of e-waste, which is more or less, the weight of 350 cruise ships like the size of Queen Mary 2. It is a huge amount." Antonis Mavropoulos, International Solid Waste Association (ISWS) President told Reuters.

Dinesh Raj Bandela, deputy programme manager at the Centre for Science and Environment, a New Delhi-based research and advocacy body, said India's focus on e-waste had to go beyond the collection, and manufacturers should be encouraged to produce consumer goods that last longer and are less toxic.

Although India is the only country in South Asia to draft legislation for e-waste, its collection remains rudimentary.

A UN-led report released on Thursday found that the world dumped a record 53.6 million tonnes of e-waste last year. Just 17.4% was recycled. The Global E-waste Monitor 2020 report found that China, with 10.

A UN-led report released on Thursday found that the world dumped a record 53.6 million tonnes of e-waste last year. Just 17.4% was recycled. The Global E-waste Monitor 2020 report found that China, with 10.1 million tonnes, was the biggest contributor to e-waste, and the United States was second with 6.9 million tonnes. India, with 3.2 million tonnes, was third. Together these three countries accounted for nearly 38% of the world's e-waste last year. Also read | Harsh facts on World Environment Day: Climate change, pollution and disasters "Continent wise, it is quite simple, if you go by the total wage and rated per continent, it is definitely Asia, simply because there is also the biggest world population." Ruediger Kuehr, Director of the United Nations University Uni-Vie Scycle and Co-author of the report of e-waste told Reuters. While the overall damage done to the environment from all the un-recycled waste may be incalculable, the message from the report was conclusive: "The way in which we produce, consume, and dispose of e-waste is unsustainable." Global warming is just one issue cited by the report as it noted 98 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents were released into the atmosphere as a result of inadequate recycling of "undocumented" refrigerators and air conditioners. This year's coronavirus lockdowns have exacerbated the e-waste problem. "This is not yet reflected in the global e-waste…but we can likely expect also an increase due to the COVID crisis because all of us are doing now home work or home schooling." Kuehr said. What is happening in India and China is symptomatic of a wider problem in developing countries, where demand for goods like washing machines, refrigerators and air conditioners is rising rapidly. "We found out that in 2019, we produced roughly 54 million tons of e-waste, which is more or less, the weight of 350 cruise ships like the size of Queen Mary 2. It is a huge amount." Antonis Mavropoulos, International Solid Waste Association (ISWS) President told Reuters. Dinesh Raj Bandela, deputy programme manager at the Centre for Science and Environment, a New Delhi-based research and advocacy body, said India's focus on e-waste had to go beyond the collection, and manufacturers should be encouraged to produce consumer goods that last longer and are less toxic. Although India is the only country in South Asia to draft legislation for e-waste, its collection remains rudimentary.

World's e-waste unsustainable, says UN report citing China, India and US

China must also allow the United Nations rights chief meaningful access to its western Xinjiang province, said the 27 nations -- including Britain, France, Germany and Japan.

'China must consider Hong Kong national security law', 27 nations to UN

lndra Mani Pandey has been appointed as the next Indian envoy to UN bodies and other international organisations in Geneva. A sensitive post, he will represent India in more than 25 important organisations of UN in Geneva including World Health Organisation and the United Nations Human Rights Council.

He will have an important task at hand given&nbsp;calls are growing for reforms at the World Health Organisation due to its failure to deal with the COVID pandemic. India was appointed as the chair of the executive committed of the WHO this year at the World Health Assembly earlier this year. New Delhi was among more than 60 countries to&nbsp;back a resolution that called for finding the source of COVID crisis.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/europes-world-view-german-eu-envoys-call-for-more-multilateralism-amid-coronavirus-crisis-309945" hreflang="en">Europe's world view: German, EU envoys call for more multilateralism amid coronavirus crisis</a>

Pandey will also represent India at International Labour Organisation, Universal Postal Union, one of the oldest arms of UN that even predates UN, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), World Intellectual Property Organisation, International Parliamentary Union,&nbsp;United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

Pandey, an&nbsp;Arabic speaker has served in Cairo, Syria in initial days and was later the first Secretary in Islamabad, Kabul and in Geneva at the Mission to Conference on Disarmament. He has also served as India's consul general in&nbsp;Guangzhou, Deputy chief of mission in Paris DCM Paris, Ambassador to Muscat.&nbsp;His last posting was as AS in the D &amp; ISA Division.

The previous envoy to these UN bodies in Geneva was&nbsp;Rajiv K&nbsp;Chander who&nbsp;completed his three-year team. Under his leadership, India was able to successfully thwart Pakistan's&nbsp;attempt to rake Kashmir at Human Rights Council after the abrogation of Article 370 that removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019. Pakistani FM had himself reached to UNHRC calling for a special session, something that did not get much of a support.

lndra Mani Pandey has been appointed as the next Indian envoy to UN bodies and other international organisations in Geneva. A sensitive post, he will represent India in more than 25 important organisations of UN in Geneva including World Health Organisation and the United Nations Human Rights Council.

lndra Mani Pandey has been appointed as the next Indian envoy to UN bodies and other international organisations in Geneva. A sensitive post, he will represent India in more than 25 important organisations of UN in Geneva including World Health Organisation and the United Nations Human Rights Council. He will have an important task at hand given calls are growing for reforms at the World Health Organisation due to its failure to deal with the COVID pandemic. India was appointed as the chair of the executive committed of the WHO this year at the World Health Assembly earlier this year. New Delhi was among more than 60 countries to back a resolution that called for finding the source of COVID crisis. Also read: Europe's world view: German, EU envoys call for more multilateralism amid coronavirus crisis Pandey will also represent India at International Labour Organisation, Universal Postal Union, one of the oldest arms of UN that even predates UN, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), World Intellectual Property Organisation, International Parliamentary Union, United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Pandey, an Arabic speaker has served in Cairo, Syria in initial days and was later the first Secretary in Islamabad, Kabul and in Geneva at the Mission to Conference on Disarmament. He has also served as India's consul general in Guangzhou, Deputy chief of mission in Paris DCM Paris, Ambassador to Muscat. His last posting was as AS in the D & ISA Division. The previous envoy to these UN bodies in Geneva was Rajiv K Chander who completed his three-year team. Under his leadership, India was able to successfully thwart Pakistan's attempt to rake Kashmir at Human Rights Council after the abrogation of Article 370 that removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019. Pakistani FM had himself reached to UNHRC calling for a special session, something that did not get much of a support.

Amid focus on WHO, India appoints new envoy to United Nations bodies in Geneva

The United Nations raised $7.7 billion in humanitarian aid on Tuesday for Syria, where nine years of war have displaced millions in a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by soaring food prices and the coronavirus crisis.&nbsp;

While less than the almost $10 billion sought by U.N. agencies, the pledges were higher than expected, given the economic shock of COVID-19 on many governments and shortfalls in other aid appeals, notably for Yemen this month.

"We recognise that the circumstances are very unusual, it is a difficult moment in every country to find the resources necessary to relieve the suffering of the Syrian people," U.N. aid chief Mark Lowcock said after the virtual donor conference by some 60 governments and non-official agencies.

Pledges came from countries including Qatar, which has promised $100 million, and Germany, which offered 1.58 billion euros ($1.78 billion) in what Berlin said was the single biggest country donation.

"POLITICAL SOLUTION"

The United Nations, which last year raised $7 billion, said this year it needs $3.8 billion for aid inside Syria where 11 million people require help and protection, with more than 9.3 million of them lacking adequate food.

Another $6.04 billion is sought to help the 6.6 million Syrians who have fled, in what is the world's biggest refugee crisis.

U.N. officials will still press for more pledges throughout the year, and have time as the money is split between 2020 and 2021.

Adding to Syrians' hardship, an economic slump and COVID-19 lockdown have pushed food prices more than 200% higher in less than a year, according to the World Food Programme (WFP).

According to a tally by Johns Hopkins University, there have only been 269 confirmed coronavirus cases, but the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned the real situation is probably far worse and the number of infections likely to accelerate.

Rebuilding destroyed cities will take billions of dollars more and cannot start until powers involved back a peaceful transition away from the rule of President Bashar al-Assad, EU governments say.

"We finally need a political solution to the conflict," said German Development Minister Gerd Muller.

The United Nations raised $7.7 billion in humanitarian aid on Tuesday for Syria, where nine years of war have displaced millions in a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by soaring food prices and the coronavirus crisis.

The United Nations raised $7.7 billion in humanitarian aid on Tuesday for Syria, where nine years of war have displaced millions in a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by soaring food prices and the coronavirus crisis. While less than the almost $10 billion sought by U.N. agencies, the pledges were higher than expected, given the economic shock of COVID-19 on many governments and shortfalls in other aid appeals, notably for Yemen this month. "We recognise that the circumstances are very unusual, it is a difficult moment in every country to find the resources necessary to relieve the suffering of the Syrian people," U.N. aid chief Mark Lowcock said after the virtual donor conference by some 60 governments and non-official agencies. Pledges came from countries including Qatar, which has promised $100 million, and Germany, which offered 1.58 billion euros ($1.78 billion) in what Berlin said was the single biggest country donation. "POLITICAL SOLUTION" The United Nations, which last year raised $7 billion, said this year it needs $3.8 billion for aid inside Syria where 11 million people require help and protection, with more than 9.3 million of them lacking adequate food. Another $6.04 billion is sought to help the 6.6 million Syrians who have fled, in what is the world's biggest refugee crisis. U.N. officials will still press for more pledges throughout the year, and have time as the money is split between 2020 and 2021. Adding to Syrians' hardship, an economic slump and COVID-19 lockdown have pushed food prices more than 200% higher in less than a year, according to the World Food Programme (WFP). According to a tally by Johns Hopkins University, there have only been 269 confirmed coronavirus cases, but the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned the real situation is probably far worse and the number of infections likely to accelerate. Rebuilding destroyed cities will take billions of dollars more and cannot start until powers involved back a peaceful transition away from the rule of President Bashar al-Assad, EU governments say. "We finally need a political solution to the conflict," said German Development Minister Gerd Muller.

UN raises $7.7 billion for Syrians beset by war and COVID-19

UN's experts have slammed China over Hong Kong. Urging Beijing to withdraw the draft National Security Law. But it will be too late before the UN stops China.

The controversial bill has moved a step closer to take its final form. Hong Kong's freedom is nearing its end. China's top law-making committee discussed the draft law yesterday in Beijing.

It could be put to vote and adopted as law in the next few days. Chinese parliament had endorsed the legislation last month.&nbsp;

It was sent to this standing committee to plug the loophole and make the law as oppressive as possible.

The three-day meet ends on Tuesday. So, the bill could be passed as early as Wednesday.

In two days, Hong Kong could be under the National Security Law.

The people of Hong Kong do not know what is coming. Except that the law is intended to target dissenters and that -- it will override most of their freedoms.

It's so repressive that China has not made the draft public. Hong Kong's pro-China delegates were called to the meet. What they have said to the media over the last 24 hours is chilling. For dissenters -- Hong Kong security law could mean a life sentence. Not 3 to 10 years in prison, as believed earlier.

The legislation could be applied retroactively. 
&nbsp; 
Protests erupted in Hong Kong as soon as the standing committee began its meeting in Beijing. At least 53 people were arrested.

The Hong Kong police fired tear gas and pepper spray at many peaceful protests across the city.

In a few days, the situation could turn worse. But, help is arriving for Hong Kong's residents. Taiwan is welcoming people of Hong Kong with open arms. 
&nbsp; 
It will open a special office on Wednesday.

Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen has said necessary expenses will be covered and Taiwan will be a haven especially for hong kong activists seeking political asylum.

This move will surely anger China. But Taiwan's Tsai Ing-wen is clear about her responsibility to protect democracy in the region. It's not just Taiwan that has come to Hong Kong's rescue.

British prime minister Boris Johnson, who engineered the Brexit -- is ready to go against his voter base to give asylum to Hong Kongers.

He has pledged to admit 3 million people, who hold a British overseas passport. A group of UK ministers had even called for an international monitor group over the proposed law in Hong Kong.

The UK is standing up to China. Hong Kong needs support. Even if it is arising out of rare British guilt for handing over hong kong to the Chinese in 1997.

Over the weekend, the US stepped up its pressure on China. Once it got the clearance from the senate. The US imposed visa restrictions on current and former Chinese officials.

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said: "President Trump promised to punish the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) officials who were responsible for eviscerating hong kong’s freedoms. &nbsp;Today, we are taking action to do just that."

Particularly those who have contributed to the stifling of Hong Kong's freedom.

These visa sanctions are not as severe as economic sanctions, but it sends a message to Beijing.

Bejing got the message and retaliated with a tit-for-tat move. Now, China will impose visa restrictions on US officials. China has warned the US From imposing any kind of sanctions.

Pompeo says in the interest of preserving free societies, the US and its European partners must awaken to China's challenge.&nbsp;

The people of Hong Kong do not have much time. The new security law is coming. It could spell the end of freedom in Hong Kong.

UN's experts have slammed China over Hong Kong. Urging Beijing to withdraw the draft National Security Law. But it will be too late before the UN stops China. The controversial bill has moved a step closer to take its final form.

UN's experts have slammed China over Hong Kong. Urging Beijing to withdraw the draft National Security Law. But it will be too late before the UN stops China. The controversial bill has moved a step closer to take its final form. Hong Kong's freedom is nearing its end. China's top law-making committee discussed the draft law yesterday in Beijing. It could be put to vote and adopted as law in the next few days. Chinese parliament had endorsed the legislation last month. It was sent to this standing committee to plug the loophole and make the law as oppressive as possible. The three-day meet ends on Tuesday. So, the bill could be passed as early as Wednesday. In two days, Hong Kong could be under the National Security Law. The people of Hong Kong do not know what is coming. Except that the law is intended to target dissenters and that -- it will override most of their freedoms. It's so repressive that China has not made the draft public. Hong Kong's pro-China delegates were called to the meet. What they have said to the media over the last 24 hours is chilling. For dissenters -- Hong Kong security law could mean a life sentence. Not 3 to 10 years in prison, as believed earlier. The legislation could be applied retroactively. Protests erupted in Hong Kong as soon as the standing committee began its meeting in Beijing. At least 53 people were arrested. The Hong Kong police fired tear gas and pepper spray at many peaceful protests across the city. In a few days, the situation could turn worse. But, help is arriving for Hong Kong's residents. Taiwan is welcoming people of Hong Kong with open arms. It will open a special office on Wednesday. Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen has said necessary expenses will be covered and Taiwan will be a haven especially for hong kong activists seeking political asylum. This move will surely anger China. But Taiwan's Tsai Ing-wen is clear about her responsibility to protect democracy in the region. It's not just Taiwan that has come to Hong Kong's rescue. British prime minister Boris Johnson, who engineered the Brexit -- is ready to go against his voter base to give asylum to Hong Kongers. He has pledged to admit 3 million people, who hold a British overseas passport. A group of UK ministers had even called for an international monitor group over the proposed law in Hong Kong. The UK is standing up to China. Hong Kong needs support. Even if it is arising out of rare British guilt for handing over hong kong to the Chinese in 1997. Over the weekend, the US stepped up its pressure on China. Once it got the clearance from the senate. The US imposed visa restrictions on current and former Chinese officials. US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said: "President Trump promised to punish the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) officials who were responsible for eviscerating hong kong’s freedoms. Today, we are taking action to do just that." Particularly those who have contributed to the stifling of Hong Kong's freedom. These visa sanctions are not as severe as economic sanctions, but it sends a message to Beijing. Bejing got the message and retaliated with a tit-for-tat move. Now, China will impose visa restrictions on US officials. China has warned the US From imposing any kind of sanctions. Pompeo says in the interest of preserving free societies, the US and its European partners must awaken to China's challenge. The people of Hong Kong do not have much time. The new security law is coming. It could spell the end of freedom in Hong Kong.

UN slams Beijing over National Security Law; urges them to withdraw

United Nations has slammed China over the freedom curbs. UN expresses concern over human rights violation by saying that China is suppressing the free speech.

UN slams China over freedom curbs, says, "China is suppressing free speech"

UN express concerns over human rights violation in China

The United Nations has called for decisive measures to protect fundamental freedoms in China. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you the details.

Gravitas: UN calls out China on human rights

The new coronavirus pandemic could hit drug markets just as the 2008 economic crisis did, exacerbating the risks for users, the UN drugs and crime agency warned Thursday.

In its 2020 World Drug Report, the agency predicted an overall increase in drug use due to the pandemic, with a shift towards consuming cheaper products and injecting them, which carries greater risks.

Countries were also likely to reduce drug-related budgets, it warned.

They might also give less priority to interception operations and international cooperation, which would make it easier for traffickers to operate.

Rising unemployment and a lack of opportunities would increase the chances that "poor and disadvantaged people... turn to illicit activities linked to drugs -– either production or transport".

"The COVID-19 crisis and economic downturn threaten to compound drug dangers further still, when our health and social systems have been brought to the brink and our societies are struggling to cope," said UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly.

"We need all governments to show greater solidarity and provide support, to developing countries most of all, to tackle illicit drug trafficking and offer evidence-based services for drug use disorders and related diseases."

The Vienna-based agency said it had reached its conclusions based on what had happened in the wake of the 2008 economic crisis.

Border closures and other measures linked to the pandemic have already caused shortages of drugs on the street, leading to higher prices and reduced purity, the report noted.

Drug traffickers seemed to rely more on maritime routes, such as direct cocaine shipments by sea from South America to Europe.

Online trafficking via the darknet, which offers users total anonymity, and shipments by mail might also increase, it added.

Drug consumption overall is already on the rise, especially in developing countries, said the report.

While in 2009 an estimated 210 million people worldwide used drugs at least once, in 2018 that figure was closer to 269 million -- or 5.3 percent of the global population.

The report, which mostly examined data up to early 2019, also noted that use of cocaine and methamphetamine was rising, with the methamphetamine markets in Afghanistan and Iraq growing.

Global cocaine production again reached an all-time high, continuing its record-setting trend.

Cannabis remains the most widely used drug worldwide with an estimated 192 million users in 2018. But opioids, used by around 58 million people, remained the most harmful.

The new coronavirus pandemic could hit drug markets just as the 2008 economic crisis did, exacerbating the risks for users, the UN drugs and crime agency warned Thursday.

The new coronavirus pandemic could hit drug markets just as the 2008 economic crisis did, exacerbating the risks for users, the UN drugs and crime agency warned Thursday. In its 2020 World Drug Report, the agency predicted an overall increase in drug use due to the pandemic, with a shift towards consuming cheaper products and injecting them, which carries greater risks. Countries were also likely to reduce drug-related budgets, it warned. They might also give less priority to interception operations and international cooperation, which would make it easier for traffickers to operate. Rising unemployment and a lack of opportunities would increase the chances that "poor and disadvantaged people... turn to illicit activities linked to drugs -– either production or transport". "The COVID-19 crisis and economic downturn threaten to compound drug dangers further still, when our health and social systems have been brought to the brink and our societies are struggling to cope," said UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly. "We need all governments to show greater solidarity and provide support, to developing countries most of all, to tackle illicit drug trafficking and offer evidence-based services for drug use disorders and related diseases." The Vienna-based agency said it had reached its conclusions based on what had happened in the wake of the 2008 economic crisis. Border closures and other measures linked to the pandemic have already caused shortages of drugs on the street, leading to higher prices and reduced purity, the report noted. Drug traffickers seemed to rely more on maritime routes, such as direct cocaine shipments by sea from South America to Europe. Online trafficking via the darknet, which offers users total anonymity, and shipments by mail might also increase, it added. Drug consumption overall is already on the rise, especially in developing countries, said the report. While in 2009 an estimated 210 million people worldwide used drugs at least once, in 2018 that figure was closer to 269 million -- or 5.3 percent of the global population. The report, which mostly examined data up to early 2019, also noted that use of cocaine and methamphetamine was rising, with the methamphetamine markets in Afghanistan and Iraq growing. Global cocaine production again reached an all-time high, continuing its record-setting trend. Cannabis remains the most widely used drug worldwide with an estimated 192 million users in 2018. But opioids, used by around 58 million people, remained the most harmful.

Pandemic could hit drug markets as in 2008 crisis: United Nations

The United Nations (UN) on Sunday lambasted the Taliban and Afghan security forces, blaming them for "deliberately" carrying out attacks on healthcare workers and facilities at a time when the country&nbsp;is struggling to contain the coronavirus pandemic.

"At a time when an urgent humanitarian response was required to protect every life in Afghanistan, both the Taliban and Afghan national security forces carried out deliberate acts of violence that undermined healthcare operations," United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) chief Deborah Lyons said in a statement, reported AFP.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-taliban-kidnap-dozens-of-civilians-amid-peace-efforts-officials-say-307535">Afghan Taliban kidnap dozens of civilians amid peace efforts, officials say</a>

The UNAMA said it had registered 12 such incidents of violence between March 11 and May 23 against medical professionals and facilities.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/western-powers-support-afghanistans-decision-to-not-release-taliban-prisoners-307334">Western powers support Afghanistan's decision to not release Taliban prisoners</a>

Out of the 12 attacks, the UN agency held the Taliban responsible for eight of these and blamed Afghan forces for three attacks.&nbsp;

Amongst all the attacks, one of the deadliest was the one on a Kabul-based maternity hospital on May 12, which so far remains unclaimed.&nbsp;

As many as 25 people died, including 16 mothers, in the attack on the maternity ward of Dasht e-Barchi hospital in Kabul, according to international charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF).&nbsp;

This report came at a time when Afghanistan is struggling to contain the cases of coronavirus, which has so far infected 28,833 people, including 581 deaths in the country.&nbsp;

"Perpetrating targetted attacks on healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when health resources are already stretched and of critical importance to the civilian population, is particularly reprehensible," Fiona Frazer, UNAMA Chief of Human Rights, said.&nbsp;

The United Nations (UN) on Sunday lambasted the Taliban and Afghan security forces, blaming them for "deliberately" carrying out attacks on healthcare workers and facilities at a time when the country is struggling to contain the coronavirus pandemic.

The United Nations (UN) on Sunday lambasted the Taliban and Afghan security forces, blaming them for "deliberately" carrying out attacks on healthcare workers and facilities at a time when the country is struggling to contain the coronavirus pandemic. "At a time when an urgent humanitarian response was required to protect every life in Afghanistan, both the Taliban and Afghan national security forces carried out deliberate acts of violence that undermined healthcare operations," United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) chief Deborah Lyons said in a statement, reported AFP. Also read | Afghan Taliban kidnap dozens of civilians amid peace efforts, officials say The UNAMA said it had registered 12 such incidents of violence between March 11 and May 23 against medical professionals and facilities. Also read | Western powers support Afghanistan's decision to not release Taliban prisoners Out of the 12 attacks, the UN agency held the Taliban responsible for eight of these and blamed Afghan forces for three attacks. Amongst all the attacks, one of the deadliest was the one on a Kabul-based maternity hospital on May 12, which so far remains unclaimed. As many as 25 people died, including 16 mothers, in the attack on the maternity ward of Dasht e-Barchi hospital in Kabul, according to international charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF). This report came at a time when Afghanistan is struggling to contain the cases of coronavirus, which has so far infected 28,833 people, including 581 deaths in the country. "Perpetrating targetted attacks on healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when health resources are already stretched and of critical importance to the civilian population, is particularly reprehensible," Fiona Frazer, UNAMA Chief of Human Rights, said.

UN blames Afghan forces, Taliban for 'deliberately' targetting healthcare

The&nbsp;European Parliament has voted in favour of taking&nbsp;China to the International Court of Justice in The Hague if China&nbsp;imposes the controversial new security law in Hong Kong.

The security experts, locals of Hong Kong and the European Union government believe the new security bill being imposed by China in Hong Kong&nbsp;will jeopardise Hong Kong' semi-autonomous status and its role as a global financial hub.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treatment-of-hong-kong-depends-on-how-beijing-treats-it-says-pompeo-307214">Also read:&nbsp;US treatment of Hong Kong depends on how Beijing treats it, says Pompeo</a>

In a resolution, the European Parliament voted 565 in favour to 34 against, with 62 abstentions to protest the security law.

Criticisng the security law, Europe, Australia and the United States say it poses a threat to the&nbsp;"one country, two systems" principle that governs Hong Kong's autonomy.

The European Parliament "calls on the EU and its member states to consider, in the event the new security law is applied, filing a case before the International Court of Justice," the resolution said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-puppet-in-hong-kong-carrie-lam-a-leader-who-killed-her-own-city-307188">Also read:&nbsp;China's puppet in Hong Kong Carrie Lam: A leader who killed her own city</a>

China has expressed displeasure regarding EU's stand and has alleged the EU of distorting facts.&nbsp;You Wenze, spokesman for the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National People`s Congress, China`s parliament expressed his opposition to EU's decision which he said seriously distorted the facts and amounted to open interference in Hong Kong affairs.

The new national security legislation has been under review by&nbsp;Chinese parliament's top decision-making body since Thursday. However, local media has reported that hours-long meetings have had no mention of Hong Kong yet.

The EU is therefore calling for a bloc from European countries to help steer policies and steer economic sanctions.&nbsp;The parliament "believes that the EU should use its economic leverage to challenge China's crackdown on human rights by economic means," the resolution said.

The leaders of the EU institutions and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang are set to hold a summit by video on Monday.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The European Parliament has voted in favour of taking China to the International Court of Justice in The Hague if China imposes the controversial new security law in Hong Kong.

The European Parliament has voted in favour of taking China to the International Court of Justice in The Hague if China imposes the controversial new security law in Hong Kong. The security experts, locals of Hong Kong and the European Union government believe the new security bill being imposed by China in Hong Kong will jeopardise Hong Kong' semi-autonomous status and its role as a global financial hub. Also read: US treatment of Hong Kong depends on how Beijing treats it, says Pompeo In a resolution, the European Parliament voted 565 in favour to 34 against, with 62 abstentions to protest the security law. Criticisng the security law, Europe, Australia and the United States say it poses a threat to the "one country, two systems" principle that governs Hong Kong's autonomy. The European Parliament "calls on the EU and its member states to consider, in the event the new security law is applied, filing a case before the International Court of Justice," the resolution said. Also read: China's puppet in Hong Kong Carrie Lam: A leader who killed her own city China has expressed displeasure regarding EU's stand and has alleged the EU of distorting facts. You Wenze, spokesman for the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National People`s Congress, China`s parliament expressed his opposition to EU's decision which he said seriously distorted the facts and amounted to open interference in Hong Kong affairs. The new national security legislation has been under review by Chinese parliament's top decision-making body since Thursday. However, local media has reported that hours-long meetings have had no mention of Hong Kong yet. The EU is therefore calling for a bloc from European countries to help steer policies and steer economic sanctions. The parliament "believes that the EU should use its economic leverage to challenge China's crackdown on human rights by economic means," the resolution said. The leaders of the EU institutions and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang are set to hold a summit by video on Monday. (With inputs from Reuters)

Drag China to UN court over Hong Kong security law: EU Parliament

India's Permanent Representative to&nbsp;the United Nations TS Tirumurti has said New Delhi will be part of "post-COVID global transformation" as it takes the chair at United Nations Security Council for the coming year.&nbsp;Speaking exclusively&nbsp;to our&nbsp;Principal Diplomatic Correspondent, Sidhant Sibal from&nbsp;New York City,&nbsp;India's Permanent Representative of the United Nations TS Tirumurti said, New Delhi will help "bridge the global fault lines" as a non-permanent&nbsp;member of UNSC.&nbsp;India is standing unopposed for the Asia Pacific seat of UNSC and will be an elected member at the high table for a period of 2 years starting 1st January 2021.As the founding member of the world body, India has already served 7 times as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. The elections for the UNSC's 5 non-permanent seats took place on Wednesday in New York.

&nbsp;

WION: India is assured of a seat at the UNSC, what will be the key focus?

TS Tirumurti:&nbsp;We have received tremendous&nbsp;support cutting across&nbsp;countries and regions for our candidature. However, we have still used the run-up to the elections in a very focused and purposeful manner by reaching out to all the member states of the united nations and sensitizing them on our priorities. Minister of external affairs Dr S Jaishankar launched set of priorities in our stint at the security&nbsp;council. We have been able to engage the member states and there has been a greater appreciation of what India plans to bring to the United Nations.&nbsp; The 5 priorities&nbsp;which we have set for ourself&nbsp;in the rubric of N.O.R.M.S&nbsp;New Orientation for a Reformed Multilateral System and priorities include new opportunities for progress, effective response to international terrorism, reformed multilateral system, comprehensive approach to international peace and security and technology with a human touch. These are the 5 priorities and this will be the focus for us in the security council.

WION: How will India make sure the global fault lines are reduced? We have seen increased tensions in the world.

TS Tirumurti:&nbsp;Interestingly, India has always worked to bridge the faultlines. In fact, right since our participation at the united nations as a founding member, we have taken up several difficult issues at the UN and we have been able to bring them as part of the international discourse and resolve them. I agree that the world has probably changed over the years and particularly it is not the same as it was in 2011 when we were last in the United Nations security&nbsp;council. Multilateralism has been weakened and faultlines might have widened but I am confident with our very strong reform agenda, eg reformed multilateralism&nbsp;agenda which we have and our tradition and our ability to work with a diverse set of partners&nbsp;I am confident we can actually make a difference&nbsp;in bridging these faultlines.&nbsp;

WION: How hopeful is&nbsp;New Delhi of whether&nbsp;UNSC, which represents a 70 year old model, is relevant in this century amidst emergence of countries like India. We saw complete inaction to even issue even a statement on COVID-19 by UNSC?

TS Tirumurti:&nbsp;UN Security council definitely needs to undergo reforms, no question about that. Under the UN Charter, the UN security council still has the primary responsibility for international peace and cooperation. India's priority is reform of the united nations security council and we do want to reform it to make it more representative, make it more inclusive and make sure it addresses the current realities and we will work towards that. But our presence at the UNSC right now is also coming at a crucial&nbsp;juncture because&nbsp;India will have an opportunity in COVID and post COVID phase to contribute to transforming the post COVID phase and be a participant in the global transformation which will inevitably take place. But we should also be conscious of the fact that not every issue is an issue for peace and security.&nbsp;

WION: How does UN plan to celebrate Yoga Day this year?

TS Tirumurti: Prime Minister has provided the leadership and it will continue to be an&nbsp;India lead initiative this year also, I can assure you that. However, 2020 is a very unique year with social distancing in place, it will be difficult to do yoga day within the premises of the UN or even on the lawn of the UN. However, what we plan to do in the mission, is that we plan to do it in a virtual mode this year because the international&nbsp;yoga day attracts probably the largest gathering of the UN and we want to continue the tradition. This time we are doing on the 19th of January at around 3 pm and the event will be telecasted live on UN Web TV&nbsp; and it will be on all our social platforms, twitter, youtube and other and this year we have gifted to all the permanent missions very inciteful&nbsp;book on yoga. So I am confident that international yoga day, will be celebrated with a great deal of gusto, and will be well received by the member states and yoga practitioners.

India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations TS Tirumurti has said New Delhi will be part of "post-COVID global transformation" as it takes the chair at United Nations Security Council for the coming year.

India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations TS Tirumurti has said New Delhi will be part of "post-COVID global transformation" as it takes the chair at United Nations Security Council for the coming year. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent, Sidhant Sibal from New York City, India's Permanent Representative of the United Nations TS Tirumurti said, New Delhi will help "bridge the global fault lines" as a non-permanent member of UNSC. India is standing unopposed for the Asia Pacific seat of UNSC and will be an elected member at the high table for a period of 2 years starting 1st January 2021.As the founding member of the world body, India has already served 7 times as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. The elections for the UNSC's 5 non-permanent seats took place on Wednesday in New York. WION: India is assured of a seat at the UNSC, what will be the key focus? TS Tirumurti: We have received tremendous support cutting across countries and regions for our candidature. However, we have still used the run-up to the elections in a very focused and purposeful manner by reaching out to all the member states of the united nations and sensitizing them on our priorities. Minister of external affairs Dr S Jaishankar launched set of priorities in our stint at the security council. We have been able to engage the member states and there has been a greater appreciation of what India plans to bring to the United Nations. The 5 priorities which we have set for ourself in the rubric of N.O.R.M.S New Orientation for a Reformed Multilateral System and priorities include new opportunities for progress, effective response to international terrorism, reformed multilateral system, comprehensive approach to international peace and security and technology with a human touch. These are the 5 priorities and this will be the focus for us in the security council. WION: How will India make sure the global fault lines are reduced? We have seen increased tensions in the world. TS Tirumurti: Interestingly, India has always worked to bridge the faultlines. In fact, right since our participation at the united nations as a founding member, we have taken up several difficult issues at the UN and we have been able to bring them as part of the international discourse and resolve them. I agree that the world has probably changed over the years and particularly it is not the same as it was in 2011 when we were last in the United Nations security council. Multilateralism has been weakened and faultlines might have widened but I am confident with our very strong reform agenda, eg reformed multilateralism agenda which we have and our tradition and our ability to work with a diverse set of partners I am confident we can actually make a difference in bridging these faultlines. WION: How hopeful is New Delhi of whether UNSC, which represents a 70 year old model, is relevant in this century amidst emergence of countries like India. We saw complete inaction to even issue even a statement on COVID-19 by UNSC? TS Tirumurti: UN Security council definitely needs to undergo reforms, no question about that. Under the UN Charter, the UN security council still has the primary responsibility for international peace and cooperation. India's priority is reform of the united nations security council and we do want to reform it to make it more representative, make it more inclusive and make sure it addresses the current realities and we will work towards that. But our presence at the UNSC right now is also coming at a crucial juncture because India will have an opportunity in COVID and post COVID phase to contribute to transforming the post COVID phase and be a participant in the global transformation which will inevitably take place. But we should also be conscious of the fact that not every issue is an issue for peace and security. WION: How does UN plan to celebrate Yoga Day this year? TS Tirumurti: Prime Minister has provided the leadership and it will continue to be an India lead initiative this year also, I can assure you that. However, 2020 is a very unique year with social distancing in place, it will be difficult to do yoga day within the premises of the UN or even on the lawn of the UN. However, what we plan to do in the mission, is that we plan to do it in a virtual mode this year because the international yoga day attracts probably the largest gathering of the UN and we want to continue the tradition. This time we are doing on the 19th of January at around 3 pm and the event will be telecasted live on UN Web TV and it will be on all our social platforms, twitter, youtube and other and this year we have gifted to all the permanent missions very inciteful book on yoga. So I am confident that international yoga day, will be celebrated with a great deal of gusto, and will be well received by the member states and yoga practitioners.

Will be part of post-COVID global transformation, says India's envoy to UN as New Delhi sits at UNSC

On World Day against Child Labour, The United Nations (UN) warned on Friday that coronavirus pandemic could push millions of children into work as family incomes are likely to witness a sharp fall.&nbsp;

The International Labour Organization (ILO) and UNICEF, in a joint brief, noted that children involved in child labour had reduced by 94 million since 2000, adding that "the COVID-19 pandemic poses very real risks of backtracking".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-warns-of-increased-risks-for-trafficking-victims-due-to-pandemic-297249">United Nations warns of increased risks for trafficking victims due to pandemic</a>

The World Bank has said that up to 60 million people could potentially face extreme poverty this year. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fight-climate-change-like-coronavirus-united-nations-294022">Fight climate change like coronavirus: United Nations</a>&nbsp;

"As the pandemic wreaks havoc on family incomes, without support, many could resort to child labour," ILO chief Guy Ryder, in a statement, said.&nbsp;

The report pointed out to various studies indicating a link between rising poverty and a surge in child labour, referring to some countries where one per cent increase in poverty has resulted in at least 0.7 per cent jump in child labour.&nbsp;

It also said that the pandemic could also lead to children being forced to work for longer hours and in worsening conditions.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Other children could also be pushed to work for the worst form of labour, posing risks on their health and lives.&nbsp;

Children who lose either or both of their parents during the coronavirus outbreak could be forced to step in as breadwinners, it said.

Such children remain vulnerable to exploitation, especially girls in agriculture and domestic work, the report added.

Some suggestions were also advised, which included the elimination of school fees, countries being urged to strengthen social protections and provide easier access to credit to the poor families.&nbsp;

"As we re-imagine the world post-COVID, we need to make sure that children and their families have the tools they need to weather similar storms in the future," UNICEF chief Henrietta Fore said.

"Quality education, social protection services and better economic opportunities can be game-changers."

On World Day against Child Labour, The United Nations (UN) warned on Friday that coronavirus pandemic could push millions of children into work as family incomes are likely to witness a sharp fall.

On World Day against Child Labour, The United Nations (UN) warned on Friday that coronavirus pandemic could push millions of children into work as family incomes are likely to witness a sharp fall. The International Labour Organization (ILO) and UNICEF, in a joint brief, noted that children involved in child labour had reduced by 94 million since 2000, adding that "the COVID-19 pandemic poses very real risks of backtracking". Also read | United Nations warns of increased risks for trafficking victims due to pandemic The World Bank has said that up to 60 million people could potentially face extreme poverty this year. Also read | Fight climate change like coronavirus: United Nations "As the pandemic wreaks havoc on family incomes, without support, many could resort to child labour," ILO chief Guy Ryder, in a statement, said. The report pointed out to various studies indicating a link between rising poverty and a surge in child labour, referring to some countries where one per cent increase in poverty has resulted in at least 0.7 per cent jump in child labour. It also said that the pandemic could also lead to children being forced to work for longer hours and in worsening conditions. Other children could also be pushed to work for the worst form of labour, posing risks on their health and lives. Children who lose either or both of their parents during the coronavirus outbreak could be forced to step in as breadwinners, it said. Such children remain vulnerable to exploitation, especially girls in agriculture and domestic work, the report added. Some suggestions were also advised, which included the elimination of school fees, countries being urged to strengthen social protections and provide easier access to credit to the poor families. "As we re-imagine the world post-COVID, we need to make sure that children and their families have the tools they need to weather similar storms in the future," UNICEF chief Henrietta Fore said. "Quality education, social protection services and better economic opportunities can be game-changers."

UN says coronavirus pandemic could push millions into child labour

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday said that the coronavirus situation in the world is deteriorating and warned nations against complacency.&nbsp;

The WHO has said that it has recorded the highest single-day spike in coronavirus cases after a surge in the American continents.&nbsp;

Coronavirus has infected over 7 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. Currently, 7,006,436 people have had the virus, while 402,699 people have lost their lives to the pandemic, which went global six months ago.

The five worst-affected countries according to JHU tracker are US (1,940,468), Brazil (691,758), Russia (467,073), United Kingdom (287,621), followed by India (257,486).

The WHO has urged protestors around to world to do it safely keeping the pandemic in mind.&nbsp;

"Although the situation in Europe is improving, globally it is worsening," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a virtual news conference in Geneva.

"More than 100,000 cases have been reported on nine of the past 10 days. Yesterday, more than 136,000 cases were reported -- the most in a single day so far."

Ghebreyesus said that 75 per cent of these cases came from 10 countries which mostly consist from South America and South Asia.&nbsp;

Tedros warned countries where the situation was improving. He said, &nbsp;"The biggest threat is now complacency", adding that "most people globally are still susceptible to infection".

"More than six months into this pandemic, this is not the time for any country to take its foot off the pedal," he said.

Mass protests against racism have broken out in the United States and many European countries after the killing of George Floyd. These protests have sparked fears of a second wave of the virus.&nbsp;

To which WHO chief said: "WHO fully supports equality and the global movement against racism. We reject discrimination of all kinds."

"We encourage all those protesting around the world to do so safely.

"As much as possible, keep at least one metre from others, clean your hands, cover your cough and wear a mask if you attend a protest."

"Stay home if you are sick and contact a health care provider," he added.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday said that the coronavirus situation in the world is deteriorating and warned nations against complacency. The WHO has said that it has recorded the highest single-day spike in coronavirus cases after a surge in the American continents.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday said that the coronavirus situation in the world is deteriorating and warned nations against complacency. The WHO has said that it has recorded the highest single-day spike in coronavirus cases after a surge in the American continents. Coronavirus has infected over 7 million people globally, as per data from the Johns Hopkins University. Currently, 7,006,436 people have had the virus, while 402,699 people have lost their lives to the pandemic, which went global six months ago. The five worst-affected countries according to JHU tracker are US (1,940,468), Brazil (691,758), Russia (467,073), United Kingdom (287,621), followed by India (257,486). The WHO has urged protestors around to world to do it safely keeping the pandemic in mind. "Although the situation in Europe is improving, globally it is worsening," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a virtual news conference in Geneva. "More than 100,000 cases have been reported on nine of the past 10 days. Yesterday, more than 136,000 cases were reported -- the most in a single day so far." Ghebreyesus said that 75 per cent of these cases came from 10 countries which mostly consist from South America and South Asia. Tedros warned countries where the situation was improving. He said, "The biggest threat is now complacency", adding that "most people globally are still susceptible to infection". "More than six months into this pandemic, this is not the time for any country to take its foot off the pedal," he said. Mass protests against racism have broken out in the United States and many European countries after the killing of George Floyd. These protests have sparked fears of a second wave of the virus. To which WHO chief said: "WHO fully supports equality and the global movement against racism. We reject discrimination of all kinds." "We encourage all those protesting around the world to do so safely. "As much as possible, keep at least one metre from others, clean your hands, cover your cough and wear a mask if you attend a protest." "Stay home if you are sick and contact a health care provider," he added.

Coronavirus situation around the world 'worsening', warns WHO

As many as eight countries led by India and Indonesia have written to the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights (OHCHR) asking it to play a responsible role amidst the coronavirus crisis.&nbsp;

The joint letter was written by permanent missions of India, Indonesia, Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam in Geneva to OHCHR after it issued a release entitled "Asia: Bachelet alarmed by clampdown on freedom of expression during COVID-19".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-dispute-with-china-india-australia-strengthen-ties-303674">Amid dispute with China, India &amp; Australia strengthen ties</a>

The joint press release said, "the primary focus of our governments in these unprecedented times is to ensure that precious lives, particularly of the most vulnerable, are not lost to COVID. The OHCHR needs to recognize this and play a responsible role in a manner that adds to rather than detracts from such efforts"

Recalling at the consensus resolution of the World Health Assembly meeting of the World Health Organization (WHO) last month stating member states should provide," the population with reliable and comprehensive information...take measures to counter information and disinformation"

Further explaining, respective governments "have taken necessary measures, in accordance with our prevailing laws and regulations, to hold those who spread misinformation and mislead the public accountable for their irresponsible actions" and this has been carried out "in accordance with the due process of law while also safeguarding the freedom of expression".

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet had criticised 12 countries in Asia over suppression of freedom of expression in the garb of dealing with misinformation amidst COVID-19 crisis and suggested them to take “least intrusive approach required to achieve that result".&nbsp;

This is not the first time that OHCHR&nbsp;has made remarks about countries in the region that has drawn ire.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

As many as eight countries led by India and Indonesia have written to the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights (OHCHR) asking it to play a responsible role amidst the coronavirus crisis.

As many as eight countries led by India and Indonesia have written to the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights (OHCHR) asking it to play a responsible role amidst the coronavirus crisis. The joint letter was written by permanent missions of India, Indonesia, Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam in Geneva to OHCHR after it issued a release entitled "Asia: Bachelet alarmed by clampdown on freedom of expression during COVID-19". Also read | Amid dispute with China, India & Australia strengthen ties The joint press release said, "the primary focus of our governments in these unprecedented times is to ensure that precious lives, particularly of the most vulnerable, are not lost to COVID. The OHCHR needs to recognize this and play a responsible role in a manner that adds to rather than detracts from such efforts" Recalling at the consensus resolution of the World Health Assembly meeting of the World Health Organization (WHO) last month stating member states should provide," the population with reliable and comprehensive information...take measures to counter information and disinformation" Further explaining, respective governments "have taken necessary measures, in accordance with our prevailing laws and regulations, to hold those who spread misinformation and mislead the public accountable for their irresponsible actions" and this has been carried out "in accordance with the due process of law while also safeguarding the freedom of expression". UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet had criticised 12 countries in Asia over suppression of freedom of expression in the garb of dealing with misinformation amidst COVID-19 crisis and suggested them to take “least intrusive approach required to achieve that result". This is not the first time that OHCHR has made remarks about countries in the region that has drawn ire.

Eight countries led by India urge UN Human Rights High Commissioner office to play responsible role

Mohandoss, who owns a salon in the southern state of Tamil Nadu’s temple town Madurai says that he or his family didn’t expect any recognition or rewards when they donated a large part of their savings for helping the needy during the lockdown.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="India vows to 'overcome fault lines' as it takes charge at UNSC">India vows to 'overcome fault lines' as it takes charge at UNSC</a>

His deed, which was inspired by his 13-year old daughter’s concern for the poor and needy was first lauded by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his radio address Mann Ki Baat. Now, barely a couple of days after the first surprise, Mohandoss's daughter Nethra has been appointed Goodwill Ambassador to the poor for UNADAP (United Nations Association for Development and Peace) under the civil society projects.&nbsp;

According to the communication from the UN Body, she would be given an opportunity to speak at the UN conferences in New York and Geneva, addressing the civil society forums and conferences. She has also been awarded a Dixon Scholarship and 1 lakh rupees have been&nbsp;credited in her mother’s bank account.&nbsp;

Nethra’s father told WION that she aspires to become a civil servant and work towards alleviating poverty and hunger.&nbsp;

“We have spent our savings (of Rs 5 lakh) for the welfare of the needy, because our daughter felt that we could always earn it back, but that isn’t daily the case with those who are struggling for even a meal.”

Over the last 20 days, the family’s salon has been in operation, following a nearly two-month lockdown.

Mohandoss says that customers have been visiting in good numbers and also expressing their appreciation. “We have received phone calls expressing gratitude from people whom we have known and complete strangers. We never imagined that we would get calls from the IAS officers, ministers, collector, police officials etc” he said.

He adds that their philanthropic work will continue and that there are a lot of people who have approached them to offer their contributions. “We have politely said no to cash contributions and agreed to accept rice, vegetables and groceries, which we can donate to the needy.”

The family is also grateful to their daughter’s school which has been bearing her educational expenses for over two years now.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Mohandoss, who owns a salon in the southern state of Tamil Nadu’s temple town Madurai says that he or his family didn’t expect any recognition or rewards when they donated a large part of their savings for helping the needy during the lockdown.

Mohandoss, who owns a salon in the southern state of Tamil Nadu’s temple town Madurai says that he or his family didn’t expect any recognition or rewards when they donated a large part of their savings for helping the needy during the lockdown. Also read | India vows to 'overcome fault lines' as it takes charge at UNSC His deed, which was inspired by his 13-year old daughter’s concern for the poor and needy was first lauded by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his radio address Mann Ki Baat. Now, barely a couple of days after the first surprise, Mohandoss's daughter Nethra has been appointed Goodwill Ambassador to the poor for UNADAP (United Nations Association for Development and Peace) under the civil society projects. According to the communication from the UN Body, she would be given an opportunity to speak at the UN conferences in New York and Geneva, addressing the civil society forums and conferences. She has also been awarded a Dixon Scholarship and 1 lakh rupees have been credited in her mother’s bank account. Nethra’s father told WION that she aspires to become a civil servant and work towards alleviating poverty and hunger. “We have spent our savings (of Rs 5 lakh) for the welfare of the needy, because our daughter felt that we could always earn it back, but that isn’t daily the case with those who are struggling for even a meal.” Over the last 20 days, the family’s salon has been in operation, following a nearly two-month lockdown. Mohandoss says that customers have been visiting in good numbers and also expressing their appreciation. “We have received phone calls expressing gratitude from people whom we have known and complete strangers. We never imagined that we would get calls from the IAS officers, ministers, collector, police officials etc” he said. He adds that their philanthropic work will continue and that there are a lot of people who have approached them to offer their contributions. “We have politely said no to cash contributions and agreed to accept rice, vegetables and groceries, which we can donate to the needy.” The family is also grateful to their daughter’s school which has been bearing her educational expenses for over two years now.

From special mention in Mann Ki Baat to recognition by UN body: Tamil Nadu girl’s philanthropy is winning hearts

A French court on Wednesday ordered Rwandan genocide suspect Felicien Kabuga be handed over to a United Nations tribunal for trial.

UN&nbsp;prosecutors accuse Kabuga of bankrolling and arming ethnic Hutu militias that killed 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus in Rwanda during a 100-day period in 1994. He is indicted for genocide and incitement to commit genocide, among other charges.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/rwanda-genocide-suspect-kabuga-arrested-by-french-police-299069" hreflang="en">Rwanda genocide suspect Kabuga arrested by French police</a>

Kabuga, whose arrest in Paris in May ended a manhunt that lasted more than two decades, has called the charges lies.&nbsp;

His lawyers say he would not receive a fair trial at the tribunal, which is based in The Hague and in Arusha, Tanzania. They also argue his health is too frail for him to be transferred to the African country, particularly during a dangerous pandemic.&nbsp;

But the court said his health was "not incompatible" with a transfer. The 87-year-old is currently being held in a Paris prison.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/belgian-court-convicts-rwandan-official-for-genocide-269281" hreflang="en">Belgian court convicts Rwandan official for genocide</a>

In a letter to the UN&nbsp;tribunal's chief prosecutor, Serge Brammertz, ahead of Wednesday's ruling, Kabuga's lawyers urged him to leave the case with France's judiciary.&nbsp;

"If you were to decide to assert the primacy of your jurisdiction over French jurisdiction, thus endangering the life of Felicien Kabuga, we would take the risk of renouncing on discovering the truth forever," Laurent Bayon wrote, citing Kabuga's medical history.

A French court on Wednesday ordered Rwandan genocide suspect Felicien Kabuga be handed over to a United Nations tribunal for trial. UN prosecutors accuse Kabuga of bankrolling and arming ethnic Hutu militias that killed 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus in Rwanda during a 100-day period in 1994.

A French court on Wednesday ordered Rwandan genocide suspect Felicien Kabuga be handed over to a United Nations tribunal for trial. UN prosecutors accuse Kabuga of bankrolling and arming ethnic Hutu militias that killed 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus in Rwanda during a 100-day period in 1994. He is indicted for genocide and incitement to commit genocide, among other charges. Also read: Rwanda genocide suspect Kabuga arrested by French police Kabuga, whose arrest in Paris in May ended a manhunt that lasted more than two decades, has called the charges lies. His lawyers say he would not receive a fair trial at the tribunal, which is based in The Hague and in Arusha, Tanzania. They also argue his health is too frail for him to be transferred to the African country, particularly during a dangerous pandemic. But the court said his health was "not incompatible" with a transfer. The 87-year-old is currently being held in a Paris prison. Also read: Belgian court convicts Rwandan official for genocide In a letter to the UN tribunal's chief prosecutor, Serge Brammertz, ahead of Wednesday's ruling, Kabuga's lawyers urged him to leave the case with France's judiciary. "If you were to decide to assert the primacy of your jurisdiction over French jurisdiction, thus endangering the life of Felicien Kabuga, we would take the risk of renouncing on discovering the truth forever," Laurent Bayon wrote, citing Kabuga's medical history.

French court orders Rwanda genocide suspect be tried at UN tribunal

Russia unveiled a $72 billion recovery plan for its economy badly hammered by the coronavirus pandemic, vowing to boost employment and incomes in the country where cases continue to mount.&nbsp; 
 
The economy is set for a sharp contraction this year, and President Vladimir Putin is eager to get growth back on track in a bid to boost approval ratings.&nbsp; 
 
Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin unveiled a raft of measures Tuesday worth $72 billion aimed at reviving the sputtering economy after weeks of lockdowns that have kept much of the population home from work and shut key industries.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/blood-sucking-mutant-ticks-storm-russia-hospitals-already-overburdened-by-coronavirus-feel-the-sting-302682" hreflang="en">'Blood-sucking' mutant ticks storm Russia: Hospitals already overburdened by coronavirus feel the sting</a> 
 
Aimed at boosting employment, incomes and economic growth, the programme "contains over 500 measures, its cost over two years will be about five trillion rubles," Mishustin told Putin in a televised meeting. 
 
Putin described the plan as a "foundation" for repairing the economy and implementing "long-term structural change". 
 
"It is a matter of crucial importance for us to solve today's acute problems, as well as ensure confident movement forward in the long-term," he said. 
 
Putin said the epidemic had "seriously impacted all spheres of life" and added that he expected to launch the recovery plan next month. 
 
The prime minister said the plan would be rolled out over three separate stages. 
 
Stage one would stabilise the economy and will be delivered in the current quarter. The next steps aimed to rebuild the economy and put it on a "trajectory for stable economic growth," the prime minister added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/covid-19-russia-death-toll-crosses-5000-as-lockdown-eases-302617" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Russia death toll crosses 5,000 as lockdown eases</a> 
 
Russia has introduced targeted tax cuts and provided some emergency aid for families and people newly unemployed since introducing the lockdown at the end of March. 
 
Yet observers have said that Russia's rescue package falls short of aid provided to populations by other countries with similar economies.

Companies like 'wildflowers' 
Russia has the third highest number of coronavirus cases globally, with more than 423,000 infections, and its death toll topped 5,000 on Tuesday.&nbsp; 
 
Under strict lockdown measures imposed in March, large swathes of the economy were inactive for weeks, with some regions only recently beginning to ease anti-virus measures. 
 
Industries were delivered a double blow as Putin ordered companies to stop work activities but continue paying salaries. 
 
The lockdown compounded existing problems for the Russian economy, ranging from effects of sanctions following the 2014 Crimea annexation, to the oil price crash this year. 
 
The government's forecast is that the economy will shrink by 9.5 percent in the second quarter and up to six percent for the current year. 
 
Some said the newly unveiled plan would not be enough to aid struggling businesses.&nbsp; 
 
It would only offer "quite modest" support and looks like a symbolic project introduced while the government waits for second quarter data, said Sergei Khestanov, an economist at the Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration. 
 
The government is unlikely to blanket aid across the sectors, and instead only help select companies deemed to be crucial, he added. 
 
The remaining companies will be treated like "wildflowers" he told AFP, explaining that "if they are there, that's nice, but if they die, it's okay, since new ones will grow". 
 
A draft of the plan cited by TASS news agency included measures ranging from creating a national reserve of medication to developing domestic tourism and spending one trillion rubles on infrastructural projects. 
 
Labour Minister Anton Kotyakov said this week that over two million people in the country were registered as unemployed. 
 
Analysts at the Boston Consulting Group last week predicted unemployment could triple from the pre-crisis figure of 4.6 percent, based on its projections for the worst-case scenario.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Russia unveiled a $72 billion recovery plan for its economy badly hammered by the coronavirus pandemic, vowing to boost employment and incomes in the country where cases continue to mount.

Russia unveiled a $72 billion recovery plan for its economy badly hammered by the coronavirus pandemic, vowing to boost employment and incomes in the country where cases continue to mount. The economy is set for a sharp contraction this year, and President Vladimir Putin is eager to get growth back on track in a bid to boost approval ratings. Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin unveiled a raft of measures Tuesday worth $72 billion aimed at reviving the sputtering economy after weeks of lockdowns that have kept much of the population home from work and shut key industries. Also read: 'Blood-sucking' mutant ticks storm Russia: Hospitals already overburdened by coronavirus feel the sting Aimed at boosting employment, incomes and economic growth, the programme "contains over 500 measures, its cost over two years will be about five trillion rubles," Mishustin told Putin in a televised meeting. Putin described the plan as a "foundation" for repairing the economy and implementing "long-term structural change". "It is a matter of crucial importance for us to solve today's acute problems, as well as ensure confident movement forward in the long-term," he said. Putin said the epidemic had "seriously impacted all spheres of life" and added that he expected to launch the recovery plan next month. The prime minister said the plan would be rolled out over three separate stages. Stage one would stabilise the economy and will be delivered in the current quarter. The next steps aimed to rebuild the economy and put it on a "trajectory for stable economic growth," the prime minister added. Also read: COVID-19: Russia death toll crosses 5,000 as lockdown eases Russia has introduced targeted tax cuts and provided some emergency aid for families and people newly unemployed since introducing the lockdown at the end of March. Yet observers have said that Russia's rescue package falls short of aid provided to populations by other countries with similar economies. Companies like 'wildflowers' Russia has the third highest number of coronavirus cases globally, with more than 423,000 infections, and its death toll topped 5,000 on Tuesday. Under strict lockdown measures imposed in March, large swathes of the economy were inactive for weeks, with some regions only recently beginning to ease anti-virus measures. Industries were delivered a double blow as Putin ordered companies to stop work activities but continue paying salaries. The lockdown compounded existing problems for the Russian economy, ranging from effects of sanctions following the 2014 Crimea annexation, to the oil price crash this year. The government's forecast is that the economy will shrink by 9.5 percent in the second quarter and up to six percent for the current year. Some said the newly unveiled plan would not be enough to aid struggling businesses. It would only offer "quite modest" support and looks like a symbolic project introduced while the government waits for second quarter data, said Sergei Khestanov, an economist at the Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration. The government is unlikely to blanket aid across the sectors, and instead only help select companies deemed to be crucial, he added. The remaining companies will be treated like "wildflowers" he told AFP, explaining that "if they are there, that's nice, but if they die, it's okay, since new ones will grow". A draft of the plan cited by TASS news agency included measures ranging from creating a national reserve of medication to developing domestic tourism and spending one trillion rubles on infrastructural projects. Labour Minister Anton Kotyakov said this week that over two million people in the country were registered as unemployed. Analysts at the Boston Consulting Group last week predicted unemployment could triple from the pre-crisis figure of 4.6 percent, based on its projections for the worst-case scenario.

Russia unveils $72-billion virus recovery plan 

An Indian army officer has been bestowed with 'United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year award'.

Major Suman Gawani has previously served as a woman peacekeeper with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in 2019.

With this honour, she has become the first Indian peacekeeper to win this prestigious award.

"Congratulations to the Military Gender Advocate of the Year Awardee, Major Suman Gawani of India serving with @unmissmedia in South Sudan," UN Department of Peace Operations tweeted.

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"Whatever our function/position/rank, it is our duty as peacekeepers to integrate an all-genders perspective into our daily work" 
 
-Major Suman Gawani, the first🇮🇳peacekeeper to win the UN Military Gender Advocate Award<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PKDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PKDay</a>🕊️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WomenInPeacekeeping?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WomenInPeacekeeping</a><a href="https://t.co/ddXZU5liAk">https://t.co/ddXZU5liAk</a>
— UN Women India (@unwomenindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/unwomenindia/status/1266283698376151040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/elections-for-5-non-permanent-seats-of-unsc-on-june-17-india-stands-unopposed-in-asia-pacific-seat-301762">Also read:&nbsp;Elections for 5 non-permanent seats of UNSC on June 17; India stands unopposed in Asia pacific seat</a>

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres gave away the award and Commander Carla Monteiro de Castro Araujo from Brazil in a virtual ceremony, commemorating the International Day of Peacekeepers on Friday.

She took to the internet to thank everyone for this honour and the immense love she has received.&nbsp;"Working towards peace as a military observer in South Sudan has been a life-changing experience. Serving under the blue helmet and wearing my country's flag on my uniform is a matter of pride," Major Suman said.

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Watch: Major Suman Gawani an Indian Army officer &amp; UN Peacekeeper who is awarded the prestigious United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the year Award talk about her experience. Says she accepts the award on behalf of all women peacekeepers. <a href="https://t.co/dZIhTEzChI">pic.twitter.com/dZIhTEzChI</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1266337936515178497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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During her role, she focused on the gender issues in military. She also encouraged&nbsp;participation in joint military patrols to maintain gender balance, irrespective of the hardships under extreme field conditions, according to a statement by the Defence Ministry.

"Apart from supporting the UNMISS Force initiatives, she also trained the South Sudan government forces on CRSV related aspects. The officer also commanded the UN Peacekeepers Day Parade organised at UNMISS, where she commanded twelve contingents of UNPOL, Military and Civilians," the Defence Ministry release said.

She has also participated in a specialised training on Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (CRSV) at Nairobi and in various UN forums focusing on how a gender perspective can help in protecting civilians, especially from conflict-related sexual violence

An Indian army officer has been bestowed with 'United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year award'. Major Suman Gawani has previously served as a woman peacekeeper with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in 2019.

An Indian army officer has been bestowed with 'United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year award'. Major Suman Gawani has previously served as a woman peacekeeper with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in 2019. With this honour, she has become the first Indian peacekeeper to win this prestigious award. "Congratulations to the Military Gender Advocate of the Year Awardee, Major Suman Gawani of India serving with @unmissmedia in South Sudan," UN Department of Peace Operations tweeted. "Whatever our function/position/rank, it is our duty as peacekeepers to integrate an all-genders perspective into our daily work" -Major Suman Gawani, the first🇮🇳peacekeeper to win the UN Military Gender Advocate Award#PKDay🕊️ #WomenInPeacekeepinghttps://t.co/ddXZU5liAk — UN Women India (@unwomenindia) May 29, 2020 × Also read: Elections for 5 non-permanent seats of UNSC on June 17; India stands unopposed in Asia pacific seat Secretary-General Antonio Guterres gave away the award and Commander Carla Monteiro de Castro Araujo from Brazil in a virtual ceremony, commemorating the International Day of Peacekeepers on Friday. She took to the internet to thank everyone for this honour and the immense love she has received. "Working towards peace as a military observer in South Sudan has been a life-changing experience. Serving under the blue helmet and wearing my country's flag on my uniform is a matter of pride," Major Suman said. Watch: Major Suman Gawani an Indian Army officer & UN Peacekeeper who is awarded the prestigious United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the year Award talk about her experience. Says she accepts the award on behalf of all women peacekeepers. pic.twitter.com/dZIhTEzChI — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 29, 2020 × During her role, she focused on the gender issues in military. She also encouraged participation in joint military patrols to maintain gender balance, irrespective of the hardships under extreme field conditions, according to a statement by the Defence Ministry. "Apart from supporting the UNMISS Force initiatives, she also trained the South Sudan government forces on CRSV related aspects. The officer also commanded the UN Peacekeepers Day Parade organised at UNMISS, where she commanded twelve contingents of UNPOL, Military and Civilians," the Defence Ministry release said. She has also participated in a specialised training on Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (CRSV) at Nairobi and in various UN forums focusing on how a gender perspective can help in protecting civilians, especially from conflict-related sexual violence

Major Suman Gawani wins  Military Gender Advocate award from UN

During a virtual meeting with&nbsp;Ambassador T S Tirumurti, UN chief Antonio Guterres has commended India's assistance towards other countries in these tough times of COVID 19 pandemic.

"Great pleasure to 'call on' HE UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres (through) video conference. He recalled warmly his visits to India, underlined the importance of India for the UN &amp; appreciated India's assistance to other countries during COVID," Tirumurti tweeted on Thursday.

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Great pleasure to “call on” HE UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres thro video conference. He recalled warmly his visits to India, underlined importance of India for UN &amp; appreciated India’s assistance to other countries during COVID. ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a>⁩ ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a>⁩ <a href="https://t.co/f4G1zjY5ZA">pic.twitter.com/f4G1zjY5ZA</a>
— PR to UN Tirumurti (@ambtstirumurti) <a href="https://twitter.com/ambtstirumurti/status/1266163321134333953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The appreciation comes as India has sent&nbsp;essential drugs, testing kits and other medical assistance to many countries around the world, in Middle East, Asia, US and other places, to help the countries during these testing times.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/whistleblower-accuses-un-human-rights-office-of-helping-china-keep-an-eye-on-dissidents-301414">Also read: Whistleblower accuses UN human rights office of helping China keep an eye on dissidents</a>

Tirumurti assumed charge just weeks before the General Assembly is set to hold elections on June 17 for the five non-permanent seats of the UN Security Council for the 2021-22 term.

"We obviously very much welcome India's new Permanent Representative to the United Nations. And I know the Secretary-General looks forward to working very closely with the new envoy in the years ahead," Spokesman for the Secretary-General, Stephane Dujarric&nbsp;said at the daily press briefing last week.

(With inputs from PTI)

During a virtual meeting with Ambassador T S Tirumurti, UN chief Antonio Guterres has commended India's assistance towards other countries in these tough times of COVID 19 pandemic.

During a virtual meeting with Ambassador T S Tirumurti, UN chief Antonio Guterres has commended India's assistance towards other countries in these tough times of COVID 19 pandemic. "Great pleasure to 'call on' HE UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres (through) video conference. He recalled warmly his visits to India, underlined the importance of India for the UN & appreciated India's assistance to other countries during COVID," Tirumurti tweeted on Thursday. Great pleasure to “call on” HE UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres thro video conference. He recalled warmly his visits to India, underlined importance of India for UN & appreciated India’s assistance to other countries during COVID. ⁦@MEAIndia⁩ ⁦@DrSJaishankar⁩ pic.twitter.com/f4G1zjY5ZA — PR to UN Tirumurti (@ambtstirumurti) May 29, 2020 × The appreciation comes as India has sent essential drugs, testing kits and other medical assistance to many countries around the world, in Middle East, Asia, US and other places, to help the countries during these testing times. Also read: Whistleblower accuses UN human rights office of helping China keep an eye on dissidents Tirumurti assumed charge just weeks before the General Assembly is set to hold elections on June 17 for the five non-permanent seats of the UN Security Council for the 2021-22 term. "We obviously very much welcome India's new Permanent Representative to the United Nations. And I know the Secretary-General looks forward to working very closely with the new envoy in the years ahead," Spokesman for the Secretary-General, Stephane Dujarric said at the daily press briefing last week. (With inputs from PTI)

COVID 19: UN Chief appreciates India's efforts of helping other countries

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