In a rare moment at United Nations, Russia, Ukraine and other Western countries agreed to be on the same page over a key UN road safety issue meeting, thanks to deft diplomacy by President of United Nations General Assembly Abdulla Shahid and Indian Diplomat Nagraj Naidu.&nbsp;

Ambassador Naidu is Chef de Cabinet of President of United Nations General Assembly Abdulla Shahid and led the informal inter-governmental consultations.&nbsp;

United Nations General Assembly will convene a high-level meeting on road safety in New York from 30 June – 1 July that will see the adoption of the political declaration. It is being touted as the most awaited event during the current 76th session of the General Assembly.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, President of United Nations General Assembly Abdulla Shahid said, "These very testing times, to have member states rise above their differences and reach consensus on a very pressing issue such as road safety is nothing but the triumph of multilateralism."&nbsp;

In the backdrop of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the meeting and adoption of the political statement were headed for a derailment. Russia and Cote d’Ivoire were the co-facilitators of the road safety process, and many Western European and Others Group (WEOG) countries including the US, Canada, New Zealand and the EU as a group joined by Japan and South Korea wanted the President of the General Assembly to remove the Russian delegate as one of the co-facilitators of the process.&nbsp;

The WEOG countries refused to engage on any elements of a draft text that were previously used by the Russian and Cote d’Ivoire co-facilitators.&nbsp;

He explained, "When the road safety process led by the cofacilitators - Russia and Côte d’Ivoire reached a stalemate, as the President of the General Assembly, I had a responsibility of delivering a political declaration for the High Level Meeting on Global Road Safety".&nbsp;

"I have termed my Presidency as the “Presidency of Hope”, and I am firmly of the view that while Member States have their views on issues, it’s always possible to bring everyone together," he added.&nbsp;

He said, "When the process came back to me, I assured Member States that I would have my Office lead a transparent process and deliver a political declaration that would be concise, and action-oriented."&nbsp;

Highlighting how all parties were brought together, he said, "We had very limited time, less than two weeks, but also had to deliver an ambitious political declaration. What we set out in all sincerity, is what we achieved", and pointed, "this is a victory for multilateralism. Together, we can always deliver."&nbsp;

The removal of Russia as a co-facilitator would have set wrong precedence in the General Assembly. Procedurally no President of the General Assembly had ever removed a co-facilitator on the back of reservations expressed by member countries.&nbsp;

Amidst the stalemate, no forward movement on the process took place. Even the "silence procedure" was soon broken on the draft text submitted by the Russian and Cote d’Ivoire co-facilitators.&nbsp;

Member states had given up hope that a political declaration on road safety, a completely non-political process could be held up because of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;

However, following President Shahid’s decision to have the intergovernmental consultations on the political declaration led by his Chef de Cabinet Ambassador Naidu, a new draft text was soon circulated among the member states.&nbsp;

With just three informal meetings and a lot of skilful negotiations behind the scenes with key delegations including Russia and Ukraine, it was ensured that the "silence" on the text was not broken by 6 pm on 27 June.&nbsp;

The road safety meeting will see the UN working to act on the issue. The political declaration is expected to be adopted by the Assembly in the morning on 30 June. The declaration will focus on the future of mobility, one that promotes health and well-being. The political declaration also seeks to convene a follow-up meeting on road safety in 2026, in an effort to sustain momentum.&nbsp;

Also, starting on Thursday morning, a floral bouquet will be displayed in the General Assembly lobby, in memory of those who have been victims of road-related crashes globally. The flowers will be available until Friday evening.&nbsp;

Each year, road traffic crashes cause nearly 1.3 million preventable deaths and an estimated 50 million injuries – making it the leading killer of children and young people worldwide. Nine of every ten road traffic deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries. One of four is a pedestrian or a cyclist.&nbsp;

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In a rare moment at United Nations, Russia, Ukraine and other Western countries agreed to be on the same page over a key UN road safety issue meeting, thanks to deft diplomacy by President of United Nations General Assembly Abdulla Shahid and Indian Diplomat Nagraj Naidu.

In a rare moment at United Nations, Russia, Ukraine and other Western countries agreed to be on the same page over a key UN road safety issue meeting, thanks to deft diplomacy by President of United Nations General Assembly Abdulla Shahid and Indian Diplomat Nagraj Naidu. Ambassador Naidu is Chef de Cabinet of President of United Nations General Assembly Abdulla Shahid and led the informal inter-governmental consultations. United Nations General Assembly will convene a high-level meeting on road safety in New York from 30 June – 1 July that will see the adoption of the political declaration. It is being touted as the most awaited event during the current 76th session of the General Assembly. Speaking to WION, President of United Nations General Assembly Abdulla Shahid said, "These very testing times, to have member states rise above their differences and reach consensus on a very pressing issue such as road safety is nothing but the triumph of multilateralism." In the backdrop of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the meeting and adoption of the political statement were headed for a derailment. Russia and Cote d’Ivoire were the co-facilitators of the road safety process, and many Western European and Others Group (WEOG) countries including the US, Canada, New Zealand and the EU as a group joined by Japan and South Korea wanted the President of the General Assembly to remove the Russian delegate as one of the co-facilitators of the process. The WEOG countries refused to engage on any elements of a draft text that were previously used by the Russian and Cote d’Ivoire co-facilitators. He explained, "When the road safety process led by the cofacilitators - Russia and Côte d’Ivoire reached a stalemate, as the President of the General Assembly, I had a responsibility of delivering a political declaration for the High Level Meeting on Global Road Safety". "I have termed my Presidency as the “Presidency of Hope”, and I am firmly of the view that while Member States have their views on issues, it’s always possible to bring everyone together," he added. He said, "When the process came back to me, I assured Member States that I would have my Office lead a transparent process and deliver a political declaration that would be concise, and action-oriented." Highlighting how all parties were brought together, he said, "We had very limited time, less than two weeks, but also had to deliver an ambitious political declaration. What we set out in all sincerity, is what we achieved", and pointed, "this is a victory for multilateralism. Together, we can always deliver." The removal of Russia as a co-facilitator would have set wrong precedence in the General Assembly. Procedurally no President of the General Assembly had ever removed a co-facilitator on the back of reservations expressed by member countries. Amidst the stalemate, no forward movement on the process took place. Even the "silence procedure" was soon broken on the draft text submitted by the Russian and Cote d’Ivoire co-facilitators. Member states had given up hope that a political declaration on road safety, a completely non-political process could be held up because of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. However, following President Shahid’s decision to have the intergovernmental consultations on the political declaration led by his Chef de Cabinet Ambassador Naidu, a new draft text was soon circulated among the member states. With just three informal meetings and a lot of skilful negotiations behind the scenes with key delegations including Russia and Ukraine, it was ensured that the "silence" on the text was not broken by 6 pm on 27 June. The road safety meeting will see the UN working to act on the issue. The political declaration is expected to be adopted by the Assembly in the morning on 30 June. The declaration will focus on the future of mobility, one that promotes health and well-being. The political declaration also seeks to convene a follow-up meeting on road safety in 2026, in an effort to sustain momentum. Also, starting on Thursday morning, a floral bouquet will be displayed in the General Assembly lobby, in memory of those who have been victims of road-related crashes globally. The flowers will be available until Friday evening. Each year, road traffic crashes cause nearly 1.3 million preventable deaths and an estimated 50 million injuries – making it the leading killer of children and young people worldwide. Nine of every ten road traffic deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries. One of four is a pedestrian or a cyclist. 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.

Deft diplomacy at UN brings Russia and Ukraine onboard crucial issue of road safety

A long-delayed conference on how to restore the faltering health of global oceans kicked off in Lisbon on Monday, with the head of the UN saying the world's seas are in crisis.

"Today we face what I would call an&nbsp;ocean&nbsp;emergency," UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres told thousands of policymakers, experts and advocates at the opening plenary, describing how seas have been hammered by climate change and pollution.&nbsp;

Humanity depends on healthy oceans.&nbsp;

They generate 50 percent of the oxygen we breathe and provide essential protein and nutrients to billions of people every day.

Covering 70 percent of Earth's surface, oceans have also softened the impact of climate change for life on land.&nbsp;

But at a terrible cost.

Absorbing around a quarter of CO2 pollution -- even as emissions increased by half over the last 60 years -- has turned sea water acidic, threatening aquatic food chains and the&nbsp;ocean's capacity to absorb carbon.&nbsp;

And soaking up more than 90 percent of the excess heat from global warming has spawned massive marine heatwaves that are killing off precious coral reefs and expanding dead zones bereft of oxygen.

"We have only begun to understand the extent to which climate change is going to wreak havoc on&nbsp;ocean&nbsp;health," said Charlotte de Fontaubert, the World Bank's global lead for the blue economy.

Making things worse is an unending torrent of pollution, including a garbage truck's worth of plastic every minute, according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).&nbsp;

On current trends, yearly plastic waste will nearly triple to one billion tonnes by 2060, according to a recent report by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).&nbsp;

Wild fish stocks

Microplastics -- now found inside Arctic ice and fish in the&nbsp;ocean's deepest trenches -- are estimated to kill more than a million seabirds and over 100,000 marine mammals each year.

Solutions on the table range from recycling to global caps on plastic production.&nbsp;

Global fisheries will also be in the spotlight during the five-day UN&nbsp;Ocean&nbsp;Conference, originally slated for April 2020 and jointly hosted by Portugal and Kenya.&nbsp;

"At least one-third of wild fish stocks are overfished and less than 10 percent of the&nbsp;ocean&nbsp;is protected," Kathryn Matthews, chief scientist for US-based NGO Oceana, told AFP.

"Destructive and illegal fishing vessels operate with impunity in many coastal waters and on the high seas."

One culprit is nearly $35 billion in subsidies. Baby steps taken last week by the World Trade Organization (WTO) to reduce handouts to industry will hardly make a dent, experts said.

The conference will also see a push for a moratorium on deep-sea mining of rare metals needed for a boom in electric vehicle battery construction.

Scientists say poorly understood seabed ecosystems are fragile and could take decades or longer to heal once disrupted.

Another major focus will be "blue food", the new watchword for ensuring that marine harvests from all sources -- wild caught and farmed -- are sustainable and socially responsible.

Protected areas

Aquaculture yields -- from salmon and tuna to shellfish and algae -- have grown by three percent a year for decades and are on track to overtake wild marine harvests that peaked in the 1990s, with each producing roughly 100 million tonnes per year.

The Lisbon meeting will be attended by ministers and even a few heads of state, including French President Emmanuel Macron, but is not a formal negotiating session.

But participants will push for a strong oceans agenda at two critical summits later this year -- the COP27 UN climate talks in November, hosted by Egypt, followed by the long-delayed COP15 UN biodiversity negotiations, recently moved from China to Montreal.

Oceans are already at the heart of a draft treaty tasked with halting what many scientists fear is the first "mass extinction" event in 65 million years. A cornerstone provision would designate 30 percent of the planet's land and&nbsp;ocean&nbsp;as protected areas.

But preparatory negotiations in Nairobi ended on Sunday in deadlock.&nbsp;

"The agreement is at risk of collapsing on the question of finance," the environmental diplomacy lead for WWF France told AFP.&nbsp;

For climate change, the focus will be on carbon sequestration -- boosting the&nbsp;ocean's capacity to soak up CO2, whether by enhancing natural sinks such as mangroves or through geoengineering schemes.

At the same time, scientists warn, a drastic reduction in greenhouse gases is needed to restore&nbsp;ocean&nbsp;health.

A long-delayed conference on how to restore the faltering health of global oceans kicked off in Lisbon on Monday, with the head of the UN saying the world's seas are in crisis.

A long-delayed conference on how to restore the faltering health of global oceans kicked off in Lisbon on Monday, with the head of the UN saying the world's seas are in crisis. "Today we face what I would call an ocean emergency," UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres told thousands of policymakers, experts and advocates at the opening plenary, describing how seas have been hammered by climate change and pollution. Humanity depends on healthy oceans. They generate 50 percent of the oxygen we breathe and provide essential protein and nutrients to billions of people every day. Covering 70 percent of Earth's surface, oceans have also softened the impact of climate change for life on land. But at a terrible cost. Absorbing around a quarter of CO2 pollution -- even as emissions increased by half over the last 60 years -- has turned sea water acidic, threatening aquatic food chains and the ocean's capacity to absorb carbon. And soaking up more than 90 percent of the excess heat from global warming has spawned massive marine heatwaves that are killing off precious coral reefs and expanding dead zones bereft of oxygen. "We have only begun to understand the extent to which climate change is going to wreak havoc on ocean health," said Charlotte de Fontaubert, the World Bank's global lead for the blue economy. Making things worse is an unending torrent of pollution, including a garbage truck's worth of plastic every minute, according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). On current trends, yearly plastic waste will nearly triple to one billion tonnes by 2060, according to a recent report by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Wild fish stocks Microplastics -- now found inside Arctic ice and fish in the ocean's deepest trenches -- are estimated to kill more than a million seabirds and over 100,000 marine mammals each year. Solutions on the table range from recycling to global caps on plastic production. Global fisheries will also be in the spotlight during the five-day UN Ocean Conference, originally slated for April 2020 and jointly hosted by Portugal and Kenya. "At least one-third of wild fish stocks are overfished and less than 10 percent of the ocean is protected," Kathryn Matthews, chief scientist for US-based NGO Oceana, told AFP. "Destructive and illegal fishing vessels operate with impunity in many coastal waters and on the high seas." One culprit is nearly $35 billion in subsidies. Baby steps taken last week by the World Trade Organization (WTO) to reduce handouts to industry will hardly make a dent, experts said. The conference will also see a push for a moratorium on deep-sea mining of rare metals needed for a boom in electric vehicle battery construction. Scientists say poorly understood seabed ecosystems are fragile and could take decades or longer to heal once disrupted. Another major focus will be "blue food", the new watchword for ensuring that marine harvests from all sources -- wild caught and farmed -- are sustainable and socially responsible. Protected areas Aquaculture yields -- from salmon and tuna to shellfish and algae -- have grown by three percent a year for decades and are on track to overtake wild marine harvests that peaked in the 1990s, with each producing roughly 100 million tonnes per year. The Lisbon meeting will be attended by ministers and even a few heads of state, including French President Emmanuel Macron, but is not a formal negotiating session. But participants will push for a strong oceans agenda at two critical summits later this year -- the COP27 UN climate talks in November, hosted by Egypt, followed by the long-delayed COP15 UN biodiversity negotiations, recently moved from China to Montreal. Oceans are already at the heart of a draft treaty tasked with halting what many scientists fear is the first "mass extinction" event in 65 million years. A cornerstone provision would designate 30 percent of the planet's land and ocean as protected areas. But preparatory negotiations in Nairobi ended on Sunday in deadlock. "The agreement is at risk of collapsing on the question of finance," the environmental diplomacy lead for WWF France told AFP. For climate change, the focus will be on carbon sequestration -- boosting the ocean's capacity to soak up CO2, whether by enhancing natural sinks such as mangroves or through geoengineering schemes. At the same time, scientists warn, a drastic reduction in greenhouse gases is needed to restore ocean health.

UN chief says ailing oceans in state of 'emergency'

Thousands of policymakers, experts and advocates are set to take part in a conference led by the United Nations to discuss the health of global oceans, which is constantly deteriorating.

Thousands of policymakers, experts and advocates are set to take part in a conference led by the United Nations to discuss the health of global oceans, which is constantly deteriorating. Climate change is harming marine ecosystems in one way or another. Apart from rising temperatures, several other factors contribute to ocean pollution. Humans produce different kinds of waste like industrial waste, fertilizers, manufactured chemicals, pesticides, petroleum, plastics, pharmaceutical chemicals, etc. Unchecked disposal of such harmful waste will lead to ocean pollution and affect the marine environments around the world. The ocean literacy community will convene in Lisbon, Portugal as part of the UN Ocean Conference to ensure that ocean literacy is seen as a central element of ocean action. The conference in Lisbon will kick off on Monday. UN informed that this year, several major international summits will take place to promote ocean health. Significance of the conference Oceans generate 50 per cent of the oxygen we breathe and provide essential protein and nutrients to billions of people every day. With the help of this conference, the UN Scientific, Educational and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is asking the world to join the revolution to unlock innovative ocean science solutions. Minimise the impact of climate change The seven seas have also softened the impact of climate change on life on land as they cover more than two-thirds of Earth's surface. But they are paying a terrible cost. Absorbing around a quarter of CO2 pollution has turned seawater acidic, threatening aquatic food chains and the ocean's capacity to pull down carbon. And soaking up more than 90 per cent of the excess heat from global warming has spawned massive marine heatwaves that are killing off precious coral reefs and expanding dead zones bereft of oxygen. Charlotte de Fontaubert, the World Bank's global lead for the blue economy said, "We have only begun to understand the extent to which climate change is going to wreak havoc on ocean health." (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.

UN conference to convene in Lisbon to discuss faltering health of global oceans

United Nations on Friday said that the shot that klled Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was fired by Isreali forces. The incident took places on May 11. The Palestinian-American journalist was wearing a vest marker 'press' and a helmet. She was covering Israeli Army operation in Jenin camp in West Bank.

"We find that the shots that killed Abu Akleh came from Israeli security forces," UN Human Rights Office spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani told reporters in Geneva.

"It is deeply disturbing that Israeli authorities have not conducted a criminal investigation.

"We at the UN Human Rights Office have concluded our independent monitoring into the incident.

"The shots that killed Abu Akleh and injured her colleague Ali Sammoudi came from Israeli security forces and not from indiscriminate firing by armed Palestinians, as initially claimed by Israeli authorities" she said.&nbsp;

She added that the information came from the Israeli military and the Palestinian attorney general.&nbsp;

"We have found no information suggesting that there was activity by armed Palestinians in the immediate vicinity of the journalists," Shamdasani said.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-french-journalist-becomes-orthodox-rabbi-in-israel-491338">Former French journalist becomes Orthodox rabbi in Israel</a>

In order to come to conclusion, the rights office inspected photo, video and audio material, visited the scene, consulted experts, reviewed official communications and interviewed witnesses.

The findings showed that seven journalists arrived at the western entrance of the Jenin refugee camp soon after 6:00 am.

At around 6:30 am, as four of the journalists turned into a particular street, "several single, seemingly well-aimed bullets were fired towards them from the direction of the Israeli security forces.

"One single bullet injured Ali Sammoudi in the shoulder; another single bullet hit Abu Akleh in the head and killed her instantly."

Israel has been urged by UN human rights chief Michelle Backlet to open a criminal investigation into Akleh's killing.

(With inputs from agencies)

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United Nations on Friday said that the shot that klled Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was fired by Isreali forces. The incident took places on May 11. The Palestinian-American journalist was wearing a vest marker 'press' and a helmet.

United Nations on Friday said that the shot that klled Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was fired by Isreali forces. The incident took places on May 11. The Palestinian-American journalist was wearing a vest marker 'press' and a helmet. She was covering Israeli Army operation in Jenin camp in West Bank. "We find that the shots that killed Abu Akleh came from Israeli security forces," UN Human Rights Office spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani told reporters in Geneva. "It is deeply disturbing that Israeli authorities have not conducted a criminal investigation. "We at the UN Human Rights Office have concluded our independent monitoring into the incident. "The shots that killed Abu Akleh and injured her colleague Ali Sammoudi came from Israeli security forces and not from indiscriminate firing by armed Palestinians, as initially claimed by Israeli authorities" she said. She added that the information came from the Israeli military and the Palestinian attorney general. "We have found no information suggesting that there was activity by armed Palestinians in the immediate vicinity of the journalists," Shamdasani said. Also Read | Former French journalist becomes Orthodox rabbi in Israel In order to come to conclusion, the rights office inspected photo, video and audio material, visited the scene, consulted experts, reviewed official communications and interviewed witnesses. The findings showed that seven journalists arrived at the western entrance of the Jenin refugee camp soon after 6:00 am. At around 6:30 am, as four of the journalists turned into a particular street, "several single, seemingly well-aimed bullets were fired towards them from the direction of the Israeli security forces. "One single bullet injured Ali Sammoudi in the shoulder; another single bullet hit Abu Akleh in the head and killed her instantly." Israel has been urged by UN human rights chief Michelle Backlet to open a criminal investigation into Akleh's killing. (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 ×

Al Jazeera journalist was killed by Israeli forces, says UN

International Day of Women in Diplomacy: Here are top Indian women diplomats making their mark globally

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

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

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

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

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

Five countries, including India, have rejected the Pakistani attempt to list an Indian National as a United Nations-listed international terrorists. Islamabad had planned to list Gobinda Patnaik Duggivalasa at the United Nations Security Council's 1267 committee, claiming he was involved in terror attacks in the country.

Countries that supported the Indian bid are the UK, US, France, and Albania. Three&nbsp;of the counties are permanent member of the security council, while Albania is the President of the Council for this month. In 2020 as well the same name was rejected by 5 members of the committee. Pakistan's attempt to list him again is seen as wasting the time of the United Nations Security Council. Indian envoy to UN T.S. Tirumurti had that time termed it as, "Pakistan's blatant attempt to politicise 1267 special procedure on terrorism by giving it a religious colour."

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Pakistan’s blatant attempt to politicize 1267 special procedure on terrorism by giving it a religious colour, has been thwarted by UN Security Council. We thank all those Council members who have blocked Pakistan’s designs. <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/harshvshringla?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@harshvshringla</a>
— PR/Amb T S Tirumurti (@ambtstirumurti) <a href="https://twitter.com/ambtstirumurti/status/1301201065497382912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The development comes even as last week, China had put a hold on the UN listing of Lashkar-e-Tayyiba's 2nd command Abdul Rehman Makki. While China's hold lasts for 6-month, Pakistan's attempt to again list the Indian national has been rejected by all members of the UNSC.

The proposal was jointly given by India and US on 1st June and circulated to the members of the United Nations Security Council 1267 committee also known as UN Security Council’s Al-Qaeda (Dae’sh) and ISIL Sanctions Committee. 16th was the last before which any objection could be raised to which China had put a hold.

Makki has a reward of $2 million on him by US Govt and both Washington &amp; Delhi have listed him as a terrorist under domestic laws. He is 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Brother-in-law &amp; close to al-Qaeda's Ayman al-Zawahiri &amp; Taliban leadership.

The development is seen as China's support to Pakistan at the UN, a nexus seen in other multilateral organisations.

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Five countries, including India, have rejected the Pakistani attempt to list an Indian National as a United Nations-listed international terrorists. Islamabad had planned to list Gobinda Patnaik Duggivalasa at the United Nations Security Council's 1267 committee, claiming he was involved in terror attacks in the country.

Five countries, including India, have rejected the Pakistani attempt to list an Indian National as a United Nations-listed international terrorists. Islamabad had planned to list Gobinda Patnaik Duggivalasa at the United Nations Security Council's 1267 committee, claiming he was involved in terror attacks in the country. Countries that supported the Indian bid are the UK, US, France, and Albania. Three of the counties are permanent member of the security council, while Albania is the President of the Council for this month. In 2020 as well the same name was rejected by 5 members of the committee. Pakistan's attempt to list him again is seen as wasting the time of the United Nations Security Council. Indian envoy to UN T.S. Tirumurti had that time termed it as, "Pakistan's blatant attempt to politicise 1267 special procedure on terrorism by giving it a religious colour." Pakistan’s blatant attempt to politicize 1267 special procedure on terrorism by giving it a religious colour, has been thwarted by UN Security Council. We thank all those Council members who have blocked Pakistan’s designs. @MEAIndia @DrSJaishankar @PMOIndia @harshvshringla — PR/Amb T S Tirumurti (@ambtstirumurti) September 2, 2020 × The development comes even as last week, China had put a hold on the UN listing of Lashkar-e-Tayyiba's 2nd command Abdul Rehman Makki. While China's hold lasts for 6-month, Pakistan's attempt to again list the Indian national has been rejected by all members of the UNSC. The proposal was jointly given by India and US on 1st June and circulated to the members of the United Nations Security Council 1267 committee also known as UN Security Council’s Al-Qaeda (Dae’sh) and ISIL Sanctions Committee. 16th was the last before which any objection could be raised to which China had put a hold. Makki has a reward of $2 million on him by US Govt and both Washington & Delhi have listed him as a terrorist under domestic laws. He is 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed's Brother-in-law & close to al-Qaeda's Ayman al-Zawahiri & Taliban leadership. The development is seen as China's support to Pakistan at the UN, a nexus seen in other multilateral organisations. Watch WION's live TV here:

5 countries, including India, reject Pak's attempt to list Indian national as UN terrorist

The World Food Programme (WFP) of the United Nations on Thursday (June 16) began providing food aid to thousands of pregnant women in Sri Lanka amid an economic crisis. The body has warned of a potential humanitarian crisis where millions are in need of assistance, claiming that four out of five people began skipping meals because they cannot afford it. The organisation provided 2,000 food vouchers in Colombo’s 'underserved'&nbsp;districts. Anthea Webb, the deputy regional director for Asia and Pacific of WFP said, “When they skip meals they're putting their and their children's health at risk.”&nbsp;

The South Asian country has been in a limited supply of food, medicines, and fuel owing to diminishing foreign currency reserves and the government’s mismanagement. Due to the escalating fuel shortages, the government declared an additional holiday and ordered all schools to close on Friday to preserve diesel and gasoline.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankan-cabinet-approves-several-measures-to-facilitate-economic-recovery-488156">Sri Lankan cabinet approves several measures to facilitate economic recovery</a>&nbsp;

The world organisation’s attempts to support three million Sri Lankas suffering due to rising prices, as per the WFP includes the issuance of cash vouchers worth 15,000 rupees ($40). The organisation hopes to generate $60 million for the food aid operation between July and December this year.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Sri Lanka fuel crisis worsens&nbsp;

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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/crisis-hit-public-servants-to-get-extra-day-off-to-grow-crops-to-help-with-food-shortage-488146">Take extra day off, grow crops in your backyards: Crisis-hit Sri Lanka to public servants</a>&nbsp;

The WFP says it intends to help a million youngsters to get at least one meal a school and provide millions of infants and women 'nutritious food.’&nbsp;

In addition to this, as per WFP, another million individuals will receive food rations in the form of food, cash or vouchers.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The World Food Programme (WFP) of the United Nations on Thursday (June 16) began providing food aid to thousands of pregnant women in Sri Lanka amid an economic crisis.

The World Food Programme (WFP) of the United Nations on Thursday (June 16) began providing food aid to thousands of pregnant women in Sri Lanka amid an economic crisis. The body has warned of a potential humanitarian crisis where millions are in need of assistance, claiming that four out of five people began skipping meals because they cannot afford it. The organisation provided 2,000 food vouchers in Colombo’s 'underserved' districts. Anthea Webb, the deputy regional director for Asia and Pacific of WFP said, “When they skip meals they're putting their and their children's health at risk.” The South Asian country has been in a limited supply of food, medicines, and fuel owing to diminishing foreign currency reserves and the government’s mismanagement. Due to the escalating fuel shortages, the government declared an additional holiday and ordered all schools to close on Friday to preserve diesel and gasoline. Also read | Sri Lankan cabinet approves several measures to facilitate economic recovery The world organisation’s attempts to support three million Sri Lankas suffering due to rising prices, as per the WFP includes the issuance of cash vouchers worth 15,000 rupees ($40). The organisation hopes to generate $60 million for the food aid operation between July and December this year. Watch | Gravitas: Sri Lanka fuel crisis worsens Also read | Take extra day off, grow crops in your backyards: Crisis-hit Sri Lanka to public servants The WFP says it intends to help a million youngsters to get at least one meal a school and provide millions of infants and women 'nutritious food.’ In addition to this, as per WFP, another million individuals will receive food rations in the form of food, cash or vouchers. (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.

Amid economic crisis, United Nations provides food vouchers to pregnant women in Sri Lanka

In order to prevent oil spill disaster in the Red Sea, the United Nations has launched a crowd-funding campaign for an operation intended to prevent an ageing Yemeni oil tanker from unleashing a potential catastrophe.

UN's humanitarian coordinator for Yemen David Gressly told an online press briefing "We hope to raise $5 million by the end of June."

He took to Twitter and wrote, "Today I launched a @UN crowdfunding campaign because we urgently need funds to start the emergency operation before it is too late."

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Today I launched a <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> crowdfunding campaign because we urgently need funds to start the emergency operation before it is too late. Learn more: <a href="https://t.co/H6q5MJWBDg">https://t.co/H6q5MJWBDg</a> <a href="https://t.co/moFtjedoKn">pic.twitter.com/moFtjedoKn</a>
— David Gressly (@DavidGressly) <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidGressly/status/1536366382623096834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The Yemeni oil tanker, which is decaying and is 45-year-old, was used as a floating storage platform and has not been serviced since the country was plunged into civil war more than seven years ago.&nbsp;

Last month, the United Nations had warned that the FSO Safer, abandoned off the rebel-held Yemeni port of Hodeida, is in "imminent" danger of breaking up.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/peru-demands-compensation-for-oil-spill-damage-aerial-images-show-extent-of-devastation-446126">Also see |&nbsp;Peru demands compensation for oil spill damage, aerial images show extent of devastation</a>

According to a website for the crowd-funding campaign, which has started accepting donations, an operation to transfer its 1.1 million barrels of oil to a different vessel could begin next month.

Neighbouring Saudi Arabia said it would contribute $10 million following a UN pledging conference last month for the oil-transfer operation fell far short of its $80 million target.

After Houthi rebels seized the capital Sanaa the previous year, a Saudi-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015.

According to the UN, the Safer contains four times the amount of oil that was spilled by the 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster, one of the world's worst ecological catastrophes.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In order to prevent oil spill disaster in the Red Sea, the United Nations has launched a crowd-funding campaign for an operation intended to prevent an ageing Yemeni oil tanker from unleashing a potential catastrophe.

In order to prevent oil spill disaster in the Red Sea, the United Nations has launched a crowd-funding campaign for an operation intended to prevent an ageing Yemeni oil tanker from unleashing a potential catastrophe. UN's humanitarian coordinator for Yemen David Gressly told an online press briefing "We hope to raise $5 million by the end of June." He took to Twitter and wrote, "Today I launched a @UN crowdfunding campaign because we urgently need funds to start the emergency operation before it is too late." Today I launched a @UN crowdfunding campaign because we urgently need funds to start the emergency operation before it is too late. Learn more: https://t.co/H6q5MJWBDg pic.twitter.com/moFtjedoKn — David Gressly (@DavidGressly) June 13, 2022 × The Yemeni oil tanker, which is decaying and is 45-year-old, was used as a floating storage platform and has not been serviced since the country was plunged into civil war more than seven years ago. Last month, the United Nations had warned that the FSO Safer, abandoned off the rebel-held Yemeni port of Hodeida, is in "imminent" danger of breaking up. Also see | Peru demands compensation for oil spill damage, aerial images show extent of devastation According to a website for the crowd-funding campaign, which has started accepting donations, an operation to transfer its 1.1 million barrels of oil to a different vessel could begin next month. Neighbouring Saudi Arabia said it would contribute $10 million following a UN pledging conference last month for the oil-transfer operation fell far short of its $80 million target. After Houthi rebels seized the capital Sanaa the previous year, a Saudi-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015. According to the UN, the Safer contains four times the amount of oil that was spilled by the 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster, one of the world's worst ecological catastrophes. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

United Nations launches crowd-funding campaign to prevent oil spill disaster

The Iran Nuclear Deal has been a point of contention between the United States and Iran for quite some time now and tensions flared once again as Iran decided to remove two surveillance cameras belonging to the International Atomic Energy Agency from one of its nuclear facilities. The UN nuclear watchdog has cameras installed in all of the country’s nuclear facilities to keep track on their activities. But the move came after Iran was criticized for not fully answering the UN watchdog’s questions on uranium traces that were found at undeclared sites in the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-looks-to-buy-iron-dome-rocket-interception-system-from-israel-to-fight-off-russia-486123" hreflang="en">Ukraine looks to buy Iron Dome rocket interception system from Israel to fight off Russia</a>

“So far, the IAEA has not only been ungrateful for Iran’s extensive cooperation but has also considered it as a duty. From today, relevant authorities have ordered that surveillance cameras of the Online Enrichment Monitor (OLEM) be shut down,” state TV said according to Associated Press.

“Iran cannot be cooperative while the IAEA displays unreasonable behaviour. We hope the agency will come to its senses and respond with cooperation with Iran,” Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization spokesperson Behrouz Kamalvandi told state TV according to the AP report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-offer-15000-to-citizens-for-national-security-breach-tip-offs-486264">China to offer $15,000 to citizens for national security breach tip-offs</a>

The United States, Britain, Germany, and France submitted a draft resolution to the IAEA expressing their concern at Iran’s non-cooperation after the traces of uranium were detected. The resolution, which was accessed by Reuters, is set to be debated in the quarterly meeting of the IAEA members.

While Iran has not directly started any process to create a nuclear weapon, the country has increased its reserves of uranium in the recent past and that has caused a lot of concern to the western countries.

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(With inputs from agencies)

The Iran Nuclear Deal has been a point of contention between the United States and Iran for quite some time now and tensions flared once again as Iran decided to remove two surveillance cameras belonging to the International Atomic Energy Agency from one of its nuclear facilities.

The Iran Nuclear Deal has been a point of contention between the United States and Iran for quite some time now and tensions flared once again as Iran decided to remove two surveillance cameras belonging to the International Atomic Energy Agency from one of its nuclear facilities. The UN nuclear watchdog has cameras installed in all of the country’s nuclear facilities to keep track on their activities. But the move came after Iran was criticized for not fully answering the UN watchdog’s questions on uranium traces that were found at undeclared sites in the country. Also read | Ukraine looks to buy Iron Dome rocket interception system from Israel to fight off Russia “So far, the IAEA has not only been ungrateful for Iran’s extensive cooperation but has also considered it as a duty. From today, relevant authorities have ordered that surveillance cameras of the Online Enrichment Monitor (OLEM) be shut down,” state TV said according to Associated Press. “Iran cannot be cooperative while the IAEA displays unreasonable behaviour. We hope the agency will come to its senses and respond with cooperation with Iran,” Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization spokesperson Behrouz Kamalvandi told state TV according to the AP report. Also read | China to offer $15,000 to citizens for national security breach tip-offs The United States, Britain, Germany, and France submitted a draft resolution to the IAEA expressing their concern at Iran’s non-cooperation after the traces of uranium were detected. The resolution, which was accessed by Reuters, is set to be debated in the quarterly meeting of the IAEA members. While Iran has not directly started any process to create a nuclear weapon, the country has increased its reserves of uranium in the recent past and that has caused a lot of concern to the western countries. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran turns off two surveillance cameras belonging to UN nuclear watchdog: Report

UN investigators on Tuesday blamed Israel's continued occupation and discrimination against Palestinians for the endless cycles of violence in the decades-long conflict, prompting angry Israeli protests.

A high-level team of investigators, appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council to probe "all underlying root causes" in the drawn-out Israel-Palestinian conflict, pointed the finger squarely at Israel.

"Ending the occupation of lands by Israel... remains essential in ending the persistent cycles of violence," the report said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/major-blow-to-israels-coalition-government-west-bank-bill-defeated-by-58-52-margin-485967">Major blow to Israel's coalition government: West Bank bill defeated by 58-52 margin</a>

The 18-page report mainly focuses on evaluating a long line of past UN investigations, reports and rulings on the situation and how and if those findings were implemented.

"The findings and recommendations relevant to the underlying root causes were overwhelmingly directed towards Israel, which we have taken as an indicator of the asymmetrical nature of the conflict and the reality of one state occupying the other," lead investigator Navi Pillay, a former UN rights chief from South Africa, said in a statement.

"We also found that these recommendations have overwhelmingly not been implemented, including calls to ensure accountability for Israel's violations of international humanitarian and human rights law and the indiscriminate firing of rockets ... by Palestinian armed groups into Israel," she said.

"It is this lack of implementation coupled with a sense of impunity, clear evidence that Israel has no intention of ending the occupation, and the persistent discrimination against Palestinians that lies at the heart of the systematic recurrence of violations in both the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel."

Israel has refused to cooperate with the Commission of Inquiry (COI) created last year following the 11-day Hamas-Israel war in May 2021, which killed 260 Palestinians and 13 people on the Israeli side.

The COI, which is the highest-level investigation that can be ordered by the UN Human Rights Council, was tasked with looking beyond that surge in violence and to investigate all violations of international humanitarian and human rights law in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem.

'Disgrace'&nbsp;

While the council had previously ordered eight investigations into rights violations in the Palestinian territories, this was the first open-ended probe, and the first to examine "root causes" in the drawn-out conflict.&nbsp;

It was also the first tasked with looking at systematic abuses committed within Israel.

Israel has slammed the creation of the investigation, and has also loudly criticised Pillay for "championing an anti-Israel agenda".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/report-israel-warns-100-of-its-citizens-to-leave-turkey-over-threat-from-iran-483977">Report: Israel warns 100 of its citizens to leave Turkey over threat from Iran</a>

Israeli foreign ministry spokesman Lior Haiat told reporters in February that "the fact that she was appointed to this commission is actually a disgrace".

And on Tuesday, even before the report was published, dozens of Israeli reserve soldiers and students -- some of them dressed like Palestinian Hamas militants -- marched outside the UN building in Geneva in protest.

Nitsana Darshan-Leitner, who heads the Israeli NGO Shurat Hadin that organised the protest, decried "a witch-hunt against Israel".

And she slammed the Human Rights Council, which will kick off its 50th session next week where the report will be presented, as "the most anti-semitic body in the world."

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UN investigators on Tuesday blamed Israel's continued occupation and discrimination against Palestinians for the endless cycles of violence in the decades-long conflict, prompting angry Israeli protests.

UN investigators on Tuesday blamed Israel's continued occupation and discrimination against Palestinians for the endless cycles of violence in the decades-long conflict, prompting angry Israeli protests. A high-level team of investigators, appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council to probe "all underlying root causes" in the drawn-out Israel-Palestinian conflict, pointed the finger squarely at Israel. "Ending the occupation of lands by Israel... remains essential in ending the persistent cycles of violence," the report said. Also read | Major blow to Israel's coalition government: West Bank bill defeated by 58-52 margin The 18-page report mainly focuses on evaluating a long line of past UN investigations, reports and rulings on the situation and how and if those findings were implemented. "The findings and recommendations relevant to the underlying root causes were overwhelmingly directed towards Israel, which we have taken as an indicator of the asymmetrical nature of the conflict and the reality of one state occupying the other," lead investigator Navi Pillay, a former UN rights chief from South Africa, said in a statement. "We also found that these recommendations have overwhelmingly not been implemented, including calls to ensure accountability for Israel's violations of international humanitarian and human rights law and the indiscriminate firing of rockets ... by Palestinian armed groups into Israel," she said. "It is this lack of implementation coupled with a sense of impunity, clear evidence that Israel has no intention of ending the occupation, and the persistent discrimination against Palestinians that lies at the heart of the systematic recurrence of violations in both the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel." Israel has refused to cooperate with the Commission of Inquiry (COI) created last year following the 11-day Hamas-Israel war in May 2021, which killed 260 Palestinians and 13 people on the Israeli side. The COI, which is the highest-level investigation that can be ordered by the UN Human Rights Council, was tasked with looking beyond that surge in violence and to investigate all violations of international humanitarian and human rights law in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem. 'Disgrace' While the council had previously ordered eight investigations into rights violations in the Palestinian territories, this was the first open-ended probe, and the first to examine "root causes" in the drawn-out conflict. It was also the first tasked with looking at systematic abuses committed within Israel. Israel has slammed the creation of the investigation, and has also loudly criticised Pillay for "championing an anti-Israel agenda". Also read | Report: Israel warns 100 of its citizens to leave Turkey over threat from Iran Israeli foreign ministry spokesman Lior Haiat told reporters in February that "the fact that she was appointed to this commission is actually a disgrace". And on Tuesday, even before the report was published, dozens of Israeli reserve soldiers and students -- some of them dressed like Palestinian Hamas militants -- marched outside the UN building in Geneva in protest. Nitsana Darshan-Leitner, who heads the Israeli NGO Shurat Hadin that organised the protest, decried "a witch-hunt against Israel". And she slammed the Human Rights Council, which will kick off its 50th session next week where the report will be presented, as "the most anti-semitic body in the world." 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.

Ending Israel's occupation key to halting violence: UN report

The climate crisis is getting worse every year and that the funding needed to take care of the situation has also increased at an alarming rate in the last few decades. According to a new report by Oxfam, the funding that is needed by the United Nations to tackle climate disaster has actually gone up by more than 800 per cent. However, the report also found that rich countries are meeting only half of the necessary budget and that can become a problem in the long run. In 2021, the UN needed $329bn to combat “extreme weather events such as droughts, floods and wildfires” – the third highest ever in history and more than double of what the rich countries ended up paying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/time-to-study-universes-rarest-galaxies-hubble-space-telescope-captures-its-largest-image-ever-485973" hreflang="en">Time to study universe's rarest galaxies? Hubble Space Telescope captures its largest image ever</a>

“Rich countries are not only failing to provide sufficient humanitarian aid when weather-related disasters hit. They are also failing to keep their promise to provide $100bn a year to help developing countries adapt to the changing climate and blocking calls for finance to help them recover from impacts such as land that’s become unfarmable and infrastructure that’s been damaged.”

“Wealthy countries like the UK need to take full responsibility for the harm their emissions are causing and provide new funding for loss and damage caused by climate change in the poorest countries,” Danny Sriskandarajah, Oxfam GB’s chief executive, explained according to The Guardian.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/100000-times-faster-than-5g-japan-researchers-claim-data-transmission-world-record-485934" hreflang="en">100,000 times faster than 5G! Japan researchers claim data transmission world record</a>

The report also said that poorer countries, who are going through a number of climate disasters, have requested a combined $63-75bn in emergency humanitarian aid in the last five years. However, the lack of funding has resulted in fewer aids and a huge dent in the overall finances.

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The climate crisis is getting worse every year and that the funding needed to take care of the situation has also increased at an alarming rate in the last few decades.

The climate crisis is getting worse every year and that the funding needed to take care of the situation has also increased at an alarming rate in the last few decades. According to a new report by Oxfam, the funding that is needed by the United Nations to tackle climate disaster has actually gone up by more than 800 per cent. However, the report also found that rich countries are meeting only half of the necessary budget and that can become a problem in the long run. In 2021, the UN needed $329bn to combat “extreme weather events such as droughts, floods and wildfires” – the third highest ever in history and more than double of what the rich countries ended up paying. Also read | Time to study universe's rarest galaxies? Hubble Space Telescope captures its largest image ever “Rich countries are not only failing to provide sufficient humanitarian aid when weather-related disasters hit. They are also failing to keep their promise to provide $100bn a year to help developing countries adapt to the changing climate and blocking calls for finance to help them recover from impacts such as land that’s become unfarmable and infrastructure that’s been damaged.” “Wealthy countries like the UK need to take full responsibility for the harm their emissions are causing and provide new funding for loss and damage caused by climate change in the poorest countries,” Danny Sriskandarajah, Oxfam GB’s chief executive, explained according to The Guardian. Also read | 100,000 times faster than 5G! Japan researchers claim data transmission world record The report also said that poorer countries, who are going through a number of climate disasters, have requested a combined $63-75bn in emergency humanitarian aid in the last five years. However, the lack of funding has resulted in fewer aids and a huge dent in the overall finances. 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.

Funds needed for tackling climate disasters up ‘more than 800%’ in 20 years: Report

Myanmar's ruling junta has condemned what it called "reckless and interfering" foreign statements about a rare execution order against two prominent opposition figures, accusing them of aiding terrorism by demanding their release.

The United Nations, the U.S. State Department and France last week denounced the rejection of the appeals of a veteran activist and a former lawmaker, a decision that paves the way for the country's first executions in decades.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/myanmar-junta-to-carry-out-countrys-first-judicial-executions-in-more-than-three-decades-484817">Myanmar junta to carry out country’s first judicial executions in more than three decades</a>

A state newspaper on Tuesday carried a foreign ministry statement rejecting the international criticism, expressing "utmost indignation and strong protest" at France in particular for calling the&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;junta an illegitimate military regime, and accused it of meddling in its affairs.

"The ministry protests and objects in the strongest terms to the irresponsible and reckless statements and remarks," it said, adding the United States, France and UN remarks were "abetting terrorism" and neglecting what it called violent attacks against authorities.

Watch |&nbsp;First judicial execution in decades: Myanmar to execute four people

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Kyaw Min Yu, a veteran democracy activist, and Phyo Zeyar Thaw, a lawmaker for the former ruling National League for Democracy (NLD) party, were sentenced to death by a military tribunal in January on charges of treason and terrorism.

It is unclear when they will be executed or how they pled in their trials, which&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;has largely held behind closed doors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-one-million-displaced-in-myanmar-amid-violence-un-484453">Over one million displaced in Myanmar amid violence: UN humanitarian relief agency</a>

Judicial activists say the junta is controlling the courts and denying its opponents fair trials.

The military has been condemned globally for its deadly crackdown on the protests and dissent that followed its February 2021 coup.

The United Nations has said its investigations show the military has committed mass killings and crimes against humanity. The junta has said it is seeking to restore peace and order.

&nbsp;

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Myanmar's ruling junta has condemned what it called "reckless and interfering" foreign statements about a rare execution order against two prominent opposition figures, accusing them of aiding terrorism by demanding their release.

Myanmar's ruling junta has condemned what it called "reckless and interfering" foreign statements about a rare execution order against two prominent opposition figures, accusing them of aiding terrorism by demanding their release. The United Nations, the U.S. State Department and France last week denounced the rejection of the appeals of a veteran activist and a former lawmaker, a decision that paves the way for the country's first executions in decades. Also read | Myanmar junta to carry out country’s first judicial executions in more than three decades A state newspaper on Tuesday carried a foreign ministry statement rejecting the international criticism, expressing "utmost indignation and strong protest" at France in particular for calling the Myanmar junta an illegitimate military regime, and accused it of meddling in its affairs. "The ministry protests and objects in the strongest terms to the irresponsible and reckless statements and remarks," it said, adding the United States, France and UN remarks were "abetting terrorism" and neglecting what it called violent attacks against authorities. Watch | First judicial execution in decades: Myanmar to execute four people Kyaw Min Yu, a veteran democracy activist, and Phyo Zeyar Thaw, a lawmaker for the former ruling National League for Democracy (NLD) party, were sentenced to death by a military tribunal in January on charges of treason and terrorism. It is unclear when they will be executed or how they pled in their trials, which Myanmar has largely held behind closed doors. Also read | Over one million displaced in Myanmar amid violence: UN humanitarian relief agency Judicial activists say the junta is controlling the courts and denying its opponents fair trials. The military has been condemned globally for its deadly crackdown on the protests and dissent that followed its February 2021 coup. The United Nations has said its investigations show the military has committed mass killings and crimes against humanity. The junta has said it is seeking to restore peace and order. 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.

Myanmar calls foreign outrage over activists death sentence 'reckless and interfering'

Children are often among those who face the worst of a conflict or an unstable situation in a country. They are vulnerable to physical, mental and emotional abuse. This&nbsp;may leave them scarred and affect their development. This may lead to other social issues when they grow up. Protecting children and their rights is therefore important.

International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression: History and significance

The very first International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression was observed on August 19, 1982. At the time, the day was focused on victims of the Lebanon War.

In 1982 Lebanon war, Israel's forces invaded southern Lebanon after repeated attacks and counterattacks between Palestine Liberation Organisation and Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The invasion was carried out after the assassination attempt of Israeli ambassador.

Though the first-ever International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression was focused on victims of Lebanon war its scope was widened to "acknowledge the pain suffered by children throughout the world who are the victims of physical, mental and emotional abuse"

This day affirms United Nations' commitment towards protecting children and their rights. United Nations General Assembly decided under the resolution ES-7/8 that June 4 would be observed each year.&nbsp;

Children are often among those who face the worst of a conflict or an unstable situation in a country. They are vulnerable to physical, mental and emotional abuse.

Children are often among those who face the worst of a conflict or an unstable situation in a country. They are vulnerable to physical, mental and emotional abuse. This may leave them scarred and affect their development. This may lead to other social issues when they grow up. Protecting children and their rights is therefore important. International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression: History and significance The very first International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression was observed on August 19, 1982. At the time, the day was focused on victims of the Lebanon War. In 1982 Lebanon war, Israel's forces invaded southern Lebanon after repeated attacks and counterattacks between Palestine Liberation Organisation and Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The invasion was carried out after the assassination attempt of Israeli ambassador. Though the first-ever International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression was focused on victims of Lebanon war its scope was widened to "acknowledge the pain suffered by children throughout the world who are the victims of physical, mental and emotional abuse" This day affirms United Nations' commitment towards protecting children and their rights. United Nations General Assembly decided under the resolution ES-7/8 that June 4 would be observed each year.

June 4, 2022: International day of innocent children victims of aggression

Countries that have changed their names as Turkey becomes ‘Türkiye’

The process to change Turkey’s name into “Türkiye” started back in December last year after a memorandum from president Recep Tayyip Erdogan and on Thursday, it received the seal of approval from the United Nations. Following the official request from the country, the UN has decided to change the name of Turkey at the organisation. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric announced that the letter written by Turkish foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu addressed to Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was received on Wednesday and he made it clear that the change of the name became valid from the moment that the official letter was received.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shanghai-residents-spent-2-months-locked-up-but-china-bans-media-from-calling-it-a-lockdown-484410">Shanghai spent 2 months 'locked' up, but media can't call it a 'lockdown'</a>

Earlier, on Tuesday, Cavusoglu said that an official letter requesting a change of name has been sent to the UN and other major bodies around the world. “Together with our Directorate of Communications, we have been successful in preparing a good ground for this,” said the letter according to Associated Press.

The current government has been trying hard for the name Turkey to be changed to “Türkiye” (tur-key-YAY) as it is spelled and pronounced in Turkish. The name actually dates back to 1923 as the country was called “Türkiye” right after its independence before changing it to Turkey.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-controls-about-20-per-cent-of-ukraine-says-president-volodymyr-zelensky-484449" hreflang="en">Russia controls 'about 20 per cent' of Ukraine, says president Zelensky</a>

Currently, according to the new directive, “Made in Türkiye” is being used instead of “Made in Turkey” on exported products and the name change has also taken place on official documents.

Turkey’s English-language state broadcaster TRT World also explained the decision saying that the word “turkey” shows “a muddled set of images, articles, and dictionary definitions that conflate the country with Meleagris – otherwise known as the turkey, a large bird native to North America – which is famous for being served on Christmas menus or Thanksgiving dinners” on Google.

The process to change Turkey’s name into “Türkiye” started back in December last year after a memorandum from president Recep Tayyip Erdogan and on Thursday, it received the seal of approval from the United Nations.

The process to change Turkey’s name into “Türkiye” started back in December last year after a memorandum from president Recep Tayyip Erdogan and on Thursday, it received the seal of approval from the United Nations. Following the official request from the country, the UN has decided to change the name of Turkey at the organisation. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric announced that the letter written by Turkish foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu addressed to Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was received on Wednesday and he made it clear that the change of the name became valid from the moment that the official letter was received. Also read | Shanghai spent 2 months 'locked' up, but media can't call it a 'lockdown' Earlier, on Tuesday, Cavusoglu said that an official letter requesting a change of name has been sent to the UN and other major bodies around the world. “Together with our Directorate of Communications, we have been successful in preparing a good ground for this,” said the letter according to Associated Press. The current government has been trying hard for the name Turkey to be changed to “Türkiye” (tur-key-YAY) as it is spelled and pronounced in Turkish. The name actually dates back to 1923 as the country was called “Türkiye” right after its independence before changing it to Turkey. Also read | Russia controls 'about 20 per cent' of Ukraine, says president Zelensky Currently, according to the new directive, “Made in Türkiye” is being used instead of “Made in Turkey” on exported products and the name change has also taken place on official documents. Turkey’s English-language state broadcaster TRT World also explained the decision saying that the word “turkey” shows “a muddled set of images, articles, and dictionary definitions that conflate the country with Meleagris – otherwise known as the turkey, a large bird native to North America – which is famous for being served on Christmas menus or Thanksgiving dinners” on Google.

Turkey To Become ‘Türkiye’? United Nations approve request for name change

The country of Yemen has been at the center of a constant conflict since 2014. The Iran-backed Huthi rebels took over the capital city of Sanaa and that resulted in a response from the Saudi Arabia-backed military forces. However, in the recent past, there have been a temporary truce between the two sides and both of them have decided to renew it for two more months, according to the United States. Hans Grundberg - the UN special envoy on Yemen – confirmed that the truce was extended along with the same terms that the United Nations laid out in the very beginning.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-controls-about-20-per-cent-of-ukraine-says-president-volodymyr-zelensky-484449" hreflang="en">Russia controls 'about 20 per cent' of Ukraine, says president Zelensky</a>

"I would like to announce that the parties to the conflict have agreed to the United Nations' proposal to renew the current truce in Yemen for two additional months," Grundberg said.

"The extension of the truce comes into effect when the current truce period expires, today 2 June 2022 at 19:00 Yemen time (1600 GMT)," he added in the official statement according to AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-officer-idolises-al-qaeda-founder-osama-bin-laden-as-worlds-best-junior-engineer-gets-suspended-484355" hreflang="en">Indian officer idolises al-Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden as ‘world’s best junior engineer’, gets suspended</a>

The initial truce was signed in April this year in order to reduce the conflict which has resulted into what UN has referred to as “the world's worst humanitarian crisis”. Multiple authorities urged both parties to extend the truce and it was signed by both of the parties&nbsp;just hours ahead of its expiration.

"We hope this extension of the truce will allow for further progress on the reopening of roads linking cities and regions, allow more displaced people to return to their homes, and ensure humanitarian aid can reach people who have been out of reach because of the fighting," Norwegian Refugee Council's Yemen country director, Erin Hutchinson, said in an official statement.

The country of Yemen has been at the center of a constant conflict since 2014. The Iran-backed Huthi rebels took over the capital city of Sanaa and that resulted in a response from the Saudi Arabia-backed military forces.

The country of Yemen has been at the center of a constant conflict since 2014. The Iran-backed Huthi rebels took over the capital city of Sanaa and that resulted in a response from the Saudi Arabia-backed military forces. However, in the recent past, there have been a temporary truce between the two sides and both of them have decided to renew it for two more months, according to the United States. Hans Grundberg - the UN special envoy on Yemen – confirmed that the truce was extended along with the same terms that the United Nations laid out in the very beginning. Also read | Russia controls 'about 20 per cent' of Ukraine, says president Zelensky "I would like to announce that the parties to the conflict have agreed to the United Nations' proposal to renew the current truce in Yemen for two additional months," Grundberg said. "The extension of the truce comes into effect when the current truce period expires, today 2 June 2022 at 19:00 Yemen time (1600 GMT)," he added in the official statement according to AFP. Also read | Indian officer idolises al-Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden as ‘world’s best junior engineer’, gets suspended The initial truce was signed in April this year in order to reduce the conflict which has resulted into what UN has referred to as “the world's worst humanitarian crisis”. Multiple authorities urged both parties to extend the truce and it was signed by both of the parties just hours ahead of its expiration. "We hope this extension of the truce will allow for further progress on the reopening of roads linking cities and regions, allow more displaced people to return to their homes, and ensure humanitarian aid can reach people who have been out of reach because of the fighting," Norwegian Refugee Council's Yemen country director, Erin Hutchinson, said in an official statement.

Yemen’s warring sides agree to extend truce for two months, says United Nations

The United Nations on Monday (May 23) released an alarming figure to highlight the massive impact of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. As per the latest data, the war has pushed the number of forcibly displaced people around the world above 100 million for the first time.&nbsp;

The staggering 100 million figure amounts to more than one per cent of the global population. The figure combines asylum-seekers, as well as more than 50 million people displaced inside their own countries.&nbsp;

In a statement, the UN Refugee Agency said: "The number of people forced to flee conflict, violence, human rights violations and persecution has now crossed the staggering milestone of 100 million for the first time on record, propelled by the war in Ukraine and other deadly conflicts."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-says-13-countries-to-join-new-asia-pacific-trade-initiative-481382">US President Joe Biden says 13 countries to join new Asia-Pacific trade initiative</a>

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A milestone we hoped we’d never have to mark. 
100 million people have now fled their homes.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForcedToFlee?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForcedToFlee</a> <a href="https://t.co/kfUlSgwqrX">pic.twitter.com/kfUlSgwqrX</a>
— UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency (@Refugees) <a href="https://twitter.com/Refugees/status/1528608160017170433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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By the end of 2021, the number of forcibly displaced people worldwide was reaching 90 million. The numbers are increased after the new waves of "violence or protracted conflict" in countries including Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Myanmar, Nigeria, Afghanistan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.&nbsp;

The latest data from UNHCR revealed that the Ukraine war, which began on February 24 when Russia announced a military invasion, led to the displacement of 8 million within the country this year. Apart from that, more than 6 million refugee movements from Ukraine have been registered.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-summit-2022-japanese-kids-fluent-hindi-impresses-indian-pm-narendra-modi-watch-his-reaction-481364">Quad Summit 2022: Japanese kid's fluent Hindi impresses Indian PM Narendra Modi, watch his reaction</a>

UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi said, "One hundred million is a stark figure – sobering and alarming in equal measure. It's a record that should never have been set. This must serve as a wake-up call to resolve and prevent destructive conflicts, end persecution, and address the underlying causes that force innocent people to flee their homes."&nbsp;

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The United Nations on Monday (May 23) released an alarming figure to highlight the massive impact of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. As per the latest data, the war has pushed the number of forcibly displaced people around the world above 100 million for the first time.

The United Nations on Monday (May 23) released an alarming figure to highlight the massive impact of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. As per the latest data, the war has pushed the number of forcibly displaced people around the world above 100 million for the first time. The staggering 100 million figure amounts to more than one per cent of the global population. The figure combines asylum-seekers, as well as more than 50 million people displaced inside their own countries. In a statement, the UN Refugee Agency said: "The number of people forced to flee conflict, violence, human rights violations and persecution has now crossed the staggering milestone of 100 million for the first time on record, propelled by the war in Ukraine and other deadly conflicts." ALSO READ | US President Joe Biden says 13 countries to join new Asia-Pacific trade initiative A milestone we hoped we’d never have to mark. 100 million people have now fled their homes.#ForcedToFlee pic.twitter.com/kfUlSgwqrX — UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency (@Refugees) May 23, 2022 × By the end of 2021, the number of forcibly displaced people worldwide was reaching 90 million. The numbers are increased after the new waves of "violence or protracted conflict" in countries including Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Myanmar, Nigeria, Afghanistan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The latest data from UNHCR revealed that the Ukraine war, which began on February 24 when Russia announced a military invasion, led to the displacement of 8 million within the country this year. Apart from that, more than 6 million refugee movements from Ukraine have been registered. ALSO READ | Quad Summit 2022: Japanese kid's fluent Hindi impresses Indian PM Narendra Modi, watch his reaction UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi said, "One hundred million is a stark figure – sobering and alarming in equal measure. It's a record that should never have been set. This must serve as a wake-up call to resolve and prevent destructive conflicts, end persecution, and address the underlying causes that force innocent people to flee their homes." 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.

'Wake-up call': More than 100 million people forcibly displaced in the world

The United Nations on Wednesday (May 18) warned that the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war could&nbsp;cause a global food crisis as the organisation urged Moscow to release Ukrainian grain.&nbsp;

While speaking at a major United Nations summit in New York, UN chief Antonio Guterres stated that years of mass hunger and famine will be followed if a growing global food crisis is not tackled.&nbsp;

The Russia-Ukraine war led to massive global food insecurity, a crisis&nbsp;that has already impacted countries because of the warming temperatures and the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-nato-now-has-40000-soldiers-on-europes-border-with-russia-480266">Ukraine war: NATO now has 40,000 soldiers on Europe's border with Russia</a>

In a meeting on the growing food crisis chaired by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Guterres said, "Now the war in Ukraine is amplifying and accelerating all these factors: climate change, COVID-19 and inequality."&nbsp;

"It threatens to tip tens of millions of people over the edge into food insecurity, followed by malnutrition, mass hunger and famine, in a crisis that could last for years," he added.&nbsp;

During the meeting, Guterres also noted how the number of severely food insecure people has doubled in just two years — from 135 million pre-pandemic to 276 million today.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia to legalise crypto 'sooner or later' as industry and trade minister talks about the possibility

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The UN chief highlighted the data as he said more than half a million people are living in famine conditions, which is an increase of more than 500 per cent since 2016.&nbsp;

After Ukrainian ports of Odesa, Chornomorsk and others were cut off from the world by Russian warships, the supply has been disrupted. &nbsp;

Before Russia's invasion of its neighbour in February, Ukraine was seen as the world's breadbasket, exporting 4.5 million tonnes of agricultural produce per month through its ports.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United Nations on Wednesday (May 18) warned that the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war could cause a global food crisis as the organisation urged Moscow to release Ukrainian grain.

The United Nations on Wednesday (May 18) warned that the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war could cause a global food crisis as the organisation urged Moscow to release Ukrainian grain. While speaking at a major United Nations summit in New York, UN chief Antonio Guterres stated that years of mass hunger and famine will be followed if a growing global food crisis is not tackled. The Russia-Ukraine war led to massive global food insecurity, a crisis that has already impacted countries because of the warming temperatures and the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. ALSO READ | Ukraine war: NATO now has 40,000 soldiers on Europe's border with Russia In a meeting on the growing food crisis chaired by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Guterres said, "Now the war in Ukraine is amplifying and accelerating all these factors: climate change, COVID-19 and inequality." "It threatens to tip tens of millions of people over the edge into food insecurity, followed by malnutrition, mass hunger and famine, in a crisis that could last for years," he added. During the meeting, Guterres also noted how the number of severely food insecure people has doubled in just two years — from 135 million pre-pandemic to 276 million today. WATCH | Russia to legalise crypto 'sooner or later' as industry and trade minister talks about the possibility × The UN chief highlighted the data as he said more than half a million people are living in famine conditions, which is an increase of more than 500 per cent since 2016. After Ukrainian ports of Odesa, Chornomorsk and others were cut off from the world by Russian warships, the supply has been disrupted. Before Russia's invasion of its neighbour in February, Ukraine was seen as the world's breadbasket, exporting 4.5 million tonnes of agricultural produce per month through its ports. (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.

Russia-Ukraine war could cause mass hunger and famine due to food insecurity, UN warns

Every month, Abdow Omar, who runs a business importing flour and sugar, gets a call from the Somali militant group al-Shabab reminding him that it’s time to pay them taxes — or risk losing his business, or even his life.

After more than 16 years, al-Shabab, a terrorist group linked to al-Qaida, now has a firm grip on much of Somalia, extorting taxes, judging court cases, forcibly recruiting minors into its forces, and carrying out suicide bombings.

The country is about to get its next leader Sunday in an election that has been delayed for almost two years. No less than 38 candidates, including one woman, registered to vie and unseat the incumbent president. But many residents, observing the government’s infighting and paralysis, are asking whether a new administration will make a difference at all.

“While the government is busy with itself, we are suffering,” Omar said. “The Shabab are like a mafia group. You either have to obey them or close your business. There’s no freedom.”

Somalia, a nation of 16 million people strategically located in the Horn of Africa, has suffered for decades from civil war, weak governance, and terrorism. Its central government has been bolstered by United Nations peacekeepers and Western aid, including billions of dollars in humanitarian aid and security assistance from the United States, which sought to keep the country from becoming a safe haven for international terrorism.

Now, inflation is climbing, and food prices are sharply on the rise because of a biting drought and the loss of wheat imports from Ukraine.

The country doesn’t have a one-person, one-vote electoral system. Instead, more than 325 lawmakers, who were chosen by clan representatives, will select the next president.

The candidates, who include former presidents and prime ministers, are looking to unseat the current president, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, who has served for five years. Critics accused Mohamed — a former U.S. citizen and bureaucrat — of trying to illegally stay in power, cracking down on the opposition and journalists, fomenting a rift with neighboring Kenya and undercutting the power-sharing model that buttressed the country’s federal system.

Al-Shabab exploited the political instability, and the bitter divisions among security forces, to grow its tentacles. In the weeks and months before the vote, the group killed civilians including at beachside restaurants, mounted a major offensive on an African Union base — killing at least 10 peacekeepers from Burundi — and dispatched suicide bombers to jump on the cars of government officials.

In interviews with more than two dozen Somali citizens, lawmakers, analysts, diplomats and aid workers before Sunday’s vote, many expressed concern at how the deteriorating political, security and humanitarian situation has reversed the few years of stability the nation achieved after al-Shabab was kicked out of the capital in 2011.

“These were five lost years, ones in which we lost the cohesion of the country,” said Hussein Sheikh-Ali, a former national security adviser to Mohamed and chair of the Hiraal Institute, a research center in Mogadishu.

The protracted political battles, particularly over the elections, undermined the government’s ability to deliver key services, observers say. Critics and opposition figures have accused Mohamed of trying to cling to power at all costs, exerting pressure on the electoral commission, installing leaders in regional states who would help sway the election and trying to fill the parliament with his own supporters. Last year, when he signed a law extending his rule by two years, fighting broke out in the capital’s streets, forcing him to change course.

As the election of lawmakers got underway, observers said it was rife with corruption and irregularities.

Abdi Ismail Samatar, a first time senator who is also a professor at the University of Minnesota who researches democracy in Africa, said this election could be ranked as “the worst” in Somalia’s history.

“I don’t think I could have ever imagined how corrupt and self-serving it is,” Samatar said. While no one attempted to bribe him, he said, “I saw people being given money in the election for the speakership right in front of my face in the hallway.”

Larry André Jr., the U.S. ambassador to Somalia, said that the majority of the seats had been selected by regional leaders, “sold” or “auctioned,” and the messy election had pushed the country to the “cliff’s edge.”

The United States imposed visa sanctions in both February and March on Somali officials and others accused of undermining the parliamentary elections. The parliamentary vote finally concluded in late April, producing new speakers and deputy speakers mostly aligned with groups opposed to Mohamed.

Because of the indirect nature of the vote, presidential candidates in Mogadishu aren’t shaking hands with citizens or campaigning in the streets. Instead, they are meeting with lawmakers and clan elders in glitzy hotels and compounds guarded by dozens of soldiers and blast walls. Some aspirants have put up election billboards along major roads in the capital, promising good governance, justice and peace.

But few in this seaside city believe they would make good on their pledges.

“Everyone wears a suit, carries a briefcase and promises to be as sweet as honey,” said Jamila Adan, a political science student at City University. “But we don’t believe them.”

Her friend Anisa Abdullahi, a business major, agreed, saying those running for office cannot identify with the daily tribulations facing ordinary Somalis. Security forces, she said, frequently block roads unannounced to create safe corridors for politicians, making it impossible for her and many others to get to class, do business or visit relatives.

“They never make people feel like the government comes from the people and is supposed to serve the people,” she said.

Some Somalis have now turned to al-Shabab to get services that would normally be delivered by a functioning state. Many in Mogadishu regularly travel to areas dozens of miles north of the city to get their cases heard at al-Shabab-operated mobile courts.

One of them is Ali Ahmed, a businessman from a minority tribe whose family home in Mogadishu was occupied for years by members of a powerful tribe. After he presented his case to an al-Shabab-run court, he said, two weeks later the court ruled that the occupiers should vacate his house — and they did.

“It’s sad but no one goes to the government to get justice,” he said. “Even government judges will secretly advise you to go to al-Shabab.”

Some officials admit the government’s own shortcomings. Al-Shabab has been able to widen its tax base because “elected officials were too busy politicking instead of doing policy work,” said one government official who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media.

The election comes as parts of Somalia face the worst drought in four decades. Some 6 million people, or about 40% of the population, are facing extreme food shortages, according to the World Food Program, with nearly 760,000 people displaced.

Many of those impacted by the drought live in al-Shabab-controlled areas in south-central Somalia, where aid organizations are not able to reach them, crops are failing and al-Shabab demands taxes on their livestock, according to interviews with officials and displaced people. The U.N. estimates that almost 900,000 people reside in inaccessible areas administered by al-Shabab.

To find food and water, families travel hundreds of miles, sometimes on foot, to cities and towns like Mogadishu, and Doolow in the southern Gedo region. Some parents said they buried their children on the way while others left a weak child behind in order to save other offspring.

Mohammed Ali Hussein, the deputy governor of Gedo, said the lack of security prevented officials from rescuing people in al-Shabab-dominated areas even when family members pinpoint an exact location.

Dealing with the threat of al-Shabab will be among the first challenges facing Somalia’s next government, said Afyare Abdi Elmi, executive director of the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies in Mogadishu.

But the next leader, he said, needs also to deliver a new constitution, reform the economy, deal with climate change, open dialogue with the breakaway region of Somaliland and unite a polarized nation.

“Governance in Somalia became too confrontational over the past few years. It was like pulling teeth,” Elmi said. “People are now ready for a new dawn.” 
&nbsp;

Every month, Abdow Omar, who runs a business importing flour and sugar, gets a call from the Somali militant group al-Shabab reminding him that it’s time to pay them taxes — or risk losing his business, or even his life.

Every month, Abdow Omar, who runs a business importing flour and sugar, gets a call from the Somali militant group al-Shabab reminding him that it’s time to pay them taxes — or risk losing his business, or even his life. After more than 16 years, al-Shabab, a terrorist group linked to al-Qaida, now has a firm grip on much of Somalia, extorting taxes, judging court cases, forcibly recruiting minors into its forces, and carrying out suicide bombings. The country is about to get its next leader Sunday in an election that has been delayed for almost two years. No less than 38 candidates, including one woman, registered to vie and unseat the incumbent president. But many residents, observing the government’s infighting and paralysis, are asking whether a new administration will make a difference at all. “While the government is busy with itself, we are suffering,” Omar said. “The Shabab are like a mafia group. You either have to obey them or close your business. There’s no freedom.” Somalia, a nation of 16 million people strategically located in the Horn of Africa, has suffered for decades from civil war, weak governance, and terrorism. Its central government has been bolstered by United Nations peacekeepers and Western aid, including billions of dollars in humanitarian aid and security assistance from the United States, which sought to keep the country from becoming a safe haven for international terrorism. Now, inflation is climbing, and food prices are sharply on the rise because of a biting drought and the loss of wheat imports from Ukraine. The country doesn’t have a one-person, one-vote electoral system. Instead, more than 325 lawmakers, who were chosen by clan representatives, will select the next president. The candidates, who include former presidents and prime ministers, are looking to unseat the current president, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, who has served for five years. Critics accused Mohamed — a former U.S. citizen and bureaucrat — of trying to illegally stay in power, cracking down on the opposition and journalists, fomenting a rift with neighboring Kenya and undercutting the power-sharing model that buttressed the country’s federal system. Al-Shabab exploited the political instability, and the bitter divisions among security forces, to grow its tentacles. In the weeks and months before the vote, the group killed civilians including at beachside restaurants, mounted a major offensive on an African Union base — killing at least 10 peacekeepers from Burundi — and dispatched suicide bombers to jump on the cars of government officials. In interviews with more than two dozen Somali citizens, lawmakers, analysts, diplomats and aid workers before Sunday’s vote, many expressed concern at how the deteriorating political, security and humanitarian situation has reversed the few years of stability the nation achieved after al-Shabab was kicked out of the capital in 2011. “These were five lost years, ones in which we lost the cohesion of the country,” said Hussein Sheikh-Ali, a former national security adviser to Mohamed and chair of the Hiraal Institute, a research center in Mogadishu. The protracted political battles, particularly over the elections, undermined the government’s ability to deliver key services, observers say. Critics and opposition figures have accused Mohamed of trying to cling to power at all costs, exerting pressure on the electoral commission, installing leaders in regional states who would help sway the election and trying to fill the parliament with his own supporters. Last year, when he signed a law extending his rule by two years, fighting broke out in the capital’s streets, forcing him to change course. As the election of lawmakers got underway, observers said it was rife with corruption and irregularities. Abdi Ismail Samatar, a first time senator who is also a professor at the University of Minnesota who researches democracy in Africa, said this election could be ranked as “the worst” in Somalia’s history. “I don’t think I could have ever imagined how corrupt and self-serving it is,” Samatar said. While no one attempted to bribe him, he said, “I saw people being given money in the election for the speakership right in front of my face in the hallway.” Larry André Jr., the U.S. ambassador to Somalia, said that the majority of the seats had been selected by regional leaders, “sold” or “auctioned,” and the messy election had pushed the country to the “cliff’s edge.” The United States imposed visa sanctions in both February and March on Somali officials and others accused of undermining the parliamentary elections. The parliamentary vote finally concluded in late April, producing new speakers and deputy speakers mostly aligned with groups opposed to Mohamed. Because of the indirect nature of the vote, presidential candidates in Mogadishu aren’t shaking hands with citizens or campaigning in the streets. Instead, they are meeting with lawmakers and clan elders in glitzy hotels and compounds guarded by dozens of soldiers and blast walls. Some aspirants have put up election billboards along major roads in the capital, promising good governance, justice and peace. But few in this seaside city believe they would make good on their pledges. “Everyone wears a suit, carries a briefcase and promises to be as sweet as honey,” said Jamila Adan, a political science student at City University. “But we don’t believe them.” Her friend Anisa Abdullahi, a business major, agreed, saying those running for office cannot identify with the daily tribulations facing ordinary Somalis. Security forces, she said, frequently block roads unannounced to create safe corridors for politicians, making it impossible for her and many others to get to class, do business or visit relatives. “They never make people feel like the government comes from the people and is supposed to serve the people,” she said. Some Somalis have now turned to al-Shabab to get services that would normally be delivered by a functioning state. Many in Mogadishu regularly travel to areas dozens of miles north of the city to get their cases heard at al-Shabab-operated mobile courts. One of them is Ali Ahmed, a businessman from a minority tribe whose family home in Mogadishu was occupied for years by members of a powerful tribe. After he presented his case to an al-Shabab-run court, he said, two weeks later the court ruled that the occupiers should vacate his house — and they did. “It’s sad but no one goes to the government to get justice,” he said. “Even government judges will secretly advise you to go to al-Shabab.” Some officials admit the government’s own shortcomings. Al-Shabab has been able to widen its tax base because “elected officials were too busy politicking instead of doing policy work,” said one government official who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media. The election comes as parts of Somalia face the worst drought in four decades. Some 6 million people, or about 40% of the population, are facing extreme food shortages, according to the World Food Program, with nearly 760,000 people displaced. Many of those impacted by the drought live in al-Shabab-controlled areas in south-central Somalia, where aid organizations are not able to reach them, crops are failing and al-Shabab demands taxes on their livestock, according to interviews with officials and displaced people. The U.N. estimates that almost 900,000 people reside in inaccessible areas administered by al-Shabab. To find food and water, families travel hundreds of miles, sometimes on foot, to cities and towns like Mogadishu, and Doolow in the southern Gedo region. Some parents said they buried their children on the way while others left a weak child behind in order to save other offspring. Mohammed Ali Hussein, the deputy governor of Gedo, said the lack of security prevented officials from rescuing people in al-Shabab-dominated areas even when family members pinpoint an exact location. Dealing with the threat of al-Shabab will be among the first challenges facing Somalia’s next government, said Afyare Abdi Elmi, executive director of the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies in Mogadishu. But the next leader, he said, needs also to deliver a new constitution, reform the economy, deal with climate change, open dialogue with the breakaway region of Somaliland and unite a polarized nation. “Governance in Somalia became too confrontational over the past few years. It was like pulling teeth,” Elmi said. “People are now ready for a new dawn.”

Somalia elects next president, but terrorists hold true power

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is currently in its third month and the United Nations has decided to launch an enquiry into the alleged human rights violations committed during the ongoing conflict.

The United Nations Human Rights Council decided to launch the enquiry into the possible misconducts of the Russian military after the motion was passed with 33 votes in favour.

According to the motion tabled in the Council, the enquiry will include extrajudicial executions, civilian casualties, the use of torture and abuses against children during the crisis.

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The only two nations to vote against the motion were China and Eritrea. 12 countries, including India and Pakistan, decided to abstain from the vote while Russia did not attend the meeting.

According to an AFP report, Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzhaparova addressed the council from Kyiv and said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's army were "pure evil".

Russia was committing "the most gruesome human rights violations on the European continent in decades", she said in the address.

"These have been 10 weeks of sheer horror to the people of my country.

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"Torture and enforced disappearances, sexual and gender-based violence; the list of Russia's crimes is endless.

"Only the world standing strong in solidarity with the Ukrainian people can defeat this pure evil."

Although Russia is currently suspended from the Human Rights Council, they were called to the meeting in order to present their defence. However, they declined to attend, and Russian ambassador Gennady Gatilov called it a "political rout to demonise Russia".

WATCH |&nbsp;Finland may soon announce bid to join NATO

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The Russian invasion of Ukraine is currently in its third month and the United Nations has decided to launch an enquiry into the alleged human rights violations committed during the ongoing conflict.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is currently in its third month and the United Nations has decided to launch an enquiry into the alleged human rights violations committed during the ongoing conflict. The United Nations Human Rights Council decided to launch the enquiry into the possible misconducts of the Russian military after the motion was passed with 33 votes in favour. According to the motion tabled in the Council, the enquiry will include extrajudicial executions, civilian casualties, the use of torture and abuses against children during the crisis. Also read | Sri Lanka crisis — PM Ranil Wickremesinghe pledges to uplift the economy The only two nations to vote against the motion were China and Eritrea. 12 countries, including India and Pakistan, decided to abstain from the vote while Russia did not attend the meeting. According to an AFP report, Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzhaparova addressed the council from Kyiv and said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's army were "pure evil". Russia was committing "the most gruesome human rights violations on the European continent in decades", she said in the address. "These have been 10 weeks of sheer horror to the people of my country. Also read | Despite sanctions, Russian ruble is world's top performing currency in 2022 "Torture and enforced disappearances, sexual and gender-based violence; the list of Russia's crimes is endless. "Only the world standing strong in solidarity with the Ukrainian people can defeat this pure evil." Although Russia is currently suspended from the Human Rights Council, they were called to the meeting in order to present their defence. However, they declined to attend, and Russian ambassador Gennady Gatilov called it a "political rout to demonise Russia". WATCH | Finland may soon announce bid to join NATO

United Nations launches probe into Russia's alleged human rights violations in Ukraine

A deal led by the United Nations and the International Red Cross has begun to ease the ordeal of the most destructive siege of war in Ukraine. Roughly 100 civilians were evacuated from the besieged Azovstal steel plant in eastern Ukrainian city of Mariupol.

Russia-Ukraine crisis: Pope Francis renews call for humanitarian corridor

Russia struck Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Thursday (April 28) during United Nations Sectretary General Antonio Guterres' visit to the city. During his visit, Guterres spoke of and denounced 'absurdity' of war in 21st century.

The strikes took place in western part of the city wounding at least three people. The strikes were first in the capital in nearly two weeks. They were carried out after Guterres toured Bucha and other suburbs in which Russia faces allegations to have committed war crimes.

Ukrainian prosecutors said they were investigating 10 Russian soldiers for suspected atrocities in Bucha, where dozens of bodies in civilian clothes were found after Moscow's retreat, and had identified more than 8,000 alleged war crimes cases.

Prosecutor general Iryna Venediktova has told a German TV channel that these cases include "killing civilians, bombing of civilian infrastructure, torture" and "sexual crimes".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-21st-century-war-is-an-absurdity-un-chief-antonio-guterres-visits-destroyed-ukrainian-towns-474656">'In 21st century, war is an absurdity': UN chief Antonio Guterres visits destroyed Ukrainian towns</a>

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has urged lawmakers in the US to approve the huge aid package worth USD 33 billion for Ukraine.

"The cost of this fight is not cheap. But caving to aggression is going to be more costly if we allow it to happen," Biden said.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed Biden's proposal as an "important step" and "necessary."

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia struck Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Thursday (April 28) during United Nations Sectretary General Antonio Guterres' visit to the city. During his visit, Guterres spoke of and denounced 'absurdity' of war in 21st century.

Russia struck Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Thursday (April 28) during United Nations Sectretary General Antonio Guterres' visit to the city. During his visit, Guterres spoke of and denounced 'absurdity' of war in 21st century. The strikes took place in western part of the city wounding at least three people. The strikes were first in the capital in nearly two weeks. They were carried out after Guterres toured Bucha and other suburbs in which Russia faces allegations to have committed war crimes. Ukrainian prosecutors said they were investigating 10 Russian soldiers for suspected atrocities in Bucha, where dozens of bodies in civilian clothes were found after Moscow's retreat, and had identified more than 8,000 alleged war crimes cases. Prosecutor general Iryna Venediktova has told a German TV channel that these cases include "killing civilians, bombing of civilian infrastructure, torture" and "sexual crimes". Also Read | 'In 21st century, war is an absurdity': UN chief Antonio Guterres visits destroyed Ukrainian towns Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has urged lawmakers in the US to approve the huge aid package worth USD 33 billion for Ukraine. "The cost of this fight is not cheap. But caving to aggression is going to be more costly if we allow it to happen," Biden said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed Biden's proposal as an "important step" and "necessary." (With inputs from agencies)

Russian rockets strike Kyiv during UN chief Antonio Guterres' visit

Russia announced on Wednesday that it has decided to withdraw from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation ahead of the scheduled vote on their suspension. It was reported that they will most likely face suspension from the UN body after the vote due to the ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

However, despite the withdrawal, UNWTO made it clear that they will go ahead with the suspension but the complete process of excluding them from the body will take around a year to finish.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warship-sails-through-taiwan-strait-china-calls-it-provocative-action-474306">US warship sails through Taiwan Strait, China calls it 'provocative action'</a>

According to a report by Reuters, the suspension was a sure thing with Zurab Pololikashvili, the secretary general of UNWTO, urging the members to vote against Russia. The report said that he wanted the vote to be an example of other organisations on how to handle Russia.

According to the rules of the vote, there were 160 members in total and a two-thirds majority was needed to put the suspension process into effect. However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov made it clear that the decision by UNWTO will have no impact on the country’s tourism.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-as-offensive-intensifies-30-foot-tall-ukrainian-russian-friendship-statue-gets-demolished-in-kyiv-474296" hreflang="en">As offensive intensifies, 30-foot-tall Ukrainian-Russian 'friendship' statue gets demolished in Kyiv&nbsp;</a>

"The tourism sector, especially that for domestic tourism, will continue its development. The external directions for tourism are also open, hinging on questions of competition in terms of quality and price," he said.

Russia has already been removed from the United Nations Human Rights Council amid reports of the army committing a number of human rights violations in Ukraine. There have been a number of reports emerging from Ukraine and Russia decided to withdraw after the UNHRC vote.

Russia announced on Wednesday that it has decided to withdraw from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation ahead of the scheduled vote on their suspension.

Russia announced on Wednesday that it has decided to withdraw from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation ahead of the scheduled vote on their suspension. It was reported that they will most likely face suspension from the UN body after the vote due to the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. However, despite the withdrawal, UNWTO made it clear that they will go ahead with the suspension but the complete process of excluding them from the body will take around a year to finish. Also read | US warship sails through Taiwan Strait, China calls it 'provocative action' According to a report by Reuters, the suspension was a sure thing with Zurab Pololikashvili, the secretary general of UNWTO, urging the members to vote against Russia. The report said that he wanted the vote to be an example of other organisations on how to handle Russia. According to the rules of the vote, there were 160 members in total and a two-thirds majority was needed to put the suspension process into effect. However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov made it clear that the decision by UNWTO will have no impact on the country’s tourism. Also read | As offensive intensifies, 30-foot-tall Ukrainian-Russian 'friendship' statue gets demolished in Kyiv "The tourism sector, especially that for domestic tourism, will continue its development. The external directions for tourism are also open, hinging on questions of competition in terms of quality and price," he said. Russia has already been removed from the United Nations Human Rights Council amid reports of the army committing a number of human rights violations in Ukraine. There have been a number of reports emerging from Ukraine and Russia decided to withdraw after the UNHRC vote.

Russia withdraws from United Nations World Tourism Organization ahead of vote on its suspension

The United Nations on Tuesday (April 26) said that human beings extract enough sand every year to build a wall 27 metres wide around the Earth.

In its report, the agency said that sand needs to be recognised as a key strategic resource by both industries and governments.

According to one of the study's authors, Chris Hackney, “The aim is to shift the focus on to sand as a commodity and a material that should be treated in the same light as other mineral commodities – be that mineral deposits, water, oil or gas.”

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Sand mining faces uneven social and economic impacts as sand is one of the most exploited resources after water.

The UN believes that a fundamental shift in the understanding and valuation of sand is needed urgently.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sahara-desert-know-why-snow-blanketed-sand-dunes-see-stunning-images-446154#snowfall-in-sahara-446137">Also see |&nbsp;Sahara Desert: Know why snow blanketed sand dunes; see stunning images</a>

“These are all regulated from the local to national levels, operating within standardised international frameworks. That’s completely lacking at the moment for sand and aggregates,” said Hackney.

Activists have increased awareness about the need for greater monitoring of extraction and supply chains in the case of sand.

From construction to IT manufacturing, sand is used for myriad purposes and humans are extremely reliant on it.

Watch WION's live TV here:

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“Globally, the sand supply base is not known and only aggregate production estimates are available,” the UN report stated.

The production of sand has risen 4.9 per cent in 2021 from 42.2 billion tonnes as per an estimate by the Global Aggregates Information Network.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations on Tuesday (April 26) said that human beings extract enough sand every year to build a wall 27 metres wide around the Earth. In its report, the agency said that sand needs to be recognised as a key strategic resource by both industries and governments.

The United Nations on Tuesday (April 26) said that human beings extract enough sand every year to build a wall 27 metres wide around the Earth. In its report, the agency said that sand needs to be recognised as a key strategic resource by both industries and governments. According to one of the study's authors, Chris Hackney, “The aim is to shift the focus on to sand as a commodity and a material that should be treated in the same light as other mineral commodities – be that mineral deposits, water, oil or gas.” Sand mining faces uneven social and economic impacts as sand is one of the most exploited resources after water. The UN believes that a fundamental shift in the understanding and valuation of sand is needed urgently. Also see | Sahara Desert: Know why snow blanketed sand dunes; see stunning images “These are all regulated from the local to national levels, operating within standardised international frameworks. That’s completely lacking at the moment for sand and aggregates,” said Hackney. Activists have increased awareness about the need for greater monitoring of extraction and supply chains in the case of sand. From construction to IT manufacturing, sand is used for myriad purposes and humans are extremely reliant on it. Watch WION's live TV here: “Globally, the sand supply base is not known and only aggregate production estimates are available,” the UN report stated. The production of sand has risen 4.9 per cent in 2021 from 42.2 billion tonnes as per an estimate by the Global Aggregates Information Network. (With inputs from agencies)

Humans extract enough sand every year to build a wall 27 metres wide around the Earth: UN

It is worrying. Humanity’s future is threatened more than ever.

A newly released report by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, or UNDRR has found that in the last two decades, every year around 350 to 500 medium-to-large scale disasters took place around the globe.

What causes concern is that this is five times more than the average over the previous three decades.

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The UN cautioned that humanity is suffering from a "broken perception of risk," which is driving us to engage in activities and behaviours that contribute to climate change and an increase in natural disasters around the world.

It doesn’t end there. As climate changes, disasters caused by drought, severe temperatures, and devastating flooding are projected to become more common in the future.

According to the report, by 2030, the world will experience 560 disasters every year, or 1.5 disasters per day on average.

Watch |&nbsp;It's not just the cars, many factors contribute to air pollution

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The reason behind this drastic rise, according to UNDRR can be attributed to a "broken perception of risk based on optimism, underestimation and invincibility".

Humanity, however, continues to ignore the towering risks, “setting humanity on a spiral of self-destruction," warned UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed.

This indifference comes at a heavy cost. Over the last decade, disasters have cost around $170 billion per year around the world, according to the report; borne primarily by low-income countries.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-needs-to-recyclye-more-to-fulfil-its-aim-of-becoming-carbon-neutral-by-2050-study-473741" hreflang="en">European Union needs to recycle more to fulfil its aim of becoming carbon neutral by 2050: Study</a>

Each year, disasters cost them one per cent of their national GDP, compared to 0.1 to 0.2 per cent in wealthy countries.

And if the number of disasters rises, so will the costs.

The report estimates that, by 2030, 37.6 million more people will be living in severe poverty as a result of climate change and natural catastrophes.

Watch WION, Live:

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(With inputs from agencies)

It is worrying. Humanity’s future is threatened more than ever. A newly released report by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, or UNDRR has found that in the last two decades, every year around 350 to 500 medium-to-large scale disasters took place around the globe.

It is worrying. Humanity’s future is threatened more than ever. A newly released report by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, or UNDRR has found that in the last two decades, every year around 350 to 500 medium-to-large scale disasters took place around the globe. What causes concern is that this is five times more than the average over the previous three decades. Also read | Tragic! Three critically endangered Sumatran tigers killed in Indonesia The UN cautioned that humanity is suffering from a "broken perception of risk," which is driving us to engage in activities and behaviours that contribute to climate change and an increase in natural disasters around the world. It doesn’t end there. As climate changes, disasters caused by drought, severe temperatures, and devastating flooding are projected to become more common in the future. According to the report, by 2030, the world will experience 560 disasters every year, or 1.5 disasters per day on average. Watch | It's not just the cars, many factors contribute to air pollution The reason behind this drastic rise, according to UNDRR can be attributed to a "broken perception of risk based on optimism, underestimation and invincibility". Humanity, however, continues to ignore the towering risks, “setting humanity on a spiral of self-destruction," warned UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed. This indifference comes at a heavy cost. Over the last decade, disasters have cost around $170 billion per year around the world, according to the report; borne primarily by low-income countries. Also read | European Union needs to recycle more to fulfil its aim of becoming carbon neutral by 2050: Study Each year, disasters cost them one per cent of their national GDP, compared to 0.1 to 0.2 per cent in wealthy countries. And if the number of disasters rises, so will the costs. The report estimates that, by 2030, 37.6 million more people will be living in severe poverty as a result of climate change and natural catastrophes. Watch WION, Live: (With inputs from agencies)

By 2030, Humanity’s ‘spiral of self-destruction’ will cause 1.5 disasters every day: UN

Russia has been suspended from the Geneva-based United Nations Human Rights Council by the UN General Assembly in New York on Thursday, prompting Moscow to quit the body. The action was taken on reports of "gross and systematic violations and violations of human rights" by Russian troops in the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-says-russia-hiding-thousands-killed-in-mariupol-468954" hreflang="en">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Russia hiding 'thousands' killed in Mariupol</a>

Following the vote, Russia's deputy UN Ambassador Gennady Kuzmin called the decision "illegitimate and politically motivated," and declared that Russia would withdraw from the Human Rights Council altogether.

"The Russian Federation made a decision about, um, about ending or suspending its right, its membership in the Human Rights Council before the end of its term on the 7th of April of this year," Kuzmin said. "In today's conditions, the council is in fact monopolized by one group of states who use it for their short term aims.”

Afterwards, while talking to reporters&nbsp;Ukraine's UN&nbsp;Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya commented "you do not submit your resignation after you are fired".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-conflict-borodyanka-destruction-more-horrific-than-bucha-says-zelensky-469254" hreflang="en">Ukraine-Russia conflict: Borodyanka destruction 'more horrific' than Bucha, says Zelensky</a>

In the vote, 93 votes were in favour, 24 countries voted against and 58 countries abstained. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the 193-member General Assembly, a two-third majority of voting members were required to suspend Russia from the 47-member Human Rights Council. Abstentions do not count in this vote. &nbsp;

The resolution, which was adopted by the UNGA on Thursday, expressed "grave concern at the ongoing human rights and humanitarian crisis in Ukraine," particularly at reports of rights abuses by Russia. &nbsp;

India had abstained in this resolution.&nbsp;After the vote, Permanent Representative TS Tirumurti said, "If India has chosen any side, it is the side of peace and it is for an immediate end to violence."

Watch:&nbsp;India's neutrality on test at United Nations General Assembly

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For the abstention, he said, "We do so for reasons of both substance and process." &nbsp;

This was the third resolution adopted by the assembly since Russia had invaded Ukraine on February 24. Earlier, two resolutions denounced Russia’s invasion. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Russia has been suspended from the Geneva-based United Nations Human Rights Council by the UN General Assembly in New York on Thursday, prompting Moscow to quit the body.

Russia has been suspended from the Geneva-based United Nations Human Rights Council by the UN General Assembly in New York on Thursday, prompting Moscow to quit the body. The action was taken on reports of "gross and systematic violations and violations of human rights" by Russian troops in the war in Ukraine. Also Read: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Russia hiding 'thousands' killed in Mariupol Following the vote, Russia's deputy UN Ambassador Gennady Kuzmin called the decision "illegitimate and politically motivated," and declared that Russia would withdraw from the Human Rights Council altogether. "The Russian Federation made a decision about, um, about ending or suspending its right, its membership in the Human Rights Council before the end of its term on the 7th of April of this year," Kuzmin said. "In today's conditions, the council is in fact monopolized by one group of states who use it for their short term aims.” Afterwards, while talking to reporters Ukraine's UN Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya commented "you do not submit your resignation after you are fired". Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Borodyanka destruction 'more horrific' than Bucha, says Zelensky In the vote, 93 votes were in favour, 24 countries voted against and 58 countries abstained. In the 193-member General Assembly, a two-third majority of voting members were required to suspend Russia from the 47-member Human Rights Council. Abstentions do not count in this vote. The resolution, which was adopted by the UNGA on Thursday, expressed "grave concern at the ongoing human rights and humanitarian crisis in Ukraine," particularly at reports of rights abuses by Russia. India had abstained in this resolution. After the vote, Permanent Representative TS Tirumurti said, "If India has chosen any side, it is the side of peace and it is for an immediate end to violence." Watch: India's neutrality on test at United Nations General Assembly × For the abstention, he said, "We do so for reasons of both substance and process." This was the third resolution adopted by the assembly since Russia had invaded Ukraine on February 24. Earlier, two resolutions denounced Russia’s invasion. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia 'quitting' human rights body after UNGA votes to suspend it

The United Nations General Assembly will&nbsp;vote&nbsp;on Thursday on a U.S. push to suspend Russia from the UN Human Rights Council over&nbsp;reports of "gross and systematic violations and abuses of&nbsp;human&nbsp;rights" by invading&nbsp;Russian troops in&nbsp;Ukraine.

A two-thirds majority of voting members - abstentions do not count - can suspend a country&nbsp;from&nbsp;the 47-member&nbsp;council. Libya was suspended in 2011 because of violence against protesters by forces loyal to then-leader Muammar Gaddafi.

Western diplomats are confident they have enough support among the 193-member General Assembly to adopt a resolution to suspend Moscow. The draft text expresses "grave concern at the ongoing&nbsp;human&nbsp;rights&nbsp;and&nbsp;humanitarian crisis in&nbsp;Ukraine," particularly at reports of&nbsp;rights&nbsp;abuses by&nbsp;Russia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-russian-forces-completely-withdrawn-from-kyiv-and-chernihiv-ukraine-can-absolutely-win-war-469001">US: Russian forces 'completely' withdrawn from Kyiv and Chernihiv; Ukraine can 'absolutely' win war</a>

Explaining the move, announced on Monday, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield told Reuters: "It is important to say (to&nbsp;Russia) 'we're not going to allow you to continue to act with such impunity and pretend that you respect&nbsp;human&nbsp;rights'."

Russia&nbsp;has warned countries that a yes&nbsp;vote&nbsp;or abstention will be viewed as an "unfriendly gesture" with consequences for bilateral ties, according to a note seen by Reuters.

Since&nbsp;Russia's invasion of&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;began on Feb. 24, the Assembly has adopted two resolutions denouncing&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;with 141 and 140&nbsp;votes in favor. Moscow says it is carrying out a "special operation" to demilitarize&nbsp;Ukraine.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India condemns mass killings in Bucha

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The United States announced it would seek&nbsp;Russia's suspension after&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;accused&nbsp;Russian troops of killing hundreds of civilians in the town of Bucha.

Russia&nbsp;denies attacking civilians in&nbsp;Ukraine.&nbsp;U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said on Tuesday that while Bucha was under&nbsp;Russian control "not a single civilian suffered&nbsp;from&nbsp;any kind of violence."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-us-threatens-beijing-with-sanctions-if-it-provides-material-support-to-moscow-468963">Russia-Ukraine war: US threatens Beijing with sanctions if it provides ‘material support’ to Moscow</a>

Russia&nbsp;is in its second year of a three-year term on the Geneva-based&nbsp;Human&nbsp;Rights&nbsp;Council, which cannot make legally binding decisions. Its decisions send important political messages, however, and it can authorize investigations.

Last month the&nbsp;council&nbsp;opened an investigation into allegations of&nbsp;rights&nbsp;violations, including possible war crimes, in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;since&nbsp;Russia's attack.

The United Nations General Assembly will vote on Thursday on a U.S. push to suspend Russia from the UN Human Rights Council over reports of "gross and systematic violations and abuses of human rights" by invading Russian troops in Ukraine.

The United Nations General Assembly will vote on Thursday on a U.S. push to suspend Russia from the UN Human Rights Council over reports of "gross and systematic violations and abuses of human rights" by invading Russian troops in Ukraine. A two-thirds majority of voting members - abstentions do not count - can suspend a country from the 47-member council. Libya was suspended in 2011 because of violence against protesters by forces loyal to then-leader Muammar Gaddafi. Western diplomats are confident they have enough support among the 193-member General Assembly to adopt a resolution to suspend Moscow. The draft text expresses "grave concern at the ongoing human rights and humanitarian crisis in Ukraine," particularly at reports of rights abuses by Russia. Also read | US: Russian forces 'completely' withdrawn from Kyiv and Chernihiv; Ukraine can 'absolutely' win war Explaining the move, announced on Monday, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield told Reuters: "It is important to say (to Russia) 'we're not going to allow you to continue to act with such impunity and pretend that you respect human rights'." Russia has warned countries that a yes vote or abstention will be viewed as an "unfriendly gesture" with consequences for bilateral ties, according to a note seen by Reuters. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine began on Feb. 24, the Assembly has adopted two resolutions denouncing Russia with 141 and 140 votes in favor. Moscow says it is carrying out a "special operation" to demilitarize Ukraine. Watch | Gravitas: India condemns mass killings in Bucha The United States announced it would seek Russia's suspension after Ukraine accused Russian troops of killing hundreds of civilians in the town of Bucha. Russia denies attacking civilians in Ukraine. U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said on Tuesday that while Bucha was under Russian control "not a single civilian suffered from any kind of violence." Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: US threatens Beijing with sanctions if it provides ‘material support’ to Moscow Russia is in its second year of a three-year term on the Geneva-based Human Rights Council, which cannot make legally binding decisions. Its decisions send important political messages, however, and it can authorize investigations. Last month the council opened an investigation into allegations of rights violations, including possible war crimes, in Ukraine since Russia's attack.

Ukraine war: United Nations to vote on suspending Russia from Human Rights Council

Humanity has less than three years to halt the rise of planet-warming carbon emissions and less than a decade to slash them almost in half, the UN said Monday in a landmark report on stopping global warming and ensuring a "liveable future".

That daunting task is still -- and only just -- possible, but current policies are leading the planet towards catastrophic temperature rises, the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on&nbsp;Climate&nbsp;Change (IPCC) made clear.

The world's nations, they said, are taking our future right to the wire.&nbsp;

The 2,800-page report -- by far the most comprehensive assessment of how to halt global heating ever produced -- documents to "a litany of broken&nbsp;climate&nbsp;promises", said UN chief Antonio Guterres in a blistering judgement of governments and industry. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Some government and business leaders are saying one thing -- but doing another. Simply put, they are lying. And the results will be catastrophic," Guterres said in a video message released at the same time as the UN report.

In recent months, the IPCC has published the first two instalments in a trilogy of mammoth scientific assessments covering how greenhouse gas emissions are heating the planet and what that means for life on Earth.

This third report outlines what we can do about it.

"We are at a crossroads," said IPCC chief Hoesung Lee. "The decisions we make now can secure a liveable future. We have the tools and know-how required to limit warming."&nbsp;

There are solutions, the report says, but they touch on virtually all aspects of modern life and require significant investment and need "immediate action".

The very first item on the global to-do list is to stop greenhouse gas emissions from rising any further.&nbsp;

That must be done before 2025 to have a hope of keeping within even the less ambitious warming targets of the Paris deal of two degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels.&nbsp;

Scenarios of catastrophic 2.5C of warming also have emissions peaking within three years.

Beyond that, the report said carbon emissions need to drop 43 percent by 2030 and 84 percent by mid-century to meet the more ambitious Paris goal of 1.5C. &nbsp;

"It's now or never, if we want to limit global warming to 1.5C," said Jim Skea, a professor at Imperial College London and co-chair of the working group behind the report.&nbsp;

"Without immediate and deep emissions reductions across all sectors, it will be impossible."

And cutting emissions is no longer enough, the IPCC said. Technologies to suck CO2 out of the atmosphere -- not yet operating to scale -- will need to be ramped up enormously.

WATCH |&nbsp;Why bees in this Moroccan village are dying?

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Fossil fuels

The 1.5C target is presently "beyond reach", even with the most updated global&nbsp;climate&nbsp;pledges, the IPCC said.

To get there the world must radically reduce the fossil fuels behind the lion's share of emissions.&nbsp;

Nations should stop burning coal completely and slash oil and gas use by 60 and 70 percent respectively to keep within the Paris goals, the IPCC said.&nbsp;

It warned that current fossil fuel infrastructure, if used to the end of its expected lifetime without capturing carbon emissions, would make it impossible to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels, the IPCC said.

While government policies, investments and regulations will propel emissions cuts, the IPCC made clear that individuals can also make a big difference.

Cutting back on long-haul flights, switching to plant-based diets,&nbsp;climate-proofing buildings and other ways of cutting the consumption that drives energy demand could reduce greenhouse gas emissions 40 to 70 percent by 2050.&nbsp;

"Rapid and deep changes in demand make it easier for every sector to reduce greenhouse gas emissions," including construction, food consumption and transport, the report said.

With war in Ukraine spurring urgent efforts to transition away from Russian oil and gas in the West, observers said the report should sharpen nations' focus on&nbsp;climate&nbsp;commitments.&nbsp;

Humanity has less than three years to halt the rise of planet-warming carbon emissions and less than a decade to slash them almost in half, the UN said Monday in a landmark report on stopping global warming and ensuring a "liveable future".

Humanity has less than three years to halt the rise of planet-warming carbon emissions and less than a decade to slash them almost in half, the UN said Monday in a landmark report on stopping global warming and ensuring a "liveable future". That daunting task is still -- and only just -- possible, but current policies are leading the planet towards catastrophic temperature rises, the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) made clear. The world's nations, they said, are taking our future right to the wire. The 2,800-page report -- by far the most comprehensive assessment of how to halt global heating ever produced -- documents to "a litany of broken climate promises", said UN chief Antonio Guterres in a blistering judgement of governments and industry. "Some government and business leaders are saying one thing -- but doing another. Simply put, they are lying. And the results will be catastrophic," Guterres said in a video message released at the same time as the UN report. In recent months, the IPCC has published the first two instalments in a trilogy of mammoth scientific assessments covering how greenhouse gas emissions are heating the planet and what that means for life on Earth. This third report outlines what we can do about it. "We are at a crossroads," said IPCC chief Hoesung Lee. "The decisions we make now can secure a liveable future. We have the tools and know-how required to limit warming." There are solutions, the report says, but they touch on virtually all aspects of modern life and require significant investment and need "immediate action". The very first item on the global to-do list is to stop greenhouse gas emissions from rising any further. That must be done before 2025 to have a hope of keeping within even the less ambitious warming targets of the Paris deal of two degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels. Scenarios of catastrophic 2.5C of warming also have emissions peaking within three years. Beyond that, the report said carbon emissions need to drop 43 percent by 2030 and 84 percent by mid-century to meet the more ambitious Paris goal of 1.5C. "It's now or never, if we want to limit global warming to 1.5C," said Jim Skea, a professor at Imperial College London and co-chair of the working group behind the report. "Without immediate and deep emissions reductions across all sectors, it will be impossible." And cutting emissions is no longer enough, the IPCC said. Technologies to suck CO2 out of the atmosphere -- not yet operating to scale -- will need to be ramped up enormously. WATCH | Why bees in this Moroccan village are dying? × Fossil fuels The 1.5C target is presently "beyond reach", even with the most updated global climate pledges, the IPCC said. To get there the world must radically reduce the fossil fuels behind the lion's share of emissions. Nations should stop burning coal completely and slash oil and gas use by 60 and 70 percent respectively to keep within the Paris goals, the IPCC said. It warned that current fossil fuel infrastructure, if used to the end of its expected lifetime without capturing carbon emissions, would make it impossible to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels, the IPCC said. While government policies, investments and regulations will propel emissions cuts, the IPCC made clear that individuals can also make a big difference. Cutting back on long-haul flights, switching to plant-based diets, climate-proofing buildings and other ways of cutting the consumption that drives energy demand could reduce greenhouse gas emissions 40 to 70 percent by 2050. "Rapid and deep changes in demand make it easier for every sector to reduce greenhouse gas emissions," including construction, food consumption and transport, the report said. With war in Ukraine spurring urgent efforts to transition away from Russian oil and gas in the West, observers said the report should sharpen nations' focus on climate commitments.

United Nations warns that it's 'now or never' to avoid climate catastrophe

The United Nations said on Thursday that more than half of all children in Ukraine have been displaced from their homes since the Russian invasion of the country.

"One month of war in Ukraine has led to the displacement of 4.3 million children -- more than half of the country's estimated 7.5 million child population," the UN children's agency Unicef said.

The number of displaced children makes up nearly half of over 10 million people forced to flee their homes since the invasion.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-provide-6000-missiles-to-ukraine-germany-says-further-strela-missiles-on-way-to-kyiv-465032">UK to provide 6,000 missiles to Ukraine; Germany says further Strela missiles on way to Kyiv</a> 
 
More than 1.8 million children have fled Ukraine as refugees, while another 2.5 million are now displaced inside their war-ravaged country, the UN said.

"The war has caused one of the fastest large-scale displacements of children since World War II," Unicef chief Catherine Russell said.

"This is a grim milestone that could have lasting consequences for generations to come," she warned.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oksana-baulina-russian-journalist-killed-during-bombardment-in-kyiv-465090">Oksana Baulina: Russian journalist killed during bombardment in Kyiv</a>

"Children's safety, wellbeing and access to essential services are all under threat from non-stop horrific violence." &nbsp;

Her comments came a month after Russian tanks rolled over the border, bringing a conflict that has already killed thousands of Ukrainian civilians.

See Pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/one-month-since-russia-invaded-ukraine-hundreds-dead-millions-displaced-when-will-it-end-465149#wave-of-sanctions-by-west-465132">One month since Russia invaded Ukraine: Hundreds dead, millions displaced - When will it end?</a>

The UN human rights office has confirmed that 81 children have been killed in the conflict and 108 injured but acknowledges that the true toll is likely far higher.

The UN has also decried that the conflict is taking a devastating toll on civilian infrastructure and access to basic services.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations said on Thursday that more than half of all children in Ukraine have been displaced from their homes since the Russian invasion of the country.

The United Nations said on Thursday that more than half of all children in Ukraine have been displaced from their homes since the Russian invasion of the country. "One month of war in Ukraine has led to the displacement of 4.3 million children -- more than half of the country's estimated 7.5 million child population," the UN children's agency Unicef said. The number of displaced children makes up nearly half of over 10 million people forced to flee their homes since the invasion. Also Read | UK to provide 6,000 missiles to Ukraine; Germany says further Strela missiles on way to Kyiv More than 1.8 million children have fled Ukraine as refugees, while another 2.5 million are now displaced inside their war-ravaged country, the UN said. "The war has caused one of the fastest large-scale displacements of children since World War II," Unicef chief Catherine Russell said. "This is a grim milestone that could have lasting consequences for generations to come," she warned. Also Read | Oksana Baulina: Russian journalist killed during bombardment in Kyiv "Children's safety, wellbeing and access to essential services are all under threat from non-stop horrific violence." Her comments came a month after Russian tanks rolled over the border, bringing a conflict that has already killed thousands of Ukrainian civilians. See Pics | One month since Russia invaded Ukraine: Hundreds dead, millions displaced - When will it end? The UN human rights office has confirmed that 81 children have been killed in the conflict and 108 injured but acknowledges that the true toll is likely far higher. The UN has also decried that the conflict is taking a devastating toll on civilian infrastructure and access to basic services. (With inputs from agencies)

More than half of Ukrainian children displaced by war, says UN

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