Top United Nations officials and dozens of NGOs working in Afghanistan are set to hold a meeting in Kabul on Sunday (December 25) to decide the way ahead after Taliban imposed a ban on women working in NGOs. The latest order issued by the Taliban has resulted in global outcry. Governments and organisations have warned that Taliban's latest stance may impact humanitarian services in the country. Millions in Afghanistan are dependent on such aid.

The latest restriction comes less than a week after the hardline Islamists banned women from attending universities, prompting global outrage and protests in some Afghan cities.

Taliban's ministry of economy on Saturday threatened that operating licences of NGOs will be suspended if they did not follow the order of not employing women.

The ministry, which issues these licences, said it had received "serious complaints" that women working in NGOs were not observing a proper Islamic dress code.

"A meeting of Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) is scheduled later today to consult and discuss how to tackle this issue," Tapiwa Gomo, public information officer for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, told AFP.

Top UN officials and representatives of dozens of Afghan and international NGOs are part of the HCT.

The United Nations, which said it would seek an explanation from the Taliban about the order, condemned the ministry's directive.

It said the order excluding women "systematically from all aspects of public and political life takes the country backward, jeopardising efforts for any meaningful peace or stability in the country".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Top United Nations officials and dozens of NGOs working in Afghanistan are set to hold a meeting in Kabul on Sunday (December 25) to decide the way ahead after Taliban imposed a ban on women working in NGOs.

Top United Nations officials and dozens of NGOs working in Afghanistan are set to hold a meeting in Kabul on Sunday (December 25) to decide the way ahead after Taliban imposed a ban on women working in NGOs. The latest order issued by the Taliban has resulted in global outcry. Governments and organisations have warned that Taliban's latest stance may impact humanitarian services in the country. Millions in Afghanistan are dependent on such aid. The latest restriction comes less than a week after the hardline Islamists banned women from attending universities, prompting global outrage and protests in some Afghan cities. Taliban's ministry of economy on Saturday threatened that operating licences of NGOs will be suspended if they did not follow the order of not employing women. The ministry, which issues these licences, said it had received "serious complaints" that women working in NGOs were not observing a proper Islamic dress code. "A meeting of Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) is scheduled later today to consult and discuss how to tackle this issue," Tapiwa Gomo, public information officer for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, told AFP. Top UN officials and representatives of dozens of Afghan and international NGOs are part of the HCT. The United Nations, which said it would seek an explanation from the Taliban about the order, condemned the ministry's directive. It said the order excluding women "systematically from all aspects of public and political life takes the country backward, jeopardising efforts for any meaningful peace or stability in the country". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Top UN officials, NGO representatives to meet after Taliban ban on women staff

World population crosses 8 billion Cash for kids: Japan to pay people extra to improve birth rate Experts: China's ageing population is a major threat to its future India: Can demographic dividend turn into liability? Watch Population Boom: Boon or Bane? on WION Wideangle

WION Wideangle | Population bomb: Boon or bane?

The United Nations rights chief expressed relief at Twitter CEO Elon Musk’s decision to reinstate several journalists on the social media platform but said that "serious concerns remain".&nbsp;"Good news that journalists are being reinstated on Twitter, but serious concerns remain," tweeted United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk while making it clear that "Twitter has a responsibility to respect human rights".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-works-to-restore-power-as-vladimir-putin-meets-russian-military-officials-544001">Ukraine works to restore power as Putin meets Russian military officials</a>

The decision to suspend the accounts of journalists from global publications like New York Times, CNN and the Washington Post resulted in criticism from the European Union as well as the United Nations. Musk earlier said that the accounts were suspended as they had endangered his family.

However, the billionaire decided to reinstate the accounts on Friday.

"The people have spoken. Accounts who doxxed my location will have their suspension lifted now."

Turk was not pleased with the entire process and urged Musk to "commit to making decisions based on publicly available policies that respect rights, including free speech. Nothing less."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-acted-as-a-subsidiary-shared-master-canine-quality-relationship-with-fbi-543922">Twitter Files 6.0 exposes FBI's deep engagements with tech giant</a>

The controversy started when Musk said that “a crazy stalker” followed a car ferrying his children in Los Angeles and blamed people tracking his jet for the incident. Several journalists reported on the incident with mention of the tracking account and that resulted into suspension of their accounts.

The move was seen by many as an attack on press freedom and most international groups asked for the suspension to be lifted. Even the United Nations chief Antonio Guterres called it a "dangerous precedent at a time when journalists all over the world are facing censorship, physical threats and even worse".

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The United Nations rights chief expressed relief at Twitter CEO Elon Musk’s decision to reinstate several journalists on the social media platform but said that "serious concerns remain".

The United Nations rights chief expressed relief at Twitter CEO Elon Musk’s decision to reinstate several journalists on the social media platform but said that "serious concerns remain". "Good news that journalists are being reinstated on Twitter, but serious concerns remain," tweeted United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk while making it clear that "Twitter has a responsibility to respect human rights". Also read | Ukraine works to restore power as Putin meets Russian military officials The decision to suspend the accounts of journalists from global publications like New York Times, CNN and the Washington Post resulted in criticism from the European Union as well as the United Nations. Musk earlier said that the accounts were suspended as they had endangered his family. However, the billionaire decided to reinstate the accounts on Friday. "The people have spoken. Accounts who doxxed my location will have their suspension lifted now." Turk was not pleased with the entire process and urged Musk to "commit to making decisions based on publicly available policies that respect rights, including free speech. Nothing less." Also read | Twitter Files 6.0 exposes FBI's deep engagements with tech giant The controversy started when Musk said that “a crazy stalker” followed a car ferrying his children in Los Angeles and blamed people tracking his jet for the incident. Several journalists reported on the incident with mention of the tracking account and that resulted into suspension of their accounts. The move was seen by many as an attack on press freedom and most international groups asked for the suspension to be lifted. Even the United Nations chief Antonio Guterres called it a "dangerous precedent at a time when journalists all over the world are facing censorship, physical threats and even worse".

UN expresses ‘serious concerns’ despite reinstatement of journalists’ Twitter accounts

India's Ganges rejuvenation project was recognised as one among world's 10 most "ground-breaking" efforts for their role in restoring the natural ecosystems, according to a report released during the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP15) this week. The Ganges Rejuvenation project was declared as a flagship World Restoration project and remains eligible to claim UN-backed promotion, advice or funding under the banner of United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, a global movement coordinated by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).

Together, a total of ten flagships aim to restore more than 68 million hectares,&nbsp;an area bigger than Myanmar, France or Somalia,&nbsp;and create nearly 15 million jobs, the UN said.

"Transforming our relationship with nature is the key to reversing the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, pollution and waste," said UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen.

"These 10 inaugural World Restoration Flagships show that with political will, science and collaboration across borders, we can achieve the goals of the UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration and forge a more sustainable future not only for the planet but also for those of us who call it home," Andersen said.

Namami Gange initiative: What is Ganges river rejuvenation project all about?

In the Ganges River Rejuvenation project, restoring the health of the Ganges is the focus of a major push to cut pollution, rebuild forest cover, and bring a wide range of benefits to the 520 million people living around its vast basin.

Climate change, population growth, industrialisation, and irrigation have degraded the Ganges along its 2,525-kilometre course from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal.

"Launched in 2014, the government-led Namami Gange initiative focuses on rejuvenating, protecting and conserving the Ganges and its tributaries, reforesting parts of the Ganges basin and promoting sustainable farming," a UN statement said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop15-summit-rich-countries-oppose-creation-of-10bn-biodiversity-fund-542946">COP15 summit: Rich countries oppose creation of $10 billion biodiversity fund</a>

The project also aims to revive key wildlife species, including river dolphins, softshell turtles, otters, and the Hilsa shad fish.

The initiative, with an investment of up to $4.25 billion so far, has the involvement of 230 organisations, with 1,500 km of river restored to date.

Additionally, there have been 30,000 hectares of afforestation so far, with a 2030 goal of 134,000 hectares, according to the UN.

Other World Restoration Flagships

The other inaugural World Restoration Flagships include the Trinational Atlantic Forest Pact, which aims to protect and restore the forest in Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina, and the Abu Dhabi Marine Restoration project which is safeguarding the world’s second-largest dugong population in Abu Dhabi.

The Great Green Wall for Restoration and Peace initiative to restore savannas, grasslands and farmlands across Africa, the Multi-Country Mountain Initiative based in Serbia, Kyrgyzstan, Uganda and Rwanda, and the Small Island Developing States Restoration Drive focused on three small island developing states – Vanuatu, St Lucia and Comoros were also recognised.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-biodiversity-conference-kicks-off-in-montreal-540787">UN Biodiversity Conference kicks-off in Montreal</a>

The Altyn Dala Conservation Initiative in Kazakhstan to restore the steppe, semi-desert and desert ecosystems, the Central American Dry Corridor, and Shan-Shui Initiative in China were the other projects on the list.

During the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP15) being held from December 7 to 19, about 20,000 delegates from across the world will negotiate an eight-year plan to preserve and restore biodiversity.

They will do so through the Convention on Biological Diversity, a treaty adopted for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity and related issues.

COP15 aims to achieve a historic agreement to halt and reverse nature loss, on par with the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement.

(With inputs from agencies)

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India's Ganges rejuvenation project was recognised as one among world's 10 most "ground-breaking" efforts for their role in restoring the natural ecosystems, according to a report released during the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP15) this week.

India's Ganges rejuvenation project was recognised as one among world's 10 most "ground-breaking" efforts for their role in restoring the natural ecosystems, according to a report released during the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP15) this week. The Ganges Rejuvenation project was declared as a flagship World Restoration project and remains eligible to claim UN-backed promotion, advice or funding under the banner of United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, a global movement coordinated by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). Together, a total of ten flagships aim to restore more than 68 million hectares, an area bigger than Myanmar, France or Somalia, and create nearly 15 million jobs, the UN said. "Transforming our relationship with nature is the key to reversing the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, pollution and waste," said UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen. "These 10 inaugural World Restoration Flagships show that with political will, science and collaboration across borders, we can achieve the goals of the UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration and forge a more sustainable future not only for the planet but also for those of us who call it home," Andersen said. Namami Gange initiative: What is Ganges river rejuvenation project all about? In the Ganges River Rejuvenation project, restoring the health of the Ganges is the focus of a major push to cut pollution, rebuild forest cover, and bring a wide range of benefits to the 520 million people living around its vast basin. Climate change, population growth, industrialisation, and irrigation have degraded the Ganges along its 2,525-kilometre course from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal. "Launched in 2014, the government-led Namami Gange initiative focuses on rejuvenating, protecting and conserving the Ganges and its tributaries, reforesting parts of the Ganges basin and promoting sustainable farming," a UN statement said. ALSO READ | COP15 summit: Rich countries oppose creation of $10 billion biodiversity fund The project also aims to revive key wildlife species, including river dolphins, softshell turtles, otters, and the Hilsa shad fish. The initiative, with an investment of up to $4.25 billion so far, has the involvement of 230 organisations, with 1,500 km of river restored to date. Additionally, there have been 30,000 hectares of afforestation so far, with a 2030 goal of 134,000 hectares, according to the UN. Other World Restoration Flagships The other inaugural World Restoration Flagships include the Trinational Atlantic Forest Pact, which aims to protect and restore the forest in Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina, and the Abu Dhabi Marine Restoration project which is safeguarding the world’s second-largest dugong population in Abu Dhabi. The Great Green Wall for Restoration and Peace initiative to restore savannas, grasslands and farmlands across Africa, the Multi-Country Mountain Initiative based in Serbia, Kyrgyzstan, Uganda and Rwanda, and the Small Island Developing States Restoration Drive focused on three small island developing states – Vanuatu, St Lucia and Comoros were also recognised. WATCH | UN Biodiversity Conference kicks-off in Montreal The Altyn Dala Conservation Initiative in Kazakhstan to restore the steppe, semi-desert and desert ecosystems, the Central American Dry Corridor, and Shan-Shui Initiative in China were the other projects on the list. During the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP15) being held from December 7 to 19, about 20,000 delegates from across the world will negotiate an eight-year plan to preserve and restore biodiversity. They will do so through the Convention on Biological Diversity, a treaty adopted for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity and related issues. COP15 aims to achieve a historic agreement to halt and reverse nature loss, on par with the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's 'Namami Gange' among world's 10 most groundbreaking conservation efforts

Unknown assailants opened fire on a convoy in southern Lebanon, killing one Irish UN&nbsp;peacekeeper and injuring three others, according to Irish and Lebanese military sources on Thursday. Eight Irish United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeeping officials&nbsp;were in two armoured vehicles when they were shot upon while they were travelling from the village of Al-Aqbiya north toward Beirut on Tuesday night, according to a statement from the Irish Defence Forces.

One of the three injured troops, according to the Irish military, is in critical condition. The perpetrators were not named in the statement. One peacekeeper's death and three injuries were verified by UNIFIL, but no other information was provided.

“Our thoughts are also with the local civilians who may have been injured or frightened during the incident,” UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti said, adding that “details are sparse and conflicting.” Tenenti added that UNIFIL is coordinating with the military and trying to “determine exactly what happened.”

Also watch |&nbsp;Iran ousted from UN women's group; Russia and China oppose move

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The armoured truck carrying the peacekeepers had turned over while attempting to flee the site when it was fired upon, according to a person involved with the inquiry who spoke to the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because they were not permitted to talk publicly about the case.

The act was condemned by Lebanon's Foreign Ministry, and a statement from the office of interim Prime Minister Najib Mikati asked for an inquiry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-un-jaishankar-lays-out-indias-norms-for-multilateral-reforms-543141">At UN, Jaishankar reprimands Pak, China on terrorism, lays out India's 'NORMS' for reforms</a>

Residents of southern Lebanon often fight with UNIFIL soldiers. Irish peacekeepers were attacked in January in the southern village of Bint Jbeil by unidentified perpetrators, who also vandalised their cars and stole their belongings. The UN&nbsp;refuted the allegations made by the locals that they had taken photos of private properties.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Unknown assailants opened fire on a convoy in southern Lebanon, killing one Irish UN peacekeeper and injuring three others, according to Irish and Lebanese military sources on Thursday.

Unknown assailants opened fire on a convoy in southern Lebanon, killing one Irish UN peacekeeper and injuring three others, according to Irish and Lebanese military sources on Thursday. Eight Irish United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeeping officials were in two armoured vehicles when they were shot upon while they were travelling from the village of Al-Aqbiya north toward Beirut on Tuesday night, according to a statement from the Irish Defence Forces. One of the three injured troops, according to the Irish military, is in critical condition. The perpetrators were not named in the statement. One peacekeeper's death and three injuries were verified by UNIFIL, but no other information was provided. “Our thoughts are also with the local civilians who may have been injured or frightened during the incident,” UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti said, adding that “details are sparse and conflicting.” Tenenti added that UNIFIL is coordinating with the military and trying to “determine exactly what happened.” Also watch | Iran ousted from UN women's group; Russia and China oppose move The armoured truck carrying the peacekeepers had turned over while attempting to flee the site when it was fired upon, according to a person involved with the inquiry who spoke to the Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because they were not permitted to talk publicly about the case. The act was condemned by Lebanon's Foreign Ministry, and a statement from the office of interim Prime Minister Najib Mikati asked for an inquiry. Also read | At UN, Jaishankar reprimands Pak, China on terrorism, lays out India's 'NORMS' for reforms Residents of southern Lebanon often fight with UNIFIL soldiers. Irish peacekeepers were attacked in January in the southern village of Bint Jbeil by unidentified perpetrators, who also vandalised their cars and stole their belongings. The UN refuted the allegations made by the locals that they had taken photos of private properties. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Irish UN peacekeeper killed in southern Lebanon convoy ambush, three others injured

The United Nations urged China to respect the right to peaceful protests as the crackdown continued on the citizens. In the official statement, the UN requested the Chinese government to not detain or use force against the protestors in the country and to allow them to show their dissent in a peaceful manner. In the past few weeks, several parts of China have seen protests in response to the latest lockdowns imposed by the Chinese Communist Party as part of the “Zero Covid” policy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-forces-with-ulterior-motives-are-linking-urumqi-fire-with-covid-curbs-538123">Beijing blames 'forces with ulterior motives' for fuelling rage in the country</a>

"We call on the authorities to respond to protests in line with international human rights laws and standards. No one should be arbitrarily detained for peacefully expressing their opinions," news agency AFP quoted UN Human Rights Office spokesman Jeremy Laurence as saying.

The United States also weighed in on the current situation in China and said that the strategy is unlikely to work if the citizens are not convinced. A spokesperson for the White House National Security Council also told Reuters that China should not stop people from protesting peacefully.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eight-civilians-killed-in-al-shabaabs-latest-attack-on-mogadishu-hotel-siege-ends-after-21-hours-538276">8 civilians killed in latest Al-Shabaab attack on Mogadishu, hotel siege ends</a>

"We've said that zero-COVID is not a policy we are pursuing here in the United States. And as we have said, we think it's going to be very difficult for the People's Republic of China to be able to contain this virus through their zero-COVID strategy," the spokesperson said.

The Chinese authorities have barricaded parts of several cities as the protests continued over the restrictions. The number of cases has gone up by a bit but the tough lockdowns have resulted in many citizens even protesting the various controversies and corruptions allegations related to the Xi Jinping-government.

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The United Nations urged China to respect the right to peaceful protests as the crackdown continued on the citizens. In the official statement, the UN requested the Chinese government to not detain or use force against the protestors in the country and to allow them to show their dissent in a peaceful manner.

The United Nations urged China to respect the right to peaceful protests as the crackdown continued on the citizens. In the official statement, the UN requested the Chinese government to not detain or use force against the protestors in the country and to allow them to show their dissent in a peaceful manner. In the past few weeks, several parts of China have seen protests in response to the latest lockdowns imposed by the Chinese Communist Party as part of the “Zero Covid” policy. Also read | Beijing blames 'forces with ulterior motives' for fuelling rage in the country "We call on the authorities to respond to protests in line with international human rights laws and standards. No one should be arbitrarily detained for peacefully expressing their opinions," news agency AFP quoted UN Human Rights Office spokesman Jeremy Laurence as saying. The United States also weighed in on the current situation in China and said that the strategy is unlikely to work if the citizens are not convinced. A spokesperson for the White House National Security Council also told Reuters that China should not stop people from protesting peacefully. Also read | 8 civilians killed in latest Al-Shabaab attack on Mogadishu, hotel siege ends "We've said that zero-COVID is not a policy we are pursuing here in the United States. And as we have said, we think it's going to be very difficult for the People's Republic of China to be able to contain this virus through their zero-COVID strategy," the spokesperson said. The Chinese authorities have barricaded parts of several cities as the protests continued over the restrictions. The number of cases has gone up by a bit but the tough lockdowns have resulted in many citizens even protesting the various controversies and corruptions allegations related to the Xi Jinping-government.

United Nations calls on Chinese government to respect right to peaceful protests

Foreign ministers of G7 industrialised nations said on Sunday (November 20) that the United Nations Security Council needs to take "significant measures" responding to latest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch by North Korea. The UNSC is due to discuss North Korea in a meeting on Monday, at the request of the United States.

"(North Korea's) actions demand a united and robust response by the international community," the ministers of the United States, Japan, Canada, Germany, Britain, France and Italy said.

On Friday, North Korea tested a ballistic missile capable of reaching mainland US. The test was carried out shortly after warning of "fiercer military responses" to Washington beefing up its security presence in the region.

Pyongyang tested on Friday a ballistic missile capable of reaching the U.S. mainland shortly after warning of "fiercer military responses" to Washington beefing up its security presence in the region.

The G7 statement said Friday's test was a "reckless act" and "another blatant violation" of U.N. resolutions.

"The unprecedented series of unlawful ballistic missile launches conducted by (North Korea) in 2022 ... pose a serious threat to regional and international peace and security," the G7 statement said, adding that the country "cannot and will never have the status of a nuclear-weapon state".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Foreign ministers of G7 industrialised nations said on Sunday (November 20) that the United Nations Security Council needs to take "significant measures" responding to latest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch by North Korea.

Foreign ministers of G7 industrialised nations said on Sunday (November 20) that the United Nations Security Council needs to take "significant measures" responding to latest intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch by North Korea. The UNSC is due to discuss North Korea in a meeting on Monday, at the request of the United States. "(North Korea's) actions demand a united and robust response by the international community," the ministers of the United States, Japan, Canada, Germany, Britain, France and Italy said. On Friday, North Korea tested a ballistic missile capable of reaching mainland US. The test was carried out shortly after warning of "fiercer military responses" to Washington beefing up its security presence in the region. Pyongyang tested on Friday a ballistic missile capable of reaching the U.S. mainland shortly after warning of "fiercer military responses" to Washington beefing up its security presence in the region. The G7 statement said Friday's test was a "reckless act" and "another blatant violation" of U.N. resolutions. "The unprecedented series of unlawful ballistic missile launches conducted by (North Korea) in 2022 ... pose a serious threat to regional and international peace and security," the G7 statement said, adding that the country "cannot and will never have the status of a nuclear-weapon state". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

G7 wants 'significant' UN measures over North Korea missile launches

During the initial days of the COP27 summit, UN secretary-general&nbsp;Antonio Guterres&nbsp;had asked world leaders what they had done for the world and the planet till now. Being unhappy with the developments in the last two weeks, the UN secretary-general made it clear on Sunday that COP27 did not meet the ambitions at all.

Guterres said that the COP27 climate talks had fallen short in pushing for the urgent "drastic" carbon-cutting needed to tackle global warming, AFP reported. He said, "Our planet is still in the emergency room. We need to drastically reduce emissions now, and this is an issue this COP did not address."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-countries-resisted-mentioning-15degc-goal-in-cop27-text-us-climate-envoy-533576">Some countries resisted mentioning 1.5°C goal in COP27 text: US climate envoy</a>

Similar remarks were issued by Frans Timmermans, the EU’s climate chief. Timmermans said that COP27 failed to reach a consensus on&nbsp;keeping global warming to below 1.5 degrees Celsius by the end of the century while adding that the bloc did not want to scupper a loss and damage fund for more ambition

Norway’s climate minister Espen Barthe Eide also criticised the gathering saying the final declaration did not "contain an explicit reference to phasing down fossil fuels or peaking emissions by 2025."&nbsp; 
 
Eide said, "The Egyptian president’s focus on the loss and damage fund detracted from work on climate mitigation."&nbsp;Although he lauded the declaration for not letting the ambition "scale down from Glasgow".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop27-uk-eu-support-indias-call-to-phase-down-all-fossil-fuels-534322">COP27: UK, EU support India's call to phase down all fossil fuels</a>

Germany’s foreign minister Annalena Baerbock appeared to be pinning the blame on "an alliance of oil-rich countries and major emitters"&nbsp;for the disappointing outcome.

As per media reports, representatives from various nations also staged walkouts while expressing disappointment with how the process played out. Allegations were levelled and a series of documents were rushed through without having discussions.

(With inputs from agencies)

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During the initial days of the COP27 summit, UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres had asked world leaders what they had done for the world and the planet till now.

During the initial days of the COP27 summit, UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres had asked world leaders what they had done for the world and the planet till now. Being unhappy with the developments in the last two weeks, the UN secretary-general made it clear on Sunday that COP27 did not meet the ambitions at all. Guterres said that the COP27 climate talks had fallen short in pushing for the urgent "drastic" carbon-cutting needed to tackle global warming, AFP reported. He said, "Our planet is still in the emergency room. We need to drastically reduce emissions now, and this is an issue this COP did not address." Also read | Some countries resisted mentioning 1.5°C goal in COP27 text: US climate envoy Similar remarks were issued by Frans Timmermans, the EU’s climate chief. Timmermans said that COP27 failed to reach a consensus on keeping global warming to below 1.5 degrees Celsius by the end of the century while adding that the bloc did not want to scupper a loss and damage fund for more ambition Norway’s climate minister Espen Barthe Eide also criticised the gathering saying the final declaration did not "contain an explicit reference to phasing down fossil fuels or peaking emissions by 2025." Eide said, "The Egyptian president’s focus on the loss and damage fund detracted from work on climate mitigation." Although he lauded the declaration for not letting the ambition "scale down from Glasgow". Also read | COP27: UK, EU support India's call to phase down all fossil fuels Germany’s foreign minister Annalena Baerbock appeared to be pinning the blame on "an alliance of oil-rich countries and major emitters" for the disappointing outcome. As per media reports, representatives from various nations also staged walkouts while expressing disappointment with how the process played out. Allegations were levelled and a series of documents were rushed through without having discussions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres calls out COP27 for failing to meet ambitions

UN climate talks that were supposed to end Friday were extended by a day in an effort to break a deadlock over creating a fund for developing countries devastated by the fallout from global warming. Representatives from nearly 200 countries have gathered at the COP27 in Egypt for two weeks with the aim of driving forward action on climate change as the world faces a worsening onslaught of extreme floods, heat waves and droughts.&nbsp;

But wealthy and developing nations were still struggling to find common ground on creating the fund and on a host of other crucial issues with only hours before the summit in the Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh was due to end. “Today we need to shift gears again, time is not on our side," Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, who chairs the COP27 talks, told delegates. “I remain committed to bringing this conference to a close tomorrow in an orderly manner."&nbsp;

The daunting list of urgent tasks includes finding agreement — and funds — for the emissions cuts needed to limit average warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial levels, which scientists say is a safer guardrail to avoid the most dangerous impacts. For many developing countries — and small island states threatened by sea level rise — the defining issues at the conference is money for the “loss and damage" caused by climate change.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nord-stream-blasts-were-an-act-of-sabotage-swedish-prosecutor-says-535297">Nord Stream blasts were acts of sabotage, traces of explosives found, says Swedish prosecutor</a>

A cascade of climate-driven extremes in recent months — from floods in Pakistan and Nigeria to heatwaves and droughts across the world — have shone a spotlight on the ferocious impacts of a warming world for developing nations that are also struggling with debts and surging inflation. In a bid to find a compromise, the European Union proposed late Thursday the creation of a fund for the most vulnerable nations but warned it was its final offer.&nbsp;

The EU proposal indicated that the bloc, previously fearful of open-ended climate damages liability, has “shifted significantly", said Rachel Cleetus, lead economist at the Union of Concerned Scientists’ climate programme. But she said all eyes were now on the United States and China, the world’s top two polluters, fresh from a thaw in their climate relations after a meeting between Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping earlier this week in Bali.&nbsp;

“It’s crunch time," Cleetus told AFP. “There’s no time anymore for the US to sit on the sidelines. They have to come out with what their position is to show that they’re being constructive." Cleetus added that China should also make its position clear, particularly on the issue of whether it would contribute to such a fund and pledge not to draw from it.&nbsp;

“We think China and the US can really unlock this in these last 24 hours," Cleetus said. Earlier in the week, the G77 and China bloc of 134 developing countries proposed creating the loss and damage fund at the COP27 meeting, with other details to be agreed later.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-suggests-immunity-for-saudi-crown-prince-in-khashoggi-case-535284">Biden administration suggests immunity for Saudi crown prince in Jamal Khashoggi killing case</a>

European Commission Vice President Frans Timmermans told reporters on Friday that the EU offer had two “very important" conditions that differ from the G77 proposal. He said the fund should be for “the most vulnerable" nations and the money should come from a “broad funder base" — code for countries including China that have become wealthier since they were listed as developing countries in 1992.&nbsp;

“I have to say this is our final offer," Timmermans said. “This is where the (EU) member states can find an agreement and I have to thank all of them for for the courage to go this far. But this is it." Timmermans said he had explained the EU proposal to US delegates who were “very interested in seeing" that reaffirming the need to step up efforts to cut emissions to reach the 1.5C target be reflected in the conclusions. Pakistan’s climate minister Sherry Rehman, whose country chairs G77+China, expressed a willingness to “working with each other to find common ground".&nbsp;

“It is up to all of us to steer a path that sends a powerful message from this COP that the implementation COP actually turned into a historic actionable COP," she said. She said the G77 had zeroed in on one of the options put forward in a draft loss and damage text “with a few changes that have been submitted and we are working on with each other".&nbsp;

Developing nations have been relatively united in calling for the loss and damage fund at this COP. Some small island states said they had discussed walking out if they do not see progress. But the AOSIS coalition of small island states has also indicated it wants to see China, India and other major polluters contribute.&nbsp;

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UN climate talks that were supposed to end Friday were extended by a day in an effort to break a deadlock over creating a fund for developing countries devastated by the fallout from global warming.

UN climate talks that were supposed to end Friday were extended by a day in an effort to break a deadlock over creating a fund for developing countries devastated by the fallout from global warming. Representatives from nearly 200 countries have gathered at the COP27 in Egypt for two weeks with the aim of driving forward action on climate change as the world faces a worsening onslaught of extreme floods, heat waves and droughts. But wealthy and developing nations were still struggling to find common ground on creating the fund and on a host of other crucial issues with only hours before the summit in the Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh was due to end. “Today we need to shift gears again, time is not on our side," Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, who chairs the COP27 talks, told delegates. “I remain committed to bringing this conference to a close tomorrow in an orderly manner." The daunting list of urgent tasks includes finding agreement — and funds — for the emissions cuts needed to limit average warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial levels, which scientists say is a safer guardrail to avoid the most dangerous impacts. For many developing countries — and small island states threatened by sea level rise — the defining issues at the conference is money for the “loss and damage" caused by climate change. Also read | Nord Stream blasts were acts of sabotage, traces of explosives found, says Swedish prosecutor A cascade of climate-driven extremes in recent months — from floods in Pakistan and Nigeria to heatwaves and droughts across the world — have shone a spotlight on the ferocious impacts of a warming world for developing nations that are also struggling with debts and surging inflation. In a bid to find a compromise, the European Union proposed late Thursday the creation of a fund for the most vulnerable nations but warned it was its final offer. The EU proposal indicated that the bloc, previously fearful of open-ended climate damages liability, has “shifted significantly", said Rachel Cleetus, lead economist at the Union of Concerned Scientists’ climate programme. But she said all eyes were now on the United States and China, the world’s top two polluters, fresh from a thaw in their climate relations after a meeting between Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping earlier this week in Bali. “It’s crunch time," Cleetus told AFP. “There’s no time anymore for the US to sit on the sidelines. They have to come out with what their position is to show that they’re being constructive." Cleetus added that China should also make its position clear, particularly on the issue of whether it would contribute to such a fund and pledge not to draw from it. “We think China and the US can really unlock this in these last 24 hours," Cleetus said. Earlier in the week, the G77 and China bloc of 134 developing countries proposed creating the loss and damage fund at the COP27 meeting, with other details to be agreed later. Also read | Biden administration suggests immunity for Saudi crown prince in Jamal Khashoggi killing case European Commission Vice President Frans Timmermans told reporters on Friday that the EU offer had two “very important" conditions that differ from the G77 proposal. He said the fund should be for “the most vulnerable" nations and the money should come from a “broad funder base" — code for countries including China that have become wealthier since they were listed as developing countries in 1992. “I have to say this is our final offer," Timmermans said. “This is where the (EU) member states can find an agreement and I have to thank all of them for for the courage to go this far. But this is it." Timmermans said he had explained the EU proposal to US delegates who were “very interested in seeing" that reaffirming the need to step up efforts to cut emissions to reach the 1.5C target be reflected in the conclusions. Pakistan’s climate minister Sherry Rehman, whose country chairs G77+China, expressed a willingness to “working with each other to find common ground". “It is up to all of us to steer a path that sends a powerful message from this COP that the implementation COP actually turned into a historic actionable COP," she said. She said the G77 had zeroed in on one of the options put forward in a draft loss and damage text “with a few changes that have been submitted and we are working on with each other". Developing nations have been relatively united in calling for the loss and damage fund at this COP. Some small island states said they had discussed walking out if they do not see progress. But the AOSIS coalition of small island states has also indicated it wants to see China, India and other major polluters contribute.

COP27: UN climate talks extended by one day to break deadlock over funds

The United Nations climate agency published the first draft of the COP27 climate agreement but it has left a lot to be desired. According to Reuters, the draft faces criticism from various circles for including last year’s goals and the lack of clarity when it comes to several key issues. However, sources from the UN made it clear that it is only a draft and all parties are currently engaged in conversations over the final resolutions which will be adopted at the end of the COP27 summit being held in Egypt.

While all countries agreed on limiting the rise of global temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius, there were disagreements when it comes to stopping the reliance on fossil fuels. While the European Union and India emphasised phasing down on all fossil fuels, the draft did not mention any such resolution.

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It repeated the goal set at the Glasgow Climate Pact in 2021 aimed to “accelerate measures towards the phase down of unabated coal power and phase out and rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies”.&nbsp;

According to Reuters, the other major issue which was brought forward by multiple countries was the formation of a “loss and damage” fund which will be ultilised in rebuilding after any major disaster. It was seen as a boost for poorer nations that are regularly ravaged by various natural disasters.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/black-sea-grain-export-deal-extended-for-120-days-says-ukraine-minister-534980">Black Sea grain export deal extended for 120 days, says Ukrainian&nbsp;minister</a>

While the draft “welcomed” the proposal, no definitive answer was provided on the issue.&nbsp;

In the past few weeks, not all countries have extended support to the proposed disaster fund and experts believe that it can prove to be a major roadblock when it comes to reaching an agreement.&nbsp;

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The United Nations climate agency published the first draft of the COP27 climate agreement but it has left a lot to be desired. According to Reuters, the draft faces criticism from various circles for including last year’s goals and the lack of clarity when it comes to several key issues.

The United Nations climate agency published the first draft of the COP27 climate agreement but it has left a lot to be desired. According to Reuters, the draft faces criticism from various circles for including last year’s goals and the lack of clarity when it comes to several key issues. However, sources from the UN made it clear that it is only a draft and all parties are currently engaged in conversations over the final resolutions which will be adopted at the end of the COP27 summit being held in Egypt. While all countries agreed on limiting the rise of global temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius, there were disagreements when it comes to stopping the reliance on fossil fuels. While the European Union and India emphasised phasing down on all fossil fuels, the draft did not mention any such resolution. Also read | Russia hits Ukraine's critical infrastructure, missile factory in new strikes It repeated the goal set at the Glasgow Climate Pact in 2021 aimed to “accelerate measures towards the phase down of unabated coal power and phase out and rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies”. According to Reuters, the other major issue which was brought forward by multiple countries was the formation of a “loss and damage” fund which will be ultilised in rebuilding after any major disaster. It was seen as a boost for poorer nations that are regularly ravaged by various natural disasters. Also read | Black Sea grain export deal extended for 120 days, says Ukrainian minister While the draft “welcomed” the proposal, no definitive answer was provided on the issue. In the past few weeks, not all countries have extended support to the proposed disaster fund and experts believe that it can prove to be a major roadblock when it comes to reaching an agreement.

UN publishes first draft of COP27 climate agreement, faces tough criticism

Disclaimer: This story contains graphic details. Viewer discretion is advised.

The United Nations said on Tuesday that its investigation has revealed that prisoners held by both Russia and Ukraine during the ongoing conflict have been subjected to torture.

According to the investigation conducted by the UN, the prisoners were beaten up, given electric shocks and were also humiliated in custody. Matilda Bogner, head of the UN Rights Monitoring Mission, told reporters that this violates international laws that promises "the prohibition of torture and ill-treatment is absolute, even -- indeed especially -- in times of armed conflict".

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AFP reported that the investigation was carried out by UN officials who interviewed 159 prisoners of war held by Russia and 175 prisoners held by Ukraine. Most of them were men and Bogner said that although both sides flouted rules, the Russian torture was comparatively more "systematic".

"Their hands were tied and eyes covered so tightly with duct tape that it left wounds on their wrists and faces," Bogner said. "Torture and ill-treatment were not only used to coerce prisoners of war to give military information. They were used on a daily basis to intimidate and humiliate them."

WATCH | G20 Summit 2022:&nbsp;Focus remains on the war in Ukraine

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"We also documented various forms of sexual violence, such as pulling a male victim by a rope tied around his genitalia, or forced nudity combined with the threat of rape," Bogner added.

In the aftermath of the investigations, the UN demanded both Russia and Ukraine to address the issue and hold the people accountable for their actions. While Ukraine has launched few investigations into such allegations, the UN said that more needs to be done on this front.

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Disclaimer: This story contains graphic details. Viewer discretion is advised. The United Nations said on Tuesday that its investigation has revealed that prisoners held by both Russia and Ukraine during the ongoing conflict have been subjected to torture.

Disclaimer: This story contains graphic details. Viewer discretion is advised. The United Nations said on Tuesday that its investigation has revealed that prisoners held by both Russia and Ukraine during the ongoing conflict have been subjected to torture. According to the investigation conducted by the UN, the prisoners were beaten up, given electric shocks and were also humiliated in custody. Matilda Bogner, head of the UN Rights Monitoring Mission, told reporters that this violates international laws that promises "the prohibition of torture and ill-treatment is absolute, even -- indeed especially -- in times of armed conflict". Also read | Russian FM says Ukraine's conditions to start peace negotiations 'unrealistic' AFP reported that the investigation was carried out by UN officials who interviewed 159 prisoners of war held by Russia and 175 prisoners held by Ukraine. Most of them were men and Bogner said that although both sides flouted rules, the Russian torture was comparatively more "systematic". "Their hands were tied and eyes covered so tightly with duct tape that it left wounds on their wrists and faces," Bogner said. "Torture and ill-treatment were not only used to coerce prisoners of war to give military information. They were used on a daily basis to intimidate and humiliate them." WATCH | G20 Summit 2022: Focus remains on the war in Ukraine "We also documented various forms of sexual violence, such as pulling a male victim by a rope tied around his genitalia, or forced nudity combined with the threat of rape," Bogner added. In the aftermath of the investigations, the UN demanded both Russia and Ukraine to address the issue and hold the people accountable for their actions. While Ukraine has launched few investigations into such allegations, the UN said that more needs to be done on this front.

Both Russia and Ukraine tortured prisoners of war during ongoing conflict, says UN

United Nations Human Rights Council said on Monday (November 14) that it will hold an urgent, special session on Iran. The session will focus on deadly crackdown on protesters protesting Mahsa Amini's death. UNHRC said that the session will be held on November 24.

Mahsa Amini (22) was taken into custody by Iran's morality police for 'inappropriate' attire in the month of September. Her custidial death sparked a nationwide 'anti-hijab' protest which is going on even now. The protesters have even called for downfall of Islamic clerical regime. The government has almost always called protesters 'rioters' and have initiated a brutal crackdown.

UNHRC's announcement of a special session has come just a day after Iran's judiciary handed death sentence to an arrested protester for the first time.

Watch | Court in Iran issues first death sentence amid anti-hijab protests

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The decision to hold a special UN session came after the German and Icelandic ambassadors to the UN in Geneva submitted a request for such a meeting late on Friday.

The support of 16 of the Human Rights Council's 47 members -- more than a third -- is required to convene a special session outside the three regular ones held each year.

So far, 44 countries, including 17 Council members, have backed the call, the body said.

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Till now, 326 people have been killed in the crackdown on protests, according to the Oslo-based group Iran Human Rights (IHR).

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United Nations Human Rights Council said on Monday (November 14) that it will hold an urgent, special session on Iran. The session will focus on deadly crackdown on protesters protesting Mahsa Amini's death.

United Nations Human Rights Council said on Monday (November 14) that it will hold an urgent, special session on Iran. The session will focus on deadly crackdown on protesters protesting Mahsa Amini's death. UNHRC said that the session will be held on November 24. Mahsa Amini (22) was taken into custody by Iran's morality police for 'inappropriate' attire in the month of September. Her custidial death sparked a nationwide 'anti-hijab' protest which is going on even now. The protesters have even called for downfall of Islamic clerical regime. The government has almost always called protesters 'rioters' and have initiated a brutal crackdown. UNHRC's announcement of a special session has come just a day after Iran's judiciary handed death sentence to an arrested protester for the first time. Watch | Court in Iran issues first death sentence amid anti-hijab protests × The decision to hold a special UN session came after the German and Icelandic ambassadors to the UN in Geneva submitted a request for such a meeting late on Friday. The support of 16 of the Human Rights Council's 47 members -- more than a third -- is required to convene a special session outside the three regular ones held each year. So far, 44 countries, including 17 Council members, have backed the call, the body said. Also Read | Iran accuses more than 750 people of ‘incitement to killing’ in ‘recent riots’ Till now, 326 people have been killed in the crackdown on protests, according to the Oslo-based group Iran Human Rights (IHR). You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN Human Rights Council to hold special session on Iran crackdown

Oil and gas are the two products crucial to our livelihood and industries but its impact on our environment is extremely concerning so much so that the world needs to transition towards a cleaner source, however, the world seems far from it.

WION Climate Tracker | United Nations warns nations, again!: Oil, gas emissions three times higher

United Nations secretary-general Antony Guterres warned companies around the world against “toxic cover-up" as investments in new fossil fuels, harmful emissions or deforestation will negate their claims of achieving “net zero”. During his speech at the COP27 event in Egypt, Guterres added that companies should update their environmental pledges every year and keep a tab on their progress. &nbsp;

"Using bogus 'net-zero' pledges to cover up massive fossil fuel expansion is reprehensible. It is rank deception. This toxic cover-up could push our world over the climate cliff. The sham must end."&nbsp;

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The observations were made based on a report released by the UN which claimed that a number of companies are claiming “net zero” status by hiding certain harmful practices. The report also asked companies should follow the Paris Agreement's aim of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Oil firms pour millions into 'greenwashing' google ads?

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"It's very easy to make an announcement that you are going to be net zero by 2050. But you have to walk the talk and what we've seen is that there is not enough action," Catherine McKenna, Canada's former environment and climate change minister, said after the release of the UN report.&nbsp;

She added that the UN finds it extremely difficult to keep track of all major companies and without proper transparency on their part, it is impossible to completely evaluate their positions. She further urged companies to make five-year pledges and share their progress with the necessary authorities.&nbsp;

"The reality is you can't offset your way to net zero," McKenna told AFP. &nbsp;

"You don't get an A for showing up in class. You get an A for doing the work and you can't pay someone else to do it, you have got to do it yourself."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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United Nations secretary-general Antony Guterres warned companies around the world against “toxic cover-up" as investments in new fossil fuels, harmful emissions or deforestation will negate their claims of achieving “net zero”.

United Nations secretary-general Antony Guterres warned companies around the world against “toxic cover-up" as investments in new fossil fuels, harmful emissions or deforestation will negate their claims of achieving “net zero”. During his speech at the COP27 event in Egypt, Guterres added that companies should update their environmental pledges every year and keep a tab on their progress. "Using bogus 'net-zero' pledges to cover up massive fossil fuel expansion is reprehensible. It is rank deception. This toxic cover-up could push our world over the climate cliff. The sham must end." Also read | US Midterm Elections LIVE | Voting begins with experts favouring Republicans The observations were made based on a report released by the UN which claimed that a number of companies are claiming “net zero” status by hiding certain harmful practices. The report also asked companies should follow the Paris Agreement's aim of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Oil firms pour millions into 'greenwashing' google ads? "It's very easy to make an announcement that you are going to be net zero by 2050. But you have to walk the talk and what we've seen is that there is not enough action," Catherine McKenna, Canada's former environment and climate change minister, said after the release of the UN report. She added that the UN finds it extremely difficult to keep track of all major companies and without proper transparency on their part, it is impossible to completely evaluate their positions. She further urged companies to make five-year pledges and share their progress with the necessary authorities. "The reality is you can't offset your way to net zero," McKenna told AFP. "You don't get an A for showing up in class. You get an A for doing the work and you can't pay someone else to do it, you have got to do it yourself." (With inputs from agencies)

COP27: United Nations chief criticises companies for engaging in ‘toxic cover-up’

The United Nations Annual Meeting on climate, the Cop27 summit is all set to begin in just a few hours. The world leaders of more than 120 countries will assemble at an Egyptian resort.

UN COP27: Climate Finance to be top agenda

Public hearings of alleged Israeli human rights violation opened at the United Nations in Geneva on Monday. Israel has slammed these as "sham trials".

The independent Commission of Inquiry, established by the U.N. top human rights body last year, plans five days of hearings which it says will be impartial and examine the allegations of both Israelis and Palestinian authorities.

Israel has alleged that these hearings have an "anti-Israel" agenda and have been convened with little notice.

"This (COI) and the convening of these sham trials shame and undermine the Human Rights Council," it said in a statement issued by its diplomatic mission in Geneva.

A UN human rights office has previously dismissed allegations of bias and said Israel had not cooperated with the commission's work.

The focus of the first set of hearings will be on the closure orders of a number of Palestinian organisations by Israel in August and the killing of the Palestinian-American reporter Shireen Abu Akleh in May.

The UN rights office has said its findings suggest that she was killed by Israeli forces while an Israeli investigation concluded she was likely to have been unintentionally shot by an Israeli soldier.

Three representatives from shuttered Palestinian NGOs will testify.

The UN Human Rights Council or its hearings do not have any legal power themselves. However, investigations by council are often used as evidence before national or international courts.

Besides Israel, its ally the United States has criticised the UN Human Rights Council for what it has described as a "chronic bias" against Israel. It quit the body over this in 2018 and only fully rejoined this year.

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&nbsp;

Public hearings of alleged Israeli human rights violation opened at the United Nations in Geneva on Monday. Israel has slammed these as "sham trials". The independent Commission of Inquiry, established by the U.

Public hearings of alleged Israeli human rights violation opened at the United Nations in Geneva on Monday. Israel has slammed these as "sham trials". The independent Commission of Inquiry, established by the U.N. top human rights body last year, plans five days of hearings which it says will be impartial and examine the allegations of both Israelis and Palestinian authorities. Israel has alleged that these hearings have an "anti-Israel" agenda and have been convened with little notice. "This (COI) and the convening of these sham trials shame and undermine the Human Rights Council," it said in a statement issued by its diplomatic mission in Geneva. A UN human rights office has previously dismissed allegations of bias and said Israel had not cooperated with the commission's work. The focus of the first set of hearings will be on the closure orders of a number of Palestinian organisations by Israel in August and the killing of the Palestinian-American reporter Shireen Abu Akleh in May. The UN rights office has said its findings suggest that she was killed by Israeli forces while an Israeli investigation concluded she was likely to have been unintentionally shot by an Israeli soldier. Three representatives from shuttered Palestinian NGOs will testify. The UN Human Rights Council or its hearings do not have any legal power themselves. However, investigations by council are often used as evidence before national or international courts. Besides Israel, its ally the United States has criticised the UN Human Rights Council for what it has described as a "chronic bias" against Israel. It quit the body over this in 2018 and only fully rejoined this year. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN probe hearings of alleged Israeli rights abuses open in Geneva

A report by the United Nations’ World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) stated that the last eight years have been the hottest ever recorded since the agency started releasing the figures. According to the report, climate crisis has become a serious problem in the last decade and the limit of 1.5 Degree Celsius increase in global temperature as agreed by countries is “barely within reach”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-to-urge-cop27-nations-to-turn-to-life-climate-finance-gap-to-be-flagged-531594" hreflang="en">UN COP27 climate summit opens in Egypt; India to flag climate finance gap</a>

The report, which was published on the opening day of the Cop27 climate summit in Egypt, pointed out that the record percentage of greenhouse gases has led to massive calamities around the world. The report specifically included the devasting floods in Pakistan as well as Puerto Rico.

UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres said during his address that “our planet is on course to reach tipping points that will make climate chaos irreversible” and it is clear from the fact that the temperatures have been rising consistently since 2016 due to the rise of pollutants.

“The greater the warming, the worse the impacts,” WMO secretary-general, Prof Petteri Taalas said.

WATCH |&nbsp;UN Climate Summit COP27 begins in Egypt; what to expect from it?

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“We have such high levels of CO2 in the atmosphere now that the lower 1.5C [target] of the Paris Agreement is barely within reach. It’s already too late for many glaciers [and] sea level rise is a long-term and major threat to many millions of coastal dwellers and low-lying states.”

Besides floods, heatwaves and droughts have also become quite common in the past decade with China experiencing very high temperatures and several rivers drying up across the world.

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A report by the United Nations’ World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) stated that the last eight years have been the hottest ever recorded since the agency started releasing the figures.

A report by the United Nations’ World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) stated that the last eight years have been the hottest ever recorded since the agency started releasing the figures. According to the report, climate crisis has become a serious problem in the last decade and the limit of 1.5 Degree Celsius increase in global temperature as agreed by countries is “barely within reach”. Also read | UN COP27 climate summit opens in Egypt; India to flag climate finance gap The report, which was published on the opening day of the Cop27 climate summit in Egypt, pointed out that the record percentage of greenhouse gases has led to massive calamities around the world. The report specifically included the devasting floods in Pakistan as well as Puerto Rico. UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres said during his address that “our planet is on course to reach tipping points that will make climate chaos irreversible” and it is clear from the fact that the temperatures have been rising consistently since 2016 due to the rise of pollutants. “The greater the warming, the worse the impacts,” WMO secretary-general, Prof Petteri Taalas said. WATCH | UN Climate Summit COP27 begins in Egypt; what to expect from it? “We have such high levels of CO2 in the atmosphere now that the lower 1.5C [target] of the Paris Agreement is barely within reach. It’s already too late for many glaciers [and] sea level rise is a long-term and major threat to many millions of coastal dwellers and low-lying states.” Besides floods, heatwaves and droughts have also become quite common in the past decade with China experiencing very high temperatures and several rivers drying up across the world.

COP27: Past eight years were the hottest ever in history, says United Nations

UN Climate Summit COP27 begins in Egypt; what to expect from it?

The United Nations nuclear watchdog said on Thursday that it has found no signs to support Russia’s accusations that Ukraine is looking to use a “dirty bomb” amid rising tensions. The International Atomic Energy Agency made the remarks after visiting most of the nuclear power plants in the country and concluded that there are no traces of materials that can be used in such a bomb.

The locations which were inspected were the Institute for Nuclear Research in Kyiv, Eastern Mining and Processing Plant in Zhovti Kody, and Production Association Pivdennyi Machine-Building Plant in Dnipro.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-war-live-updates-kremlin-not-committing-to-black-sea-grain-deal-extension-530850" hreflang="en">Ukraine-Russia war LIVE updates | UN nuclear watchdog says no evidence of ‘dirty bomb’ claim</a>

Earlier, Russia has repeatedly accused Ukraine of planning to use&nbsp;a bomb with nuclear materials in order to falsely implicate the Kremlin. The Russian authorities made this appeal in front of several western countries and even took the issue to the United Nations Security Council for consideration.

"Over the past few days, the inspectors were able to carry out all activities that the IAEA had planned to conduct and were given unfettered access to the locations," IAEA said in a statement.

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukrainian troops shell Russian positions north of Kherson

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"Based on the evaluation of the results available to date and the information provided by Ukraine, the agency did not find any indications of undeclared nuclear activities and materials at the locations," the official statement added after the conclusion of the official inspections.

The inspections were conducted on request of the Ukrainian government and after the IAEA statement, Kyiv said that it was Russia’s attempt to malign Ukraine’s name with the accusations.

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The United Nations nuclear watchdog said on Thursday that it has found no signs to support Russia’s accusations that Ukraine is looking to use a “dirty bomb” amid rising tensions.

The United Nations nuclear watchdog said on Thursday that it has found no signs to support Russia’s accusations that Ukraine is looking to use a “dirty bomb” amid rising tensions. The International Atomic Energy Agency made the remarks after visiting most of the nuclear power plants in the country and concluded that there are no traces of materials that can be used in such a bomb. The locations which were inspected were the Institute for Nuclear Research in Kyiv, Eastern Mining and Processing Plant in Zhovti Kody, and Production Association Pivdennyi Machine-Building Plant in Dnipro. Also read | Ukraine-Russia war LIVE updates | UN nuclear watchdog says no evidence of ‘dirty bomb’ claim Earlier, Russia has repeatedly accused Ukraine of planning to use a bomb with nuclear materials in order to falsely implicate the Kremlin. The Russian authorities made this appeal in front of several western countries and even took the issue to the United Nations Security Council for consideration. "Over the past few days, the inspectors were able to carry out all activities that the IAEA had planned to conduct and were given unfettered access to the locations," IAEA said in a statement. WATCH | Ukrainian troops shell Russian positions north of Kherson "Based on the evaluation of the results available to date and the information provided by Ukraine, the agency did not find any indications of undeclared nuclear activities and materials at the locations," the official statement added after the conclusion of the official inspections. The inspections were conducted on request of the Ukrainian government and after the IAEA statement, Kyiv said that it was Russia’s attempt to malign Ukraine’s name with the accusations.

UN nuclear watchdog says no evidence of Vladimir Putin’s ‘dirty bomb’ claim against Ukraine

The United Nations-led coordination centre said on Tuesday that three ships have left Ukrainian ports as part of the grain export deal. The deal between Ukraine, Turkiye, and the UN was aimed at rectifying the current food shortages around the world due to the disruption to the supply chain due to the crisis.&nbsp;

The statement released by the UN stated that the Russian forces were informed about the movement of the ships and they will pass through the Black Sea and reach Turkey before the grain is further distributed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-begin-voting-as-benjamin-netanyahu-and-yair-lapid-vie-for-premiership-530105">Israelis begin voting as Benjamin Netanyahu and Yair Lapid vie for premiership</a>

The ships which have already made their way to Turkey are currently facing troubles in the Istanbul Strait after Russia decided to back out of the deal. Anadolu News Agency reported that more than 100 ships are currently pending inspection for “navigation risks” before resuming their journey.&nbsp;

"The ships anchored outside of the Istanbul straits pose navigations risks. We are working with the UN on a movement plan for these vessels," Turkish Ambassador to the UN, Feridun Sinirlioglu, said.&nbsp;

The forced halt can have far-reaching consequences as the grains will need to reach their destination before winter and prolonged delays can result in wastage of the food grains onboard.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-police-chief-admits-responsibilty-for-the-seoul-tragedy-530162" hreflang="en">South Korean police chief admits responsibility for the Seoul tragedy</a>

Meanwhile, the conflict in Ukraine continued to escalate as Russia asked civilians on the western bank of the Dnipro River to evacuate the region completely. Kherson, one of the regions annexed by Russia through the referendums, is experiencing massive evacuations under orders from Russian troops.&nbsp;

"Due to the possibility of the use of prohibited methods of war by the Ukrainian regime, as well as information that Kyiv is preparing a massive missile strike on the Kakhovka hydroelectric station, there is an immediate danger of the Kherson region being flooded," Vladimir Saldo, Russian-installed head of occupied Kherson province, said in a video message according to Reuters.&nbsp;

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The United Nations-led coordination centre said on Tuesday that three ships have left Ukrainian ports as part of the grain export deal. The deal between Ukraine, Turkiye, and the UN was aimed at rectifying the current food shortages around the world due to the disruption to the supply chain due to the crisis.

The United Nations-led coordination centre said on Tuesday that three ships have left Ukrainian ports as part of the grain export deal. The deal between Ukraine, Turkiye, and the UN was aimed at rectifying the current food shortages around the world due to the disruption to the supply chain due to the crisis. The statement released by the UN stated that the Russian forces were informed about the movement of the ships and they will pass through the Black Sea and reach Turkey before the grain is further distributed. Also read | Israelis begin voting as Benjamin Netanyahu and Yair Lapid vie for premiership The ships which have already made their way to Turkey are currently facing troubles in the Istanbul Strait after Russia decided to back out of the deal. Anadolu News Agency reported that more than 100 ships are currently pending inspection for “navigation risks” before resuming their journey. "The ships anchored outside of the Istanbul straits pose navigations risks. We are working with the UN on a movement plan for these vessels," Turkish Ambassador to the UN, Feridun Sinirlioglu, said. The forced halt can have far-reaching consequences as the grains will need to reach their destination before winter and prolonged delays can result in wastage of the food grains onboard. Also read | South Korean police chief admits responsibility for the Seoul tragedy Meanwhile, the conflict in Ukraine continued to escalate as Russia asked civilians on the western bank of the Dnipro River to evacuate the region completely. Kherson, one of the regions annexed by Russia through the referendums, is experiencing massive evacuations under orders from Russian troops. "Due to the possibility of the use of prohibited methods of war by the Ukrainian regime, as well as information that Kyiv is preparing a massive missile strike on the Kakhovka hydroelectric station, there is an immediate danger of the Kherson region being flooded," Vladimir Saldo, Russian-installed head of occupied Kherson province, said in a video message according to Reuters.

Three new ships carrying grains leave Ukrainian ports under UN-brokered deal

Noting that more than 70 journalists were killed this year for "fulfilling their role in society", &nbsp;United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has stressed that a "free press" is vital for democracy, exposing wrongdoing and advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Ahead of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists on November 2, Guterres called on the governments and international community to take necessary steps to protect journalists.

"A free press is vital to a functioning democracy, exposing wrongdoing, navigating our complex world and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals," he said.

"Yet, more than 70 journalists have been killed this year simply for fulfilling this role in society. &nbsp;Most of these crimes go unsolved. &nbsp;Meanwhile, a record number of journalists are incarcerated today, while threats of imprisonment, violence and death keep growing," the UN chief said in a message.

Marking the tenth anniversary of United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists, which aims to create a safe and free environment for all media workers, Guterres said, "I call on governments and the international community take the necessary steps to protect our journalists. We must end a common culture of impunity and enable journalists to do their essential work."

He observed that a surge in disinformation, online bullying and hate speech, particularly against women journalists, is contributing to the stifling of media workers around the world.

"On this International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, let us honour our media workers, and stand up for truth, justice and human rights for all.

"Intimidation through the abuse of legal, financial and other means is undermining efforts to hold the powerful accountable. These trends threaten not only journalists, but society as a whole," Guterres said.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Noting that more than 70 journalists were killed this year for "fulfilling their role in society", United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has stressed that a "free press" is vital for democracy, exposing wrongdoing and advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Noting that more than 70 journalists were killed this year for "fulfilling their role in society", United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has stressed that a "free press" is vital for democracy, exposing wrongdoing and advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Ahead of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists on November 2, Guterres called on the governments and international community to take necessary steps to protect journalists. "A free press is vital to a functioning democracy, exposing wrongdoing, navigating our complex world and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals," he said. "Yet, more than 70 journalists have been killed this year simply for fulfilling this role in society. Most of these crimes go unsolved. Meanwhile, a record number of journalists are incarcerated today, while threats of imprisonment, violence and death keep growing," the UN chief said in a message. Marking the tenth anniversary of United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists, which aims to create a safe and free environment for all media workers, Guterres said, "I call on governments and the international community take the necessary steps to protect our journalists. We must end a common culture of impunity and enable journalists to do their essential work." He observed that a surge in disinformation, online bullying and hate speech, particularly against women journalists, is contributing to the stifling of media workers around the world. "On this International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, let us honour our media workers, and stand up for truth, justice and human rights for all. "Intimidation through the abuse of legal, financial and other means is undermining efforts to hold the powerful accountable. These trends threaten not only journalists, but society as a whole," Guterres said. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Free Press vital for a functioning democracy, exposing wrongdoings and advancing SDGs: UN chief

The United Nations said on Friday that it was "deeply concerned" by moves of Russian legislature to toughen up the notorious 'LGBTQ propaganda' law. The UN has urged Russian lawmakers to repeal the legislation.

On Thursday, the lower house of the Russian parliament (the Duma) voted to strengthen the law.

Rights campaigners say that new amendments in effect criminalise&nbsp;any public mention of same-sex couples.

The proposals "broaden a ban on any discussion and sharing of information about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, and their human rights", UN Human Rights Office spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani told reporters in Geneva.

The new UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, is "deeply concerned" by the move, "which infringes even further on international human rights norms and standards", she said.

UN human rights experts have condemned the existing law as "discriminatory, violating fundamental rights to freedom of expression &nbsp;and leading to an increase in hate speech, hate crimes and abuse, including against children", said Shamdasani.

"The legislative amendments worsen this situation by broadening the scope of the law to a blanket ban on all communications on the subject," she added.

Turk is appealing to legislators, who will consider the proposals in further two readings, to reject the amendments, she said.

Turk also notes that exclusion, stigmatisation and discrimination of any group within a society "is corrosive, is a root cause of violence, and has a negative impact on society as a whole", Shamdasani added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Nations said on Friday that it was "deeply concerned" by moves of Russian legislature to toughen up the notorious 'LGBTQ propaganda' law. The UN has urged Russian lawmakers to repeal the legislation.

The United Nations said on Friday that it was "deeply concerned" by moves of Russian legislature to toughen up the notorious 'LGBTQ propaganda' law. The UN has urged Russian lawmakers to repeal the legislation. On Thursday, the lower house of the Russian parliament (the Duma) voted to strengthen the law. Rights campaigners say that new amendments in effect criminalise any public mention of same-sex couples. The proposals "broaden a ban on any discussion and sharing of information about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, and their human rights", UN Human Rights Office spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani told reporters in Geneva. The new UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, is "deeply concerned" by the move, "which infringes even further on international human rights norms and standards", she said. UN human rights experts have condemned the existing law as "discriminatory, violating fundamental rights to freedom of expression and leading to an increase in hate speech, hate crimes and abuse, including against children", said Shamdasani. "The legislative amendments worsen this situation by broadening the scope of the law to a blanket ban on all communications on the subject," she added. Turk is appealing to legislators, who will consider the proposals in further two readings, to reject the amendments, she said. Turk also notes that exclusion, stigmatisation and discrimination of any group within a society "is corrosive, is a root cause of violence, and has a negative impact on society as a whole", Shamdasani added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN expresses deep concern over Russia toughening its 'LGBTQ propaganda' law

International climate pledges remain far off track to limit rising temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius, according to a report released by the United Nations on Wednesday, less than two weeks ahead of high-stakes negotiations to tackle global warming.

The combined climate pledges of more than 190 nations that signed up to the 2015 Paris climate deal put Earth on track to warm by around 2.5C compared to pre-industrial levels by the century's end.&nbsp;

With the planet already battered by climate-enhanced heatwaves, storms and floods after just 1.2C of warming, experts say the world is still failing to act with sufficient urgency to curb greenhouse gas emissions.

"We are still nowhere near the scale and pace of emission reductions required to put us on track toward a 1.5 degrees Celsius world," said Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change.

"To keep this goal alive, national governments need to strengthen their climate action plans now and implement them in the next eight years."

The UN's climate experts have said emissions -- compared to 2010 levels -- need to fall 45 per cent by 2030 in order to meet the Paris deal's more ambitious goal.

In its latest report, the UN said that current commitments from governments around the world will in fact increase emissions by 10.6 per cent by 2030.&nbsp;

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International climate pledges remain far off track to limit rising temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius, according to a report released by the United Nations on Wednesday, less than two weeks ahead of high-stakes negotiations to tackle global warming.

International climate pledges remain far off track to limit rising temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius, according to a report released by the United Nations on Wednesday, less than two weeks ahead of high-stakes negotiations to tackle global warming. The combined climate pledges of more than 190 nations that signed up to the 2015 Paris climate deal put Earth on track to warm by around 2.5C compared to pre-industrial levels by the century's end. With the planet already battered by climate-enhanced heatwaves, storms and floods after just 1.2C of warming, experts say the world is still failing to act with sufficient urgency to curb greenhouse gas emissions. "We are still nowhere near the scale and pace of emission reductions required to put us on track toward a 1.5 degrees Celsius world," said Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change. "To keep this goal alive, national governments need to strengthen their climate action plans now and implement them in the next eight years." The UN's climate experts have said emissions -- compared to 2010 levels -- need to fall 45 per cent by 2030 in order to meet the Paris deal's more ambitious goal. In its latest report, the UN said that current commitments from governments around the world will in fact increase emissions by 10.6 per cent by 2030. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Climate pledges far off track from limiting temperature rise to 1.5 degrees: UN

The United Nations has abruptly suspended its anti-torture&nbsp;mission to Australia after inspectors were barred from several jails, with a key oversight body condemning on Monday the "embarrassing debacle".

Tasked with touring facilities under a voluntary agreement to prevent cruelty to detainees, the inspectors said they made the "drastic" decision after they were refused entry at "several" jails and detention facilities.

Lead inspector Aisha Muhammad, a Supreme Court judge in the Maldives, said Australia was in "clear breach" of its international obligations.

"Despite our numerous efforts to explain our preventative mandate, this was clearly not understood," she said.

Only three other countries -- Rwanda, Azerbaijan and Ukraine -- have had anti-torture&nbsp;inspectors suspend or postpone missions.

Australia ratified the Optional Protocol to the Convention against&nbsp;Torture&nbsp;(OPCAT) in 2017, committing to reforms safeguarding detainees and making facilities subject to inspection.&nbsp;

Former prison inspector Steven Caruana coordinated the domestic body responsible for tracking Australia's implementation of the convention.

"There can really be no excuse as to why the delegation was hindered," he told AFP on Monday.&nbsp;

"Australia has had almost five years to prepare for this visit. Australia will now have to answer for this embarrassing debacle in front of the United Nations Committee against&nbsp;Torture."&nbsp;

Allegations of rights abuses&nbsp;

Australia's refusal to welcome the inspectors boiled down to a funding dispute between the federal and state governments.

The federal government ratified the convention, but individual states and territories were responsible for putting it into action.

New South Wales and Queensland -- eastern states with roughly half Australia's population between them -- have hamstrung the process, saying they needed more funding to put the convention into practice.

New South Wales last week blocked UN inspectors from a small courthouse jail, the UN delegation said.

Queensland refused to let inspectors visit inpatient units at mental health facilities, according to the Queensland Health department.

The UN delegation said it had "been prevented from visiting several places where people are detained... and was not given all the relevant information and documentation it had requested".&nbsp;

Australia's prisons, youth detention centres, and immigration compounds have been plagued by persistent allegations of human rights abuses, particularly against Aboriginal communities.

Criminology professor Lorana Bartels said there was a clear need for greater scrutiny.

"Clearly, there are issues with the management of correctional facilities in Australia," she told AFP.&nbsp;

"This demonstrates a real lack of understanding and respect for these processes."&nbsp;

Australia has until January 2023 to meet its obligations.&nbsp;

There are no penalties for missing the deadline, but Australia could be placed on a non-compliance list of countries with significant human rights concerns.

The United Nations has abruptly suspended its anti-torture mission to Australia after inspectors were barred from several jails, with a key oversight body condemning on Monday the "embarrassing debacle".

The United Nations has abruptly suspended its anti-torture mission to Australia after inspectors were barred from several jails, with a key oversight body condemning on Monday the "embarrassing debacle". Tasked with touring facilities under a voluntary agreement to prevent cruelty to detainees, the inspectors said they made the "drastic" decision after they were refused entry at "several" jails and detention facilities. Lead inspector Aisha Muhammad, a Supreme Court judge in the Maldives, said Australia was in "clear breach" of its international obligations. "Despite our numerous efforts to explain our preventative mandate, this was clearly not understood," she said. Only three other countries -- Rwanda, Azerbaijan and Ukraine -- have had anti-torture inspectors suspend or postpone missions. Australia ratified the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (OPCAT) in 2017, committing to reforms safeguarding detainees and making facilities subject to inspection. Former prison inspector Steven Caruana coordinated the domestic body responsible for tracking Australia's implementation of the convention. "There can really be no excuse as to why the delegation was hindered," he told AFP on Monday. "Australia has had almost five years to prepare for this visit. Australia will now have to answer for this embarrassing debacle in front of the United Nations Committee against Torture." Allegations of rights abuses Australia's refusal to welcome the inspectors boiled down to a funding dispute between the federal and state governments. The federal government ratified the convention, but individual states and territories were responsible for putting it into action. New South Wales and Queensland -- eastern states with roughly half Australia's population between them -- have hamstrung the process, saying they needed more funding to put the convention into practice. New South Wales last week blocked UN inspectors from a small courthouse jail, the UN delegation said. Queensland refused to let inspectors visit inpatient units at mental health facilities, according to the Queensland Health department. The UN delegation said it had "been prevented from visiting several places where people are detained... and was not given all the relevant information and documentation it had requested". Australia's prisons, youth detention centres, and immigration compounds have been plagued by persistent allegations of human rights abuses, particularly against Aboriginal communities. Criminology professor Lorana Bartels said there was a clear need for greater scrutiny. "Clearly, there are issues with the management of correctional facilities in Australia," she told AFP. "This demonstrates a real lack of understanding and respect for these processes." Australia has until January 2023 to meet its obligations. There are no penalties for missing the deadline, but Australia could be placed on a non-compliance list of countries with significant human rights concerns.

UN suspends Australia anti-torture mission after inspectors barred

United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Monday (October 17) could not come to agreement over the matter of sending and international force to Haiti to help with lawlessness and surge in cholera. Powerful gangs have taken over the main port in Haiti and blocked fuel deliveries.

UN&nbsp;Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Haitians faced a dramatic emergency and that there was a need for "armed" intervention to help local police open up the port to create a humanitarian corridor for delivery of aid.

"It's an absolutely nightmarish situation for the population of Haiti, especially Port-au-Prince," Guterres said before the Security Council met.

"I'm talking of something to be done based on strict humanitarian criteria, independent of the political dimensions of the problem that needs to be solved by the Haitians themselves," Guterres said.

Haiti asked United Nations for help last week to reopen Varreux oil terminal. The terminal was seized by gangs in mid-September.&nbsp;

"I have the delicate mission of bringing before the Security Council the cry of distress of an entire suffering people and to say out loud and intelligible that the Haitians do not live, they survive," Haiti's foreign minister, Jean Victor Geneus, told the council on Monday.&nbsp;

The United States and Mexico were preparing two resolutions for the council to address the request.

US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said one resolution would authorize a non-UN international security assistance mission to improve security and enable humanitarian aid to flow into Haiti.

She said the proposal was for "a limited, carefully scoped, non-UN mission" to be led by "a partner country" with experience in such operations.

Once decided, Washington would "consider the most effective means to directly support, enable, and resource" the mission, she said.

China had some reservations about sending an armed force to Haiti

"At a time when the Haitian government lacks legitimacy, and is unable to govern, will sending such a rapid action force to Haiti receive the understanding support and cooperation from the parties in Haiti, or will it face resistance or even trigger violent confrontation from the population?" asked China's deputy permanent representative to the UN

Russian UN envoy Dmitry Polyanskiy said it would be "unacceptable" to support "external interference in the political processes in Haiti" that would subsume Haiti's interests "to the interests of world-known regional players who view the American continent as their backyard."

(With inputs from agencies)

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United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Monday (October 17) could not come to agreement over the matter of sending and international force to Haiti to help with lawlessness and surge in cholera.

United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Monday (October 17) could not come to agreement over the matter of sending and international force to Haiti to help with lawlessness and surge in cholera. Powerful gangs have taken over the main port in Haiti and blocked fuel deliveries. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Haitians faced a dramatic emergency and that there was a need for "armed" intervention to help local police open up the port to create a humanitarian corridor for delivery of aid. "It's an absolutely nightmarish situation for the population of Haiti, especially Port-au-Prince," Guterres said before the Security Council met. "I'm talking of something to be done based on strict humanitarian criteria, independent of the political dimensions of the problem that needs to be solved by the Haitians themselves," Guterres said. Haiti asked United Nations for help last week to reopen Varreux oil terminal. The terminal was seized by gangs in mid-September. "I have the delicate mission of bringing before the Security Council the cry of distress of an entire suffering people and to say out loud and intelligible that the Haitians do not live, they survive," Haiti's foreign minister, Jean Victor Geneus, told the council on Monday. The United States and Mexico were preparing two resolutions for the council to address the request. US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said one resolution would authorize a non-UN international security assistance mission to improve security and enable humanitarian aid to flow into Haiti. She said the proposal was for "a limited, carefully scoped, non-UN mission" to be led by "a partner country" with experience in such operations. Once decided, Washington would "consider the most effective means to directly support, enable, and resource" the mission, she said. China had some reservations about sending an armed force to Haiti "At a time when the Haitian government lacks legitimacy, and is unable to govern, will sending such a rapid action force to Haiti receive the understanding support and cooperation from the parties in Haiti, or will it face resistance or even trigger violent confrontation from the population?" asked China's deputy permanent representative to the UN Russian UN envoy Dmitry Polyanskiy said it would be "unacceptable" to support "external interference in the political processes in Haiti" that would subsume Haiti's interests "to the interests of world-known regional players who view the American continent as their backyard." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UNSC divided over response to crisis in Haiti as gangs take over

The world population is predicted to reach eight billion by November 15. UN's World Population Prospects 2022 report revealed the projections, stating that India is on course to surpass China as the world’s most populous country in 2023.&nbsp;

The stats alarmed the world as issues such as climate and food crises, inequality, and migration, are persistent and the increase in population will simply put a burden on the available resources.&nbsp;

Now in the latest report by the Guardian, a UN official said that the world must not engage in "population alarmism". As quoted, Dr Natalia Kanem, who is the executive director of the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), urged countries not to panic.&nbsp;

Dr Kanem instead asked the world to help those who are most vulnerable to demographic change, such as women, children and marginalised people.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-flying-to-china-becoming-more-expensive-than-pre-pandemic-level-526455">Why is flying to China becoming more expensive than pre-pandemic level?</a>&nbsp;

She said: "I realise this moment might not be celebrated by all. Some express concerns that our world is overpopulated, with far too many people and insufficient resources to sustain their lives. I am here to say clearly that the sheer number of human lives is not a cause for fear."

She noted that the entire focus on population growth might lead to threats like imposing control measures which can be "ineffective and even dangerous".&nbsp;

She said: "From forced sterilisation campaigns to restrictions on family planning and contraception, we are still reckoning with the lasting impact of policies intended to reverse, or in some cases to accelerate population growth."&nbsp;

"And we cannot repeat the egregious violations of human rights … that rob women of their ability to decide whether [or] when to become pregnant, if at all. Population alarmism: it distracts us from what we should be focused on," she added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rare-protests-featuring-slogans-against-xi-jinping-spread-across-china-526426">Rare protests featuring slogans against Xi Jinping spread across China</a>&nbsp;

In terms of population growth, eight countries (including Nigeria, Ethiopia and the Philippines) will be responsible for half of all population growth by 2050. India will also see population growth.&nbsp;

The UN official also said that it is unclear for those nations where new immigrant communities had a higher birthrate than the country in which they had arrived.&nbsp;

She said: "These are not causes for fear. In fact, in terms of the ageing crisis, we're going to have to look for solutions that include migration of people who are willing to help with elder care etc. While there may be some variability … this should not stoke xenophobia and hatred of 'the other', which sometimes this type of dynamic is manipulated in order to do."&nbsp;

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The world population is predicted to reach eight billion by November 15. UN's World Population Prospects 2022 report revealed the projections, stating that India is on course to surpass China as the world’s most populous country in 2023.

The world population is predicted to reach eight billion by November 15. UN's World Population Prospects 2022 report revealed the projections, stating that India is on course to surpass China as the world’s most populous country in 2023. The stats alarmed the world as issues such as climate and food crises, inequality, and migration, are persistent and the increase in population will simply put a burden on the available resources. Now in the latest report by the Guardian, a UN official said that the world must not engage in "population alarmism". As quoted, Dr Natalia Kanem, who is the executive director of the UN Population Fund (UNFPA), urged countries not to panic. Dr Kanem instead asked the world to help those who are most vulnerable to demographic change, such as women, children and marginalised people. ALSO READ | Why is flying to China becoming more expensive than pre-pandemic level? She said: "I realise this moment might not be celebrated by all. Some express concerns that our world is overpopulated, with far too many people and insufficient resources to sustain their lives. I am here to say clearly that the sheer number of human lives is not a cause for fear." She noted that the entire focus on population growth might lead to threats like imposing control measures which can be "ineffective and even dangerous". She said: "From forced sterilisation campaigns to restrictions on family planning and contraception, we are still reckoning with the lasting impact of policies intended to reverse, or in some cases to accelerate population growth." "And we cannot repeat the egregious violations of human rights … that rob women of their ability to decide whether [or] when to become pregnant, if at all. Population alarmism: it distracts us from what we should be focused on," she added. ALSO READ | Rare protests featuring slogans against Xi Jinping spread across China In terms of population growth, eight countries (including Nigeria, Ethiopia and the Philippines) will be responsible for half of all population growth by 2050. India will also see population growth. The UN official also said that it is unclear for those nations where new immigrant communities had a higher birthrate than the country in which they had arrived. She said: "These are not causes for fear. In fact, in terms of the ageing crisis, we're going to have to look for solutions that include migration of people who are willing to help with elder care etc. While there may be some variability … this should not stoke xenophobia and hatred of 'the other', which sometimes this type of dynamic is manipulated in order to do." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World population to reach eight billion this year, but UN warns against 'population alarmism'. Here's why

This year we have witnessed immense climate around the world. From floods that put one-third of Pakistan under water to hurricanes and typhoons. V20 has said that rich countries must urgently develop a plan to assist countries suffering the ravages of extreme weather.

WION Climate Tracker: Rich countries must urgently help climate-threatened nations, says V20

Heatwaves will become so extreme in certain regions of the world within decades that human life there will be unsustainable, the United Nations and the Red Cross said Monday.

Heatwaves are predicted to "exceed human physiological and social limits" in the Sahel, the Horn of Africa and south and southwest Asia, with extreme events triggering "large-scale suffering and loss of life", the organisations said.

Heatwave catastrophes this year in countries like Somalia and Pakistan foreshadow a future with deadlier, more frequent, and more intense heat-related humanitarian emergencies, they warned in a joint report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/heatwaves-in-pakistan-and-india-30-times-more-likely-due-to-climate-change-study-501687">Read more:&nbsp;Heatwaves in Pakistan and India '30 times more likely' due to climate change: Study</a>

The UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) released the report in advance of next month's UN's COP27 climate change summit in Egypt.

They said aggressive steps needed to be taken immediately to avert potentially recurrent heat disasters, listing steps that could mitigate the worst effects of extreme heat.

"There are clear limits beyond which people exposed to extreme heat and humidity cannot survive," the report said.

"There are also likely to be levels of extreme heat beyond which societies may find it practically impossible to deliver effective adaptation for all.

"On current trajectories, heatwaves could meet and exceed these physiological and social limits in the coming decades, including in regions such as the Sahel and south and southwest Asia."

It warned that the impact of this would be "large-scale suffering and loss of life, population movements and further entrenched inequality."

The combined effects of ageing, warming and urbanisation would cause a significant increase in the number of at-risk people in developing countries in the coming decades.

"Projected future death rates from extreme heat are staggeringly high and comparable in magnitude by the end of the century to all cancers or all infectious diseases and staggeringly unequal," the report said.

Agricultural workers, children, the elderly and pregnant and breastfeeding women are at higher risk of illness and death, the report claimed.

"As the climate crisis goes unchecked, extreme weather events, such as heatwaves and floods, are hitting the most vulnerable people the hardest," said UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths.

"Nowhere is the impact more brutally felt than in countries already reeling from hunger, conflict and poverty."

IFRC Secretary-General Jagan Chapagain urged countries at COP27 to invest in climate adaptation and mitigation in the regions most at risk.

OCHA and the IFRC suggested five main steps to help combat the impact of extreme heatwaves, including providing early information to help people and authorities react in time, and finding new ways of financing local-level action.

They also included humanitarian organisations testing more "thermally-appropriate" emergency shelter and "cooling centres", while getting communities to alter their development planning to take account of likely extreme heat impacts.

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Heatwaves will become so extreme in certain regions of the world within decades that human life there will be unsustainable, the United Nations and the Red Cross said Monday.

Heatwaves will become so extreme in certain regions of the world within decades that human life there will be unsustainable, the United Nations and the Red Cross said Monday. Heatwaves are predicted to "exceed human physiological and social limits" in the Sahel, the Horn of Africa and south and southwest Asia, with extreme events triggering "large-scale suffering and loss of life", the organisations said. Heatwave catastrophes this year in countries like Somalia and Pakistan foreshadow a future with deadlier, more frequent, and more intense heat-related humanitarian emergencies, they warned in a joint report. Read more: Heatwaves in Pakistan and India '30 times more likely' due to climate change: Study The UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) released the report in advance of next month's UN's COP27 climate change summit in Egypt. They said aggressive steps needed to be taken immediately to avert potentially recurrent heat disasters, listing steps that could mitigate the worst effects of extreme heat. "There are clear limits beyond which people exposed to extreme heat and humidity cannot survive," the report said. "There are also likely to be levels of extreme heat beyond which societies may find it practically impossible to deliver effective adaptation for all. "On current trajectories, heatwaves could meet and exceed these physiological and social limits in the coming decades, including in regions such as the Sahel and south and southwest Asia." It warned that the impact of this would be "large-scale suffering and loss of life, population movements and further entrenched inequality." The combined effects of ageing, warming and urbanisation would cause a significant increase in the number of at-risk people in developing countries in the coming decades. "Projected future death rates from extreme heat are staggeringly high and comparable in magnitude by the end of the century to all cancers or all infectious diseases and staggeringly unequal," the report said. Agricultural workers, children, the elderly and pregnant and breastfeeding women are at higher risk of illness and death, the report claimed. "As the climate crisis goes unchecked, extreme weather events, such as heatwaves and floods, are hitting the most vulnerable people the hardest," said UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths. "Nowhere is the impact more brutally felt than in countries already reeling from hunger, conflict and poverty." IFRC Secretary-General Jagan Chapagain urged countries at COP27 to invest in climate adaptation and mitigation in the regions most at risk. OCHA and the IFRC suggested five main steps to help combat the impact of extreme heatwaves, including providing early information to help people and authorities react in time, and finding new ways of financing local-level action. They also included humanitarian organisations testing more "thermally-appropriate" emergency shelter and "cooling centres", while getting communities to alter their development planning to take account of likely extreme heat impacts. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Life may become unsustainable due to extreme heatwaves, say UN and Red Cross

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres submitted a proposal to the Security Council urging them to send a rapid action force to Haiti which is suffering from a major cholera outbreak as well as rampant gang activities. According to the Associated Press, the RAF will assist Haiti’s National Police.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-live-updates-three-loud-blasts-rock-kyiv-report-523917" hreflang="en">Ukraine war LIVE | Putin warns of 'severe' attacks as Russia pounds Ukraine</a>

The proposal was drafted after the Haitian government urged the UN for “the immediate deployment of a specialized armed force, in sufficient quantity” in order to combat the ongoing crisis. On one hand, gang activity has gone up considerably and on the other, protests have erupted all around the county demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry for his “inability to control the situation”.&nbsp;

Guterres said on Monday that the force would&nbsp;“remove the threat posed by armed gangs and provide immediate protection to critical infrastructure and services” and secure the “free movement of water, fuel, food, and medical supplies from main ports and airports to communities and health care facilities.”&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ben-bernanke-douglas-diamond-philip-dybvig-win-2022-nobel-prize-in-economics-524002">Ben Bernanke, Douglas Diamond, Philip Dybvig win 2022 Nobel Prize in economics</a>

The cholera outbreak in the country has already claimed several lives with the hospitals completely filled with infected people. Fuel crises as well as food shortages have become quite common in recent months and doctors believe that the situation is getting worse due to the lack of proper water.&nbsp;

According to the latest data published by the UN, around 150 people have been affected till now, and added that “three-fourths of major hospitals across Haiti were unable to provide critical service". The report also said that patients have not experienced proper conditions in several hospitals.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres submitted a proposal to the Security Council urging them to send a rapid action force to Haiti which is suffering from a major cholera outbreak as well as rampant gang activities.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres submitted a proposal to the Security Council urging them to send a rapid action force to Haiti which is suffering from a major cholera outbreak as well as rampant gang activities. According to the Associated Press, the RAF will assist Haiti’s National Police. Also read | Ukraine war LIVE | Putin warns of 'severe' attacks as Russia pounds Ukraine The proposal was drafted after the Haitian government urged the UN for “the immediate deployment of a specialized armed force, in sufficient quantity” in order to combat the ongoing crisis. On one hand, gang activity has gone up considerably and on the other, protests have erupted all around the county demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry for his “inability to control the situation”. Guterres said on Monday that the force would “remove the threat posed by armed gangs and provide immediate protection to critical infrastructure and services” and secure the “free movement of water, fuel, food, and medical supplies from main ports and airports to communities and health care facilities.” Also read | Ben Bernanke, Douglas Diamond, Philip Dybvig win 2022 Nobel Prize in economics The cholera outbreak in the country has already claimed several lives with the hospitals completely filled with infected people. Fuel crises as well as food shortages have become quite common in recent months and doctors believe that the situation is getting worse due to the lack of proper water. According to the latest data published by the UN, around 150 people have been affected till now, and added that “three-fourths of major hospitals across Haiti were unable to provide critical service". The report also said that patients have not experienced proper conditions in several hospitals. (with inputs from agencies)

United Nations set to activate rapid armed force to help end Haiti crisis

United Nations' Libya mission on Sunday (October 9) condemned the "heinous killing" of 15 migrants near Meditarranean city of Sabratha. It accused smugglers and demanded justice.

Bodies of the migrants were found on a beach in the morning on Friday. Most of the migrants were burned inside a charred boat.

"While the exact circumstances remain to be determined, the killings reportedly resulted from clashes between rival traffickers," the UN mission UNSMIL said in a statement.

It urged authorities in the North African nation "to ensure a swift, independent and transparent investigation to bring all perpetrators to justice".

Libya was a key route for clandestine migration even before the 2011 uprising that overthrew dictator Moamer Kadhafi.

Lawlessness after the death of Kadhafi made the situation worse. The migration via sea from Libya is considered to be the world's deadliest migration route. The western city of Sabratha is just 300 kilometres from Lampdusa, the Italian island.

Migrants often face horrific treatment at the hands of smuggling gangs.

Rights groups have repeatedly accused authorities and armed groups operating under state auspices of torture and other abuses.

The latest killings are "a stark reminder of the lack of protection migrants and asylum seekers face in Libya, and the widespread human rights violations undertaken by powerful trafficking and criminal networks who need to be swiftly stopped and prosecuted," UNSMIL said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United Nations' Libya mission on Sunday (October 9) condemned the "heinous killing" of 15 migrants near Meditarranean city of Sabratha. It accused smugglers and demanded justice.

United Nations' Libya mission on Sunday (October 9) condemned the "heinous killing" of 15 migrants near Meditarranean city of Sabratha. It accused smugglers and demanded justice. Bodies of the migrants were found on a beach in the morning on Friday. Most of the migrants were burned inside a charred boat. "While the exact circumstances remain to be determined, the killings reportedly resulted from clashes between rival traffickers," the UN mission UNSMIL said in a statement. It urged authorities in the North African nation "to ensure a swift, independent and transparent investigation to bring all perpetrators to justice". Libya was a key route for clandestine migration even before the 2011 uprising that overthrew dictator Moamer Kadhafi. Lawlessness after the death of Kadhafi made the situation worse. The migration via sea from Libya is considered to be the world's deadliest migration route. The western city of Sabratha is just 300 kilometres from Lampdusa, the Italian island. Migrants often face horrific treatment at the hands of smuggling gangs. Rights groups have repeatedly accused authorities and armed groups operating under state auspices of torture and other abuses. The latest killings are "a stark reminder of the lack of protection migrants and asylum seekers face in Libya, and the widespread human rights violations undertaken by powerful trafficking and criminal networks who need to be swiftly stopped and prosecuted," UNSMIL said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN denounces 'heinous killing' of migrants in Libya

The United States said on Wednesday that Russia and China are currently enabling the leader of North Korea – Kim Jong Un – by stopping the United Nations Security Council from imposing sanctions on Pyongyang for the multiple nuclear weapon and ballistic missile tests.

"The DPRK (North Korea) has enjoyed blanket protection from two members of this council," U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said according to Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opec-is-aligning-with-russia-with-oil-production-cuts-white-house-522807">OPEC+ 'aligning with Russia' by slashing oil production heavily: White House</a>

"In short, two permanent members of the Security Council have enabled Kim Jong Un."

In the last week, North Korea has tested multiple intermediate-range ballistic missiles following the military drills conducted by South Korea and the US. A missile was launched over Japan as well just few days after US Vice President Kamala Harris visited Seoul on a diplomatic tour.

The security council met on Wednesday to discuss the missile tests and although China and Russia wanted to keep the discussions private, the United States, Britain, France, Albania, Brazil, India, Ireland, Norway and United Arab Emirates all condemned North Korea in an official statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-alleges-made-in-india-cough-syrup-linked-to-death-of-66-kids-in-gambia-probe-underway-522809" hreflang="en">WHO alleges 'made in India' cough syrup linked to death of 66 kids in Gambia, probe underway</a>

China said that they need to continue proper discussions in order to control the situation.

"Discussions and deliberations should contribute to a detente, rather than fuelling escalation. They should promote the resumption of dialogue instead of widening differences and forge unity instead of creating divisions," China's deputy U.N. ambassador, Geng Shuang, said.

Russia's deputy U.N. ambassador, Anna Evstigneeva, also said that the sanctions are not the way to go with North Korea and they will need to come up with a more effective solution.

"We are convinced that the U.N. and Security Council mechanisms need to be used to support the inter-Korean dialogue and multilateral negotiations rather than becoming an impediment to them."

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The United States said on Wednesday that Russia and China are currently enabling the leader of North Korea – Kim Jong Un – by stopping the United Nations Security Council from imposing sanctions on Pyongyang for the multiple nuclear weapon and ballistic missile tests.

The United States said on Wednesday that Russia and China are currently enabling the leader of North Korea – Kim Jong Un – by stopping the United Nations Security Council from imposing sanctions on Pyongyang for the multiple nuclear weapon and ballistic missile tests. "The DPRK (North Korea) has enjoyed blanket protection from two members of this council," U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said according to Reuters. Also read | OPEC+ 'aligning with Russia' by slashing oil production heavily: White House "In short, two permanent members of the Security Council have enabled Kim Jong Un." In the last week, North Korea has tested multiple intermediate-range ballistic missiles following the military drills conducted by South Korea and the US. A missile was launched over Japan as well just few days after US Vice President Kamala Harris visited Seoul on a diplomatic tour. The security council met on Wednesday to discuss the missile tests and although China and Russia wanted to keep the discussions private, the United States, Britain, France, Albania, Brazil, India, Ireland, Norway and United Arab Emirates all condemned North Korea in an official statement. Also read | WHO alleges 'made in India' cough syrup linked to death of 66 kids in Gambia, probe underway China said that they need to continue proper discussions in order to control the situation. "Discussions and deliberations should contribute to a detente, rather than fuelling escalation. They should promote the resumption of dialogue instead of widening differences and forge unity instead of creating divisions," China's deputy U.N. ambassador, Geng Shuang, said. Russia's deputy U.N. ambassador, Anna Evstigneeva, also said that the sanctions are not the way to go with North Korea and they will need to come up with a more effective solution. "We are convinced that the U.N. and Security Council mechanisms need to be used to support the inter-Korean dialogue and multilateral negotiations rather than becoming an impediment to them."

United States accuses China, Russia of protecting North Korea at United Nations

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