The United Nations' top human rights official in Afghanistan has meanwhile warned that the country is descending into a humanitarian catastrophe. The country is facing conflict drought and the shortage of international aid is already hitting the population days after the US military ended its mission in the country. The UN official warned that by the end of September stocks provided by the world food program will run out.

UN warns of catastrophic famine in Afghanistan

China&nbsp;will urge countries to recognise the importance of&nbsp;biodiversity&nbsp;in human health and endorse key Chinese Communist Party slogans about protecting natural ecosystems, according to a&nbsp;draft&nbsp;declaration&nbsp;submitted to the&nbsp;United&nbsp;Nations&nbsp;this week.

China&nbsp;wants the "Kunming&nbsp;Declaration" to be agreed by all parties ahead of delayed "COP 15"&nbsp;biodiversity&nbsp;talks due to take place in October in the southwestern city of Kunming, with the aim of sealing a new global treaty.

The "zero&nbsp;draft" of the&nbsp;declaration, published on the official website of the U.N. Convention on Biological Diversity on Thursday, includes the key Chinese Communist Party concept of "ecological civilisation". &nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-coronavirus-hospitalisations-hit-eight-month-high-over-100000-408696">United States coronavirus hospitalisations hit eight-month high over 100,000</a>

It also includes the formulation of "lucid water and lush mountains", first used in a 2005 speech by President Xi Jinping and included in dozens of Chinese policy documents and propaganda campaigns since he became leader in 2012.

The document also calls on parties to "mainstream"&nbsp;biodiversity&nbsp;protection in decisionmaking, and recognise the importance of conservation in protecting human health - a prominent theme among&nbsp;China's leaders in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been blamed on wildlife trading and ecosystem destruction.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-issues-draft-guidelines-for-internet-recommendation-algorithms-408694">China issues draft guidelines for internet recommendation algorithms</a>

China&nbsp;wants the international community to sign the&nbsp;declaration&nbsp;during the virtual Kunming talks on Oct. 11, with the aim of building a consensus behind a more detailed global treaty to be finalised in person next May.

Governments have been invited to give their "feedback" to the&nbsp;draft&nbsp;before Sept. 6, according to a covering letter sent to the&nbsp;United&nbsp;Nations&nbsp;by Chinese environment minister Huang Runqiu.

"Ambition will need to be built up over the next month," said Li Shuo, senior climate advisor with the environment group Greenpeace in Beijing.

"As the technical negotiations sink deeper in the mud, the&nbsp;Declaration&nbsp;should help forge the consensus that technocrats are unable to," he added.

China will urge countries to recognise the importance of biodiversity in human health and endorse key Chinese Communist Party slogans about protecting natural ecosystems, according to a draft declaration submitted to the United Nations this week.

China will urge countries to recognise the importance of biodiversity in human health and endorse key Chinese Communist Party slogans about protecting natural ecosystems, according to a draft declaration submitted to the United Nations this week. China wants the "Kunming Declaration" to be agreed by all parties ahead of delayed "COP 15" biodiversity talks due to take place in October in the southwestern city of Kunming, with the aim of sealing a new global treaty. The "zero draft" of the declaration, published on the official website of the U.N. Convention on Biological Diversity on Thursday, includes the key Chinese Communist Party concept of "ecological civilisation". ALSO READ | United States coronavirus hospitalisations hit eight-month high over 100,000 It also includes the formulation of "lucid water and lush mountains", first used in a 2005 speech by President Xi Jinping and included in dozens of Chinese policy documents and propaganda campaigns since he became leader in 2012. The document also calls on parties to "mainstream" biodiversity protection in decisionmaking, and recognise the importance of conservation in protecting human health - a prominent theme among China's leaders in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been blamed on wildlife trading and ecosystem destruction. ALSO READ | China issues draft guidelines for internet recommendation algorithms China wants the international community to sign the declaration during the virtual Kunming talks on Oct. 11, with the aim of building a consensus behind a more detailed global treaty to be finalised in person next May. Governments have been invited to give their "feedback" to the draft before Sept. 6, according to a covering letter sent to the United Nations by Chinese environment minister Huang Runqiu. "Ambition will need to be built up over the next month," said Li Shuo, senior climate advisor with the environment group Greenpeace in Beijing. "As the technical negotiations sink deeper in the mud, the Declaration should help forge the consensus that technocrats are unable to," he added.

China submits draft biodiversity declaration to United Nations

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called a meeting of the permanent members of the Security Council to discuss the chaotic situation in&nbsp;Afghanistan, diplomats said.

Guterres sent letters formally inviting the United States, Britain, France, Russia and China to meet on Monday, the diplomats told AFP.

Some member countries of the so-called P5 had been discussing the possibility of a meeting for a few days, they added.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-hunt-you-down-joe-biden-warns-kabul-bombers-vows-to-avenge-deaths-of-us-soldiers-408665">'Will hunt you down': Joe Biden warns Kabul bombers, vows to avenge deaths of US soldiers</a>

Russia was supposedly reticent but all of the five are expected to join, one diplomat said.

A spokesperson for Guterres confirmed the meeting, which will not include the current ten non-permanent members of the Security Council.

The full Security Council last met on&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;on August 16, a day after the Taliban swept to power in the country.

Monday's discussion comes as Britain and France work on a UN resolution on&nbsp;Afghanistan.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pentagon-says-threat-persists-after-suicide-bombings-at-kabul-airport-408668">Pentagon says threat persists after suicide bombings at Kabul airport</a>

The resolution would require the agreement of all five permanent members, each of which holds veto powers, but a text has not yet been shared, diplomats said.

Guterres ducked a question about what he hoped Monday's meeting would achieve.

"There are normal meetings that take place in the context of the work of the UN," he told reporters.

Guterres also condemned Thursday's bombings at Kabul airport, which killed dozens of Afghans as well as 13&nbsp;US servicemen and have been claimed by the Islamic State group.

"This incident underscores the volatility of the situation on the ground in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;but also strengthens our resolve as we continue to deliver urgent assistance across the country in support of the Afghan people," he said in a statement.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called a meeting of the permanent members of the Security Council to discuss the chaotic situation in Afghanistan, diplomats said.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called a meeting of the permanent members of the Security Council to discuss the chaotic situation in Afghanistan, diplomats said. Guterres sent letters formally inviting the United States, Britain, France, Russia and China to meet on Monday, the diplomats told AFP. Some member countries of the so-called P5 had been discussing the possibility of a meeting for a few days, they added. ALSO READ | 'Will hunt you down': Joe Biden warns Kabul bombers, vows to avenge deaths of US soldiers Russia was supposedly reticent but all of the five are expected to join, one diplomat said. A spokesperson for Guterres confirmed the meeting, which will not include the current ten non-permanent members of the Security Council. The full Security Council last met on Afghanistan on August 16, a day after the Taliban swept to power in the country. Monday's discussion comes as Britain and France work on a UN resolution on Afghanistan. ALSO READ | Pentagon says threat persists after suicide bombings at Kabul airport The resolution would require the agreement of all five permanent members, each of which holds veto powers, but a text has not yet been shared, diplomats said. Guterres ducked a question about what he hoped Monday's meeting would achieve. "There are normal meetings that take place in the context of the work of the UN," he told reporters. Guterres also condemned Thursday's bombings at Kabul airport, which killed dozens of Afghans as well as 13 US servicemen and have been claimed by the Islamic State group. "This incident underscores the volatility of the situation on the ground in Afghanistan but also strengthens our resolve as we continue to deliver urgent assistance across the country in support of the Afghan people," he said in a statement.

Kabul blasts: UN chief calls Afghanistan meet for Security Council permanent five

The Biden administration's plan of withdrawing all American personnel out of Afghanistan by August 31 has not changed, according to US Defence Department Press Secretary John Kirby.&nbsp;

“Every day, we are making progress in bringing Americans out, as well as Special Immigrant Visa applications and vulnerable Afghans,” he continued.

Kirby stated, “We are committed to getting any and all Americans who wish to go out.”&nbsp;

“We still believe – certainly now that we have been able to increase the capacity and the flow -- we believe that we have the ability to get that done by the end of the month.”&nbsp;

Earlier, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said Tuesday that his group will accept "no extensions" to the August 31 deadline set by the Biden administration for the removal of all American forces from Afghanistan.&nbsp;

According to the Pentagon, new bases may be required to house Afghans evacuated from the war-torn country.

According to CNN, the US has evacuated some 12,700 individuals from Kabul airport in the last 24 hours, citing a White House official.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Biden administration's plan of withdrawing all American personnel out of Afghanistan by August 31 has not changed, according to US Defence Department Press Secretary John Kirby.

The Biden administration's plan of withdrawing all American personnel out of Afghanistan by August 31 has not changed, according to US Defence Department Press Secretary John Kirby. “Every day, we are making progress in bringing Americans out, as well as Special Immigrant Visa applications and vulnerable Afghans,” he continued. Kirby stated, “We are committed to getting any and all Americans who wish to go out.” “We still believe – certainly now that we have been able to increase the capacity and the flow -- we believe that we have the ability to get that done by the end of the month.” Earlier, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said Tuesday that his group will accept "no extensions" to the August 31 deadline set by the Biden administration for the removal of all American forces from Afghanistan. According to the Pentagon, new bases may be required to house Afghans evacuated from the war-torn country. According to CNN, the US has evacuated some 12,700 individuals from Kabul airport in the last 24 hours, citing a White House official. (With inputs from agencies)

'No change' to August 31 withdrawal deadline: Pentagon’s John Kirby

The Taliban said they would not agree to an extension of a looming deadline to evacuate Afghans from Kabul airport, even as Western countries said they were running out of time.

In answer to WION's Anas Mallick's query concerning a covert meeting between the chief of the American intelligence agency CIA, William J Burns, and Taliban leader Abdul Ghani Baradar, the spokesperson declined to confirm or deny it.

"All diplomats and embassies, including the United States, have been meeting with the Islamic Emirates Political Office," a Taliban spokeswoman asserted.

He said he can not confirm Taliban leader Abdul Ghani Baradar's meeting with CIA Director.&nbsp;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WIONews</a> at the Taliban press conference in Kabul. In response to <a href="https://twitter.com/AnasMallick?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnasMallick</a>’s question on a secret meeting between Taliban leader Mullah Baradar &amp; the CIA chief, the spokesperson refuses to confirm/deny. Says the political office has been meeting all embassies in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afganistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afganistan</a>. <a href="https://t.co/Ppamy2WJVv">pic.twitter.com/Ppamy2WJVv</a>
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According to the Washington Post, who cited anonymous US officials, CIA Director William J Burns conducted a secret meeting with Taliban leader Abdul Ghani Baradar in Kabul on Monday.&nbsp;

According to the Washington Post, this was the highest-level face-to-face meeting between the two sides and came more than a week after the militant organisation seized power in Afghanistan. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/shocking-images-of-children-trapped-at-kabul-airport-amid-evacuation-407731">Pictures | Shocking images of children trapped at Kabul airport amid evacuation</a>

About 50,000 foreigners and Afghans have fled the country from Kabul's airport since the Taliban swept into power nine days ago, according to the US government.

Many Afghans fear a repeat of the brutal interpretation of sharia law the Taliban implemented when they were first in power from 1996-2001, and retribution for working with the US-backed government over the past two decades. 
 
Watch | Kabul airport witnesses rush after people flee Afghanistan owing to Taliban's siege

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kabul-airport-witnesses-rush-after-people-flee-afghanistan-owing-to-talibans-siege-408035/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Taliban, who ended two decades of war with an astonishingly swift rout of government forces, have been publicly tolerant of the evacuation effort.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Taliban said they would not agree to an extension of a looming deadline to evacuate Afghans from Kabul airport, even as Western countries said they were running out of time.

The Taliban said they would not agree to an extension of a looming deadline to evacuate Afghans from Kabul airport, even as Western countries said they were running out of time. In answer to WION's Anas Mallick's query concerning a covert meeting between the chief of the American intelligence agency CIA, William J Burns, and Taliban leader Abdul Ghani Baradar, the spokesperson declined to confirm or deny it. "All diplomats and embassies, including the United States, have been meeting with the Islamic Emirates Political Office," a Taliban spokeswoman asserted. He said he can not confirm Taliban leader Abdul Ghani Baradar's meeting with CIA Director. .@WIONews at the Taliban press conference in Kabul. In response to @AnasMallick’s question on a secret meeting between Taliban leader Mullah Baradar & the CIA chief, the spokesperson refuses to confirm/deny. Says the political office has been meeting all embassies in #Afganistan. pic.twitter.com/Ppamy2WJVv — Palki Sharma (@palkisu) August 24, 2021 × According to the Washington Post, who cited anonymous US officials, CIA Director William J Burns conducted a secret meeting with Taliban leader Abdul Ghani Baradar in Kabul on Monday. According to the Washington Post, this was the highest-level face-to-face meeting between the two sides and came more than a week after the militant organisation seized power in Afghanistan. Pictures | Shocking images of children trapped at Kabul airport amid evacuation About 50,000 foreigners and Afghans have fled the country from Kabul's airport since the Taliban swept into power nine days ago, according to the US government. Many Afghans fear a repeat of the brutal interpretation of sharia law the Taliban implemented when they were first in power from 1996-2001, and retribution for working with the US-backed government over the past two decades. Watch | Kabul airport witnesses rush after people flee Afghanistan owing to Taliban's siege The Taliban, who ended two decades of war with an astonishingly swift rout of government forces, have been publicly tolerant of the evacuation effort. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Taliban evade WION’s question on secret meeting between Mullah Baradar and CIA chief

India highlighted its concerns over Pakistan-based international terrorist groups at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) meet. India raised flag over terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)

India's envoy to UN, Indra Mani Pandey said,""Stability in Afghanistan is linked to the peace and security of the region. &nbsp;We hope that the situation in Afghanistan does not pose a challenge to its neighbours and its territory is not used by terrorist groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), to threaten any other country."

Afghanistan has become unstable and thousands of people have been leaving the country ever since the Taliban took over Afghan national capital Kabul on August 15. Many of the Afghans who are leaving are worried over future under the Taliban rule.

Pandey hoped that "there is an inclusive and broad-based dispensation which represents all sections of Afghan society" &amp; said that "voices of Afghan women, aspirations of Afghan children and the rights of minorities must be respected".&nbsp;

He explained, "A broad-based representation would help the arrangement gain more acceptability and legitimacy."

International community has largely called for the same -- inclusive set up, one that is not dominated by one ethnicity but has representation from everyone given Afghanistan is an ethnically diverse country.

Calling, the security situation "precarious" he said, a "grave humanitarian crisis is unfolding"

"Everyone is concerned about the increasing violations of fundamental rights of Afghan citizens" &amp; "Afghans are worried about whether their right to live with dignity would be respected," he added.

Heartbreaking visuals have emerged over last few days from Afghanistan especially around the Kabul Airport. The airport has been thronged by people who want to flee the country.&nbsp;

India on its part has been evacuating hundreds of its nationals and many Afghan vulnerable groups like the minority Hindus and Sikhs. Over last few days India has brought more than 40 Afghan Sikhs to Delhi. In addition 3 copies of Sikh Holy Book 'Guru Granth Sahib' have also been brought. Union ministers, Hardeep Singh Puri &amp; V Muraleedharan were at the airport to receive the Holy Books.

Indra Mani called on the international community to "ensure full support to the people of Afghanistan in their desire for peace, stability and security in the country and to enable all Afghans, including women, children and minorities, to live in peace and dignity."

He also pointed out to India's contribution to the country in the last 20 years in terms of humanitarian assistance, capacity building, connectivity. During the Covid crisis, India sent 75,000 MTs of wheat to Afghanistan to ensure food security during the pandemic.

India highlighted its concerns over Pakistan-based international terrorist groups at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) meet. India raised flag over terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) India's envoy to UN, Indra Mani Pandey said,""Stability in Afghanistan is linked to the peace and security of the region.

India highlighted its concerns over Pakistan-based international terrorist groups at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) meet. India raised flag over terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) India's envoy to UN, Indra Mani Pandey said,""Stability in Afghanistan is linked to the peace and security of the region. We hope that the situation in Afghanistan does not pose a challenge to its neighbours and its territory is not used by terrorist groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), to threaten any other country." Afghanistan has become unstable and thousands of people have been leaving the country ever since the Taliban took over Afghan national capital Kabul on August 15. Many of the Afghans who are leaving are worried over future under the Taliban rule. Pandey hoped that "there is an inclusive and broad-based dispensation which represents all sections of Afghan society" & said that "voices of Afghan women, aspirations of Afghan children and the rights of minorities must be respected". He explained, "A broad-based representation would help the arrangement gain more acceptability and legitimacy." International community has largely called for the same -- inclusive set up, one that is not dominated by one ethnicity but has representation from everyone given Afghanistan is an ethnically diverse country. Calling, the security situation "precarious" he said, a "grave humanitarian crisis is unfolding" "Everyone is concerned about the increasing violations of fundamental rights of Afghan citizens" & "Afghans are worried about whether their right to live with dignity would be respected," he added. Heartbreaking visuals have emerged over last few days from Afghanistan especially around the Kabul Airport. The airport has been thronged by people who want to flee the country. India on its part has been evacuating hundreds of its nationals and many Afghan vulnerable groups like the minority Hindus and Sikhs. Over last few days India has brought more than 40 Afghan Sikhs to Delhi. In addition 3 copies of Sikh Holy Book 'Guru Granth Sahib' have also been brought. Union ministers, Hardeep Singh Puri & V Muraleedharan were at the airport to receive the Holy Books. Indra Mani called on the international community to "ensure full support to the people of Afghanistan in their desire for peace, stability and security in the country and to enable all Afghans, including women, children and minorities, to live in peace and dignity." He also pointed out to India's contribution to the country in the last 20 years in terms of humanitarian assistance, capacity building, connectivity. During the Covid crisis, India sent 75,000 MTs of wheat to Afghanistan to ensure food security during the pandemic.

UNHRC meet on Afghanistan: India raises concern over Pakistan-based terror groups

United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warned on Friday that one in every three Afghans was at risk of severe or acute hunger. The total number is pegged at 14 million people. The situation has erupted due to combined efforts of war and drought linked to global warming.

The dire assessment comes as the country faces an uncertain future after the Taliban routed the government to take power over the weekend.

"2021 is an extraordinarily difficult year for Afghanistan," WFP representative and country director Mary-Ellen McGroarty told AFP in a telephone interview from Kabul.

McGroarty warned of "horrendous humanitarian crisis unfolding. She said that she intended to remain in the South Asian nation with the WFP "to deliver the much needed humanitarian response that is now required"

The war-torn country is facing its second severe drought in three years, on top of the fighting and displacement of people, she said.

"We are in a dire situation, the latest analysis indicates that 14 million people are already at risk of severe or acute hunger," McGroarty added, adding that two million children are at risk of malnutrition.

Wheat production has fallen 40 per cent after one of the driest periods in almost 30 years.

"It's had a devastating impact as well on livestock," McGroarty explained.

"As the conflict has escalated right across the country, farmers are unable to harvest the land, they're fleeing from their homes," she said.

Orchards have been destroyed in some areas, along with civilian infrastructure such as bridges, dams and roads.

 
"So, today, when you have the combined impact of the conflict with the drought, food is getting expensive."

 
The price of a bag of wheat is today 24 per cent higher than the five-year average.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warned on Friday that one in every three Afghans was at risk of severe or acute hunger. The total number is pegged at 14 million people.

United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warned on Friday that one in every three Afghans was at risk of severe or acute hunger. The total number is pegged at 14 million people. The situation has erupted due to combined efforts of war and drought linked to global warming. The dire assessment comes as the country faces an uncertain future after the Taliban routed the government to take power over the weekend. "2021 is an extraordinarily difficult year for Afghanistan," WFP representative and country director Mary-Ellen McGroarty told AFP in a telephone interview from Kabul. McGroarty warned of "horrendous humanitarian crisis unfolding. She said that she intended to remain in the South Asian nation with the WFP "to deliver the much needed humanitarian response that is now required" The war-torn country is facing its second severe drought in three years, on top of the fighting and displacement of people, she said. "We are in a dire situation, the latest analysis indicates that 14 million people are already at risk of severe or acute hunger," McGroarty added, adding that two million children are at risk of malnutrition. Wheat production has fallen 40 per cent after one of the driest periods in almost 30 years. "It's had a devastating impact as well on livestock," McGroarty explained. "As the conflict has escalated right across the country, farmers are unable to harvest the land, they're fleeing from their homes," she said. Orchards have been destroyed in some areas, along with civilian infrastructure such as bridges, dams and roads. "So, today, when you have the combined impact of the conflict with the drought, food is getting expensive." The price of a bag of wheat is today 24 per cent higher than the five-year average. (With inputs from agencies)

One-third Afghan population at risk of severe or acute hunger, says WFP

United Nations refugee agency said on Friday that most Afghans are unable to leave their homeland and those in danger "have no clear way out".

Spokesperson of UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Shabia Mantoo reiterated UN's call to neighbour countries of Afghanistan to keep their borders open to allow people to seek asylum. She called the situation in Afghanistan "evolving crisis".

"The vast majority of Afghans are not able to leave the country through regular channels," she told a Geneva news briefing. "As of today, those who may be in danger have no clear way out."

Mantoo said that there have only been "small-scale movements" of Afghans crossing into Pakistan and Iran. These two countries already host 90 per cent of the 2.6 million Afghan refugees registered since fleeing their homeland over the last decades.

More than 18,000 people have been flown out of Kabul since the Taliban took over Afghanistan's capital, a NATO official said on Friday, pledging to redouble evacuation efforts as criticism of the West's handling of the crisis mounted.

Mantoo welcomed the evacuation of Afghan nationals through such separate bilateral programmes, but stressed that they should not substitute for an "urgent and wider international humanitarian response".

"UNHCR remains concerned about the risk of human rights violations against civilians in this evolving context, including women and girls," she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations refugee agency said on Friday that most Afghans are unable to leave their homeland and those in danger "have no clear way out". Spokesperson of UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Shabia Mantoo reiterated UN's call to neighbour countries of Afghanistan to keep their borders open to allow people to seek asylum.

United Nations refugee agency said on Friday that most Afghans are unable to leave their homeland and those in danger "have no clear way out". Spokesperson of UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Shabia Mantoo reiterated UN's call to neighbour countries of Afghanistan to keep their borders open to allow people to seek asylum. She called the situation in Afghanistan "evolving crisis". "The vast majority of Afghans are not able to leave the country through regular channels," she told a Geneva news briefing. "As of today, those who may be in danger have no clear way out." Mantoo said that there have only been "small-scale movements" of Afghans crossing into Pakistan and Iran. These two countries already host 90 per cent of the 2.6 million Afghan refugees registered since fleeing their homeland over the last decades. More than 18,000 people have been flown out of Kabul since the Taliban took over Afghanistan's capital, a NATO official said on Friday, pledging to redouble evacuation efforts as criticism of the West's handling of the crisis mounted. Mantoo welcomed the evacuation of Afghan nationals through such separate bilateral programmes, but stressed that they should not substitute for an "urgent and wider international humanitarian response". "UNHCR remains concerned about the risk of human rights violations against civilians in this evolving context, including women and girls," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghans in danger 'have no clear way out': UN

The 15-member United Nations Security Council met on Monday to discuss Afghanistan under India's presidency as the Taliban has taken control over the country and the capital city Kabul is under its grips.

15-member UN Security Council holds emergency meet on Afghanistan

The United Nations has issued a statement on the situation unfolding in the war-ravaged country, Afghanistan. The UN chief Antonio Guterres has urged the Taliban to follow utmost restraint in order to protect rights and ensure humanitarian needs can be addressed. Antonio Guterres is particularly concerned about the future of women and girls in the country.

Antonio Guterres urges restraint as Taliban reach Kabul

International Youth Day is commemorated every year on August 12. On this day,&nbsp;youngsters around the world organise activities to raise awareness about the situation of youth in their country.

History

The United Nations&nbsp;General Assembly (UNGA) endorsed the recommendation made by the&nbsp;World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth in 1999 that&nbsp;August 12 be declared International Youth Day.

The Assembly recommended that public information activities be organised to support the Day as a way to promote better awareness of the&nbsp;World Programme of Action for Youth,&nbsp;adopted by the General Assembly in 1995.

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Happy International <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YouthDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YouthDay</a>! 🙌 
 
Young people contribute greatly to building resilience of their communities. 
 
This collection of stories from across <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaPacific?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaPacific</a> celebrates <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/youngpeople?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#youngpeople</a> &amp; the activists working to empower youth by giving them a voice➡️ <a href="https://t.co/YceArMa7C4">https://t.co/YceArMa7C4</a> <a href="https://t.co/ztZWDvMK54">pic.twitter.com/ztZWDvMK54</a>
— UNFPAasia (@UNFPAasia) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNFPAasia/status/1425643729533108227?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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State of the world's youth

Today, there are 1.2 billion young people aged 15 to 24 years, accounting for 16 per cent of the global population.

By 2030, the target date for the&nbsp;Sustainable Development Goals&nbsp;(SDGs) that make up the&nbsp;2030 Agenda, the number of youth is projected to have grown by 7 per cent, to nearly 1.3 billion.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-climate-change-could-sink-entire-nations-404528/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As youth are increasingly demanding more just, equitable and progressive opportunities and solutions in their societies, the need to address the multifaceted challenges faced by young people (such as access to education, health, employment and gender equality) have become more pressing than ever.

Youth can be a positive force for development when provided with the knowledge and opportunities they need to thrive. In particular, young people should acquire the education and skills needed to contribute in a productive economy; and they need access to a job market that can absorb them into the labour force.

The theme of International Youth Day 2021

With the world’s population expected to increase by 2 billion people in the next 30 years,&nbsp;it has been&nbsp;has been acknowledged that there is a need for inclusive support mechanisms that ensure youth continue to amplify efforts collectively and individually to restore the planet and protect life, while integrating biodiversity in the transformation of food systems.

The theme of International Youth Day 2021, “Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health”, highlights the success of such a global effort will not be achieved without the meaningful participation of young people.

During the&nbsp;2021 ECOSOC Youth Forum (EYF), the issues and priorities highlighted by young participants included the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly related to its effect on human health, the environment, and food systems.

As part of the official outcome recommendations of the EYF, young participants stressed the importance of working towards more equitable food systems.

In addition, they highlighted the need for youth to make informed decisions on food choices through increasing global education on the healthiest and most sustainable options for both individuals and the environment. There were also recommendations on providing adequate capacity development with respect to the resilience of food systems, in particular during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and in its aftermath.

Through youth education, engagement, innovation and entrepreneurial solutions, this year’s International Youth Day aims to provide a platform for young people to continue the momentum from the EYF in the lead up to the high-level&nbsp;Food Systems Summit.

This year, International Youth Day will be virtually convened by DESA in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the Major Group for Children and Youth.

International Youth Day is commemorated every year on August 12. On this day, youngsters around the world organise activities to raise awareness about the situation of youth in their country.

International Youth Day is commemorated every year on August 12. On this day, youngsters around the world organise activities to raise awareness about the situation of youth in their country. History The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) endorsed the recommendation made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth in 1999 that August 12 be declared International Youth Day. The Assembly recommended that public information activities be organised to support the Day as a way to promote better awareness of the World Programme of Action for Youth, adopted by the General Assembly in 1995. Happy International #YouthDay! 🙌 Young people contribute greatly to building resilience of their communities. This collection of stories from across #AsiaPacific celebrates #youngpeople & the activists working to empower youth by giving them a voice➡️ https://t.co/YceArMa7C4 pic.twitter.com/ztZWDvMK54 — UNFPAasia (@UNFPAasia) August 12, 2021 × State of the world's youth Today, there are 1.2 billion young people aged 15 to 24 years, accounting for 16 per cent of the global population. By 2030, the target date for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that make up the 2030 Agenda, the number of youth is projected to have grown by 7 per cent, to nearly 1.3 billion. As youth are increasingly demanding more just, equitable and progressive opportunities and solutions in their societies, the need to address the multifaceted challenges faced by young people (such as access to education, health, employment and gender equality) have become more pressing than ever. Youth can be a positive force for development when provided with the knowledge and opportunities they need to thrive. In particular, young people should acquire the education and skills needed to contribute in a productive economy; and they need access to a job market that can absorb them into the labour force. The theme of International Youth Day 2021 With the world’s population expected to increase by 2 billion people in the next 30 years, it has been has been acknowledged that there is a need for inclusive support mechanisms that ensure youth continue to amplify efforts collectively and individually to restore the planet and protect life, while integrating biodiversity in the transformation of food systems. The theme of International Youth Day 2021, “Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health”, highlights the success of such a global effort will not be achieved without the meaningful participation of young people. During the 2021 ECOSOC Youth Forum (EYF), the issues and priorities highlighted by young participants included the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly related to its effect on human health, the environment, and food systems. As part of the official outcome recommendations of the EYF, young participants stressed the importance of working towards more equitable food systems. In addition, they highlighted the need for youth to make informed decisions on food choices through increasing global education on the healthiest and most sustainable options for both individuals and the environment. There were also recommendations on providing adequate capacity development with respect to the resilience of food systems, in particular during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and in its aftermath. Through youth education, engagement, innovation and entrepreneurial solutions, this year’s International Youth Day aims to provide a platform for young people to continue the momentum from the EYF in the lead up to the high-level Food Systems Summit. This year, International Youth Day will be virtually convened by DESA in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the Major Group for Children and Youth.

International Youth Day: History, significance and this year's theme

As the Taliban took their sixth Afghan provincial capital since last week amid fighting with the country's defence forces, a social media campaign against Pakistan and its "proxy war" in Afghanistan became a popular trend Monday.&nbsp;

As Afghans have gone to Twitter to demand sanctions against Pakistan for its damning role in supporting and enabling the Taliban, #SanctionPakistan is among the top trending hashtags.&nbsp;

#Sanction Pakistan was one of Twitter's top trending hashtags, with over 3 lakh tweets.

Habib Khan, a Kabul-based journalist, was one of the first to criticise Pakistan, and he has now encouraged his 97,000 followers to help the hashtag reach a million tweets.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SanctionPakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SanctionPakistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/8gMB4tpTVK">https://t.co/8gMB4tpTVK</a>
— Madina Shahab (@MaadinaShahab) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaadinaShahab/status/1425114460528824327?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The main cause of Afghanistan's devastation is Pakistan.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SanctionPakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SanctionPakistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/m3mop4wA3z">pic.twitter.com/m3mop4wA3z</a>
— Sadam Zwak (@SadamZwak) <a href="https://twitter.com/SadamZwak/status/1424650454693294080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This is the original friendship with terorist<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SanctionPakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SanctionPakistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/8EXLq91rKL">pic.twitter.com/8EXLq91rKL</a>
— nabi sulaiman (@nabisulaiman1) <a href="https://twitter.com/nabisulaiman1/status/1424767641923764231?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Chris Alexander, a Canadian diplomat, also expressed his support for Afghanistan and urged on the UN to impose sanctions on Pakistan.

“Pakistan’s invasion of Afghanistan constitutes an armed attack &amp; act of aggression under Chapter VII of the UN Charter,” Chris Alexander tweeted.

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Not just online supporters, but Afghans also took to the streets in numerous cities throughout the world to protest Pakistan's backing of the Taliban.

Afghans in Sweden took to the streets to demand that the United Nations penalise Pakistan for its clear role in igniting a war in Afghanistan.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sweden?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sweden</a>: Afghans in Sweden protest against Pakistan. Protesters call on <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> to impose sanctions on Pakistan for its direct involvement in Afghanistan's war. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SanctionPakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SanctionPakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RecallKhalilzad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RecallKhalilzad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TalibanWarCrimes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TalibanWarCrimes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SanctionOnPakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SanctionOnPakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/UNAMAnews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNAMAnews</a> <a href="https://t.co/tpHnlJa5Ku">pic.twitter.com/tpHnlJa5Ku</a>
— RTA World (@rtaworld) <a href="https://twitter.com/rtaworld/status/1424644092462501890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

As the Taliban took their sixth Afghan provincial capital since last week amid fighting with the country's defence forces, a social media campaign against Pakistan and its "proxy war" in Afghanistan became a popular trend Monday.

As the Taliban took their sixth Afghan provincial capital since last week amid fighting with the country's defence forces, a social media campaign against Pakistan and its "proxy war" in Afghanistan became a popular trend Monday. As Afghans have gone to Twitter to demand sanctions against Pakistan for its damning role in supporting and enabling the Taliban, #SanctionPakistan is among the top trending hashtags. #Sanction Pakistan was one of Twitter's top trending hashtags, with over 3 lakh tweets. Habib Khan, a Kabul-based journalist, was one of the first to criticise Pakistan, and he has now encouraged his 97,000 followers to help the hashtag reach a million tweets. #SanctionPakistan https://t.co/8gMB4tpTVK — Madina Shahab (@MaadinaShahab) August 10, 2021 × The main cause of Afghanistan's devastation is Pakistan.#SanctionPakistan pic.twitter.com/m3mop4wA3z — Sadam Zwak (@SadamZwak) August 9, 2021 × This is the original friendship with terorist#SanctionPakistan pic.twitter.com/8EXLq91rKL — nabi sulaiman (@nabisulaiman1) August 9, 2021 × Chris Alexander, a Canadian diplomat, also expressed his support for Afghanistan and urged on the UN to impose sanctions on Pakistan. “Pakistan’s invasion of Afghanistan constitutes an armed attack & act of aggression under Chapter VII of the UN Charter,” Chris Alexander tweeted. pic.twitter.com/qmzhhnhS1j — Chris Alexander (@calxandr) August 9, 2021 × Not just online supporters, but Afghans also took to the streets in numerous cities throughout the world to protest Pakistan's backing of the Taliban. Afghans in Sweden took to the streets to demand that the United Nations penalise Pakistan for its clear role in igniting a war in Afghanistan. #Sweden: Afghans in Sweden protest against Pakistan. Protesters call on @UN to impose sanctions on Pakistan for its direct involvement in Afghanistan's war. #SanctionPakistan #RecallKhalilzad #TalibanWarCrimes #SanctionOnPakistan @UNAMAnews pic.twitter.com/tpHnlJa5Ku — RTA World (@rtaworld) August 9, 2021 ×

Why is #SanctionPakistan trending? Because thousands of Afghans want the world to punish Pakistan for backing Taliban

The United Nations has become an international platform to address issues that transcend national boundaries. But the body's purpose is on the line as it witnesses the situation unravelling in Afghanistan along with the whole world.

Taliban: International community worries for Afghans

United Nations on Monday warned that Taliban offensives may cause 'unprcedented' civilian deaths in Afghanistan if the offensive is not halted. Violence in Afghanistan has surged since May when the insurgents went on the offensive to coincide with the withdrawal of foreign troops.

UN Assitance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a report released on Monday that the number of civilian deaths may touch their highest single-year levels since the mission began reporting a decade ago.

It also warned that Afghan troops and pro-government forces were responsible for a quarter of all civilian casualties.

"Unprecedented numbers of Afghan civilians will perish and be maimed this year if the increasing violence is not stemmed," UNAMA head Deborah Lyons said in a statement released with the report.

"I implore the Taliban and Afghan leaders to take heed to the conflict's grim and chilling trajectory and its devastating impact on civilians."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-killed-43-people-in-afghanistans-ghazni-claim-residents-400703">Taliban killed 43 people in Afghanistan’s Ghazni, claim residents</a>

The UNAMA report said in the first half of 2021, some 1,659 civilians were killed and another 3,254 wounded. This was a 47 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.

Civilian casualties rose sharply in May and June. 783 civilians were killed and 1609 were wounded. This was the early period of Taliban offensive

"Particularly shocking and of deep concern is that women, boys and girls made up of close to half of all civilian casualties," the report said.

UNAMA blames anti-government forces for 64 per cent of civilian casualties -- including some 40 percent caused by the Taliban and nearly nine percent by the jihadist Islamic State group.

The Taliban has been on the offensive since May and have made significant gains in past few months. By many estimates the insurgent group has control of half of the country and vital border crossings. A few days ago, Taliban claimed that it controls 90 per cent of the Afghan border. But the claim was heavily contested by the Afghan government.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations on Monday warned that Taliban offensives may cause 'unprcedented' civilian deaths in Afghanistan if the offensive is not halted. Violence in Afghanistan has surged since May when the insurgents went on the offensive to coincide with the withdrawal of foreign troops.

United Nations on Monday warned that Taliban offensives may cause 'unprcedented' civilian deaths in Afghanistan if the offensive is not halted. Violence in Afghanistan has surged since May when the insurgents went on the offensive to coincide with the withdrawal of foreign troops. UN Assitance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a report released on Monday that the number of civilian deaths may touch their highest single-year levels since the mission began reporting a decade ago. It also warned that Afghan troops and pro-government forces were responsible for a quarter of all civilian casualties. "Unprecedented numbers of Afghan civilians will perish and be maimed this year if the increasing violence is not stemmed," UNAMA head Deborah Lyons said in a statement released with the report. "I implore the Taliban and Afghan leaders to take heed to the conflict's grim and chilling trajectory and its devastating impact on civilians." Also Read | Taliban killed 43 people in Afghanistan’s Ghazni, claim residents The UNAMA report said in the first half of 2021, some 1,659 civilians were killed and another 3,254 wounded. This was a 47 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. Civilian casualties rose sharply in May and June. 783 civilians were killed and 1609 were wounded. This was the early period of Taliban offensive "Particularly shocking and of deep concern is that women, boys and girls made up of close to half of all civilian casualties," the report said. UNAMA blames anti-government forces for 64 per cent of civilian casualties -- including some 40 percent caused by the Taliban and nearly nine percent by the jihadist Islamic State group. The Taliban has been on the offensive since May and have made significant gains in past few months. By many estimates the insurgent group has control of half of the country and vital border crossings. A few days ago, Taliban claimed that it controls 90 per cent of the Afghan border. But the claim was heavily contested by the Afghan government. (With inputs from agencies)

UN warns of 'unprecedented' Afghan civilian deaths due to Taliban offensives

United Nations (UN) has sounded alarm over increasing teror threat in Afghanistan. The UN has said that threat from terror groups like Daesh and Al-Qaeda is increasing in many places in Afghanistan. It also said that security situation remained fragile in the country and there was uncertainty around the peace process.

Tolo News said that a new report by United Nations Security Council said that Daesh's Khorasan branch or ISIL-K had moved into Afghan provinces like Nuristan, Badghis, Sar-e-Pul, Baghlan, Badakhshan, Kunduz and Kabul. This, in spite of the loss in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces in 2020.

According to the report, the group has strengthened its positions in and around Kabul, where it conducts most of its attacks, targeting minorities, activists, government employees and personnel of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces.

Most recently, Daesh had claimed responsibility for the brutal attack of June 8, wherein 10 humanitarian deminers working with HALO Trust in Baghlan Province were killed and 16 others were injured, it said.&nbsp;

As Per Tolo News, ISIL-K has prioritised recruitment and training of new supporters.

The report stated that the estimates of the strength of Daesh`s Khorasan branch range widely, with one member state reporting between 500 and 1,500 fighters and another stating that it may rise to as many as 10,000 over the medium term.

"One member state stressed that ISIL-K was largely underground and clandestine," the report said., adding: "Its leader, Shahab al-Muhajir, alias Sanaullah, cooperates with Sheikh Tamim, head of the al-Sadiq office."

The report said that Tamim and his office are tasked by the Daesh core group to oversee the network connecting the Khorasan branch with Daesh presences in the wider region.

Tolo News said that Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) operates under Taliban protection from Kandahar, Helmand, and Nimroz provinces.Since the death of Asim Umar in 2019, AQIS has been led by Osama Mahmood, the report said, adding that the group consists mainly of Afghan and Pakistani nationals, as also individuals from Bangladesh, India, and Myanmar.

On March 30, AQIS commander Dawlat Bek Tajiki (alias Abu Mohammad al-Tajiki) was killed by Afghan forces in the Gyan district of Paktika province.

"Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri is assessed by the member states to be alive but ailing in Afghanistan. SayfAl Adl, his most likely successor, is reported to remain in the Islamic Republic of Iran," the report stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations (UN) has sounded alarm over increasing teror threat in Afghanistan. The UN has said that threat from terror groups like Daesh and Al-Qaeda is increasing in many places in Afghanistan.

United Nations (UN) has sounded alarm over increasing teror threat in Afghanistan. The UN has said that threat from terror groups like Daesh and Al-Qaeda is increasing in many places in Afghanistan. It also said that security situation remained fragile in the country and there was uncertainty around the peace process. Tolo News said that a new report by United Nations Security Council said that Daesh's Khorasan branch or ISIL-K had moved into Afghan provinces like Nuristan, Badghis, Sar-e-Pul, Baghlan, Badakhshan, Kunduz and Kabul. This, in spite of the loss in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces in 2020. According to the report, the group has strengthened its positions in and around Kabul, where it conducts most of its attacks, targeting minorities, activists, government employees and personnel of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces. Most recently, Daesh had claimed responsibility for the brutal attack of June 8, wherein 10 humanitarian deminers working with HALO Trust in Baghlan Province were killed and 16 others were injured, it said. As Per Tolo News, ISIL-K has prioritised recruitment and training of new supporters. The report stated that the estimates of the strength of Daesh`s Khorasan branch range widely, with one member state reporting between 500 and 1,500 fighters and another stating that it may rise to as many as 10,000 over the medium term. "One member state stressed that ISIL-K was largely underground and clandestine," the report said., adding: "Its leader, Shahab al-Muhajir, alias Sanaullah, cooperates with Sheikh Tamim, head of the al-Sadiq office." The report said that Tamim and his office are tasked by the Daesh core group to oversee the network connecting the Khorasan branch with Daesh presences in the wider region. Tolo News said that Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) operates under Taliban protection from Kandahar, Helmand, and Nimroz provinces.Since the death of Asim Umar in 2019, AQIS has been led by Osama Mahmood, the report said, adding that the group consists mainly of Afghan and Pakistani nationals, as also individuals from Bangladesh, India, and Myanmar. On March 30, AQIS commander Dawlat Bek Tajiki (alias Abu Mohammad al-Tajiki) was killed by Afghan forces in the Gyan district of Paktika province. "Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri is assessed by the member states to be alive but ailing in Afghanistan. SayfAl Adl, his most likely successor, is reported to remain in the Islamic Republic of Iran," the report stated. (With inputs from agencies)

UN sounds alarm over situation in Afghanistan: Report

Hundreds of people went missing and more than 150&nbsp;died as unprecedented floods hit Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands this week.

The freak weather came just days after some parts of Europe witnessed yet another unusually hot summer.

Climate change is here, and it is here to stay.

And world leaders are doing catch-up, decades after scientists sounded the warning.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-fatal-flooding-in-western-germany-398443">In Pics | Fatal flooding in Western Germany</a>

This past week, European Union policymakers unveiled their most ambitious plan yet to tackle climate change, aiming to turn green goals into concrete action this decade, and in doing so lead the way for the world's other big economies.

While the bloc produces as much as 8 per cent of global emissions, it hopes its example will elicit ambitious action from other major economies when they meet in November in Glasgow for the next milestone UN climate conference.

However, poorer member states are wary of anything that will raise costs for the consumer, while regions that depend on coal-fired power plants and mines want guarantees of more support for a transformation that will cause dislocation and require mass retraining.

According to the UN's Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI), this year, Australia has ranked among the top three countries for exported greenhouse gas emissions per capita and among the top 10 nations for per capita fossil fuel use.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-australian-court-pulls-up-government-for-climate-change-387879/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It ranked second-worst for carbon pricing scores, between first-ranking Chile and the United States. The ranking is based on four indicators: per capita emissions from fossil fuel combustion, per capita CO2 emissions embodied in imports, per capita CO2 emissions embodied in exports, and carbon pricing score.

And yet, the county is in denial.

Australia took a group of ambassadors snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef on Thursday in a last-minute lobbying effort to keep the World Heritage site off UNESCO's endangered list.

Why? To keep the revenues generated by it, because an 'endangered' listing would mean Australia not being able to milk the reef's tourism potential.&nbsp;

Aside from its inestimable natural, scientific and environmental value, the 2,300-kilometre-long (1,400-mile) reef was worth an estimated $4.8 billion a year in tourism revenue for the Australian economy before the coronavirus pandemic.

Australia should have seen it coming. There have been several so-called 'bleaching incidents' of the reef's corals, which are very ecologically sensitive. Several warnings had been issued in the past.

And there has been no dearth of warnings about the impacts of climate change on people and the planet.

Nearly nine in 10 leading global climate economists think climate change will deepen income inequality between rich and poor countries, with most calling for urgent action to cut planet-warming emissions.

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According to the World Bank, without the right policies to keep the poor safe from extreme weather and rising seas, climate change could drive over 100 million more people into poverty by 2030.

Scientists have warned that failure to curb the world’s still-growing emissions could lead to crises from food and water shortages to worsening weather disasters and sea-level rise.

The growing impacts of climate change have already pushed more than 18 million people to migrate within South Asian countries, but that could more than triple if global warming continues on its current path.

Nearly 63 million people could be forced from their homes by 2050 in the region as rising seas and rivers swallow villages, and drought-hit land no longer supports crops, said ActionAid International and Climate Action Network South Asia in a report.

Researchers believe Indian monsoons are likely to become stronger and more erratic if global warming continues unchecked, threatening farming and incomes across the region

Monsoon rains will likely increase by about 5 per cent&nbsp;for every degree Celsius of warming, found the study of more than 30 state-of-the-art climate models from around the world, published in the journal Earth System Dynamics.

What are countries doing about it, beyond token statements?

India is examining setting a target of net zero emissions by 2050, according to media reports. An earlier ambition of 2047, to coincide with 100 years of independence, is being discussed among senior officials in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office.

If India does end up setting a target of no later than 2050, it will trump China's promise of 2060 and match the ambition set out by new US President Joe Biden.

Governments face a struggle to inject momentum into efforts to curb global warming, dogged by lack of consensus, scepticism and disruptive protests demanding more action.

Policymakers are under pressure as more extreme weather events, such as record floods in Europe and wildfires in Australia, Canada and the US, are linked to climate change.

According to many scientists, Russia, especially its Siberian and Arctic regions, is among the countries most exposed to climate change.

Russia has set numerous records in recent years and in June 2020 registered 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) in the town of Verkhoyansk, the highest temperature recorded above the Arctic circle since measurements began.

The rising mercury levels have contributed to devastating floods and forest fires that have affected Siberia with increasing regularity.

They are also contributing to the melting of permafrost, which covers about two-thirds of Russia's vast territory.

The share of fossil fuels in the world's total energy mix is as high as a decade ago, despite the falling cost of renewables and pressure on governments to act on climate change, a report by green energy policy network REN21 showed.

Meanwhile, oil companies are dragging their feet on fighting climate change and are confronting pushback from investors and courts on policy change.

Investor support for climate concerns could force oil and gas companies to rethink how fast they pivot to other forms of energy.

There is now a 40 per cent chance that global temperatures will temporarily reach 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels in the next five years and these odds are rising, as per a UN report.

This does not yet mean that the world would already be crossing the long-term warming 1.5-degree Celsius threshold set by the Paris Climate Accord, which scientists warn is the ceiling to avoid the most catastrophic effects of climate change.&nbsp;

The Paris Accord target looks at temperature over a 30-year average, rather than a single year.

But it does underscore that "we are getting measurably and inexorably closer" to that threshold, according to World Meteorological Organization Secretary-General Petteri Taalas.

The next decade will require bigger adjustments, with a long-term eye on 2050, seen by scientists as a deadline for the world to reach net-zero carbon emissions or risk climate change becoming catastrophic.

While leaders have ignored climate change for as long as they can, citizens are ensuring that they wake up now.

In a handful of countries, they are suing their governments for negligence.

Leaders have ignored climate crisis till it literally banged on their doors in the form of floods and fires.

Here is hoping that they will&nbsp;feel the pinch at least now, when it is so close to their own skins.

Hundreds of people went missing and more than 150 died as unprecedented floods hit Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands this week. The freak weather came just days after some parts of Europe witnessed yet another unusually hot summer.

Hundreds of people went missing and more than 150 died as unprecedented floods hit Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands this week. The freak weather came just days after some parts of Europe witnessed yet another unusually hot summer. Climate change is here, and it is here to stay. And world leaders are doing catch-up, decades after scientists sounded the warning. In Pics | Fatal flooding in Western Germany This past week, European Union policymakers unveiled their most ambitious plan yet to tackle climate change, aiming to turn green goals into concrete action this decade, and in doing so lead the way for the world's other big economies. While the bloc produces as much as 8 per cent of global emissions, it hopes its example will elicit ambitious action from other major economies when they meet in November in Glasgow for the next milestone UN climate conference. However, poorer member states are wary of anything that will raise costs for the consumer, while regions that depend on coal-fired power plants and mines want guarantees of more support for a transformation that will cause dislocation and require mass retraining. According to the UN's Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI), this year, Australia has ranked among the top three countries for exported greenhouse gas emissions per capita and among the top 10 nations for per capita fossil fuel use. It ranked second-worst for carbon pricing scores, between first-ranking Chile and the United States. The ranking is based on four indicators: per capita emissions from fossil fuel combustion, per capita CO2 emissions embodied in imports, per capita CO2 emissions embodied in exports, and carbon pricing score. And yet, the county is in denial. Australia took a group of ambassadors snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef on Thursday in a last-minute lobbying effort to keep the World Heritage site off UNESCO's endangered list. Why? To keep the revenues generated by it, because an 'endangered' listing would mean Australia not being able to milk the reef's tourism potential. Aside from its inestimable natural, scientific and environmental value, the 2,300-kilometre-long (1,400-mile) reef was worth an estimated $4.8 billion a year in tourism revenue for the Australian economy before the coronavirus pandemic. Australia should have seen it coming. There have been several so-called 'bleaching incidents' of the reef's corals, which are very ecologically sensitive. Several warnings had been issued in the past. And there has been no dearth of warnings about the impacts of climate change on people and the planet. Nearly nine in 10 leading global climate economists think climate change will deepen income inequality between rich and poor countries, with most calling for urgent action to cut planet-warming emissions. View this post on Instagram A post shared by UN Climate Change (@unclimatechange) According to the World Bank, without the right policies to keep the poor safe from extreme weather and rising seas, climate change could drive over 100 million more people into poverty by 2030. Scientists have warned that failure to curb the world’s still-growing emissions could lead to crises from food and water shortages to worsening weather disasters and sea-level rise. The growing impacts of climate change have already pushed more than 18 million people to migrate within South Asian countries, but that could more than triple if global warming continues on its current path. Nearly 63 million people could be forced from their homes by 2050 in the region as rising seas and rivers swallow villages, and drought-hit land no longer supports crops, said ActionAid International and Climate Action Network South Asia in a report. Researchers believe Indian monsoons are likely to become stronger and more erratic if global warming continues unchecked, threatening farming and incomes across the region Monsoon rains will likely increase by about 5 per cent for every degree Celsius of warming, found the study of more than 30 state-of-the-art climate models from around the world, published in the journal Earth System Dynamics. What are countries doing about it, beyond token statements? India is examining setting a target of net zero emissions by 2050, according to media reports. An earlier ambition of 2047, to coincide with 100 years of independence, is being discussed among senior officials in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office. If India does end up setting a target of no later than 2050, it will trump China's promise of 2060 and match the ambition set out by new US President Joe Biden. Governments face a struggle to inject momentum into efforts to curb global warming, dogged by lack of consensus, scepticism and disruptive protests demanding more action. Policymakers are under pressure as more extreme weather events, such as record floods in Europe and wildfires in Australia, Canada and the US, are linked to climate change. According to many scientists, Russia, especially its Siberian and Arctic regions, is among the countries most exposed to climate change. Russia has set numerous records in recent years and in June 2020 registered 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) in the town of Verkhoyansk, the highest temperature recorded above the Arctic circle since measurements began. The rising mercury levels have contributed to devastating floods and forest fires that have affected Siberia with increasing regularity. They are also contributing to the melting of permafrost, which covers about two-thirds of Russia's vast territory. The share of fossil fuels in the world's total energy mix is as high as a decade ago, despite the falling cost of renewables and pressure on governments to act on climate change, a report by green energy policy network REN21 showed. Meanwhile, oil companies are dragging their feet on fighting climate change and are confronting pushback from investors and courts on policy change. Investor support for climate concerns could force oil and gas companies to rethink how fast they pivot to other forms of energy. There is now a 40 per cent chance that global temperatures will temporarily reach 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels in the next five years and these odds are rising, as per a UN report. This does not yet mean that the world would already be crossing the long-term warming 1.5-degree Celsius threshold set by the Paris Climate Accord, which scientists warn is the ceiling to avoid the most catastrophic effects of climate change. The Paris Accord target looks at temperature over a 30-year average, rather than a single year. But it does underscore that "we are getting measurably and inexorably closer" to that threshold, according to World Meteorological Organization Secretary-General Petteri Taalas. The next decade will require bigger adjustments, with a long-term eye on 2050, seen by scientists as a deadline for the world to reach net-zero carbon emissions or risk climate change becoming catastrophic. While leaders have ignored climate change for as long as they can, citizens are ensuring that they wake up now. In a handful of countries, they are suing their governments for negligence. Leaders have ignored climate crisis till it literally banged on their doors in the form of floods and fires. Here is hoping that they will feel the pinch at least now, when it is so close to their own skins.

Many leaders slept on climate crisis. Will they act on what they feel on their skins now?

European Union Ambassador to the UN Olof Skoog speaks with WION. Watch this report to know more.

Until everyone is safe, no one is safe: Olof Skoog, EU Ambassador to United Nations

UN has warned that North Korea's food crisis could worsen. The World body has said that North Korea could experience a 'harsh lean period' as early as next month. Watch this report to know more.

United Nations: North Korea facing harsh lean period

United Nations peacekeeping missions globally are preparing for a possible shutdown on Thursday if the 193-member UN&nbsp;General Assembly is unable to agree a new $6 billion budget for the year to June 30, 2022, officials and diplomats said on Monday. 
 
Some diplomats blamed changes to negotiating procedures, issues with logistics and tough talks pitting China against Western countries for the delay in reaching an agreement. 
 
Catherine Pollard, the UN&nbsp;head of management strategy, policy and compliance, said the world body`s 12 peacekeeping missions - most of which are in Africa and the Middle East - had been advised to start putting contingency plans in place in case a new budget is not adopted in time. 
 
"At the same time, we remain hopeful and confident that member states will conclude their negotiations," Pollard told reporters. 
 
She said that if the June 30 deadline is missed then Secretary-General Antonio Guterres can only spend money to safeguard UN&nbsp;assets and ensure the protection of the staff and the peacekeepers. 
 
UN&nbsp;peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix said missions would be severely limited and unable to carry out such measures as protecting civilians, helping tackle COVID-19 and supporting political efforts and mediation. 
 
The United States is largest assessed contributor to the peacekeeping budget, responsible for about 28%, followed by China with 15.2% and Japan with 8.5%.

United Nations peacekeeping missions globally are preparing for a possible shutdown on Thursday if the 193-member UN General Assembly is unable to agree a new $6 billion budget for the year to June 30, 2022, officials and diplomats said on Monday.

United Nations peacekeeping missions globally are preparing for a possible shutdown on Thursday if the 193-member UN General Assembly is unable to agree a new $6 billion budget for the year to June 30, 2022, officials and diplomats said on Monday. Some diplomats blamed changes to negotiating procedures, issues with logistics and tough talks pitting China against Western countries for the delay in reaching an agreement. Catherine Pollard, the UN head of management strategy, policy and compliance, said the world body`s 12 peacekeeping missions - most of which are in Africa and the Middle East - had been advised to start putting contingency plans in place in case a new budget is not adopted in time. "At the same time, we remain hopeful and confident that member states will conclude their negotiations," Pollard told reporters. She said that if the June 30 deadline is missed then Secretary-General Antonio Guterres can only spend money to safeguard UN assets and ensure the protection of the staff and the peacekeepers. UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix said missions would be severely limited and unable to carry out such measures as protecting civilians, helping tackle COVID-19 and supporting political efforts and mediation. The United States is largest assessed contributor to the peacekeeping budget, responsible for about 28%, followed by China with 15.2% and Japan with 8.5%.

UN peacekeeping missions prepare for possible shutdown

More than 8,500 children were used as soldiers last year in various conflicts across the world and nearly 2,700 others were killed, the United Nations said on Monday. 
 
UN&nbsp;chief Antonio Guterres` annual report to the Security Council on children and armed conflict covers the killing, maiming and sexual abuse of children, abduction or recruitment, denial of aid access and targeting of schools and hospitals. 
 
The report verified that violations had been committed against 19,379 children in 21 conflicts. The most violations in 2020 were committed in Somalia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Afghanistan, Syria and Yemen. 
 
It verified that 8,521 children were used as soldiers last year, while another 2,674 children were killed and 5,748 injured in various conflicts. 
 
The report also includes a blacklist intended to shame parties to conflicts in the hope of pushing them to implement measures to protect children. The list has long been controversial with diplomats saying Saudi Arabia and Israel both exerted pressure in recent years in a bid to stay off the list. 
 
Israel has never been listed, while a Saudi-led military coalition was removed from the list in 2020 several years after it was first named and shamed for killing and injuring children in Yemen. 
 
In an effort to dampen controversy surrounding the report, the blacklist released in 2017 by Guterres was split into two categories. One lists parties that have put in place measures to protect children and the other includes parties that have not. 
 
There were few significant changes to the lists released on Monday. The only state parties named on the list for not putting measures in place are Myanmar`s military - for killing, maiming and sexual violence against children - and Syrian government forces - for recruitment of children, killing, maiming and sexual violence against children and attacks on schools and hospitals.

More than 8,500 children were used as soldiers last year in various conflicts across the world and nearly 2,700 others were killed, the United Nations said on Monday.

More than 8,500 children were used as soldiers last year in various conflicts across the world and nearly 2,700 others were killed, the United Nations said on Monday. UN chief Antonio Guterres` annual report to the Security Council on children and armed conflict covers the killing, maiming and sexual abuse of children, abduction or recruitment, denial of aid access and targeting of schools and hospitals. The report verified that violations had been committed against 19,379 children in 21 conflicts. The most violations in 2020 were committed in Somalia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Afghanistan, Syria and Yemen. It verified that 8,521 children were used as soldiers last year, while another 2,674 children were killed and 5,748 injured in various conflicts. The report also includes a blacklist intended to shame parties to conflicts in the hope of pushing them to implement measures to protect children. The list has long been controversial with diplomats saying Saudi Arabia and Israel both exerted pressure in recent years in a bid to stay off the list. Israel has never been listed, while a Saudi-led military coalition was removed from the list in 2020 several years after it was first named and shamed for killing and injuring children in Yemen. In an effort to dampen controversy surrounding the report, the blacklist released in 2017 by Guterres was split into two categories. One lists parties that have put in place measures to protect children and the other includes parties that have not. There were few significant changes to the lists released on Monday. The only state parties named on the list for not putting measures in place are Myanmar`s military - for killing, maiming and sexual violence against children - and Syrian government forces - for recruitment of children, killing, maiming and sexual violence against children and attacks on schools and hospitals.

More than 8,500 children used as soldiers in 2020: UN

India has slammed UN special rapporteurs who have criticised the new IT rules announced in February.&nbsp;In a strongly worded rebuttal, the Indian mission in Geneva highlighted that "India's democratic credentials are well recognised" and "right to freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed under the Indian Constitution".

In the letter, the mission pointed out that the Indian Ministry of Information Technology and Information &amp; Broadcasting had in fact took consultations in 2018 to prepare for draft rules. Along with the diplomatic note from the mission, brief note on the new IT rules on how they are "designed to empower ordinary users of social media" and "victims of abuse at social media platforms shall have a forum for redressal of their grievances."

On 11th June, special rapporteurs on right to freedom of opinion, peaceful assembly, and privacy - Irene Khan, Clement Voule, and Joseph Cannataci in a letter said that the rules "do not conform with international human rights norms".&nbsp;

The letter pointed that "India as global leader in technology innovation" can develop "legislation that can place it at the forefront of efforts to protect digital rights" United Nations special rapporteurs are individuals for specific issues or countries who usually advise or report on a specific issue. The French word literally means someone who reports to a body.

In the letter by the Indian mission, salient features of the new IT rules were also highlighted. These included grievance redressal mechanism, ensuring online safety and dignity of users, especially for woman users, removal of unlawful information

The new IT rules came into effect a few weeks ago but some social media platforms like Twitter haven't complied with them. Other social media platforms like WhatsApp have gone to the high court on the issue of traceability of messages as envisaged under the new IT rules. Traceability means finding the first message and who created it, something WhatsApp says violated its privacy policy.&nbsp;

India has slammed UN special rapporteurs who have criticised the new IT rules announced in February. In a strongly worded rebuttal, the Indian mission in Geneva highlighted that "India's democratic credentials are well recognised" and "right to freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed under the Indian Constitution".

India has slammed UN special rapporteurs who have criticised the new IT rules announced in February. In a strongly worded rebuttal, the Indian mission in Geneva highlighted that "India's democratic credentials are well recognised" and "right to freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed under the Indian Constitution". In the letter, the mission pointed out that the Indian Ministry of Information Technology and Information & Broadcasting had in fact took consultations in 2018 to prepare for draft rules. Along with the diplomatic note from the mission, brief note on the new IT rules on how they are "designed to empower ordinary users of social media" and "victims of abuse at social media platforms shall have a forum for redressal of their grievances." On 11th June, special rapporteurs on right to freedom of opinion, peaceful assembly, and privacy - Irene Khan, Clement Voule, and Joseph Cannataci in a letter said that the rules "do not conform with international human rights norms". The letter pointed that "India as global leader in technology innovation" can develop "legislation that can place it at the forefront of efforts to protect digital rights" United Nations special rapporteurs are individuals for specific issues or countries who usually advise or report on a specific issue. The French word literally means someone who reports to a body. In the letter by the Indian mission, salient features of the new IT rules were also highlighted. These included grievance redressal mechanism, ensuring online safety and dignity of users, especially for woman users, removal of unlawful information The new IT rules came into effect a few weeks ago but some social media platforms like Twitter haven't complied with them. Other social media platforms like WhatsApp have gone to the high court on the issue of traceability of messages as envisaged under the new IT rules. Traceability means finding the first message and who created it, something WhatsApp says violated its privacy policy.

India slams UN rapporteurs who criticised new IT rules

United Nations General Assembly on Friday, appointed UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for a second five-year term.

"I will give it my all to ensure the blossoming of trust between and among nations large and small, to build bridges, and to engage relentlessly in confidence building," Guterres told the General Assembly after taking the oath of office. His second term starts on January 1,&nbsp; 2022.

The UN Security Council had recommended reappointment of Guterres earlier this month.

Guterres succeeded Ban Ki-moon in January 2017, just weeks before Donald Trump became US&nbsp;president. Much of Guterres' first term was focused on placating Trump, who questioned the value of the United Nations and multilateralism.

US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the United Nations faced historic challenges, but she hoped that with Guterres at the helm "the next five years will see more peace, more security, and more prosperity than the last."

"It will require hard work, political will, and accountability from all UN&nbsp;member states," she said in a statement, adding every member states should have "an impassioned commitment" to human rights.

The US is the largest financial contributor to the UN. It contributes 22 per cent of the regular budget and about quarter of the peacekeeping budget. US President Joe Biden has started restoring funding cuts made by Trump to UN agencies and re-engaged with the world body.

Guterres, 72, was prime minister of Portugal from 1995 to 2002 and head of the UN&nbsp;refugee agency from 2005 to 2015. As secretary-general, he has been a cheerleader for climate action, COVID-19 vaccines for all and digital cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations General Assembly on Friday, appointed UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for a second five-year term. "I will give it my all to ensure the blossoming of trust between and among nations large and small, to build bridges, and to engage relentlessly in confidence building," Guterres told the General Assembly after taking the oath of office.

United Nations General Assembly on Friday, appointed UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for a second five-year term. "I will give it my all to ensure the blossoming of trust between and among nations large and small, to build bridges, and to engage relentlessly in confidence building," Guterres told the General Assembly after taking the oath of office. His second term starts on January 1, 2022. The UN Security Council had recommended reappointment of Guterres earlier this month. Guterres succeeded Ban Ki-moon in January 2017, just weeks before Donald Trump became US president. Much of Guterres' first term was focused on placating Trump, who questioned the value of the United Nations and multilateralism. US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the United Nations faced historic challenges, but she hoped that with Guterres at the helm "the next five years will see more peace, more security, and more prosperity than the last." "It will require hard work, political will, and accountability from all UN member states," she said in a statement, adding every member states should have "an impassioned commitment" to human rights. The US is the largest financial contributor to the UN. It contributes 22 per cent of the regular budget and about quarter of the peacekeeping budget. US President Joe Biden has started restoring funding cuts made by Trump to UN agencies and re-engaged with the world body. Guterres, 72, was prime minister of Portugal from 1995 to 2002 and head of the UN refugee agency from 2005 to 2015. As secretary-general, he has been a cheerleader for climate action, COVID-19 vaccines for all and digital cooperation. (With inputs from agencies)

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reappointed for second term

India has been elected to the Economic and Social Council, one of the six main organs of the United Nations, for the 2022-24 term.

The 54-member Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is at the heart of the United Nations system to advance the three dimensions of sustainable development economic, social and environmental.

It is the central platform for fostering debate and innovative thinking, forging consensus on ways forward, and coordinating efforts to achieve internationally agreed goals.

It is also responsible for the follow-up to major UN conferences and summits.

India was elected in the Asia-Pacific States category along with Afghanistan, Kazakhstan and Oman in the elections held on Monday.

From the African states, Cte d'Ivoire, Eswatini, Mauritius, Tunisia and the United Republic of Tanzania were elected while from the eastern European states, Croatia and the Czech Republic and from the Latin American and Caribbean states, Belize, Chile and Peru were elected.

In the Economic and Social Council by-election, Greece, New Zealand and Denmark were elected for a term of office from January to December 2022 and Israel was elected for a term of office beginning January 1, 2022, and until December 31, 2023.

I thank all Member States of the @UN for their vote of confidence in India for #ECOSOC, India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti tweeted.

India is currently serving the 2021-22 term as a non-permanent member of the powerful UN Security Council and will assume the Presidency of the 15-nation UN organ in August.

The UN Charter established ECOSOC in 1945 as one of the six main organs of the United Nations.

ECOSOC's 54 members are elected for three-year terms by the General Assembly. Seats on the Council are allotted based on geographical representation with 14 allocated to African states, 11 to Asian states, six to Eastern European states, 10 to Latin American and Caribbean states and 13 to western European and other states, according to the ECOSOC website.

India has been elected to the Economic and Social Council, one of the six main organs of the United Nations, for the 2022-24 term. The 54-member Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is at the heart of the United Nations system to advance the three dimensions of sustainable development economic, social and environmental.

India has been elected to the Economic and Social Council, one of the six main organs of the United Nations, for the 2022-24 term. The 54-member Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is at the heart of the United Nations system to advance the three dimensions of sustainable development economic, social and environmental. It is the central platform for fostering debate and innovative thinking, forging consensus on ways forward, and coordinating efforts to achieve internationally agreed goals. It is also responsible for the follow-up to major UN conferences and summits. India was elected in the Asia-Pacific States category along with Afghanistan, Kazakhstan and Oman in the elections held on Monday. From the African states, Cte d'Ivoire, Eswatini, Mauritius, Tunisia and the United Republic of Tanzania were elected while from the eastern European states, Croatia and the Czech Republic and from the Latin American and Caribbean states, Belize, Chile and Peru were elected. In the Economic and Social Council by-election, Greece, New Zealand and Denmark were elected for a term of office from January to December 2022 and Israel was elected for a term of office beginning January 1, 2022, and until December 31, 2023. I thank all Member States of the @UN for their vote of confidence in India for #ECOSOC, India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti tweeted. India is currently serving the 2021-22 term as a non-permanent member of the powerful UN Security Council and will assume the Presidency of the 15-nation UN organ in August. The UN Charter established ECOSOC in 1945 as one of the six main organs of the United Nations. ECOSOC's 54 members are elected for three-year terms by the General Assembly. Seats on the Council are allotted based on geographical representation with 14 allocated to African states, 11 to Asian states, six to Eastern European states, 10 to Latin American and Caribbean states and 13 to western European and other states, according to the ECOSOC website.

India elected to UN Economic and Social Council for 2022-24 term

The president of United Nations' upcoming global summit to tackle climate change said that the in-person summit must go ahead. He was quoted by AFP

The 26th edition of the UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties -- COP26 -- marks the biggest climate summit since the 2015 Paris negotiation.

COP26 will involve negotiators from 196 countries and the European Union, along with businesses, experts and world leaders, and is scheduled to start November 1 in the Scottish city of Glasgow.

"We need to have a physical event. We cannot allow any further delay," COP26 President Alok Sharma told AFP in Dhaka.

"We've already delayed COP by one year and I'm afraid that during that year climate change has not abated. In fact, last year was the hottest year on record, the last decade was the hottest on record."

Sharma said that governments around the world have backed a physical event. He added that every precaution was being taken to ensure safety of delegates and the local community

"We are looking at all Covid-secure measures, including vaccines, to deal with this particular issue."

Nations around the world committed under the 2015 Paris accord to keeping the global temperature increase to under two degrees Celsius, and ideally closer to 1.5 degrees by 2050.

The upcoming talks are crucial to meeting the target.

"This is going to be the decisive decade. And we have to act now," Sharma said.

"All countries need to come forward, set out ambitious plans to cut their emissions, but also to be carbon neutral, to be net zero emissions by the middle of the century."

(With inputs from agencies)

The president of United Nations' upcoming global summit to tackle climate change said that the in-person summit must go ahead. He was quoted by AFP The 26th edition of the UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties -- COP26 -- marks the biggest climate summit since the 2015 Paris negotiation.

The president of United Nations' upcoming global summit to tackle climate change said that the in-person summit must go ahead. He was quoted by AFP The 26th edition of the UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties -- COP26 -- marks the biggest climate summit since the 2015 Paris negotiation. COP26 will involve negotiators from 196 countries and the European Union, along with businesses, experts and world leaders, and is scheduled to start November 1 in the Scottish city of Glasgow. "We need to have a physical event. We cannot allow any further delay," COP26 President Alok Sharma told AFP in Dhaka. "We've already delayed COP by one year and I'm afraid that during that year climate change has not abated. In fact, last year was the hottest year on record, the last decade was the hottest on record." Sharma said that governments around the world have backed a physical event. He added that every precaution was being taken to ensure safety of delegates and the local community "We are looking at all Covid-secure measures, including vaccines, to deal with this particular issue." Nations around the world committed under the 2015 Paris accord to keeping the global temperature increase to under two degrees Celsius, and ideally closer to 1.5 degrees by 2050. The upcoming talks are crucial to meeting the target. "This is going to be the decisive decade. And we have to act now," Sharma said. "All countries need to come forward, set out ambitious plans to cut their emissions, but also to be carbon neutral, to be net zero emissions by the middle of the century." (With inputs from agencies)

In-person UN summit termed 'key to addressing climate concerns'

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has crippled industries, plummeted economies and increased unemployment globally. On Wednesday, the United Nations said that the pandemic has pushed over 100 million moe people into poverty.&nbsp;

Owing to the pandemic, working hours have considerably decreased and good quality jobs are less fairly available.&nbsp; In a new report, the United Nation’s International Labour Organization (ILO) warned that the crisis in labour market caused by the pandemic is not over yet.

Employment levels will not return to pre-pandemic levels before 2023 based on the current trajectory. The report, titled World Employment and Social Outlook said that the world will be short of 75 million jobs by the end of 2021 compared to if there had been no pandemic.

Even by the next year, there would be 23 million fewer jobs than would have been in a normal scenario. ILO chief Guy Ryder told reporters that besides being a public health crisis, COVID-19 has been “an employment and human crisis”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-unemployment-claims-at-lowest-level-since-pandemic-began-373396" hreflang="en">US unemployment claims at lowest level since pandemic began</a>

"Without a deliberate effort to accelerate the creation of decent jobs, and support the most vulnerable members of society and the recovery of the hardest-hit economic sectors, the lingering effects of the pandemic could be with us for years in the form of lost human and economic potential, and higher poverty and inequality”, Ryder was cited as saying by AFP.

In 2019, the global unemployment stood at 187 million. The number will shoot up to 205 million people in 2022 and experts claim the real numbers are way worse.

Even among jobs that people retained, working hours have been cut tremendously. In 2020, 8.8 per cent of global working hours were lost compared to 2019. This means 255 million full-time jobs worth of time was lost!

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/is-unemployment-new-epidemic-spreading-across-china-296650" hreflang="en">Is unemployment new 'epidemic' spreading across China?</a>

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has crippled industries, plummeted economies and increased unemployment globally. On Wednesday, the United Nations said that the pandemic has pushed over 100 million moe people into poverty.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has crippled industries, plummeted economies and increased unemployment globally. On Wednesday, the United Nations said that the pandemic has pushed over 100 million moe people into poverty. Owing to the pandemic, working hours have considerably decreased and good quality jobs are less fairly available. In a new report, the United Nation’s International Labour Organization (ILO) warned that the crisis in labour market caused by the pandemic is not over yet. Employment levels will not return to pre-pandemic levels before 2023 based on the current trajectory. The report, titled World Employment and Social Outlook said that the world will be short of 75 million jobs by the end of 2021 compared to if there had been no pandemic. Even by the next year, there would be 23 million fewer jobs than would have been in a normal scenario. ILO chief Guy Ryder told reporters that besides being a public health crisis, COVID-19 has been “an employment and human crisis”. Also read: US unemployment claims at lowest level since pandemic began "Without a deliberate effort to accelerate the creation of decent jobs, and support the most vulnerable members of society and the recovery of the hardest-hit economic sectors, the lingering effects of the pandemic could be with us for years in the form of lost human and economic potential, and higher poverty and inequality”, Ryder was cited as saying by AFP. In 2019, the global unemployment stood at 187 million. The number will shoot up to 205 million people in 2022 and experts claim the real numbers are way worse. Even among jobs that people retained, working hours have been cut tremendously. In 2020, 8.8 per cent of global working hours were lost compared to 2019. This means 255 million full-time jobs worth of time was lost! Also read: Is unemployment new 'epidemic' spreading across China?

Covid pandemic has pushed 100 million more people into poverty, UN report reveals

United Nations special envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths reiterated his stance on Monday on reopening Yemen's ports in order to allow the flow of much-needed humanitarian aid. He is leading a global effort to secure end to fighting in Yemen. United Nations has already characterised the situation surrounding Yemen war as world's biggest humanitarian crisis.

No agreement has been reached despite all the parties agreeing to prioritise Yemen's humanitarian needs, according to Griffiths.

Houthi rebels who are fighting against the government have been demanding lifting of blockade at country's main port and airport in the capital. The Saudis, who are heading a coalition against Houthi rebels have said that a ceasefire deal must accompany reopening air and sea links. Houthis have not agreed to this.

The Houthis, who have controlled most of northern Yemen since 2014, are pressing an offensive to seize Yemen's gas-rich Marib region and have kept up cross-border attacks on Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi-led coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015 after the Houthis ousted a Saudi-backed government from the capital Sanaa. The Houthis say they are fighting a corrupt system and foreign aggression.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations special envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths reiterated his stance on Monday on reopening Yemen's ports in order to allow the flow of much-needed humanitarian aid.

United Nations special envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths reiterated his stance on Monday on reopening Yemen's ports in order to allow the flow of much-needed humanitarian aid. He is leading a global effort to secure end to fighting in Yemen. United Nations has already characterised the situation surrounding Yemen war as world's biggest humanitarian crisis. No agreement has been reached despite all the parties agreeing to prioritise Yemen's humanitarian needs, according to Griffiths. Houthi rebels who are fighting against the government have been demanding lifting of blockade at country's main port and airport in the capital. The Saudis, who are heading a coalition against Houthi rebels have said that a ceasefire deal must accompany reopening air and sea links. Houthis have not agreed to this. The Houthis, who have controlled most of northern Yemen since 2014, are pressing an offensive to seize Yemen's gas-rich Marib region and have kept up cross-border attacks on Saudi Arabia. The Saudi-led coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015 after the Houthis ousted a Saudi-backed government from the capital Sanaa. The Houthis say they are fighting a corrupt system and foreign aggression. (With inputs from agencies)

Yemen: UN envoy calls for reopening of ports, ceasefire

India welcomed Israel-Hamas ceasefire at a special session on Palestine at&nbsp;the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). The ceasefire was announced earlier this month after 11 days of violence from both sides.

The India statement said that (we) "welcome the diplomatic efforts of the international community and regional countries that have resulted in bringing ceasefire between Israel and armed groups in Gaza."

Significantly, India did not directly refer to Hamas in its statement but mentioned them as "armed groups".&nbsp;

Egypt played an important role to establish ceasefire and was the main channel of communication between Hamas and the West and Israel in bringing about the present situation. &nbsp;

The situation escalated after violence in Jerusalem and over possibility of eviction of Palestinians in Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighbourhoods. Over 200 Palestinian died in Gaza and 10 Israelis died in the rocket firing and violence.

The statement called for "all parties to show extreme restraint, desist from actions that aggravate tensions and refrain from any further attempts to unilaterally change the existing status-quo, including in East Jerusalem and its neighbourhoods."

India lost a national in Israel's Ashkelon in the firing from Gaza by Hamas. Soumya Santhosh, an Indian caregiver in Israel, died in the rocket attack and is survived by a 9-year-old son and her husband. In a warm gesture, Israeli diplomats were present at the airport when her mortal remains arrived and visited her house in Kerala to pay homage as well.

At the UNHRC statement, India expressed its "concern" over violence in Jerusalem and "indiscriminate rocket firings" from Gaza targetting the civilian population in Israel and "retaliatory air strikes into Gaza" &nbsp;that has caused "immense suffering".

New Delhi called for "dialogue" as it "remains the only viable option that can effectively address the issues confronting the region and its people", underscoring the "need for immediate resumption of dialogue between Israel and Palestine".

India had made the statement at the United Nations Security Council as well on the issue. The Israel-Palestine issue was also discussed at the top UN body, of which India is a non-permanent member for a two-year term period.

India welcomed Israel-Hamas ceasefire at a special session on Palestine at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). The ceasefire was announced earlier this month after 11 days of violence from both sides.

India welcomed Israel-Hamas ceasefire at a special session on Palestine at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). The ceasefire was announced earlier this month after 11 days of violence from both sides. The India statement said that (we) "welcome the diplomatic efforts of the international community and regional countries that have resulted in bringing ceasefire between Israel and armed groups in Gaza." Significantly, India did not directly refer to Hamas in its statement but mentioned them as "armed groups". Egypt played an important role to establish ceasefire and was the main channel of communication between Hamas and the West and Israel in bringing about the present situation. The situation escalated after violence in Jerusalem and over possibility of eviction of Palestinians in Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighbourhoods. Over 200 Palestinian died in Gaza and 10 Israelis died in the rocket firing and violence. The statement called for "all parties to show extreme restraint, desist from actions that aggravate tensions and refrain from any further attempts to unilaterally change the existing status-quo, including in East Jerusalem and its neighbourhoods." India lost a national in Israel's Ashkelon in the firing from Gaza by Hamas. Soumya Santhosh, an Indian caregiver in Israel, died in the rocket attack and is survived by a 9-year-old son and her husband. In a warm gesture, Israeli diplomats were present at the airport when her mortal remains arrived and visited her house in Kerala to pay homage as well. At the UNHRC statement, India expressed its "concern" over violence in Jerusalem and "indiscriminate rocket firings" from Gaza targetting the civilian population in Israel and "retaliatory air strikes into Gaza" that has caused "immense suffering". New Delhi called for "dialogue" as it "remains the only viable option that can effectively address the issues confronting the region and its people", underscoring the "need for immediate resumption of dialogue between Israel and Palestine". India had made the statement at the United Nations Security Council as well on the issue. The Israel-Palestine issue was also discussed at the top UN body, of which India is a non-permanent member for a two-year term period.

At UNHRC, India welcomes Israel-Hamas ceasefire

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said on Thursday that Israel's recent deadly airstrikes in Gaza may constitute 'war crimes'.

Bachelet added that she hasn't seen any evidence that showed that the attacked buildings were used for military purposes. She was addressing a special session of the UN.

Bachelet voiced deep concern about the surge in deadly violence between Israelis and Palestinians.

"Although Israel undertook a number of precautions, such as advance warning of attacks in some cases, air strikes in such densely populated areas resulted in a high level of civilian fatalities and injuries, as well as the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure," the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said.

"If found to be indiscriminate and disproportionate in their impact on civilians and civilian objects, such attacks may constitute war crimes."

Before a truce took hold last Friday, Israeli air strikes and artillery fire on Gaza killed 253 Palestinians, including 66 children, and wounded more than 1,900 people in 11 days of conflict, the health ministry in Gaza says.&nbsp;

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Rocket and other fire from Gaza claimed 12 lives in Israel, including one child and an Arab-Israeli teenager, medics say. Some 357 people in Israel were wounded.

Bachelet called on "Hamas and all armed groups to refrain from use of indiscriminate rockets and mortars, for which there must be accountability".&nbsp;

"There is no doubt that Israel has the right to defend its citizens and residents," she said. "However, Palestinians have rights too. The same rights."&nbsp;

The UN rights chief highlighted the scale of the destruction in Gaza.

"Although reportedly targeting members of armed groups and their military infrastructure, Israeli attacks resulted in extensive civilian deaths and injuries, as well as large-scale destruction and damage to civilian objects," she said.

Bachelet pointed out that governmental buildings, residential homes, international humanitarian organisations, medical facilities and media offices had been hit.&nbsp;

"Despite Israel's claims that many of these buildings were hosting armed groups or being used for military purposes, we have not seen evidence in this regard," she said.

United Nations' 47-member human rights council was debating a draft resolution to launch broad international investigation into violations surrounding the latest Gaza violence, but also of "systematic" abuses in the Palestinian territories and inside Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said on Thursday that Israel's recent deadly airstrikes in Gaza may constitute 'war crimes'. Bachelet added that she hasn't seen any evidence that showed that the attacked buildings were used for military purposes.

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said on Thursday that Israel's recent deadly airstrikes in Gaza may constitute 'war crimes'. Bachelet added that she hasn't seen any evidence that showed that the attacked buildings were used for military purposes. She was addressing a special session of the UN. Bachelet voiced deep concern about the surge in deadly violence between Israelis and Palestinians. "Although Israel undertook a number of precautions, such as advance warning of attacks in some cases, air strikes in such densely populated areas resulted in a high level of civilian fatalities and injuries, as well as the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure," the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said. "If found to be indiscriminate and disproportionate in their impact on civilians and civilian objects, such attacks may constitute war crimes." Before a truce took hold last Friday, Israeli air strikes and artillery fire on Gaza killed 253 Palestinians, including 66 children, and wounded more than 1,900 people in 11 days of conflict, the health ministry in Gaza says. Also Read | Ireland first European country to declare Israeli settlements 'annexation' Rocket and other fire from Gaza claimed 12 lives in Israel, including one child and an Arab-Israeli teenager, medics say. Some 357 people in Israel were wounded. Bachelet called on "Hamas and all armed groups to refrain from use of indiscriminate rockets and mortars, for which there must be accountability". "There is no doubt that Israel has the right to defend its citizens and residents," she said. "However, Palestinians have rights too. The same rights." The UN rights chief highlighted the scale of the destruction in Gaza. "Although reportedly targeting members of armed groups and their military infrastructure, Israeli attacks resulted in extensive civilian deaths and injuries, as well as large-scale destruction and damage to civilian objects," she said. Bachelet pointed out that governmental buildings, residential homes, international humanitarian organisations, medical facilities and media offices had been hit. "Despite Israel's claims that many of these buildings were hosting armed groups or being used for military purposes, we have not seen evidence in this regard," she said. United Nations' 47-member human rights council was debating a draft resolution to launch broad international investigation into violations surrounding the latest Gaza violence, but also of "systematic" abuses in the Palestinian territories and inside Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli attacks on Gaza may constitute war crimes: UN Human Rights chief

At a debate on safety and security of UN peacekeepers at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Monday, India said it is&nbsp;"proud" of its "contribution", highlighting the recent role played by Indian brigade in the aftermath of volcanic eruption in DR Congo.&nbsp;

Speaking at the debate,&nbsp;India's Deputy Permanent Representative Nagaraj Naidu said,"India is proud of its long and rich tradition of contribution to UN peacekeeping operations... Even as Ispeak today, an Indian peacekeepers brigade stationed in Goma (DRC) are saving lives of civilians stranded in the aftermath of the Mount Nayargongo eruption in DRC."

Indian forces part of the MONUSCO or United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo played a key role in safeguarding civilians and UN assets when the eruption took place.&nbsp;MONUSCO has 14,000 total military personnel including 2,200 Indians, making India the largest troop-contributing country.

India has contributed in many ways to strengthen UN peacekeeping. Earlier this year it&nbsp;delivered 200,000 doses of made-in-India COVID-19 vaccines, which has helped vaccinate&nbsp;140,000 field personnel. Nagraj Naidu said, "During the pandemic, India readily answered the Secretary General’s call by upgrading its hospitals in UNMISS or United Nations Mission in South Sudan and MONUSCO or&nbsp;United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo".

India is also working with UN's Department of Peacekeeping Operations for development of a mobile tech platform – UNITE AWARE, which, India's deputy envoy said will help "increase situational awareness and provides terrain related information to peacekeepers." India has contributed $1.64 million towards it and will be launching it in August when it will be chair of the United Nations Security Council for that month.

India’s Centre for UN Peacekeeping (CUNPK) which was set up in 2000 will be signing an MOU with C4ISR Academy for Peace Operations for new training modules for UN peacekeepers. It has also pledged a helicopter unit for MINUSMA or&nbsp;United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali and upgraded its medical facilities at MONUSCO (Goma) and UNMISS (Juba).

At the debate, India gave few suggestions to strengthen peacekeeping which involved pointing out that "peacekeeping missions cannot be a long-term response to what are fundamentally political problems" and "it is for the council to address these issues rather than burden peacekeeping missions beyond their mandate."

The statement said, "The Security Council needs to authorize carefully thought-out mandates to peacekeepers in close consultation with troop contributing countries since protection of peacekeepers is as important as protection of civilians.".&nbsp;

India is one of the major troop contributing countries&nbsp;to the UN's peacekeeping forces. It&nbsp;has&nbsp;contributed more than 250,000 troops in 49 UN peacekeeping missions in which&nbsp;175 of its peacekeepers laid&nbsp;down their lives.&nbsp;

At a debate on safety and security of UN peacekeepers at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Monday, India said it is "proud" of its "contribution", highlighting the recent role played by Indian brigade in the aftermath of volcanic eruption in DR Congo.

At a debate on safety and security of UN peacekeepers at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Monday, India said it is "proud" of its "contribution", highlighting the recent role played by Indian brigade in the aftermath of volcanic eruption in DR Congo. Speaking at the debate, India's Deputy Permanent Representative Nagaraj Naidu said,"India is proud of its long and rich tradition of contribution to UN peacekeeping operations... Even as Ispeak today, an Indian peacekeepers brigade stationed in Goma (DRC) are saving lives of civilians stranded in the aftermath of the Mount Nayargongo eruption in DRC." Indian forces part of the MONUSCO or United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo played a key role in safeguarding civilians and UN assets when the eruption took place. MONUSCO has 14,000 total military personnel including 2,200 Indians, making India the largest troop-contributing country. India has contributed in many ways to strengthen UN peacekeeping. Earlier this year it delivered 200,000 doses of made-in-India COVID-19 vaccines, which has helped vaccinate 140,000 field personnel. Nagraj Naidu said, "During the pandemic, India readily answered the Secretary General’s call by upgrading its hospitals in UNMISS or United Nations Mission in South Sudan and MONUSCO or United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo". India is also working with UN's Department of Peacekeeping Operations for development of a mobile tech platform – UNITE AWARE, which, India's deputy envoy said will help "increase situational awareness and provides terrain related information to peacekeepers." India has contributed $1.64 million towards it and will be launching it in August when it will be chair of the United Nations Security Council for that month. India’s Centre for UN Peacekeeping (CUNPK) which was set up in 2000 will be signing an MOU with C4ISR Academy for Peace Operations for new training modules for UN peacekeepers. It has also pledged a helicopter unit for MINUSMA or United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali and upgraded its medical facilities at MONUSCO (Goma) and UNMISS (Juba). At the debate, India gave few suggestions to strengthen peacekeeping which involved pointing out that "peacekeeping missions cannot be a long-term response to what are fundamentally political problems" and "it is for the council to address these issues rather than burden peacekeeping missions beyond their mandate." The statement said, "The Security Council needs to authorize carefully thought-out mandates to peacekeepers in close consultation with troop contributing countries since protection of peacekeepers is as important as protection of civilians.". India is one of the major troop contributing countries to the UN's peacekeeping forces. It has contributed more than 250,000 troops in 49 UN peacekeeping missions in which 175 of its peacekeepers laid down their lives.

Proud of contribution to UN peacekeeping operations: India at UNSC while highlighting country's role in Congo after volcanic eruption

Top United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator for the Palestinian territories Lynn Hastings observed situation in airstrike-hit Gaza and appealed both sides to observe ceasefire. Aid teams are currently assessing damage in rubble-strewn Gaza that has taken a lot of beating in the 11-day conflict between Israel and Hamas. The ceasefire between both sides began early on Friday (May 21).

"Last night was calm, and we hope obviously that it is going to hold and everybody just needs to stand down and not to engage in any provocative moves," Lynn Hastings, U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator for the Palestinian territories, said in Gaza City.

Hastings stopped to talk to survivors on heavily damaged Wehda Street (Unity Street), where Palestinian health officials said 42 people had been killed, including 22 members of one family, during the Israeli air strikes.

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"All my ideas and dreams have ended. I have no more hopes in life," Riyad Eshkuntana, who lost his wife and four of his five children, told Hastings. "Under the rubble, my children were screaming, and I heard them. Their voices stopped one after another."

Israel has maintained that its airstrike was targetting the Hamas underground tunnel network and civilians were not the target.

Standing by the rubble of residential buildings, Hastings said she had seen more than just damaged infrastructure.

"I have been speaking to the families here and what they all said is that they have no hope, they feel that they have no control of their lives and their situation is, one woman said, helpless," she told Reuters.

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US&nbsp;President Joe Biden has said Washington will work with U.N. agencies on expediting humanitarian aid for Gaza "in a manner that does not permit Hamas to simply restock its military arsenal".

Hastings said suitable mechanisms were already in place and had been active since a war in 2014.

She cited the "Gaza Reconstruction Mechanism" agreed among Israel, the United Nations and the Palestinian Authority under President Mahmoud Abbas, a Hamas rival who governs the occupied West Bank but has negligible influence within Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies)

Top United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator for the Palestinian territories Lynn Hastings observed situation in airstrike-hit Gaza and appealed both sides to observe ceasefire.

Top United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator for the Palestinian territories Lynn Hastings observed situation in airstrike-hit Gaza and appealed both sides to observe ceasefire. Aid teams are currently assessing damage in rubble-strewn Gaza that has taken a lot of beating in the 11-day conflict between Israel and Hamas. The ceasefire between both sides began early on Friday (May 21). "Last night was calm, and we hope obviously that it is going to hold and everybody just needs to stand down and not to engage in any provocative moves," Lynn Hastings, U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator for the Palestinian territories, said in Gaza City. Hastings stopped to talk to survivors on heavily damaged Wehda Street (Unity Street), where Palestinian health officials said 42 people had been killed, including 22 members of one family, during the Israeli air strikes. × "All my ideas and dreams have ended. I have no more hopes in life," Riyad Eshkuntana, who lost his wife and four of his five children, told Hastings. "Under the rubble, my children were screaming, and I heard them. Their voices stopped one after another." Israel has maintained that its airstrike was targetting the Hamas underground tunnel network and civilians were not the target. Standing by the rubble of residential buildings, Hastings said she had seen more than just damaged infrastructure. "I have been speaking to the families here and what they all said is that they have no hope, they feel that they have no control of their lives and their situation is, one woman said, helpless," she told Reuters. Also Read | Ceasefire between Israel and Gaza holds as Egyptian mediators eye long-term peace US President Joe Biden has said Washington will work with U.N. agencies on expediting humanitarian aid for Gaza "in a manner that does not permit Hamas to simply restock its military arsenal". Hastings said suitable mechanisms were already in place and had been active since a war in 2014. She cited the "Gaza Reconstruction Mechanism" agreed among Israel, the United Nations and the Palestinian Authority under President Mahmoud Abbas, a Hamas rival who governs the occupied West Bank but has negligible influence within Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

UN humanitarian aid chief tours Gaza to assess damage, presses both sides

United Nations envoy for Libya, Jan Kubis on Friday told Security Council that progress on issues such as the withdrawal of foreign mercenaries and reopening the road connecting the country's east with its west had "stalled". Kubis was speaking to the Council via video. He warned that the delays could undermine a ceasefire agreement between the country's warring sides.&nbsp;

"Progress on key issues such as the reopening of the coastal road between Sirte and Misrata and the start of the withdrawal of foreign mercenaries, fighters and foreign forces has stalled," he said.

"Further delays in reopening the road work against efforts to build trust between the two sides and could undermine efforts to advance the implementation of the ceasefire agreement, to advance the political transition," he said.

US ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield also criticized the lack of political progress.&nbsp;

"It's time for the Libyan leadership to clarify the constitutional basis for the election (planned for December 24), pass the required legislation and ensure elections are not delayed," she said, calling for progress before July 1.

Kubis also said the continued presence of foreign fighters and armed groups "is a significant threat not just to Libya security, but to the region as a whole."

He said it was "critical" to ensure "an orderly departure" and disarm them.&nbsp;

Thomas-Greenfield agreed, saying that "external actors involved in the conflict must cease their military interference and begin to withdraw from Libya immediately."

"There is no room for interpretation here. All means all," she continued.&nbsp;

According to the UN, more than 20,000 foreign mercenaries and military personnel are still in Libya. They include Turkish, Russian, Sudanese and Chadian mercenaries.

Unlike the Russian mercenaries who supported the authorities in the east of the country, Turkey says its troops sent to Tripoli were sent under a bilateral agreement with the government, implying that they are not affected by a request for foreign troops to leave.&nbsp;

The fear that armed groups will leave Libya to deploy in the region was again raised by several Security Council members, who recalled the recent destabilization in Chad that led to the death of its president Idriss Deby.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

United Nations envoy for Libya, Jan Kubis on Friday told Security Council that progress on issues such as the withdrawal of foreign mercenaries and reopening the road connecting the country's east with its west had "stalled".

United Nations envoy for Libya, Jan Kubis on Friday told Security Council that progress on issues such as the withdrawal of foreign mercenaries and reopening the road connecting the country's east with its west had "stalled". Kubis was speaking to the Council via video. He warned that the delays could undermine a ceasefire agreement between the country's warring sides. "Progress on key issues such as the reopening of the coastal road between Sirte and Misrata and the start of the withdrawal of foreign mercenaries, fighters and foreign forces has stalled," he said. "Further delays in reopening the road work against efforts to build trust between the two sides and could undermine efforts to advance the implementation of the ceasefire agreement, to advance the political transition," he said. US ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield also criticized the lack of political progress. "It's time for the Libyan leadership to clarify the constitutional basis for the election (planned for December 24), pass the required legislation and ensure elections are not delayed," she said, calling for progress before July 1. Kubis also said the continued presence of foreign fighters and armed groups "is a significant threat not just to Libya security, but to the region as a whole." He said it was "critical" to ensure "an orderly departure" and disarm them. Thomas-Greenfield agreed, saying that "external actors involved in the conflict must cease their military interference and begin to withdraw from Libya immediately." "There is no room for interpretation here. All means all," she continued. According to the UN, more than 20,000 foreign mercenaries and military personnel are still in Libya. They include Turkish, Russian, Sudanese and Chadian mercenaries. Unlike the Russian mercenaries who supported the authorities in the east of the country, Turkey says its troops sent to Tripoli were sent under a bilateral agreement with the government, implying that they are not affected by a request for foreign troops to leave. The fear that armed groups will leave Libya to deploy in the region was again raised by several Security Council members, who recalled the recent destabilization in Chad that led to the death of its president Idriss Deby. (With inputs from agencies)

Progress in Libya 'stalled', says UN

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