Afghan President Ashraf Ghani spoke at the 2020 Afghanistan conference hosted by the United Nations. He thanked the NATO nations for support against terrorism.

Your Story: Afghan Prez thanks NATO nations for support against terrorism

Britain said it will pledge $227 million in annual civilian and food aid for Afghanistan at a conference on Tuesday in Geneva where officials from about 70 countries and humanitarian organisations will pledge billions of dollars for the war-torn nation.

Dependent on foreign aid, Afghanistan is at risk of receiving 15-20% less funding than it received at the previous donor conference four years ago, diplomats say, as governments are under intense pressure to make savings as they ramp up spending to help their own economies recover from impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-says-escape-route-from-coronavirus-in-sight-344966">Boris Johnson says 'escape route' from coronavirus 'in sight'</a>

Withholding funds at this point, diplomats say, could at least provide foreign governments with some leverage to inject a greater sense of urgency into peace talks between the Afghan government and Taliban representatives that began in Qatar in September.

Britain, a country with a long and difficult history of involvement in Afghanistan, is the country's third largest bilateral donor, and the amount being pledged in Geneva will be slightly higher than it pledged at the last donor conference in Brussels four years ago.

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The statement issued by the UK Mission to the United Nations and World Trade Organisation in Geneva said 155 million pounds ($207 million) would be pledged to support peace and stability in Afghanistan and "improve access to education and vital infrastructure."

Britain would "also announce an extra 15 million pounds ($20 million) to the United Nations' World Food Programme" for Afghanistan.

The latest monetary commitment is separate from the 70 million pounds ($93.32 million) security pledge for Afghan forces for 2021, which Britain announced last month.

In Brussels in 2016, Britain had pledged a total of 750 million pounds for four years, which translated into 187.5 million pounds annually.

At the Brussels conference, Afghanistan obtained total pledges of $15.2 billion for 2017 to 2020, equivalent to $3.8 billion a year.

Britain said it will pledge $227 million in annual civilian and food aid for Afghanistan at a conference on Tuesday in Geneva where officials from about 70 countries and humanitarian organisations will pledge billions of dollars for the war-torn nation.

Britain said it will pledge $227 million in annual civilian and food aid for Afghanistan at a conference on Tuesday in Geneva where officials from about 70 countries and humanitarian organisations will pledge billions of dollars for the war-torn nation. Dependent on foreign aid, Afghanistan is at risk of receiving 15-20% less funding than it received at the previous donor conference four years ago, diplomats say, as governments are under intense pressure to make savings as they ramp up spending to help their own economies recover from impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Also read| Boris Johnson says 'escape route' from coronavirus 'in sight' Withholding funds at this point, diplomats say, could at least provide foreign governments with some leverage to inject a greater sense of urgency into peace talks between the Afghan government and Taliban representatives that began in Qatar in September. Britain, a country with a long and difficult history of involvement in Afghanistan, is the country's third largest bilateral donor, and the amount being pledged in Geneva will be slightly higher than it pledged at the last donor conference in Brussels four years ago. Also read | No 'normal' Christmas this year, says Britain's Finance Minister Rishi Sunak The statement issued by the UK Mission to the United Nations and World Trade Organisation in Geneva said 155 million pounds ($207 million) would be pledged to support peace and stability in Afghanistan and "improve access to education and vital infrastructure." Britain would "also announce an extra 15 million pounds ($20 million) to the United Nations' World Food Programme" for Afghanistan. The latest monetary commitment is separate from the 70 million pounds ($93.32 million) security pledge for Afghan forces for 2021, which Britain announced last month. In Brussels in 2016, Britain had pledged a total of 750 million pounds for four years, which translated into 187.5 million pounds annually. At the Brussels conference, Afghanistan obtained total pledges of $15.2 billion for 2017 to 2020, equivalent to $3.8 billion a year.

Britain pledges $227 million annual civilian and food aid to Afghanistan

Fugitive auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn's multiple arrests and detentions in Japan before he dramatically fled the country last year were "arbitrary", UN experts have ruled, urging Tokyo to pay him compensation.

In an opinion dated late last week and harshly condemned by Japan, the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention concluded that "the process of arresting and detaining Mr. Ghosn four times was fundamentally unfair".

The working group, made up of five independent experts who do not speak on behalf of the United Nations and whose opinions are not binding, stressed that its findings did not pertain to the accusations against Ghosn, but only to the conditions surrounding his detention.

It ruled that the now 66-year-old's detention was "arbitrary", and also voiced concern that his bail conditions had been "unusually strict", especially during the second period when he was barred from all contact with his wife, other than through lawyers.

The experts called on Tokyo to "take the steps necessary to remedy the situation of Mr. Ghosn without delay".

"The appropriate remedy would be to accord Mr. Ghosn an enforceable right to compensation and other reparations, in accordance with international law," it said.

The ex-Nissan chief's lawyers Francois Zimeray and Jessica Finelle hailed the "courageous decision", saying it represented "a decisive turning point."

'Totally unacceptable'

But the Japanese government slammed the findings, saying it "deeply regrets" that the experts had "rendered opinions based on limited information and biased allegations", and not on "accurate understanding of Japan’s criminal justice system."

"The opinion is totally unacceptable."

Ghosn was dramatically arrested over financial misconduct allegations in November 2018 as he stepped off his private jet in Tokyo.&nbsp;

He was granted bail after a few months, but was rearrested three more times, spending a total of 130 days in detention, before eventually smuggling himself out of Japan and fleeing to Lebanon, arriving in Beirut on December 30.

Brazilian-born Ghosn, who also holds French and Lebanese citizenship, has denied the allegations against him.

The UN working group has no power to compel states to follow its rulings, but its decisions carry reputational weight.

In their opinion, the experts urged Japan "to ensure a full and independent investigation of the circumstances surrounding the arbitrary detention of Mr. Ghosn, and to take appropriate measures against those responsible for the violation of his rights."

It requested that Tokyo within six months inform it of whether such an investigation had been undertaken and whether Ghosn had received compensation or reparations.

In its statement Monday, the Japanese government said it would provide the working group with some details to help it rectify a number of "obvious factual errors", including on the time Ghosn had spent in detention without being brought before a judge.

But it stressed that it was inappropriate for the working group to have considered the case, insisting it was common practice to detain suspects likely to destroy evidence or skip bail.

"Flight from a criminal trial, in violation of the conditions a defendant promised to respect upon his or her release on bail, is not condoned under any nation’s legal system."

The working group's findings, it warned, could "encourage those who would stand criminal trial to entertain the idea that flight can be justified and prevent the realisation of justice and the proper functioning of the criminal justice system in each country."

66-year-old with French, Lebanese and Brazilian citizenship, led Japanese carmaker Nissan for 20 years, rescuing it from near-bankruptcy.

Fugitive auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn's multiple arrests and detentions in Japan before he dramatically fled the country last year were "arbitrary", UN experts have ruled, urging Tokyo to pay him compensation.

Fugitive auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn's multiple arrests and detentions in Japan before he dramatically fled the country last year were "arbitrary", UN experts have ruled, urging Tokyo to pay him compensation. In an opinion dated late last week and harshly condemned by Japan, the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention concluded that "the process of arresting and detaining Mr. Ghosn four times was fundamentally unfair". The working group, made up of five independent experts who do not speak on behalf of the United Nations and whose opinions are not binding, stressed that its findings did not pertain to the accusations against Ghosn, but only to the conditions surrounding his detention. It ruled that the now 66-year-old's detention was "arbitrary", and also voiced concern that his bail conditions had been "unusually strict", especially during the second period when he was barred from all contact with his wife, other than through lawyers. The experts called on Tokyo to "take the steps necessary to remedy the situation of Mr. Ghosn without delay". "The appropriate remedy would be to accord Mr. Ghosn an enforceable right to compensation and other reparations, in accordance with international law," it said. The ex-Nissan chief's lawyers Francois Zimeray and Jessica Finelle hailed the "courageous decision", saying it represented "a decisive turning point." 'Totally unacceptable' But the Japanese government slammed the findings, saying it "deeply regrets" that the experts had "rendered opinions based on limited information and biased allegations", and not on "accurate understanding of Japan’s criminal justice system." "The opinion is totally unacceptable." Ghosn was dramatically arrested over financial misconduct allegations in November 2018 as he stepped off his private jet in Tokyo. He was granted bail after a few months, but was rearrested three more times, spending a total of 130 days in detention, before eventually smuggling himself out of Japan and fleeing to Lebanon, arriving in Beirut on December 30. Brazilian-born Ghosn, who also holds French and Lebanese citizenship, has denied the allegations against him. The UN working group has no power to compel states to follow its rulings, but its decisions carry reputational weight. In their opinion, the experts urged Japan "to ensure a full and independent investigation of the circumstances surrounding the arbitrary detention of Mr. Ghosn, and to take appropriate measures against those responsible for the violation of his rights." It requested that Tokyo within six months inform it of whether such an investigation had been undertaken and whether Ghosn had received compensation or reparations. In its statement Monday, the Japanese government said it would provide the working group with some details to help it rectify a number of "obvious factual errors", including on the time Ghosn had spent in detention without being brought before a judge. But it stressed that it was inappropriate for the working group to have considered the case, insisting it was common practice to detain suspects likely to destroy evidence or skip bail. "Flight from a criminal trial, in violation of the conditions a defendant promised to respect upon his or her release on bail, is not condoned under any nation’s legal system." The working group's findings, it warned, could "encourage those who would stand criminal trial to entertain the idea that flight can be justified and prevent the realisation of justice and the proper functioning of the criminal justice system in each country." 66-year-old with French, Lebanese and Brazilian citizenship, led Japanese carmaker Nissan for 20 years, rescuing it from near-bankruptcy.

Japan should compensate Ghosn for 'arbitrary' detention: UN panel

The chief of United Nations High Commission&nbsp;for Refugees (UNHCR) Filippo Grandi on Monday urged the international community to continue aiding Afghanistan or risk “disastrous consequences”.

Grandi was speaking at a donors conference in Geneva, where he made his appeal after visiting Afghanistan. Right now, the country is eclipsed by violence, the risk of which continues to linger with US troops pullout happening soon.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/taliban-using-drones-to-target-government-forces-afghanistan-spy-chief-344908" hreflang="en">Taliban using drones to target government forces: Afghanistan spy chief</a>

Grandi added that the future of millions of Afghans is dependent on the peace talks that are taking place in Qatar. He also urged the international community to commit to developing the country.

"Failure on either account would see Afghanistan slide backwards with disastrous consequences, including further displacement possibly on a large scale," Grandi said in a statement.

Every four years, donors meet to pledge aid for Afghanistan, which is heavily dependent on foreign assistance.&nbsp; Grandi claimed that 300,000 Afghans who were displaced within Afghanistan required acute humanitarian support.

Over three million people were previously displaced in the country, where nine million people have also lost their livelihoods due to COVID-19. Grandi also pushed for the culmination of peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban.

Also read: A<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-resolve-several-disputed-issues-officials-344739" hreflang="en">fghanistan, Taliban resolve several disputed issues: Officials</a>

The country’s president Ashraf Ghani had urged the world community to come up with a framework which could help Afghanistan achieve peace.

Help could "guarantee peace and political stability and contain and eliminate the interrelated threats of terrorist networks”, Ghani said in a video call.

The chief of United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) Filippo Grandi on Monday urged the international community to continue aiding Afghanistan or risk “disastrous consequences”.

The chief of United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) Filippo Grandi on Monday urged the international community to continue aiding Afghanistan or risk “disastrous consequences”. Grandi was speaking at a donors conference in Geneva, where he made his appeal after visiting Afghanistan. Right now, the country is eclipsed by violence, the risk of which continues to linger with US troops pullout happening soon. Also read: Taliban using drones to target government forces: Afghanistan spy chief Grandi added that the future of millions of Afghans is dependent on the peace talks that are taking place in Qatar. He also urged the international community to commit to developing the country. "Failure on either account would see Afghanistan slide backwards with disastrous consequences, including further displacement possibly on a large scale," Grandi said in a statement. Every four years, donors meet to pledge aid for Afghanistan, which is heavily dependent on foreign assistance. Grandi claimed that 300,000 Afghans who were displaced within Afghanistan required acute humanitarian support. Over three million people were previously displaced in the country, where nine million people have also lost their livelihoods due to COVID-19. Grandi also pushed for the culmination of peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban. Also read: Afghanistan, Taliban resolve several disputed issues: Officials The country’s president Ashraf Ghani had urged the world community to come up with a framework which could help Afghanistan achieve peace. Help could "guarantee peace and political stability and contain and eliminate the interrelated threats of terrorist networks”, Ghani said in a video call.

Global community must help Afghanistan to avoid 'disastrous consequences': UNHCR

United Nations chief warned on Friday that war-torn Yemen is in imminent danger of the world's worst famine in decades.&nbsp;

"In the absence of immediate action, millions of lives may be lost," said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/war-torn-yemen-on-brink-of-losing-an-entire-generation-of-children-to-hunger-un-338662">War-torn Yemen on brink of losing an entire generation of children to hunger: UN</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The war-torn nation has suffered a five-year war between Iranian-backed Huthi rebels and government-backed by Saudi Arabia, the United States and other Western nations.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-reveal-real-covid-19-death-toll-in-yemen-338476">Satellite images reveal real COVID-19 death toll in Yemen</a>

The UN chief's warning comes at a time when Trump administration is considering labelling the Huthis a terror group, a move that could further escalate the crisis.&nbsp;

Aid groups say that the US's action could affect aid deliveries also.&nbsp;

"I urge all those with influence to act urgently on these issues to stave off catastrophe, and I also request that everyone avoids taking any action that could make the already dire situation even worse," Guterres said.&nbsp;

The UN chief later told reporters that the US's move to label Huthis could further destabilize a "very fragile situation".&nbsp;

"We believe that any other unilateral initiative will probably not be positive. I don't think we should rock the boat at the present moment," he said. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

United Nations chief warned on Friday that war-torn Yemen is in imminent danger of the world's worst famine in decades. "In the absence of immediate action, millions of lives may be lost," said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, as quoted by news agency AFP.

United Nations chief warned on Friday that war-torn Yemen is in imminent danger of the world's worst famine in decades. "In the absence of immediate action, millions of lives may be lost," said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, as quoted by news agency AFP. Also read | War-torn Yemen on brink of losing an entire generation of children to hunger: UN The war-torn nation has suffered a five-year war between Iranian-backed Huthi rebels and government-backed by Saudi Arabia, the United States and other Western nations. Also read | Satellite images reveal real COVID-19 death toll in Yemen The UN chief's warning comes at a time when Trump administration is considering labelling the Huthis a terror group, a move that could further escalate the crisis. Aid groups say that the US's action could affect aid deliveries also. "I urge all those with influence to act urgently on these issues to stave off catastrophe, and I also request that everyone avoids taking any action that could make the already dire situation even worse," Guterres said. The UN chief later told reporters that the US's move to label Huthis could further destabilize a "very fragile situation". "We believe that any other unilateral initiative will probably not be positive. I don't think we should rock the boat at the present moment," he said.

Yemen in 'imminent danger' of world's worst famine in decades, warns UN

In a strongly-worded statement, India has slammed Pakistan at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for destabilizing Afghanistan, saying, "terror flow across Durand line should stop". Durand Line is the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.&nbsp;

India's envoy to United Nations, TS Tirumurti speaking at Arria Formula Meeting of United Nations Security Council said, "There needs to be zero tolerance of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations....It is important to ensure that no one provides sanctuary to terrorists who threaten Afghanistan or any other country in the region. Those who do so must be held accountable."

The number of terror attacks in Afghanistan has had links in Pakistan, and the long, porous border has helped the easy movement of terrorists. Report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team under the Al-Qaeda/Da’esh Sanctions Committee of UN has pointed out the presence of foreign fighters in Afghanistan, many of which include Pakistani nationals.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/al-qaeda-chief-ayman-al-zawahiri-may-have-died-in-afghanistan-report-344314">Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri may have died in Afghanistan: Report</a>

Tirumurti also pointed out, how Pakistan has not allowed "full transit rights to Afghanistan", hindering trade and connectivity between India and Afghanistan. He explained, how it is being used by "States to extract a political price from Afghanistan" and "the international community should discourage medieval mentalities and work towards removal of artificial transit barriers imposed on Afghanistan."

To increase connectivity, India has started an air corridor with Afghanistan and also via Chabahar port in Iran. In fact, amidst the COVID pandemic, New Delhi sent 75000 MT of wheat to the country to deal with the crisis.&nbsp;

On the Afghan peace process, the envoy reiterated India's stance that the process must be "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" and "solutions must come from the Afghans themselves, in line with the wishes and aspirations of the all sections of Afghan society."

He also said, "gains of the last two decades" especially rights of women and minorities should be "strongly protected" and "safeguarded."&nbsp;

This year saw the US-Taliban pact and the start of the intra-Afghan ties between the Afghan govt and Taliban, but the violence level remains high in the country. America plans to substantially reduce troops level in Afghanistan by January, even hostilities on the ground continue.&nbsp;

India has played an important role in the development of Afghanistan since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. It has helped build mega infrastructure projects like Afghanistan-India Friendship Dam in Herat, the Afghan National Parliament building in Kabul, and the electricity supply grid between Kabul and northern Afghanistan and capacity building.

As the envoy had put, "India and Afghanistan are contiguous neighbors. We are connected together by centuries of historical, people-to-people, and cultural relations. India has stood resolutely behind the Government and people of Afghanistan and has supported the development of Afghanistan."

New Delhi has also been involved in over 400 high impact community development projects spread across 34 provinces of Afghanistan.

In a strongly-worded statement, India has slammed Pakistan at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for destabilizing Afghanistan, saying, "terror flow across Durand line should stop".

In a strongly-worded statement, India has slammed Pakistan at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for destabilizing Afghanistan, saying, "terror flow across Durand line should stop". Durand Line is the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. India's envoy to United Nations, TS Tirumurti speaking at Arria Formula Meeting of United Nations Security Council said, "There needs to be zero tolerance of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations....It is important to ensure that no one provides sanctuary to terrorists who threaten Afghanistan or any other country in the region. Those who do so must be held accountable." The number of terror attacks in Afghanistan has had links in Pakistan, and the long, porous border has helped the easy movement of terrorists. Report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team under the Al-Qaeda/Da’esh Sanctions Committee of UN has pointed out the presence of foreign fighters in Afghanistan, many of which include Pakistani nationals. Also Read | Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri may have died in Afghanistan: Report Tirumurti also pointed out, how Pakistan has not allowed "full transit rights to Afghanistan", hindering trade and connectivity between India and Afghanistan. He explained, how it is being used by "States to extract a political price from Afghanistan" and "the international community should discourage medieval mentalities and work towards removal of artificial transit barriers imposed on Afghanistan." To increase connectivity, India has started an air corridor with Afghanistan and also via Chabahar port in Iran. In fact, amidst the COVID pandemic, New Delhi sent 75000 MT of wheat to the country to deal with the crisis. On the Afghan peace process, the envoy reiterated India's stance that the process must be "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" and "solutions must come from the Afghans themselves, in line with the wishes and aspirations of the all sections of Afghan society." He also said, "gains of the last two decades" especially rights of women and minorities should be "strongly protected" and "safeguarded." This year saw the US-Taliban pact and the start of the intra-Afghan ties between the Afghan govt and Taliban, but the violence level remains high in the country. America plans to substantially reduce troops level in Afghanistan by January, even hostilities on the ground continue. India has played an important role in the development of Afghanistan since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. It has helped build mega infrastructure projects like Afghanistan-India Friendship Dam in Herat, the Afghan National Parliament building in Kabul, and the electricity supply grid between Kabul and northern Afghanistan and capacity building. As the envoy had put, "India and Afghanistan are contiguous neighbors. We are connected together by centuries of historical, people-to-people, and cultural relations. India has stood resolutely behind the Government and people of Afghanistan and has supported the development of Afghanistan." New Delhi has also been involved in over 400 high impact community development projects spread across 34 provinces of Afghanistan.

India slams Pakistan at UNSC for destabilising Afghanistan; says 'terror flow across Durand Line should stop'

Highlighting India's "pluralistic fabric" and framework of "pluralism, harmony and mutual acceptance", India's envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti has said, "India does not have any trace of anti-Semitism".

Speaking at the World Jewish Congress, he said, "India condemns all forms of anti-Semitism and all forms of discrimination on religious grounds anywhere in the world."

India has had Jewish communities for more than 2000 years, many of whom came to India fleeing persecution.&nbsp;

Indian envoy pointed out, from the 16th century to World War 2 how India gave refugee to Jewish communities. He said, "Well-known that when the Jewish community faced persecution from some European powers in the 16th Century, they were granted sanctuary by the Hindu Maharaja of Cochin, Rama Varma, in Kerala".

Paradesi synagogue built-in 1568 still stands in Cochin, next to Rama Varma's palace and a temple. On the occasion of its 400ths anniversary in 1968, the then Indian PM was personally present. In 1942, the king of Jamnagar, Maharaja Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja gave refuge to 1000 Polish children, many of them Jewish who faced persecution from Hitler's forces. In fact, the Indian army's eastern command during the 1971 Bangladesh's liberation war was led by JFR Jacob, who was Jew and as the envoy described "national hero in India".

Tirumurti recalled how during the 26/11 attacks "whole of India prayed for baby Moshe Holtzberg, who was saved by his Indian caregiver from the dastardly terrorist attack in Mumbai by Pakistani terrorists."

Holtzberg was 2 when his parents were killed during the 26/11 attacks by Pakistani terrorists on India's financial centre. Indian PM had met Moshe Holtzberg during a 2017 visit to Israel.&nbsp;

Slamming Pakistan, the Indian envoy said, "We now have countries taking advantage of the ongoing pandemic and spreading divisive hatred to other parts of the world on the basis of religion. &nbsp;COVID has not prevented them from supporting cross-border terrorism to kill innocent people and spread religious hatred."

Adding, "We call on those countries to stop spreading anti-Semitism, stop spreading hatred and stop dividing the world on the basis of religion. &nbsp;We ask them to look inwards to promote harmony within their own societies, stop sectarian violence and ensure the protection of minorities."

Highlighting India's "pluralistic fabric" and framework of "pluralism, harmony and mutual acceptance", India's envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti has said, "India does not have any trace of anti-Semitism".

Highlighting India's "pluralistic fabric" and framework of "pluralism, harmony and mutual acceptance", India's envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti has said, "India does not have any trace of anti-Semitism". Speaking at the World Jewish Congress, he said, "India condemns all forms of anti-Semitism and all forms of discrimination on religious grounds anywhere in the world." India has had Jewish communities for more than 2000 years, many of whom came to India fleeing persecution. Indian envoy pointed out, from the 16th century to World War 2 how India gave refugee to Jewish communities. He said, "Well-known that when the Jewish community faced persecution from some European powers in the 16th Century, they were granted sanctuary by the Hindu Maharaja of Cochin, Rama Varma, in Kerala". Paradesi synagogue built-in 1568 still stands in Cochin, next to Rama Varma's palace and a temple. On the occasion of its 400ths anniversary in 1968, the then Indian PM was personally present. In 1942, the king of Jamnagar, Maharaja Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja gave refuge to 1000 Polish children, many of them Jewish who faced persecution from Hitler's forces. In fact, the Indian army's eastern command during the 1971 Bangladesh's liberation war was led by JFR Jacob, who was Jew and as the envoy described "national hero in India". Tirumurti recalled how during the 26/11 attacks "whole of India prayed for baby Moshe Holtzberg, who was saved by his Indian caregiver from the dastardly terrorist attack in Mumbai by Pakistani terrorists." Holtzberg was 2 when his parents were killed during the 26/11 attacks by Pakistani terrorists on India's financial centre. Indian PM had met Moshe Holtzberg during a 2017 visit to Israel. Slamming Pakistan, the Indian envoy said, "We now have countries taking advantage of the ongoing pandemic and spreading divisive hatred to other parts of the world on the basis of religion. COVID has not prevented them from supporting cross-border terrorism to kill innocent people and spread religious hatred." Adding, "We call on those countries to stop spreading anti-Semitism, stop spreading hatred and stop dividing the world on the basis of religion. We ask them to look inwards to promote harmony within their own societies, stop sectarian violence and ensure the protection of minorities."

India has no trace of anti-Semitism, Indian envoy to United Nations

The commanding officer of the next Indian contingent to UN peacekeeping in South Sudan, that will leave towards the end of November has said that as "peace ambassadors, will keep the Indian flag high".

Speaking exclusively to WION's&nbsp;diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal,&nbsp;Col D Jothish said, "We&nbsp;are the face of the nation and we understand that. We are under the UN flag but we never forget, we are peace ambassadors from our country.".&nbsp;

He highlighted the training that goes into serving under the UN mandate which focuses on the "humanitarian angle" and under the "upcoming mandates, I have the task to ensure that UN ceasefire is in place." He also talked about how COVID impacted the peacekeeping and the new protocols in place before being deployed abroad.&nbsp;

WION: Why Indian Army personnel most sought after for UN Peacekeeping?

Col D Jothish:&nbsp;When the Indian army gets deployed during a United Nations peacekeeping operation, we act as the face of the nation. that being said, the best of the battalions, for that matter nominated, for this mission, even for me, as commanding officer, I am proud that my battalion will be part of the contingent&nbsp;in UN mission in South Sudan, for this, right after the nomination, selecting our personnel--physically, emotionally, intellectually very spirited&nbsp;and strong.

Thereafter, we start doing mission-specific, tactical training for them. We also make them understand, political, cultural, social issues of the nationals&nbsp;where they are going to be deployed. This whole process commences&nbsp;with a core team of trainers getting trainers at a place called the center for UN peacekeeping. Once they get trained, they train the whole battalion. We carry personnel from all services, and they have integration training in Delhi. Keeping all these phases of training, the depth in which we go, the preparation which we do, for the UN Missions, keeping that in mind we have been doing a fabulous job. Our colleagues and friends have done extremely&nbsp;well in the UN.

WION: What kind of training, Indian army personnel goes before a UN peacekeeping mission..

Col D Jothish:&nbsp;The humanitarian angle in it, and since its Indian army, we always look at that angle wherever we are deployed. Indian army is always deployed in line of control, counter-terror grid, and places were national requirement is there. UN works under the UN security council mandate. So those mandates will have specific tasks. In the upcoming mandates, I have the task to ensure that the UN ceasefire is in place.

Once we go over there, we are neutral in nature, peace ambassadors. Unlike the operations that we do, which is defensive and offensive in nature in our own country, over there, we are peace ambassadors and peacekeeping. They are completely different, different tactics, and groundwork&nbsp;differs. We have concepts called the graduated ground matrix. The way we are going to respond to any situation varies as per the&nbsp;united nations. These things carry importance and that is why we carry on training.&nbsp;

WION: Indian army personnel representing India under the UN flag. How does it feel?

Col D Jothish:&nbsp;We are the face of the nation and we understand that. Our conduct dictates in any foreign country. We are under the UN flag but we never forget, we are peace ambassadors from our country. We always like to keep our Indian flag high. The dedication for our job, The way the Indian army is contributing to national buildup. Now we will get the opportunity to put the Indian flag high in an international environment. Moreover, the Indian army is the most professional army in the world. We would always like to conduct, and project in a foreign nation similarly. Wherever Indian army personnel has been deployed as on date, they all have been professionally very sound, and which has shown results, that people have known and people have accepted the fact that these guys mean business and they are very clear about whatever they going to do. Neutral&nbsp;way of approach&nbsp;of our troops, the main factor of achievement in the United Nations.&nbsp;

WION: How covid has impacted UN Peacekeeping...

Col D Jothish:&nbsp;Firstly when the covid 19 lockdowns started internationally, there was a delay in the deployment of UN Peacekeepers. The world started learning, we also learned, various precautions to be taken as a covid protocol. We started maintaining social distancing, however, the main effort goes in the fact that we don't&nbsp;want covid to spread from our nation to any foreign nations.

For that multiple covid tests which are carried on our troops, and once these troops come negative, only then troops are sent to any foreign nation. In addition, we follow quarantine. All the troops, which are likely to get deployed under the UN, undergo very strict&nbsp;quarantine measures, a separate&nbsp;location, and they&nbsp;are deployed.&nbsp;

The commanding officer of the next Indian contingent to UN peacekeeping in South Sudan, that will leave towards the end of November has said that as "peace ambassadors, will keep the Indian flag high".

The commanding officer of the next Indian contingent to UN peacekeeping in South Sudan, that will leave towards the end of November has said that as "peace ambassadors, will keep the Indian flag high". Speaking exclusively to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Col D Jothish said, "We are the face of the nation and we understand that. We are under the UN flag but we never forget, we are peace ambassadors from our country.". He highlighted the training that goes into serving under the UN mandate which focuses on the "humanitarian angle" and under the "upcoming mandates, I have the task to ensure that UN ceasefire is in place." He also talked about how COVID impacted the peacekeeping and the new protocols in place before being deployed abroad. WION: Why Indian Army personnel most sought after for UN Peacekeeping? Col D Jothish: When the Indian army gets deployed during a United Nations peacekeeping operation, we act as the face of the nation. that being said, the best of the battalions, for that matter nominated, for this mission, even for me, as commanding officer, I am proud that my battalion will be part of the contingent in UN mission in South Sudan, for this, right after the nomination, selecting our personnel--physically, emotionally, intellectually very spirited and strong. Thereafter, we start doing mission-specific, tactical training for them. We also make them understand, political, cultural, social issues of the nationals where they are going to be deployed. This whole process commences with a core team of trainers getting trainers at a place called the center for UN peacekeeping. Once they get trained, they train the whole battalion. We carry personnel from all services, and they have integration training in Delhi. Keeping all these phases of training, the depth in which we go, the preparation which we do, for the UN Missions, keeping that in mind we have been doing a fabulous job. Our colleagues and friends have done extremely well in the UN. WION: What kind of training, Indian army personnel goes before a UN peacekeeping mission.. Col D Jothish: The humanitarian angle in it, and since its Indian army, we always look at that angle wherever we are deployed. Indian army is always deployed in line of control, counter-terror grid, and places were national requirement is there. UN works under the UN security council mandate. So those mandates will have specific tasks. In the upcoming mandates, I have the task to ensure that the UN ceasefire is in place. Once we go over there, we are neutral in nature, peace ambassadors. Unlike the operations that we do, which is defensive and offensive in nature in our own country, over there, we are peace ambassadors and peacekeeping. They are completely different, different tactics, and groundwork differs. We have concepts called the graduated ground matrix. The way we are going to respond to any situation varies as per the united nations. These things carry importance and that is why we carry on training. WION: Indian army personnel representing India under the UN flag. How does it feel? Col D Jothish: We are the face of the nation and we understand that. Our conduct dictates in any foreign country. We are under the UN flag but we never forget, we are peace ambassadors from our country. We always like to keep our Indian flag high. The dedication for our job, The way the Indian army is contributing to national buildup. Now we will get the opportunity to put the Indian flag high in an international environment. Moreover, the Indian army is the most professional army in the world. We would always like to conduct, and project in a foreign nation similarly. Wherever Indian army personnel has been deployed as on date, they all have been professionally very sound, and which has shown results, that people have known and people have accepted the fact that these guys mean business and they are very clear about whatever they going to do. Neutral way of approach of our troops, the main factor of achievement in the United Nations. WION: How covid has impacted UN Peacekeeping... Col D Jothish: Firstly when the covid 19 lockdowns started internationally, there was a delay in the deployment of UN Peacekeepers. The world started learning, we also learned, various precautions to be taken as a covid protocol. We started maintaining social distancing, however, the main effort goes in the fact that we don't want covid to spread from our nation to any foreign nations. For that multiple covid tests which are carried on our troops, and once these troops come negative, only then troops are sent to any foreign nation. In addition, we follow quarantine. All the troops, which are likely to get deployed under the UN, undergo very strict quarantine measures, a separate location, and they are deployed.

Exclusive: Will keep Indian flag high, says commanding officer of next Indian contingent of UN peacekeepers in South Sudan

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) decided on Thursday to organise a special session on December 3 and 4 on ramping up international cooperation to deal with coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

"The special session of United Nations General Assembly on the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic is a historic moment, and a test, for multilateralism. It will be defined by our collective action on one of the most critical issues of our time," said Volkan Bozkir, president of the 75th session of the UNGA, in his remarks ahead of the adoption of the Modalities Resolution for the 31st Special Session of the General Assembly on the pandemic, Xinhua news agency reported.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/20-years-witnessed-rise-in-natural-disasters-especially-in-asia-united-nations-334738">20 years witnessed rise in natural disasters, especially in Asia: United Nations&nbsp; &nbsp; </a>

As many as 150 of the 193 UNGA member states adopted the resolution. No country voted against the resolution, however, the US, Israel and Armenia did not participate in the voting.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/united-nations-faces-crisis-of-confidence-pm-modi-in-unga-address-329308">United Nations faces 'crisis of confidence': PM Modi in UNGA address</a>

"It is vital that the special session provides an inclusive platform which has the capacity to hear from and address the concerns of member states and other stakeholders, including civil society, academia, and private sector experts pioneering the development of vaccines. To this end, the second day will feature interactive multistakeholder dialogue panels on different aspects of Covid-19," the UNGA president said.&nbsp;

The special session on Covid-19 will feature an opening statement, a general debate and a closing segment, reports news agency IANS.&nbsp;

On the first day, the general debate will be held along with statements by member and observer states and the European Union and, if time allows, a limited number of representatives from relevant organisations attending the event.&nbsp;

World leaders will be making their address in pre-recorded statements, which will be aired in General Assembly Hall. The speakers will be allotted seven minutes on behalf of a group of states.

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) decided on Thursday to organise a special session on December 3 and 4 on ramping up international cooperation to deal with coronavirus pandemic.

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) decided on Thursday to organise a special session on December 3 and 4 on ramping up international cooperation to deal with coronavirus pandemic. "The special session of United Nations General Assembly on the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic is a historic moment, and a test, for multilateralism. It will be defined by our collective action on one of the most critical issues of our time," said Volkan Bozkir, president of the 75th session of the UNGA, in his remarks ahead of the adoption of the Modalities Resolution for the 31st Special Session of the General Assembly on the pandemic, Xinhua news agency reported. Also read | 20 years witnessed rise in natural disasters, especially in Asia: United Nations As many as 150 of the 193 UNGA member states adopted the resolution. No country voted against the resolution, however, the US, Israel and Armenia did not participate in the voting. Also read | United Nations faces 'crisis of confidence': PM Modi in UNGA address "It is vital that the special session provides an inclusive platform which has the capacity to hear from and address the concerns of member states and other stakeholders, including civil society, academia, and private sector experts pioneering the development of vaccines. To this end, the second day will feature interactive multistakeholder dialogue panels on different aspects of Covid-19," the UNGA president said. The special session on Covid-19 will feature an opening statement, a general debate and a closing segment, reports news agency IANS. On the first day, the general debate will be held along with statements by member and observer states and the European Union and, if time allows, a limited number of representatives from relevant organisations attending the event. World leaders will be making their address in pre-recorded statements, which will be aired in General Assembly Hall. The speakers will be allotted seven minutes on behalf of a group of states.

UNGA to hold special session on coronavirus pandemic in December

An independent human rights expert working with the United Nations is calling on Myanmar's government and military leadership to stop persecuting supporters of the opposition ahead of Sunday's general election.

Thomas Andrews, a former US congressman from Maine who is the UN special investigator on Myanmar, called for free and fair elections but expressed concerns about the denial of the vote to Rohingya Muslims and others based on race, ethnicity or religion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-suu-kyi-casts-early-vote-in-poll-hit-by-covid-19-curbs-338842">Myanmar's Suu Kyi casts early vote in poll hit by COVID-19 curbs</a>

Andrews, who as an independent 'special rapporteur'&nbsp;does not speak for the UN, said the Myanmar army is using a penal code set up under colonialist Britain in 1861 to lock up journalists, students and others for exercising their basic right to free expression.&nbsp;He also lamented allegations of state censorship of some candidates.

Myanmar's electoral commission has canceled voting in several parts of the country facing bouts of unrest.

Michelle Bachelet, who heads the office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, has also expressed serious concerns about the human rights situation in Myanmar before the vote, including violations of the right to political participation, particularly for minority groups.

The last general election in 2015 brought to power Aung San Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy after more than five decades of military rule. Suu Kyi, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and her government have faced international condemnation for allowing security forces to carry out widespread abuses of the Rohingya minority, driving more than 700,000 to seek safety in neighbouring Bangladesh.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

An independent human rights expert working with the United Nations is calling on Myanmar's government and military leadership to stop persecuting supporters of the opposition ahead of Sunday's general election.

An independent human rights expert working with the United Nations is calling on Myanmar's government and military leadership to stop persecuting supporters of the opposition ahead of Sunday's general election. Thomas Andrews, a former US congressman from Maine who is the UN special investigator on Myanmar, called for free and fair elections but expressed concerns about the denial of the vote to Rohingya Muslims and others based on race, ethnicity or religion. Also read | Myanmar's Suu Kyi casts early vote in poll hit by COVID-19 curbs Andrews, who as an independent 'special rapporteur' does not speak for the UN, said the Myanmar army is using a penal code set up under colonialist Britain in 1861 to lock up journalists, students and others for exercising their basic right to free expression. He also lamented allegations of state censorship of some candidates. Myanmar's electoral commission has canceled voting in several parts of the country facing bouts of unrest. Michelle Bachelet, who heads the office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, has also expressed serious concerns about the human rights situation in Myanmar before the vote, including violations of the right to political participation, particularly for minority groups. The last general election in 2015 brought to power Aung San Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy after more than five decades of military rule. Suu Kyi, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and her government have faced international condemnation for allowing security forces to carry out widespread abuses of the Rohingya minority, driving more than 700,000 to seek safety in neighbouring Bangladesh.

UN expert airs human rights concerns ahead of Myanmar vote

The United Nations and World Bank called for school reopenings despite coronavirus risks in a new report on Wednesday, stressing children in poor countries are severely affected by pandemic due to an absence of the access to digital means to pursue learning.&nbsp;

The report said in impoverished nations, children have not able to go to schools for about four months since the beginning of the pandemic early this year.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/20-years-witnessed-rise-in-natural-disasters-especially-in-asia-united-nations-334738">20 years witnessed rise in natural disasters, especially in Asia: United Nations</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

"Prioritising reopening schools and providing much-needed catch-up classes are critical," said Robert Jenkins, education head at the UN children's fund UNICEF, in a statement, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/united-nations-faces-crisis-of-confidence-pm-modi-in-unga-address-329308">United Nations faces 'crisis of confidence': PM Modi in UNGA address</a>

"We don't need to look far to see the devastation the pandemic has caused to children's learning across the world."&nbsp;

The crisis is worse in low and middle-income nations due to a frail system of distance learning, higher probability of a delay in reopening of schools and a lack of resources to tackle health risks.&nbsp;

UN cultural agency UNESCO and the World Bank also advised countries to spend money on education to reduce the broadening gap between the education provided in rich and poor nations due to Covid-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The report from UNICEF, UNESCO and the World Bank was based on data accumulated from about 150 countries between June and October.

The United Nations and World Bank called for school reopenings despite coronavirus risks in a new report on Wednesday, stressing children in poor countries are severely affected by pandemic due to an absence of the access to digital means to pursue learning.

The United Nations and World Bank called for school reopenings despite coronavirus risks in a new report on Wednesday, stressing children in poor countries are severely affected by pandemic due to an absence of the access to digital means to pursue learning. The report said in impoverished nations, children have not able to go to schools for about four months since the beginning of the pandemic early this year. Also read | 20 years witnessed rise in natural disasters, especially in Asia: United Nations "Prioritising reopening schools and providing much-needed catch-up classes are critical," said Robert Jenkins, education head at the UN children's fund UNICEF, in a statement, as quoted by news agency AFP. Also read | United Nations faces 'crisis of confidence': PM Modi in UNGA address "We don't need to look far to see the devastation the pandemic has caused to children's learning across the world." The crisis is worse in low and middle-income nations due to a frail system of distance learning, higher probability of a delay in reopening of schools and a lack of resources to tackle health risks. UN cultural agency UNESCO and the World Bank also advised countries to spend money on education to reduce the broadening gap between the education provided in rich and poor nations due to Covid-19 pandemic. The report from UNICEF, UNESCO and the World Bank was based on data accumulated from about 150 countries between June and October.

UN, World Bank call for reopening schools amid Covid-19 pandemic

United Nations said on Monday that more than 1280 Afghan civilians were killed in first six months of the year as fighting raged in Afghanistan in spite of a pact between the US and Taliban.&nbsp;

United Nations said on Monday that more than 1280 Afghan civilians were killed in first six months of the year as fighting raged in Afghanistan in spite of a pact between the US and Taliban. A) said in a report.

“The reality remains that Afghanistan continues to be one of the deadliest conflicts in the world for civilians,” it said in the mid-year report.

In spite of a drop of 13 per cent in casualties from the corresponding period of the last year, the UN said that Taliban continued to cause majority of civilian casualties. The Taliban were responsible for 43 per cent of civilian casualties and government forces caused 23 per cent.

In February, the United States and the Taliban signed an agreement in Doha, laying out plans for the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan in exchange for security guarantees from the militants.

However, fighting has spiked in recent weeks, prompted by differences over an exchange of prisoners between the Taliban and Afghan government, as Kabul proved reluctant to free hundreds of jailed militants.

The Doha deal provided for the government to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners in exchange for hundreds of Afghan troops, the main plank in starting peace negotiations between the two sides in the effort to end the 18-year-old war.

While the Afghan government has released more than 4,000 Taliban prisoners, it has refused to release another 600, saying they were involved in murder, illicit drug trafficking and major attacks.

United Nations said on Monday that more than 1280 Afghan civilians were killed in first six months of the year as fighting raged in Afghanistan in spite of a pact between the US and Taliban.

United Nations said on Monday that more than 1280 Afghan civilians were killed in first six months of the year as fighting raged in Afghanistan in spite of a pact between the US and Taliban. United Nations said on Monday that more than 1280 Afghan civilians were killed in first six months of the year as fighting raged in Afghanistan in spite of a pact between the US and Taliban. A) said in a report. “The reality remains that Afghanistan continues to be one of the deadliest conflicts in the world for civilians,” it said in the mid-year report. In spite of a drop of 13 per cent in casualties from the corresponding period of the last year, the UN said that Taliban continued to cause majority of civilian casualties. The Taliban were responsible for 43 per cent of civilian casualties and government forces caused 23 per cent. In February, the United States and the Taliban signed an agreement in Doha, laying out plans for the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan in exchange for security guarantees from the militants. However, fighting has spiked in recent weeks, prompted by differences over an exchange of prisoners between the Taliban and Afghan government, as Kabul proved reluctant to free hundreds of jailed militants. The Doha deal provided for the government to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners in exchange for hundreds of Afghan troops, the main plank in starting peace negotiations between the two sides in the effort to end the 18-year-old war. While the Afghan government has released more than 4,000 Taliban prisoners, it has refused to release another 600, saying they were involved in murder, illicit drug trafficking and major attacks.

Nearly 3500 Afghans killed or hurt in first half of 2020: UN

A major row over the gag order issued earlier this year can derail the celebration of the 75th-anniversary of the&nbsp;United Nations on&nbsp;October 24.

The&nbsp;United&nbsp;Nations&nbsp;was created when countries came together after World War Two to prevent another such conflict and to replace an ineffective League of&nbsp;Nations.

On June 26, 1945, representatives of 50 countries met in San Francisco at the&nbsp;United&nbsp;Nations&nbsp;Conference on International Organization to draw up the&nbsp;United&nbsp;Nations&nbsp;Charter. Those delegates deliberated on the basis of proposals worked out by the representatives of China, the Soviet Union, the&nbsp;United&nbsp;Kingdom, and the&nbsp;United&nbsp;States at Dumbarton Oaks,&nbsp;United&nbsp;States in August-October 1944. The Charter then came into force on October 24, 1945.

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&nbsp;

The&nbsp;United&nbsp;Nations' past has been as fraught as its present and future seems to be. It was hamstrung during the Cold War by superpower rivalry, leading it to near inertia as the&nbsp;United&nbsp;States, former the Soviet Union, and China either threatened to or did, veto resolution after resolution.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/curb-climate-change-protect-environment-to-prevent-more-outbreaks-united-nations-311242">Curb climate change, protect environment to prevent more outbreaks: United Nations</a>

In the 90s its reputation was badly damaged by its apparent helplessness to end to the conflict in former Yugoslavia -- let alone manage a successful peacekeeping and humanitarian operation.

In&nbsp;the summer of 2020, as anti-racism demonstrations spread around the globe in response to the murder of George Floyd, UN&nbsp;civil servants who wanted to show solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement were up in arms about instructions from the UN&nbsp;ethics office telling personnel to steer clear of public demonstrations, even in their free time.

The directive, which was initially endorsed by the UN chief&nbsp;Antonio Guterres&nbsp;expressly banned participation in the protests.

Guterres then reversed course, assuring UN&nbsp;employees at a hastily arranged town hall meeting in June that they could take part, as long as they didn’t wave the UN&nbsp;flag. In a letter to staff on June 9, Guterres insisted that “there is no ban on personal expressions of solidarity or acts of peaceful civic engagement, provided they are carried out in an entirely private capacity.”

But his statement didn’t put the matter to rest—or give an explicit green light to UN&nbsp;staffers to participate in political demonstrations, UN&nbsp;officials contend. Staffers at an organization founded to advance fundamental human rights and freedoms now wonder if they can even advocate for those rights, or if they’re going to be gagged to avoid courting public controversy.

On June 22, less than two weeks after Guterres sent the letter, the UN&nbsp;Development Program reissued its own gag order. “The international, impartial nature of your role limits your freedom to publicly express views on controversial matters,” the UNDP’s Code of Ethics document, which was revised this year, states. “For example, you cannot take part in political demonstrations, or wear politically-themed clothing or buttons. You may not publicly criticize governments, or run for or hold political office at any level while working for UNDP.”

The internal debate over the UN&nbsp;response to the Black Lives Matter movement raises difficult questions about the rights of international civil servants to express support for core UN&nbsp;values, including the promotion of equality and human rights, if they are viewed as controversial by member states. It also places the UN&nbsp;leadership in the awkward position of urging countries around the world to promote free expression and assembly, while restraining their own staff from exercising those same rights.

The UN&nbsp;development agency—which relies on the cooperation of foreign governments to carry out its work—has been among the UN’s most risk-averse entities, seeking to avoid offending member states at almost any cost. But the guidance did not sit well with some UNDP staffers, who argued that it didn’t comply with the policy laid out by Guterres.

Niall McCann, an Irish national who works in UNDP’s Brussels office, filed a complaint against UNDP’s administrator and ethics office with the development agency’s internal Office of Audit and Investigations, and he requested an investigation into the matter. The ban on participation in demonstrations, McCann wrote, constituted an “abuse of authority.”

“This assertion directly contradicts the UN&nbsp;Secretary-General, who specifically commented on this matter, in the context of the ongoing Black Lives Matter protest movement in the United States,” he wrote in the complaint, which was reviewed by&nbsp;Foreign Policy. McCann argued that there was no legal basis for the protest prohibition, insisting that it is not expressly banned by the key directives governing staff conduct: the UN&nbsp; Standards of Conduct for the International Civil Service or the Staff Regulations and Rules of the United Nations.

He also accused UNDP’s ethics chief, Peter Liria, of seeking to “muzzle UNDP staff standing up against racism.”

Several leaders have called for a reform of the&nbsp;United&nbsp;Nations&nbsp;and in particular the 15-member Security Council, arguing it was unfair that the&nbsp;United&nbsp;States, Russia, China, France and Britain were the only permanent veto-wielding powers.

With barely days left for the United Nations Day, the world body finds itself in an awkward spot.&nbsp;

The United Nations&nbsp;pushes member countries to promote free speech, expression, and the right of assembly. But as an organisation it is restricting its own staff from exercising the same fundamental rights.

A major row over the gag order issued earlier this year can derail the celebration of the 75th-anniversary of the United Nations on October 24. The United Nations was created when countries came together after World War Two to prevent another such conflict and to replace an ineffective League of Nations.

A major row over the gag order issued earlier this year can derail the celebration of the 75th-anniversary of the United Nations on October 24. The United Nations was created when countries came together after World War Two to prevent another such conflict and to replace an ineffective League of Nations. On June 26, 1945, representatives of 50 countries met in San Francisco at the United Nations Conference on International Organization to draw up the United Nations Charter. Those delegates deliberated on the basis of proposals worked out by the representatives of China, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States at Dumbarton Oaks, United States in August-October 1944. The Charter then came into force on October 24, 1945. × The United Nations' past has been as fraught as its present and future seems to be. It was hamstrung during the Cold War by superpower rivalry, leading it to near inertia as the United States, former the Soviet Union, and China either threatened to or did, veto resolution after resolution. Also read| Curb climate change, protect environment to prevent more outbreaks: United Nations In the 90s its reputation was badly damaged by its apparent helplessness to end to the conflict in former Yugoslavia -- let alone manage a successful peacekeeping and humanitarian operation. In the summer of 2020, as anti-racism demonstrations spread around the globe in response to the murder of George Floyd, UN civil servants who wanted to show solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement were up in arms about instructions from the UN ethics office telling personnel to steer clear of public demonstrations, even in their free time. The directive, which was initially endorsed by the UN chief Antonio Guterres expressly banned participation in the protests. Guterres then reversed course, assuring UN employees at a hastily arranged town hall meeting in June that they could take part, as long as they didn’t wave the UN flag. In a letter to staff on June 9, Guterres insisted that “there is no ban on personal expressions of solidarity or acts of peaceful civic engagement, provided they are carried out in an entirely private capacity.” But his statement didn’t put the matter to rest—or give an explicit green light to UN staffers to participate in political demonstrations, UN officials contend. Staffers at an organization founded to advance fundamental human rights and freedoms now wonder if they can even advocate for those rights, or if they’re going to be gagged to avoid courting public controversy. On June 22, less than two weeks after Guterres sent the letter, the UN Development Program reissued its own gag order. “The international, impartial nature of your role limits your freedom to publicly express views on controversial matters,” the UNDP’s Code of Ethics document, which was revised this year, states. “For example, you cannot take part in political demonstrations, or wear politically-themed clothing or buttons. You may not publicly criticize governments, or run for or hold political office at any level while working for UNDP.” The internal debate over the UN response to the Black Lives Matter movement raises difficult questions about the rights of international civil servants to express support for core UN values, including the promotion of equality and human rights, if they are viewed as controversial by member states. It also places the UN leadership in the awkward position of urging countries around the world to promote free expression and assembly, while restraining their own staff from exercising those same rights. The UN development agency—which relies on the cooperation of foreign governments to carry out its work—has been among the UN’s most risk-averse entities, seeking to avoid offending member states at almost any cost. But the guidance did not sit well with some UNDP staffers, who argued that it didn’t comply with the policy laid out by Guterres. Niall McCann, an Irish national who works in UNDP’s Brussels office, filed a complaint against UNDP’s administrator and ethics office with the development agency’s internal Office of Audit and Investigations, and he requested an investigation into the matter. The ban on participation in demonstrations, McCann wrote, constituted an “abuse of authority.” “This assertion directly contradicts the UN Secretary-General, who specifically commented on this matter, in the context of the ongoing Black Lives Matter protest movement in the United States,” he wrote in the complaint, which was reviewed by Foreign Policy. McCann argued that there was no legal basis for the protest prohibition, insisting that it is not expressly banned by the key directives governing staff conduct: the UN Standards of Conduct for the International Civil Service or the Staff Regulations and Rules of the United Nations. He also accused UNDP’s ethics chief, Peter Liria, of seeking to “muzzle UNDP staff standing up against racism.” Several leaders have called for a reform of the United Nations and in particular the 15-member Security Council, arguing it was unfair that the United States, Russia, China, France and Britain were the only permanent veto-wielding powers. With barely days left for the United Nations Day, the world body finds itself in an awkward spot. The United Nations pushes member countries to promote free speech, expression, and the right of assembly. But as an organisation it is restricting its own staff from exercising the same fundamental rights.

How row over gag order could derail the celebration of UN's 75 anniversary

UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet voiced her dismay Tuesday at the arrest of activists in India and restrictions to the work of non-governmental organisations.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights appealed to New Delhi to safeguard the rights of human rights defenders and NGOs.

Bachelet regretted what she called the application of vaguely worded laws that constrain NGOs' activities and restrict foreign funding.

"India has long had a strong civil society, which has been at the forefront of groundbreaking human rights advocacy," the former Chilean president said.

"But I am concerned that vaguely defined laws are increasingly being used to stifle these voices."

Bachelet took aim at the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, which prohibits the receipt of foreign funds "for any activities prejudicial to the public interest".

"The FCRA has been invoked over the years to justify an array of highly intrusive&nbsp;measures," she said, including "official raids on NGO offices and freezing of bank accounts".

"I am concerned that such actions based on the grounds of vaguely defined 'public interest' leave this law open to abuse, and that it is indeed actually being used to deter or punish NGOs for human rights reporting and advocacy that the authorities perceive as critical in nature."

Bachelet said that activists and human rights defenders had come under mounting pressure in recent months, particularly those involved in mass protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act.

More than 1,500 people have reportedly been arrested, she said, including 83-year-old Catholic priest Stan Swamy.

"I urge the government to ensure that no one else is detained for exercising their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly," Bachelet said, as she called for the release of those charged for "simply exercising basic human rights."

UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet voiced her dismay Tuesday at the arrest of activists in India and restrictions to the work of non-governmental organisations. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights appealed to New Delhi to safeguard the rights of human rights defenders and NGOs.

UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet voiced her dismay Tuesday at the arrest of activists in India and restrictions to the work of non-governmental organisations. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights appealed to New Delhi to safeguard the rights of human rights defenders and NGOs. Bachelet regretted what she called the application of vaguely worded laws that constrain NGOs' activities and restrict foreign funding. "India has long had a strong civil society, which has been at the forefront of groundbreaking human rights advocacy," the former Chilean president said. "But I am concerned that vaguely defined laws are increasingly being used to stifle these voices." Bachelet took aim at the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, which prohibits the receipt of foreign funds "for any activities prejudicial to the public interest". "The FCRA has been invoked over the years to justify an array of highly intrusive measures," she said, including "official raids on NGO offices and freezing of bank accounts". "I am concerned that such actions based on the grounds of vaguely defined 'public interest' leave this law open to abuse, and that it is indeed actually being used to deter or punish NGOs for human rights reporting and advocacy that the authorities perceive as critical in nature." Bachelet said that activists and human rights defenders had come under mounting pressure in recent months, particularly those involved in mass protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act. More than 1,500 people have reportedly been arrested, she said, including 83-year-old Catholic priest Stan Swamy. "I urge the government to ensure that no one else is detained for exercising their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly," Bachelet said, as she called for the release of those charged for "simply exercising basic human rights."

UN 'dismayed' at India arrests, NGO restrictions

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has strongly condemned the "indiscriminate" attack on a provincial police headquarters in Afghanistan, saying those who carry out such crimes must be held accountable.

A car bomb targeting an Afghan police headquarters in the western province of Ghor on Sunday killed at least 13 people and wounded more than 100, including women and children.

''The Secretary-General expresses his deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured,''&nbsp;a statement issued by his spokesperson said on Monday.

Guterres strongly condemned the ''indiscriminate attack''&nbsp;in an area where many civilians are present.

The United Nations remains committed to supporting the people and government of Afghanistan, the spokesperson said.&nbsp;

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has strongly condemned the "indiscriminate" attack on a provincial police headquarters in Afghanistan, saying those who carry out such crimes must be held accountable.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has strongly condemned the "indiscriminate" attack on a provincial police headquarters in Afghanistan, saying those who carry out such crimes must be held accountable. A car bomb targeting an Afghan police headquarters in the western province of Ghor on Sunday killed at least 13 people and wounded more than 100, including women and children. ''The Secretary-General expresses his deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured,'' a statement issued by his spokesperson said on Monday. Guterres strongly condemned the ''indiscriminate attack'' in an area where many civilians are present. The United Nations remains committed to supporting the people and government of Afghanistan, the spokesperson said.

UN chief condemns attack on police headquarters in Afghanistan's Ghor province

The United Nations is planning to stockpile one billion syringes around the world by the end of 2021 -- to be used for the delivery of any future coronavirus vaccine.

UNICEF, the UN Children's Fund, Monday said it aims to get 520 million syringes in its warehouses by the end of this year, to guarantee an initial supply in countries ahead of the vaccine.

UNICEF said it was also buying five million safety boxes for used syringes.

The syringes will be used by Covax, the international coronavirus vaccine procurement, production and distribution pool created by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Covax is run by the Gavi vaccine alliance, which will reimburse UNICEF for the syringes.

A public-private partnership, Gavi helps vaccinate half the world's children against some of the deadliest diseases on the planet.

Syringes have a five-year shelf life and tend to be shipped by sea, rather than vaccines, which are heat-sensitive and transported more quickly by air freight.

The billion syringes come on top of the 620 million that UNICEF would purchase for other vaccination programmes against diseases such as measles and typhoid.

The WHO says 42 vaccine candidates are currently being tested on humans, of which 10 have reached the mass testing third and final stage.

A further 156 are being worked on in laboratories in preparation for human testing.

Typically, only around 10 per cent of vaccine candidates make it through the trials.

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases worldwide passed 40 million on Monday, according to an AFP tally based on official sources. More than 1.1 million deaths have been recorded across the globe.

The United Nations is planning to stockpile one billion syringes around the world by the end of 2021 -- to be used for the delivery of any future coronavirus vaccine.

The United Nations is planning to stockpile one billion syringes around the world by the end of 2021 -- to be used for the delivery of any future coronavirus vaccine. UNICEF, the UN Children's Fund, Monday said it aims to get 520 million syringes in its warehouses by the end of this year, to guarantee an initial supply in countries ahead of the vaccine. UNICEF said it was also buying five million safety boxes for used syringes. The syringes will be used by Covax, the international coronavirus vaccine procurement, production and distribution pool created by the World Health Organization (WHO). Covax is run by the Gavi vaccine alliance, which will reimburse UNICEF for the syringes. A public-private partnership, Gavi helps vaccinate half the world's children against some of the deadliest diseases on the planet. Syringes have a five-year shelf life and tend to be shipped by sea, rather than vaccines, which are heat-sensitive and transported more quickly by air freight. The billion syringes come on top of the 620 million that UNICEF would purchase for other vaccination programmes against diseases such as measles and typhoid. The WHO says 42 vaccine candidates are currently being tested on humans, of which 10 have reached the mass testing third and final stage. A further 156 are being worked on in laboratories in preparation for human testing. Typically, only around 10 per cent of vaccine candidates make it through the trials. The number of confirmed coronavirus cases worldwide passed 40 million on Monday, according to an AFP tally based on official sources. More than 1.1 million deaths have been recorded across the globe.

UN to stockpile billion syringes to be used for delivery of Covid vaccine

Extreme weather changes triggered by climate change continue to get intenser over time. According to the United Nations, this acceleration has&nbsp;fastened in the last 20 years.&nbsp;

Owing to such drastic changes in weather patterns, countries around the globe are paying a heavy human and economic toll. This pattern is expected to intensify over the coming years, according to the UN. Asia remains the hardest-hit by extreme weather changes, the agency added.

China had the highest instances of natural disasters at 577. The United States followed suit with 467 disaster events. India stood at number 3 with 321 disaster events, followed by Philippines (304) and Indonesia at 278. The numbers take into account the time period between 2000 and 2019.

Out of the top 10 countries on the list, eight are from Asia. Over the course of 20 years, 7,348 disaster events shook the globe, killing over 1.23 million people, and affecting 4.2 billion people. This also caused economic losses amounting upto $2.97 trillion.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/double-crisis-natural-disasters-dont-stop-for-coronavirus-308890" hreflang="en">Double crisis: Natural disasters don't stop for coronavirus</a>

In the last 20 years, the number of major floods also doubled to 3,254. Additionally, wildfires, droughts, and extreme temperatures plagued the globe.&nbsp;

"More people are being affected by the expanding climate emergency," Mami Mizutori, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Disaster Risk Reduction, said during a briefing.&nbsp;

Additionally, Mizutori urged governments to invest in detection systems that spot disasters early, and to also work on risk reduction strategies for disasters.

The statistics for the report were provided by Debarati Guha-Sapir from the Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters, the University of Louvain, Belgium.

Guha-Sapir told Reuters, "If this level of growth in extreme weather events continues over the next twenty years, the future of mankind looks very bleak indeed”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/un-unveils-concept-of-new-floating-cities-that-can-withstand-natural-disasters-house-10000-residents-207952" hreflang="en">UN unveils concept of floating cities that can withstand natural disasters, house 10,000 residents</a>

"Heatwaves are going to be our biggest challenge in the next 10 years, especially in the poor countries," Guha-Sapir added.

Events such as tsunamis, earthquakes, and volcanoes have killed more people than any other natural disasters that were taken into account for the report.

According to the report, the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami which killed more than a quarter of a million people, remains the deadliest on record.

Extreme weather changes triggered by climate change continue to get intenser over time. According to the United Nations, this acceleration has fastened in the last 20 years.

Extreme weather changes triggered by climate change continue to get intenser over time. According to the United Nations, this acceleration has fastened in the last 20 years. Owing to such drastic changes in weather patterns, countries around the globe are paying a heavy human and economic toll. This pattern is expected to intensify over the coming years, according to the UN. Asia remains the hardest-hit by extreme weather changes, the agency added. China had the highest instances of natural disasters at 577. The United States followed suit with 467 disaster events. India stood at number 3 with 321 disaster events, followed by Philippines (304) and Indonesia at 278. The numbers take into account the time period between 2000 and 2019. Out of the top 10 countries on the list, eight are from Asia. Over the course of 20 years, 7,348 disaster events shook the globe, killing over 1.23 million people, and affecting 4.2 billion people. This also caused economic losses amounting upto $2.97 trillion. Also read: Double crisis: Natural disasters don't stop for coronavirus In the last 20 years, the number of major floods also doubled to 3,254. Additionally, wildfires, droughts, and extreme temperatures plagued the globe. "More people are being affected by the expanding climate emergency," Mami Mizutori, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Disaster Risk Reduction, said during a briefing. Additionally, Mizutori urged governments to invest in detection systems that spot disasters early, and to also work on risk reduction strategies for disasters. The statistics for the report were provided by Debarati Guha-Sapir from the Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters, the University of Louvain, Belgium. Guha-Sapir told Reuters, "If this level of growth in extreme weather events continues over the next twenty years, the future of mankind looks very bleak indeed”. Also read: UN unveils concept of floating cities that can withstand natural disasters, house 10,000 residents "Heatwaves are going to be our biggest challenge in the next 10 years, especially in the poor countries," Guha-Sapir added. Events such as tsunamis, earthquakes, and volcanoes have killed more people than any other natural disasters that were taken into account for the report. According to the report, the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami which killed more than a quarter of a million people, remains the deadliest on record.

20 years witnessed rise in natural disasters, especially in Asia: United Nations

A new report of United Nations claims Latin America's economy to contract by 9%. The pandemic exposes the Latin America's Economic fragility.

UN report claims Latin America's economy to contract by 9%

A United Nations report released on Wednesday urged Bangladesh to take more drastic efforts if it wants to end child marriages in the country.

Currently, the country has set 2041 as the goal to eliminate child marriages from the country.

"This human rights violation...[is] robbing children of their childhoods," said a spokesperson for UN's children agency - Veera Mendonca, as reported by Reuters.

"We must invest now to secure girls’ rights to life and education, and reduce their exposure to violence and exploitation,” she said while releasing the report.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/chinese-firm-breaks-promise-made-to-bangladesh-on-covid-19-vaccine-trials-332517" hreflang="en">Chinese firm breaks promise made to Bangladesh on COVID-19 vaccine trials</a>

Bangladesh has approximately 38 million girls who were married before they turned 18, according to UN numbers. This is almost half of the country’s female population!

In 1970s, the rate of child marriage in Bangladesh stood at 90%, which has since then dropped to 51%.&nbsp;

Even though the situation has improved, the country still has the highest rate of underage marriages in South Asia.

According to law, the minimum age of marriage in the country is 18 for women and 21 for men.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/us-bangladesh-take-part-in-high-level-consultation-on-economic-partnership-331781" hreflang="en">US, Bangladesh take part in high-level consultation on economic partnership</a>

During the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, 190 UN member states including Bangladesh pledged to end child marriage.

Owing to the shutdown of businesses and schools, risks of child marriages in the country have shot up. Due to the loss of income and closure of schools which may cause increased pressure at home, risks of child marriage have increased.

"Even during normal times married girls are over four times more likely to be out of school than unmarried girls”, the report said.

A United Nations report released on Wednesday urged Bangladesh to take more drastic efforts if it wants to end child marriages in the country. Currently, the country has set 2041 as the goal to eliminate child marriages from the country.

A United Nations report released on Wednesday urged Bangladesh to take more drastic efforts if it wants to end child marriages in the country. Currently, the country has set 2041 as the goal to eliminate child marriages from the country. "This human rights violation...[is] robbing children of their childhoods," said a spokesperson for UN's children agency - Veera Mendonca, as reported by Reuters. "We must invest now to secure girls’ rights to life and education, and reduce their exposure to violence and exploitation,” she said while releasing the report. Also read: Chinese firm breaks promise made to Bangladesh on COVID-19 vaccine trials Bangladesh has approximately 38 million girls who were married before they turned 18, according to UN numbers. This is almost half of the country’s female population! In 1970s, the rate of child marriage in Bangladesh stood at 90%, which has since then dropped to 51%. Even though the situation has improved, the country still has the highest rate of underage marriages in South Asia. According to law, the minimum age of marriage in the country is 18 for women and 21 for men. Also read: US, Bangladesh take part in high-level consultation on economic partnership During the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, 190 UN member states including Bangladesh pledged to end child marriage. Owing to the shutdown of businesses and schools, risks of child marriages in the country have shot up. Due to the loss of income and closure of schools which may cause increased pressure at home, risks of child marriage have increased. "Even during normal times married girls are over four times more likely to be out of school than unmarried girls”, the report said.

Do more to end child marriages, UN tells Bangladesh

The United Nations on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the worsening situation of right activists, lawyers and people from the political sphere who have been detained in Iran and asked the country to release them in view of the pandemic.&nbsp;

The office of UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet said Iran has released some 120,000 people from February, but prisoners sentenced for more than five years for "national security" offences were kept out of the provision.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/terrorist-cell-trained-by-irans-revolutionary-guards-busted-by-saudi-arabia-331051">Terrorist cell trained by Iran's Revolutionary Guards busted by Saudi Arabia</a>

It added that such sentences were given to individuals who are &nbsp;"arbitrarily detained, including human rights defenders, lawyers, dual and foreign nationals, conservationists, and others deprived of their liberty for expressing their views or exercising other rights," as quoted by news agency AFP. &nbsp;

Bachelet in a statement lashed out at these detentions saying the prisoners face more risk of contracting coronavirus in Iran, the country worst affected by the virus in the region.&nbsp;

"People detained solely for their political views or other forms of activism in support of human rights should not be imprisoned at all, and such prisoners, should certainly not be treated more harshly or placed at greater risk," Bachelet said.

Meanwhile, Nasrin Sotoudeh, a human rights lawyer's condition worsened by the hunger strike she launched over the poor condition of prisons in Iran.&nbsp;

Nasrin is under a sentence of more than 30 years on charges linked to her human rights work.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The United Nations on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the worsening situation of right activists, lawyers and people from the political sphere who have been detained in Iran and asked the country to release them in view of the pandemic.

The United Nations on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the worsening situation of right activists, lawyers and people from the political sphere who have been detained in Iran and asked the country to release them in view of the pandemic. The office of UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet said Iran has released some 120,000 people from February, but prisoners sentenced for more than five years for "national security" offences were kept out of the provision. Also read | Terrorist cell trained by Iran's Revolutionary Guards busted by Saudi Arabia It added that such sentences were given to individuals who are "arbitrarily detained, including human rights defenders, lawyers, dual and foreign nationals, conservationists, and others deprived of their liberty for expressing their views or exercising other rights," as quoted by news agency AFP. Bachelet in a statement lashed out at these detentions saying the prisoners face more risk of contracting coronavirus in Iran, the country worst affected by the virus in the region. "People detained solely for their political views or other forms of activism in support of human rights should not be imprisoned at all, and such prisoners, should certainly not be treated more harshly or placed at greater risk," Bachelet said. Meanwhile, Nasrin Sotoudeh, a human rights lawyer's condition worsened by the hunger strike she launched over the poor condition of prisons in Iran. Nasrin is under a sentence of more than 30 years on charges linked to her human rights work.

UN asks Iran to release political prisoners, human rights activists

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called Wednesday for an "immediate infusion" of $15 billion to a global pool for the procurement and distribution of Covid-19 vaccines.

The ACT-Accelerator, led by the World Health Organization, has received around $3 billion of the $38 billion needed to meet the goal of producing and delivering two billion vaccine doses, 245 million treatments and 500 million diagnostic tests over the next year.

Notable new pledges included an additional 100 million euros ($117 million) by German Chancellor Angela Merkel to the fund beyond the 675 million euros Germany has already committed.

Britain's foreign minister Dominic Raab said his country, which has committed 250 million pounds ($320 million), would spend another pound for every four dollars committed by others, up to an additional 250 million pounds.

Sweden's Prime Minister Stefan Lofven pledged $10 million while Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau touted a $440 million commitment made last week.

The World Bank's president David Malpass said he had proposed "up to $12 billion of fast-track financing" to countries for the purchase and deployment of Covid-19 vaccine, also previously announced.

"These resources are crucial now to avoid losing the window of opportunity for advance purchase and production, to build stocks in parallel with licensing, to boost research, and to help countries prepare to optimize the new vaccines when they arrive," Guterres said at the virtual summit.

"Despite extraordinary efforts to contain its spread, the Covid-19 pandemic continues to ravage the world, reaching one million lives lost this week," he added.

"It is in every country's national and economic self-interest to work together to massively expand access to tests and treatments, and to support a vaccine as a global public good."

Addressing the summit, Bill Gates announced his foundation had signed a new agreement with 16 biotech firms to expand global access to vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics.

Gates said that the world was on the brink of a "great scientific achievement" in the form of a vaccine.

But he added that the world's low and low middle income countries, which made up nearly half of the global population, were only on track to cover 14 percent of their people with a Covid-19 vaccine.

Alex Gorsky, the CEO of Johnson and Johnson, which is part of the agreement with the Gates Foundation, told the summit his company planned to allocate 500 million vaccine doses for lower income countries by the middle of next year.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called Wednesday for an "immediate infusion" of $15 billion to a global pool for the procurement and distribution of Covid-19 vaccines.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called Wednesday for an "immediate infusion" of $15 billion to a global pool for the procurement and distribution of Covid-19 vaccines. The ACT-Accelerator, led by the World Health Organization, has received around $3 billion of the $38 billion needed to meet the goal of producing and delivering two billion vaccine doses, 245 million treatments and 500 million diagnostic tests over the next year. Notable new pledges included an additional 100 million euros ($117 million) by German Chancellor Angela Merkel to the fund beyond the 675 million euros Germany has already committed. Britain's foreign minister Dominic Raab said his country, which has committed 250 million pounds ($320 million), would spend another pound for every four dollars committed by others, up to an additional 250 million pounds. Sweden's Prime Minister Stefan Lofven pledged $10 million while Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau touted a $440 million commitment made last week. The World Bank's president David Malpass said he had proposed "up to $12 billion of fast-track financing" to countries for the purchase and deployment of Covid-19 vaccine, also previously announced. "These resources are crucial now to avoid losing the window of opportunity for advance purchase and production, to build stocks in parallel with licensing, to boost research, and to help countries prepare to optimize the new vaccines when they arrive," Guterres said at the virtual summit. "Despite extraordinary efforts to contain its spread, the Covid-19 pandemic continues to ravage the world, reaching one million lives lost this week," he added. "It is in every country's national and economic self-interest to work together to massively expand access to tests and treatments, and to support a vaccine as a global public good." Addressing the summit, Bill Gates announced his foundation had signed a new agreement with 16 biotech firms to expand global access to vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics. Gates said that the world was on the brink of a "great scientific achievement" in the form of a vaccine. But he added that the world's low and low middle income countries, which made up nearly half of the global population, were only on track to cover 14 percent of their people with a Covid-19 vaccine. Alex Gorsky, the CEO of Johnson and Johnson, which is part of the agreement with the Gates Foundation, told the summit his company planned to allocate 500 million vaccine doses for lower income countries by the middle of next year.

UN says needs 'immediate infusion' of $15 bn for global vaccine fund

France's top appeals court ruled Wednesday that alleged Rwandan genocide financier Felicien Kabuga should be transferred to a UN tribunal in Tanzania to stand trial on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity.

Kabuga, arrested near Paris in May after 25 years on the run, has asked to face justice in France.&nbsp;He will be tried for his alleged role in the 1994 Rwanda genocide of some 800,000 people by Hutu extremists targeting minority Tutsis and moderate Hutus.

But the Court of Cassation ruled there was no legal or medical obstacle to implementing an international warrant for Kabuga's transfer to the Arusha-based tribunal.

Kabuga is alleged to have funnelled money to militia groups as chairman of the national defence fund. He is also accused of setting up the Interahamwe militia that carried out massacres as well as the Radio-Television Libre des Mille Collines whose broadcasts incited people to murder.

Kabuga's lawyers appealed that decision, citing their client's frail health and fears the UN tribunal would be biased. They also claimed his client would not receive proper medical treatment in Tanzania for conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure and leukoaraiosis -- an incurable illness that erodes physical and cognitive abilities.

France now has one month to hand Kabuga, who says he is 87, over to the MICT.

(with inputs)

France's top appeals court ruled Wednesday that alleged Rwandan genocide financier Felicien Kabuga should be transferred to a UN tribunal in Tanzania to stand trial on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity.

France's top appeals court ruled Wednesday that alleged Rwandan genocide financier Felicien Kabuga should be transferred to a UN tribunal in Tanzania to stand trial on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity. Kabuga, arrested near Paris in May after 25 years on the run, has asked to face justice in France. He will be tried for his alleged role in the 1994 Rwanda genocide of some 800,000 people by Hutu extremists targeting minority Tutsis and moderate Hutus. But the Court of Cassation ruled there was no legal or medical obstacle to implementing an international warrant for Kabuga's transfer to the Arusha-based tribunal. Kabuga is alleged to have funnelled money to militia groups as chairman of the national defence fund. He is also accused of setting up the Interahamwe militia that carried out massacres as well as the Radio-Television Libre des Mille Collines whose broadcasts incited people to murder. Kabuga's lawyers appealed that decision, citing their client's frail health and fears the UN tribunal would be biased. They also claimed his client would not receive proper medical treatment in Tanzania for conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure and leukoaraiosis -- an incurable illness that erodes physical and cognitive abilities. France now has one month to hand Kabuga, who says he is 87, over to the MICT. (with inputs)

French court approves transfer of Rwanda genocide suspect to UN tribunal

Five investors have been removed from the United Nations-backed Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI).

The PRI said on Monday four asset managers and one asset owner would be delisted. This is the first such move by the group for those failing to meet its minimum requirements.

The PRI has amassed more than 3,000 signatories managing in excess of $100 trillion in assets since it was launched in 2006 and membership is increasingly seen as crucial for asset managers pitching for mandates from pension schemes.

Members of the PRI were told in 2018 they had two years to reach a new set of minimum requirements.

BPE, the private banking arm of France’s La Banque Postale, is the largest, with assets the PRI put at around $5 billion.

Stichting Gemeenschappelijk Beleggingsfonds FNV (GFB) which is part of the biggest Dutch labour union, Indonesia’s Corfina Capital, U.S.-based Primary Wave IP Investment Management and French-based Delta Alternative Management, which reported assets of between $40 million to $310 million, were also removed, the PRI said.

The delistings follow criticism in recent years that the PRI was not doing enough to ensure members lived up to the principles, including to embed environmental, social and governance-related issues in their investment decision-making.

This first round of exclusions may not satisfy all its critics given it affects mainly small firms, while some much larger signatories are being challenged for perceived inaction when engaging with companies on climate change.

The new standards require members to have a responsible investment policy covering at least half of all managed assets, staff responsible for implementing it and senior-level oversight.

The PRI did not say which standard the delisted firms failed.

The PRI said it now plans to toughen membership requirements further and will launch a consultation at a meeting on October 21.

(with inputs from Reuters)

Five investors have been removed from the United Nations-backed Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI). The PRI said on Monday four asset managers and one asset owner would be delisted.

Five investors have been removed from the United Nations-backed Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI). The PRI said on Monday four asset managers and one asset owner would be delisted. This is the first such move by the group for those failing to meet its minimum requirements. The PRI has amassed more than 3,000 signatories managing in excess of $100 trillion in assets since it was launched in 2006 and membership is increasingly seen as crucial for asset managers pitching for mandates from pension schemes. Members of the PRI were told in 2018 they had two years to reach a new set of minimum requirements. BPE, the private banking arm of France’s La Banque Postale, is the largest, with assets the PRI put at around $5 billion. Stichting Gemeenschappelijk Beleggingsfonds FNV (GFB) which is part of the biggest Dutch labour union, Indonesia’s Corfina Capital, U.S.-based Primary Wave IP Investment Management and French-based Delta Alternative Management, which reported assets of between $40 million to $310 million, were also removed, the PRI said. The delistings follow criticism in recent years that the PRI was not doing enough to ensure members lived up to the principles, including to embed environmental, social and governance-related issues in their investment decision-making. This first round of exclusions may not satisfy all its critics given it affects mainly small firms, while some much larger signatories are being challenged for perceived inaction when engaging with companies on climate change. The new standards require members to have a responsible investment policy covering at least half of all managed assets, staff responsible for implementing it and senior-level oversight. The PRI did not say which standard the delisted firms failed. The PRI said it now plans to toughen membership requirements further and will launch a consultation at a meeting on October 21. (with inputs from Reuters)

Five groups ousted from UN-backed responsible investment list

In a strong statement highlighting Pakistan's role in supporting terrorism, India has told the United Nations human rights council that Islamabad has de-listed 4000 international terrorists and continues to be a safe haven for terrorist.

India's first secretary to United Nations in Geneva, Pawan Badhe said, "full-scale training camps and launchpads of terrorists are being escalated in Pakistan Occupied parts of Indian Union Territories of Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh at great expense for sustaining cross border terrorism against India."

Explaining, "It's not without reason that Pakistan remains a safe harbour for terrorists. While the world is busy combatting Covid-19 pandemic, Pakistan hoodwinks the world to allow delisting more than 4000 proscribed terrorists to sustain its terror ecosystem."

The statement comes even as Pakistan's fate will be decided at Financial Action Task Force or FATF in October, where it remains on the grey list. Failing to full fill its anti-terror commitments means, it could be blacklisted next month.

Indian diplomat pointed to how the country is changing the demographics of Pakistan occupied Kashmir where he said, "Pakistan’s deceit and hypocrisy is best demonstrated when it orchestrated mass influx to Pakistan Occupied parts of Indian Union Territories of Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh through discriminatory domicile laws".

Adding, "Its baffling that there are 3 outsiders for every 4 in Pakistan Occupied parts of Indian Union Territories of Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh" and cited imprisonment of political activist like baba jan for raising voice.

The comments assume significance as Pakistan plans to declare Pakistan occupied Kashmir's Gilgit Baltistan as the 5th province of the country. 
 
India statement focused on the situation of minorities in the country, terming the country as "killing field for minorities" especially when "fate of religious and ethnic minorities is well known when beheading is the only option in Pakistan in exchange for the freedom of religion."

Pawan said, Pakistan has "institutionalized enforced disappearance" and has become "minefield for journalists and human rights defenders".

In a strong statement highlighting Pakistan's role in supporting terrorism, India has told the United Nations human rights council that Islamabad has de-listed 4000 international terrorists and continues to be a safe haven for terrorist.

In a strong statement highlighting Pakistan's role in supporting terrorism, India has told the United Nations human rights council that Islamabad has de-listed 4000 international terrorists and continues to be a safe haven for terrorist. India's first secretary to United Nations in Geneva, Pawan Badhe said, "full-scale training camps and launchpads of terrorists are being escalated in Pakistan Occupied parts of Indian Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh at great expense for sustaining cross border terrorism against India." Explaining, "It's not without reason that Pakistan remains a safe harbour for terrorists. While the world is busy combatting Covid-19 pandemic, Pakistan hoodwinks the world to allow delisting more than 4000 proscribed terrorists to sustain its terror ecosystem." The statement comes even as Pakistan's fate will be decided at Financial Action Task Force or FATF in October, where it remains on the grey list. Failing to full fill its anti-terror commitments means, it could be blacklisted next month. Indian diplomat pointed to how the country is changing the demographics of Pakistan occupied Kashmir where he said, "Pakistan’s deceit and hypocrisy is best demonstrated when it orchestrated mass influx to Pakistan Occupied parts of Indian Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh through discriminatory domicile laws". Adding, "Its baffling that there are 3 outsiders for every 4 in Pakistan Occupied parts of Indian Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh" and cited imprisonment of political activist like baba jan for raising voice. The comments assume significance as Pakistan plans to declare Pakistan occupied Kashmir's Gilgit Baltistan as the 5th province of the country. India statement focused on the situation of minorities in the country, terming the country as "killing field for minorities" especially when "fate of religious and ethnic minorities is well known when beheading is the only option in Pakistan in exchange for the freedom of religion." Pawan said, Pakistan has "institutionalized enforced disappearance" and has become "minefield for journalists and human rights defenders".

Pakistan has de-listed more than 4000 international terrorists, India tells UN

India&nbsp;raised the issue of misuse of the blasphemy law in Pakistan against minorities.

According to India, currently at least 80 people in prison in Pakistan for the crime of "blasphemy", with at least half of them facing life sentences or the death penalty. At least 42 cases pertaining to blasphemy were registered across Pakistan in a single month.

Indian diplomat to UN in Geneva, Senthil Kumar said, "Pakistan’s deplorable human rights records and discriminatory treatment of its minorities has been a cause of persistent concern for the international community"

Explaining, "In Pakistan, Blasphemy laws are being used against religious minorities such as Christians, Hindus and Sikhs, to violate their human rights and dignity.".

Misuse of blasphemy laws in Pakistan is something that has been talked about at the international level, especially when it comes to the case of Christian Pakistani women Asia Bibi who later got asylum in Canada.

Senthil Kumar highlighted, "Enforced disappearances, state violence and forced mass displacements, harassment, extrajudicial killings, army operations, torture, kill-and-dumps, torture camps, detention centers, military camps" being a "regular features in Baluchistan".&nbsp;

India cited the example of the disappearance of Rashid Hussain in December 2018, and the killing of journalist Sajid Hussain Baloch after he went missing in March 2020.

He said, "nobody knows the fate of missing 47,000 Baloch and 35,000 Pashtuns till date. Sectarian violence has claimed more than 500 Hazaras in Baluchistan and more than 100,000 Hazaras have fled Pakistan."

He also slammed Islamabad for a similar situation in Pakistan occupied Kashmir saying, "before preaching to others Pakistan must remember that terrorism is the worst form of human rights abuse and a crime against humanity" and "the world doesn’t need lessons on human rights from a country which has been known as nursery and epicentre of Terrorism".

India raised the issue of misuse of the blasphemy law in Pakistan against minorities. According to India, currently at least 80 people in prison in Pakistan for the crime of "blasphemy", with at least half of them facing life sentences or the death penalty.

India raised the issue of misuse of the blasphemy law in Pakistan against minorities. According to India, currently at least 80 people in prison in Pakistan for the crime of "blasphemy", with at least half of them facing life sentences or the death penalty. At least 42 cases pertaining to blasphemy were registered across Pakistan in a single month. Indian diplomat to UN in Geneva, Senthil Kumar said, "Pakistan’s deplorable human rights records and discriminatory treatment of its minorities has been a cause of persistent concern for the international community" Explaining, "In Pakistan, Blasphemy laws are being used against religious minorities such as Christians, Hindus and Sikhs, to violate their human rights and dignity.". Misuse of blasphemy laws in Pakistan is something that has been talked about at the international level, especially when it comes to the case of Christian Pakistani women Asia Bibi who later got asylum in Canada. Senthil Kumar highlighted, "Enforced disappearances, state violence and forced mass displacements, harassment, extrajudicial killings, army operations, torture, kill-and-dumps, torture camps, detention centers, military camps" being a "regular features in Baluchistan". India cited the example of the disappearance of Rashid Hussain in December 2018, and the killing of journalist Sajid Hussain Baloch after he went missing in March 2020. He said, "nobody knows the fate of missing 47,000 Baloch and 35,000 Pashtuns till date. Sectarian violence has claimed more than 500 Hazaras in Baluchistan and more than 100,000 Hazaras have fled Pakistan." He also slammed Islamabad for a similar situation in Pakistan occupied Kashmir saying, "before preaching to others Pakistan must remember that terrorism is the worst form of human rights abuse and a crime against humanity" and "the world doesn’t need lessons on human rights from a country which has been known as nursery and epicentre of Terrorism".

At UN, India raises the issue of misuse of blasphemy laws by Pakistan against minorities

India hit out at Pakistan, telling the United Nations Human Right Council (UNHRC) that UN-listed international terror groups have been collecting funds in name of charity to finance terrorism.

Calling the development a "disturbing trend", India's first secretary to the United Nations in Geneva Pawan Badhe said, "The collection of funds by proscribed terrorist outfits ostensibly for undertaking charitable activities are in reality being used to finance terror."

The national investigation agency or NIA recently said Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF) founded by United Nations-listed terrorist Hafiz Saeed has been supporting terror activities in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking at the debate "Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention", Pawan Badhe highlighted how "malevolent attempts by terrorists" has been observed whose aim is "to exploit the financial and emotional distress caused by the lock-downs to disturb the cohesiveness of societies".

"Terror groups have also exhorted supporters to target security forces and health workers."

India also raised the issue of fake news and detailed how "increased presence of people online and on social media has been targeted by terrorists to disseminate misinformation through hate speeches, fake news and doctored videos" with the intent to "entice and establish links with vulnerable individuals and recruit them in their cadres."

India also called on states to cooperate to fight against terrorism and called it "a grossest affront to the enjoyment of the inalienable human right to life and to live in peace and security"

India hit out at Pakistan, telling the United Nations Human Right Council (UNHRC) that UN-listed international terror groups have been collecting funds in name of charity to finance terrorism.

India hit out at Pakistan, telling the United Nations Human Right Council (UNHRC) that UN-listed international terror groups have been collecting funds in name of charity to finance terrorism. Calling the development a "disturbing trend", India's first secretary to the United Nations in Geneva Pawan Badhe said, "The collection of funds by proscribed terrorist outfits ostensibly for undertaking charitable activities are in reality being used to finance terror." The national investigation agency or NIA recently said Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF) founded by United Nations-listed terrorist Hafiz Saeed has been supporting terror activities in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at the debate "Human rights situations that require the Council’s attention", Pawan Badhe highlighted how "malevolent attempts by terrorists" has been observed whose aim is "to exploit the financial and emotional distress caused by the lock-downs to disturb the cohesiveness of societies". "Terror groups have also exhorted supporters to target security forces and health workers." India also raised the issue of fake news and detailed how "increased presence of people online and on social media has been targeted by terrorists to disseminate misinformation through hate speeches, fake news and doctored videos" with the intent to "entice and establish links with vulnerable individuals and recruit them in their cadres." India also called on states to cooperate to fight against terrorism and called it "a grossest affront to the enjoyment of the inalienable human right to life and to live in peace and security"

Funds being collected by proscribed terror outfits in name of charity: India hits out at Pak at UNHRC

India on Wednesday said it is "proud" to endorse the US initiative on a joint statement on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that recognises the many differences in national traditions and yet reaffirms fundamental freedoms and rights for all.

A joint statement, issued by the US, on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) said, "On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, We, the above listed signatories of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, established and adopted in 1948, recommit ourselves today to the Declaration and its foundational ideal that certain principles are so fundamental as to apply to all human beings, everywhere, at all times."

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"India is proud to endorse the US initiative on the Joint Statement on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights," India's Permanent Mission to the UN tweeted.

 
Other nations joining the US on the statement include Bahrain, Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Maldives, Morocco, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

"We recognise the many differences in our cultural, political, legal, religious, and other traditions, yet reaffirm fundamental freedoms and rights for all, and reassert our commitment to honouring the dignity of all persons that is the basis for our commitments under the UDHR,"&nbsp;the joint statement said.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a "milestone document" in the history of human rights.

Drafted by representatives with different legal and cultural backgrounds from all regions of the world, the Declaration was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in Paris in December 1948 as a common standard of achievements for all peoples and all nations. It set out, for the first time, fundamental human rights to be universally protected.

The contribution of Indian reformer and educator Hansa Jivraj Mehta in ensuring a more gender sensitive language in the landmark Universal Declaration of Human Rights is widely lauded. But for Mehta's insistence, it could very well have been that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights may have been only the Universal Declaration of the Rights of Man.

Mehta had served as the Indian delegate to the UN Commission on Human Rights from 1947 to 1948. She is widely credited with making a significant change in the language of Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by replacing the phrase "All men are born free and equal"&nbsp;to "All human beings are born free and equal".

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a video message that "we must defend unalienable rights today, because the International Human Rights Project is in crisis. Authoritarian governments from China to Iran to Venezuela are depriving our fellow human beings of their basic rights.

He added that many multinational organisations have lost their way, focusing on partisan policy preferences while failing to defend fundamental rights.

"Even many well intentioned people assert new and novel rights that often conflict. To uphold universal human rights we should look to the framers of the UDHR, who identified a clear set of principles that apply to all people everywhere, and at all times. They stood unwaveringly in defense of the dignity of every human being."

India on Wednesday said it is "proud" to endorse the US initiative on a joint statement on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that recognises the many differences in national traditions and yet reaffirms fundamental freedoms and rights for all.

India on Wednesday said it is "proud" to endorse the US initiative on a joint statement on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that recognises the many differences in national traditions and yet reaffirms fundamental freedoms and rights for all. A joint statement, issued by the US, on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) said, "On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, We, the above listed signatories of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, established and adopted in 1948, recommit ourselves today to the Declaration and its foundational ideal that certain principles are so fundamental as to apply to all human beings, everywhere, at all times." Also read | At UNGA, Jinping claimed China is not 'expansionist'. These facts tell otherwise! "India is proud to endorse the US initiative on the Joint Statement on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights," India's Permanent Mission to the UN tweeted. Other nations joining the US on the statement include Bahrain, Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Maldives, Morocco, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. "We recognise the many differences in our cultural, political, legal, religious, and other traditions, yet reaffirm fundamental freedoms and rights for all, and reassert our commitment to honouring the dignity of all persons that is the basis for our commitments under the UDHR," the joint statement said. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a "milestone document" in the history of human rights. Drafted by representatives with different legal and cultural backgrounds from all regions of the world, the Declaration was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in Paris in December 1948 as a common standard of achievements for all peoples and all nations. It set out, for the first time, fundamental human rights to be universally protected. The contribution of Indian reformer and educator Hansa Jivraj Mehta in ensuring a more gender sensitive language in the landmark Universal Declaration of Human Rights is widely lauded. But for Mehta's insistence, it could very well have been that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights may have been only the Universal Declaration of the Rights of Man. Mehta had served as the Indian delegate to the UN Commission on Human Rights from 1947 to 1948. She is widely credited with making a significant change in the language of Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by replacing the phrase "All men are born free and equal" to "All human beings are born free and equal". US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a video message that "we must defend unalienable rights today, because the International Human Rights Project is in crisis. Authoritarian governments from China to Iran to Venezuela are depriving our fellow human beings of their basic rights. He added that many multinational organisations have lost their way, focusing on partisan policy preferences while failing to defend fundamental rights. "Even many well intentioned people assert new and novel rights that often conflict. To uphold universal human rights we should look to the framers of the UDHR, who identified a clear set of principles that apply to all people everywhere, and at all times. They stood unwaveringly in defense of the dignity of every human being."

India 'proud' to endorse US initiative on joint statement on Universal Declaration of Human Rights 

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The United Nations faces a "crisis of confidence" without comprehensive reforms, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday. He was addressing the High-Level meeting of the General Assembly to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the United Nations.

This year's high-level UN General Assembly is being held in a largely virtual format as world leaders did not travel to New York for the annual gathering due to the coronavirus pandemic. Heads of State and Government and Ministers sent in pre-recorded video statements for the high-level week, including the special commemoration of the UN's 75 years and the General Debate.

India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti introduced Prime Minister Modi's pre-recorded statement from the UN General Assembly Hall.&nbsp;

PM Modi asserted that the world needs a reformed multilateralism that reflects today's realities, gives voice to all stakeholders, addresses contemporary challenges and focuses on human welfare.

"We cannot fight today's challenges with outdated structures. Without comprehensive reforms, the UN faces a crisis of confidence," he said.

PM Modi's call for reformed multilateralism assumes special significance as it comes on the eve of India taking a seat at the powerful UN Security Council as an elected non-permanent member for a two year term beginning January 1, 2021.

As the UN marks 75 years of its existence, the 193-member UN General Assembly adopted a forward-looking political declaration that gave a clarion call for strengthening mechanism to combat terrorism, reformed multilateralism, inclusive development and better preparedness to deal with challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Modi said, "For today's interconnected world, we need a reformed multilateralism that reflects today's realities, gives voice to all stakeholders, addresses contemporary challenges and focuses on human welfare."

He added India looks forward to working with all other nations towards this end.

India has been spearheading decades-long efforts to reform the Security Council, saying a structure set up in 1945 does not reflect contemporary realities of the 21st century and is ill-equipped to handle current challenges.

There is widespread support, including by four of the five permanent members of the Security Council - US, UK, France and Russia - for a permanent seat for India at the Council.

India's priorities for its tenure on the Security Council find resonance in the Declaration that echoes New Delhi's call for strong mandate against terrorism, reformed multilateralism and inclusive development. India's overall objective during its tenure in the UN Security Council will be the achievement of N.O.R.M.S -- a New Orientation for a Reformed Multilateral System.

In the Declaration, the Heads of State and Government categorically noted that the world of today is very different from what it was when the United Nations was created 75 years ago.

"Our working methods need to keep pace and adapt. We support the ongoing reforms by the Secretary-General. We reiterate our call for reforms of three of the principal organs of the United Nations. We commit to instill new life in the discussions on the reform of the Security Council and continue the work to revitalise the General Assembly and strengthen the Economic and Social Council."

Addressing the special commemorative event on the UN's 75th anniversary, Modi said, "75 years ago, a new hope arose from the horrors of war. For the first time in human history, an institution was created for the entire world."

He said as a founding signatory of the UN Charter, India was part of that noble vision, which reflected India's own philosophy of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', which sees all creation as a family.

Modi paid tribute to all those who have advanced the cause of peace and development under the UN flag, including in UN peacekeeping missions, where India had been a leading contributor.

India is among the largest troop contributors to UN Peacekeeping Missions, having provided over 200,000 troops in nearly 50 of the 71 peacekeeping missions mandated over the past six decades.

India has lost more peacekeepers in the line of duty than any other UN member state and over the last 70 years, more than 160 Indian military, police and civilian personnel have lost their lives while serving in UN peacekeeping missions around the world.

(with inputs from agencies)

The United Nations faces a "crisis of confidence" without comprehensive reforms, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday. He was addressing the High-Level meeting of the General Assembly to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the United Nations.

The United Nations faces a "crisis of confidence" without comprehensive reforms, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday. He was addressing the High-Level meeting of the General Assembly to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the United Nations. This year's high-level UN General Assembly is being held in a largely virtual format as world leaders did not travel to New York for the annual gathering due to the coronavirus pandemic. Heads of State and Government and Ministers sent in pre-recorded video statements for the high-level week, including the special commemoration of the UN's 75 years and the General Debate. India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti introduced Prime Minister Modi's pre-recorded statement from the UN General Assembly Hall. PM Modi asserted that the world needs a reformed multilateralism that reflects today's realities, gives voice to all stakeholders, addresses contemporary challenges and focuses on human welfare. "We cannot fight today's challenges with outdated structures. Without comprehensive reforms, the UN faces a crisis of confidence," he said. PM Modi's call for reformed multilateralism assumes special significance as it comes on the eve of India taking a seat at the powerful UN Security Council as an elected non-permanent member for a two year term beginning January 1, 2021. As the UN marks 75 years of its existence, the 193-member UN General Assembly adopted a forward-looking political declaration that gave a clarion call for strengthening mechanism to combat terrorism, reformed multilateralism, inclusive development and better preparedness to deal with challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. Modi said, "For today's interconnected world, we need a reformed multilateralism that reflects today's realities, gives voice to all stakeholders, addresses contemporary challenges and focuses on human welfare." He added India looks forward to working with all other nations towards this end. India has been spearheading decades-long efforts to reform the Security Council, saying a structure set up in 1945 does not reflect contemporary realities of the 21st century and is ill-equipped to handle current challenges. There is widespread support, including by four of the five permanent members of the Security Council - US, UK, France and Russia - for a permanent seat for India at the Council. India's priorities for its tenure on the Security Council find resonance in the Declaration that echoes New Delhi's call for strong mandate against terrorism, reformed multilateralism and inclusive development. India's overall objective during its tenure in the UN Security Council will be the achievement of N.O.R.M.S -- a New Orientation for a Reformed Multilateral System. In the Declaration, the Heads of State and Government categorically noted that the world of today is very different from what it was when the United Nations was created 75 years ago. "Our working methods need to keep pace and adapt. We support the ongoing reforms by the Secretary-General. We reiterate our call for reforms of three of the principal organs of the United Nations. We commit to instill new life in the discussions on the reform of the Security Council and continue the work to revitalise the General Assembly and strengthen the Economic and Social Council." Addressing the special commemorative event on the UN's 75th anniversary, Modi said, "75 years ago, a new hope arose from the horrors of war. For the first time in human history, an institution was created for the entire world." He said as a founding signatory of the UN Charter, India was part of that noble vision, which reflected India's own philosophy of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', which sees all creation as a family. Modi paid tribute to all those who have advanced the cause of peace and development under the UN flag, including in UN peacekeeping missions, where India had been a leading contributor. India is among the largest troop contributors to UN Peacekeeping Missions, having provided over 200,000 troops in nearly 50 of the 71 peacekeeping missions mandated over the past six decades. India has lost more peacekeepers in the line of duty than any other UN member state and over the last 70 years, more than 160 Indian military, police and civilian personnel have lost their lives while serving in UN peacekeeping missions around the world. (with inputs from agencies)

United Nations faces 'crisis of confidence': PM Modi in UNGA address

World leaders will come together, albeit virtually, on Monday to mark the 75th anniversary of the United Nations even as the deadly coronavirus pandemic challenges the 193-member world body.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told Reuters that the pandemic has exposed the world's fragilities. He plans to tell world leaders on Monday that they need to work together at a time when there is a surplus of multilateral challenges and deficit of solutions.

The 15-member Security Council took months to back a call by Guterres for a global ceasefire -- to allow countries to focus on fighting COVID-19 -- due to bickering between the world's biggest powers: China and the United States.

The 193-member General Assembly only adopted an omnibus resolution on a "comprehensive and coordinated response" to the pandemic earlier this month and it was not by consensus. The United States and Israel voted no.

A $10.3 billion UN appeal to fund fighting the pandemic in vulnerable and low-income countries is only a quarter funded. Guterres now has taken a lead in pushing to make sure any vaccine for the coronavirus is made available to everyone globally.

The United Nations headquarters is in New York, which was hit hard by the coronavirus.&nbsp;

UN member states had to decide how to work virtually, which they did for several months before resuming some in-person meetings recently.

A UN report released on Monday found that six out of ten people believe the United Nations has made the world a better place, but looking ahead three-quarters see the world body as essential in tackling global challenges.

The one-day special event on Monday comes ahead of the annual meeting of world leaders at the United Nations, which starts on Tuesday with no presidents or prime ministers physically present in New York. All statements have been pre-recorded and will be broadcast in the General Assembly hall.

The United Nations was created when countries came together after World War Two to prevent another such conflict. While there has not been World War Three, leaders will adopt a statement on Monday acknowledging "moments of disappointment."

"Our world is not yet the world that our founders envisaged 75 years ago. It is plagued by growing inequality, poverty, hunger, armed conflicts, terrorism, insecurity, climate change and pandemics," the statement says.

"All this calls for greater action, not less," it says.

World leaders will come together, albeit virtually, on Monday to mark the 75th anniversary of the United Nations even as the deadly coronavirus pandemic challenges the 193-member world body.

World leaders will come together, albeit virtually, on Monday to mark the 75th anniversary of the United Nations even as the deadly coronavirus pandemic challenges the 193-member world body. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told Reuters that the pandemic has exposed the world's fragilities. He plans to tell world leaders on Monday that they need to work together at a time when there is a surplus of multilateral challenges and deficit of solutions. The 15-member Security Council took months to back a call by Guterres for a global ceasefire -- to allow countries to focus on fighting COVID-19 -- due to bickering between the world's biggest powers: China and the United States. The 193-member General Assembly only adopted an omnibus resolution on a "comprehensive and coordinated response" to the pandemic earlier this month and it was not by consensus. The United States and Israel voted no. A $10.3 billion UN appeal to fund fighting the pandemic in vulnerable and low-income countries is only a quarter funded. Guterres now has taken a lead in pushing to make sure any vaccine for the coronavirus is made available to everyone globally. The United Nations headquarters is in New York, which was hit hard by the coronavirus. UN member states had to decide how to work virtually, which they did for several months before resuming some in-person meetings recently. A UN report released on Monday found that six out of ten people believe the United Nations has made the world a better place, but looking ahead three-quarters see the world body as essential in tackling global challenges. The one-day special event on Monday comes ahead of the annual meeting of world leaders at the United Nations, which starts on Tuesday with no presidents or prime ministers physically present in New York. All statements have been pre-recorded and will be broadcast in the General Assembly hall. The United Nations was created when countries came together after World War Two to prevent another such conflict. While there has not been World War Three, leaders will adopt a statement on Monday acknowledging "moments of disappointment." "Our world is not yet the world that our founders envisaged 75 years ago. It is plagued by growing inequality, poverty, hunger, armed conflicts, terrorism, insecurity, climate change and pandemics," the statement says. "All this calls for greater action, not less," it says.

World leaders to mark 75th anniversary of UN as pandemic challenges organisation

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has said that the global body would not give in to US demands to reimpose sanctions on Iran until he gets such nod from its security council.&nbsp;

Last month, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced a 30-day process that will reimpose sanctions on Iran, a move rejected by 13 of the UNSC members saying that the mechanism is void as Washington left the 2015 nuclear agreement in 2018.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-slap-sanctions-on-over-two-dozen-targets-tied-to-iran-arms-328984">US to slap sanctions on over two dozen targets tied to Iran arms</a>

The secretary-general in a letter addressed to the council president said the "Security Council has taken no action subsequent to the receipt of the letter of the US Secretary of state, neither have any of its members or its president".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-us-faces-maximum-isolation-as-world-powers-dismiss-sanctions-328980">Iran says US faces 'maximum isolation' as world powers dismiss sanctions</a>

He added the UNSC presidents for August and Septembers have indicated that they couldn't take any action in this matter.

Therefore, "it is not for the secretary-general to proceed as if no such uncertainty exists," he added.&nbsp;

Pompeo on Saturday warned of "consequences" to countries that "fail to fulfil their obligations to implement" the sanctions on Iran.&nbsp;

Major US allies the UK, France and Germany on Friday told the council that UN sanctions relief on Iran would continue and any move to reimpose these measures would be incapable of legal effect."

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has said that the global body would not give in to US demands to reimpose sanctions on Iran until he gets such nod from its security council.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres has said that the global body would not give in to US demands to reimpose sanctions on Iran until he gets such nod from its security council. Last month, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced a 30-day process that will reimpose sanctions on Iran, a move rejected by 13 of the UNSC members saying that the mechanism is void as Washington left the 2015 nuclear agreement in 2018. Also read | US to slap sanctions on over two dozen targets tied to Iran arms The secretary-general in a letter addressed to the council president said the "Security Council has taken no action subsequent to the receipt of the letter of the US Secretary of state, neither have any of its members or its president". Also read | Iran says US faces 'maximum isolation' as world powers dismiss sanctions He added the UNSC presidents for August and Septembers have indicated that they couldn't take any action in this matter. Therefore, "it is not for the secretary-general to proceed as if no such uncertainty exists," he added. Pompeo on Saturday warned of "consequences" to countries that "fail to fulfil their obligations to implement" the sanctions on Iran. Major US allies the UK, France and Germany on Friday told the council that UN sanctions relief on Iran would continue and any move to reimpose these measures would be incapable of legal effect."

UN to not reimpose sanctions on Iran until nod given by Security Council: Guterres

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